Assistant Head of Teaching and Learning-Primary-AY 2026/27-GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi

At GEMS World Academy, Abu Dhabi, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive, dynamic learning community where every student feels valued, challenged, and supported. Situated on Al Reem Island, our curriculum blends the IB framework with the National Curriculum for England, offering the PYP, MYP and IGCSE from FS1 to Year 11, with plans to grow to Year 13.

GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi is seeking to appoint an outstanding Assistant Head of Teaching and Learning-Primary to join our senior leadership team. This is a pivotal role for an experienced, values-driven leader who is passionate about high-quality teaching, professional learning, and the principles of the International Baccalaureate (IB).

The successful candidate will champion inquiry-led, concept-based learning across the EY and Primary phases, ensuring that the delivery of the PYP curriculum is fully aligned with IB philosophy. Working closely with the Head of Primary, the post-holder will play a key role in raising standards, strengthening pedagogy, and fostering a culture of reflection, innovation and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive whole-school improvement through the strategic leadership of teaching and learning through IB TLAG.
• Design, implement and embed innovative pedagogical approaches that raise standards and improve outcomes for all learners, including SEND, Gifted and Talented, and Emirati students.
• Lead and support consistent, high-quality classroom practice across all phases.
• Champion IB-aligned teaching practices, inquiry, conceptual understanding and student agency.

• Monitor and evaluate the quality of learning and teaching through robust quality assurance processes.
• Work alongside the subject leads to accelerate student progress and performance.
• Play a key role in School Self-Evaluation, ensuring actions are timely, measurable and impactful.
• Support Curriculum Leaders to set ambitious targets and develop effective Annual Action Plans.

• Lead the development and delivery of a high-quality professional development programme aligned to school priorities.
• Support the induction, mentoring and development of Trainee Teachers and Early Career Teachers.
• Ensure performance management systems are effective, developmental and aligned to quality assurance outcomes.
• Embed coaching, mentoring, and appreciative enquiry approaches to improve professional practice.
• Ensure Steplab is used with fidelity.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Contribute actively as a member of the Primary Leadership Team, sharing responsibility for whole-school leadership and decision-making.
• Support the development, implementation and review of whole-school policies.
• Promote positive professional relationships within and across phases.
• Represent the school, Principal or GEMS as appropriate, liaising with external agencies and stakeholders.
• Lead and support professional learning for teaching staff and curriculum leaders.
• Model reflective practice and actively pursue ongoing professional development as a senior leader.
• Support recruitment, selection and induction of teaching staff where appropriate.
• Lead and participate in leadership and subject-level performance management reviews.

Other Responsibilities

• Play an active role in the future strategic development of the school and its wider community.
• Promote and uphold school policies and values.
• Undertake any other professional duties appropriate to a senior leadership role at GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi.

Essential Qualifications

• Qualified Teacher Status
• A good honours degree and/or relevant postgraduate qualification

• NPQSL (desirable)

Experience

• Proven middle or senior leadership experience with a strong Teaching and Learning Curriculum focus
• Experience leading quality assurance, innovation and change
• Experience working in an international school setting, with knowledge of UAE inspection frameworks and national priorities

• Strong strategic thinking aligned to school vision, ethos and values
• Deep understanding of pedagogy and how students learn
• Ability to manage challenging situations with empathy, professionalism and emotional intelligence
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Knowledge of current educational trends, policies and developments

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.