Senior Vice Principal (Teaching & Learning)

Since opening in September 2013, GEMS International School – Al Khail (GIS) has been committed to providing a premium education that prepares students for life beyond the classroom.

As an IB World School, we ensure our students develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a global society. With a vibrant and multicultural community of students and faculty from over 100 nationalities, GIS fosters an environment of acceptance, communication, appreciation, and understanding. These core values are at the heart of our ethos, empowering our students to become true global citizens who contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

We are now seeking a Senior Vice Principal (Teaching & Learning) for August 2026.  The appointee will play a critical leadership role in defining and driving the school’s strategic direction for outstanding teaching, learning and educational outcomes. This member of the Senior Leadership Team deputises for the Principal/CEO when required and ensures that GIS delivers a world‑class educational experience that meets and exceeds expectations for KHDA inspection, IB and CIS accreditation, and GEMS quality standards. The role has broad responsibility for the development, implementation and evaluation of teaching and learning excellence across all phases of the school.

Please note early applications will be considered and initial interviews may take place prior to the closing date. 

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for teaching, learning and academic excellence across the whole school, ensuring coherence with the school’s mission, values and strategic priorities.
• Deputise for the Principal/CEO as required, representing GIS with internal and external stakeholders, including regulatory and accreditation bodies.
• Lead on the development and evaluation of the School Development Plan (SDP), School Self‑Evaluation Framework (SEF) and other strategic processes.
• Work closely with the Senior Vice Principal for Curriculum & Assessment to ensure a unified and holistic approach to academic standards, learning design and assessment philosophy.
• Collaborate with the Senior Vice Principal for Student Life & Culture to embed inclusive and learner‑centred practices across the school.
• To have an excellent working knowledge and understanding of the KHDA/DSIB UAE Inspection Framework and Supplement and UAE National Agenda and use these to support leadership and management.
• Oversee implementation of key GEMS initiatives, aligning school operations and educational delivery with group expectations.

Qualifications

• Recognised teaching qualification (PGCE or equivalent).
• Bachelor’s degree in Education or relevant field; Master’s degree or National Professional Qualification in Education (NPQ) preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of teaching experience, including experience in a Senior Leadership Team (SLT) role.
• Proven record of successful operational and academic leadership in an IB curriculum school.
• Demonstrated experience managing large teams and driving whole-school improvement.

Skills & Attributes

• Strategic and operational leadership capability.
• Excellent communication, organisation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead and inspire diverse teams across all phases.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Deep understanding of IB curriculum frameworks, inspection standards (KHDA, BSO), and GEMS expectations.
• Commitment to innovation, wellbeing, and inclusive practice.

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.