Deputy Headteacher – Primary – Whole School Teaching & Learning – August 2026

Location: Dubai, UAE
Contract Type: Permanent | Full Time
Reports to: Head of School / Vice Principal

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and inspirational Deputy Head of Primary – Whole School Teaching & Learning to provide strategic leadership for high-quality teaching, learning and curriculum implementation across Foundation Stage to Year 13.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in embedding consistently strong classroom practice, driving pedagogical excellence, and supporting curriculum coherence and professional learning across phases. This role is central to ensuring inspection readiness and sustained improvement in teaching and learning in line with KHDA, UAE School Inspection Framework and GEMS priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and embed high-quality teaching and learning practice across FS–Y13

• Champion evidence-informed pedagogy, curriculum coherence and inclusive classroom practice

• Monitor and evaluate teaching and learning through lesson visits, learning walks, work scrutiny and pupil voice

• Lead professional learning, coaching and development focused on teaching excellence

• Support inspection readiness through strong teaching and learning evidence, SEF contributions and post-inspection action planning

• Work closely with senior leaders, phase leaders and curriculum leaders to ensure consistency and progression across phases

• Model excellence as a classroom practitioner and visible instructional leader

Required Experience

• Minimum of 3 years’ senior leadership experience within a school setting in the UAE.

• Previous UAE DSIB inspection experience, including active involvement in inspection preparation and follow-up

• Proven experience leading teaching and learning at whole-school or phase level

• Strong understanding of the UAE School Inspection Framework, KHDA expectations and National Agenda priorities

• Demonstrable impact on improving the quality of teaching and learning

Desired Experience & Qualifications

• National Professional Qualification (NPQ) in leadership (e.g. NPQSL, NPQH or equivalent)

• Formal coaching or instructional coaching training

• Experience working across multiple phases or through Primary–Secondary transition

• Experience within an international or British curriculum context

Personal Attributes

• A visible, values-driven leader with high professional integrity

• Strong interpersonal, coaching and communication skills

• Commitment to inclusive practice and staff development

• Resilient, reflective and improvement-focused

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.