GEMS Cambridge International School, Abu Dahab is seeking an exceptional Deputy Head of Primary to join our school from the next academic year, 2027-28. This is an exciting leadership opportunity for an experienced and inspiring educator who is passionate about driving high standards, strengthening teaching and learning, and nurturing a positive and inclusive school culture. The successful candidate will work closely with the Head of Primary to lead phase-wide improvement, support staff development, and ensure outstanding outcomes for all students.
Job Purpose:
The Deputy Head of Primary provides strategic and operational leadership across the Primary phase, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning, pastoral care, and academic progress. The role supports the Head of School in driving continuous improvement, strengthening curriculum delivery, and fostering an engaging, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment. The post holder plays a key role in developing staff capacity, leading performance management processes, and ensuring high levels of student achievement and wellbeing.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Phase Leadership:
• Support the Head of School in the strategic leadership and daily operations of the phase.
• Lead initiatives that strengthen teaching quality, curriculum progression, and consistency across year groups.
• Support assessment cycles, data analysis, and action planning to improve student outcomes.
• Contribute to inspection readiness through evidence gathering, documentation, and compliance with school systems.
• Work with SLT, Head of School, and other Deputy Heads to maintain coherence and alignment across the school.
• Support phase-level parent engagement, events, and communication.
• Model the highest professional standards, fostering a positive culture within the team.
2. Teaching, Learning & Curriculum Development:
• Ensure curriculum implementation is engaging, aligned, and accessible to all learners, with strong progression and challenge.
• Conduct regular learning walks, book looks, and coaching sessions to support high-quality, consistent classroom practice.
• Guide teachers with strategies for adaptive teaching, differentiation, behaviour management, and inclusion.
3. Staff Development & Leadership:
• Support the Head of School in implementation whole school performance management process as per GEMS framework.
• Support the induction, development, and mentoring of teachers and support staff within the phase.
• Lead CPD sessions, professional learning communities, and training aligned to school priorities.
• Support in the recruitment of high-quality teachers and leaders for the phase.
• Promote a collaborative, reflective, and high-performing team culture.
4. Pastoral Care, Behavior & Wellbeing:
• Support behaviour systems and ensure consistent implementation of school expectations.
• Work with pastoral teams to promote student wellbeing, safeguarding, and positive behaviour.
• Build strong relationships with students, parents, and staff to support inclusive practice.
5. Operational & Community Leadership:
• Represent the Head of Primary as required and contribute to whole-school events, committees, and communication.
• Support parent communication, meetings, and engagement activities.
• Support HR in disciplinary investigations, grievance matters, and staff relations where required.
• Model professionalism and uphold the school’s values at all times.
Required Qualifications, Experience & Skills:
* Education/teaching degree OR Bachelor’s degree and teaching qualification/license in the subject.
* Leadership training or certification (NPQML, NPQSL or equivalent) desirable.
* Minimum 3 years’ teaching experience in primary education.
* Proven leadership experience within a primary phase (e.g., Assistant Head, Phase Leader) of minimum a year.
* Strong track record of improving teaching, learning, and student outcomes.
* Effective in coaching, mentoring, and supporting staff performance.
* Knowledge of the use of ICT in schools to aid teaching and learning.
* Strong understanding of curriculum, assessment, and pastoral systems.
* Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
* Ability to analyse data and drive evidence-based school improvement.
* Committed to safeguarding, wellbeing, and inclusive practice.
* Adaptable, collaborative, and able to lead change confidently.
GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.