Vice Principal- Academic
Location: Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Salary Range and Package Details
A competitive and comprehensive remuneration package is on offer, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Competitive tax free salary
- Accommodation allowance or provided accommodation
- Annual flights to home country
- Health insurance
- Professional development opportunities
- End of service gratuity
Full package details will be discussed with shortlisted candidates.
Start Date
August 2026
About the School
This is an exciting opportunity to join a well established and highly regarded international school that forms part of a globally recognised network of campuses worldwide. The school has received numerous awards for excellence in education and management and is recognised internationally for its commitment to academic quality and holistic development.
The school delivers an American standards based curriculum, providing students with a world class learning experience rooted in innovation, leadership development, and a genuine commitment to each child's potential. With advanced facilities and a diverse, globally minded community, the school offers an outstanding environment in which to grow professionally and make a real impact.
Who Thrives Here?
This school will particularly appeal to educators who are passionate about instructional leadership and genuinely committed to continuous professional growth. Candidates who thrive in collaborative, data driven environments, who embrace diverse cultural perspectives, and who are energised by working within a globally connected school community will find this a deeply rewarding environment. If you are ambitious, adaptable, and motivated by making a meaningful difference in young people's lives within a high achieving international setting, this could be the perfect next step in your career.
Life in Sharjah, UAE
Sharjah is the third largest emirate in the UAE and sits just minutes from Dubai, offering residents the best of both worlds - a more relaxed, family friendly pace of life with easy access to the wider region's world class infrastructure and amenities. Known as the 'Cultural Capital of the Arab World,' Sharjah is home to an impressive array of museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions, making it a uniquely enriching place to live and work.
The emirate is known for its safe environment, excellent international schools, and strong sense of community. Expats enjoy a tax free income, affordable living costs relative to Dubai, and a warm, welcoming community of international professionals. With year round sunshine, modern shopping centres, beautiful corniche areas, and close proximity to both Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport, daily life is convenient and comfortable. The UAE's central location also makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider region and beyond.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor of Education (BEd) or equivalent degree in Education
- Significant and demonstrable teaching experience at secondary or primary level within a recognised international curriculum
- Prior experience in a leadership or middle management role within an international school setting
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent professional certification
- Strong familiarity with American curriculum standards (e.g. Common Core, NGSS) is highly desirable
- Arabic speaker
Essential Skills
- Instructional Leadership: Ability to guide and support teachers in implementing best practices aligned with American curriculum standards, ensuring high quality instruction and a culture of continuous improvement
- Curriculum Development: Expertise in American curriculum frameworks, including curriculum planning, mapping, and assessment aligned with school goals
- Data Driven Decision Making: Proficiency in analysing student performance data to inform instructional strategies and drive school improvement
- Student Behaviour Management: Strong understanding of positive behaviour interventions and school wide discipline systems; skilled at fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment
- Staff Supervision and Evaluation: Demonstrated ability to conduct classroom observations, provide constructive feedback, and support teacher professional development
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage professionally with students, parents, staff, and external stakeholders
- Leadership and Team Building: Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and collaborate with faculty and staff
- Organisational and Time Management: Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively within a dynamic international school environment
- Problem Solving and Conflict Resolution: Sound judgement and a solution oriented approach to resolving challenges amongst students, staff, and parents
- Cultural Competence: Awareness and sensitivity to diverse cultural backgrounds, with a genuine commitment to equity and inclusion
- Technological Proficiency: Familiarity with educational technology tools including Google Workspace for Education, learning management systems, and school information platforms
- Policy and Compliance: Understanding of school governance, accreditation standards, and relevant educational regulations
Safeguarding Skills and Qualities Required for International Teachers
- A thorough understanding of child protection principles and international safeguarding best practice
- Familiarity with internationally recognised safeguarding frameworks, including those aligned with the International Taskforce for Child Protection
- The ability to identify and report signs of abuse, neglect, or concerning behaviour in a timely and appropriate manner
- A commitment to creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing environment for all students
- Sound professional judgement and strong personal integrity in all interactions with students
- Willingness to undertake regular safeguarding training and adhere to the school's child protection policies
- An understanding of cultural nuances and sensitivities that may affect safeguarding in an international school context