Deputy Head of Primary – August 2026

GEMS FirstPoint School is seeking to appoint an exceptional and experienced leader to the role of Deputy Head of Primary (EYFS & KS1). This is a key senior leadership opportunity within our high-performing, premium British curriculum school, rated Outstanding by BSO and Very Good by KHDA.

The successful candidate will lead the strategic development of EYFS and Key Stage 1 while playing a central role in driving school improvement across the entire Primary phase (EYFS to Year 6). The role combines specialist expertise in early and lower primary education with wider whole-primary leadership responsibilities.

Key responsibilities

Whole-primary school improvement
• Lead and drive strategic school improvement priorities across the Primary phase
• Contribute to the development, implementation, and evaluation of the Primary School Improvement Plan
• Monitor standards, teaching quality, and pupil outcomes across EYFS, KS1, and KS2
• Work closely with the Head of Primary and wider leadership team to secure measurable impact
• Lead primary-wide quality assurance processes including learning walks, book looks, moderation, and data reviews

Strategic leadership (EYFS & KS1 specialism)
• Lead the strategic development of EYFS and KS1, ensuring alignment with whole-school priorities
• Champion outstanding early years practice rooted in child development and research-informed pedagogy
• Ensure seamless transition from EYFS through KS1 and into KS2
• Drive high standards across all curriculum areas, including MOE subjects

Teaching, learning and curriculum
• Embed evidence-informed teaching practice across the Primary phase
• Lead curriculum refinement to ensure strong foundations and clear progression for all pupils
• Support middle leaders in curriculum implementation and impact evaluation
• Ensure high-quality learning environments across early and lower primary

Assessment and outcomes
• Oversee assessment, moderation, and tracking systems across Primary
• Use data strategically to inform intervention, accelerate progress, and close attainment gaps
• Ensure strong EYFS GLD outcomes, KS1 attainment, and secure transition into KS2

Staff development and leadership capacity
• Lead professional learning across the Primary phase
• Coach and develop middle leaders and aspiring leaders
• Strengthen accountability systems while maintaining a culture of support, collaboration, and professional growth

Pastoral and community leadership
• Promote a nurturing, inclusive, and safe Primary environment
• Strengthen parental engagement, particularly within the early years
• Model visible, values-led leadership across the school community

Essential requirements
• Proven leadership impact across Primary phases
• Strong expertise in EYFS and KS1 pedagogy and curriculum
• Experience leading whole-school or phase-wide improvement initiatives
• Deep understanding of assessment, data analysis, and quality assurance systems
• Research-informed and current in educational practice
• Experience of inspection frameworks such as BSO and KHDA is highly desirable

GEMS FirstPoint School offers an exceptional working environment within a supportive and ambitious leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity for a talented leader who is passionate about early learning, committed to excellence, and eager to shape the continued success of a thriving Primary school in Dubai.

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.