Director of Enrichment - August 2026

With a 65-year legacy of excellence and a global reputation as one of the largest and most awarded private education providers, GEMS Education integrates cutting-edge advancements through its extensive networks and high-level partnerships. Join the GEMS School of Research and Innovation, where significant investments in AI, robotics, and state-of-the-art facilities drive exceptional student outcomes in academics and well-being. As a leader in educational innovation, we offer a forward-thinking environment focused on personalised learning, holistic development, and the opportunity to shape the future of education.

At GEMS School of Research and Innovation, we provide a seamless educational journey from Pre-Prep + Prep to Sixth Form, enhanced by cutting-edge technology and a forward-thinking curriculum. In the Pre-Prep + Prep stages, we prioritise personalized learning through gamification and advanced technologies, alongside a strong emphasis on science, computing, reading, writing, and the arts. Our facilities include an innovation lab, specialist IT equipment, and programs in sports such as gymnastics, martial arts, basketball, and cricket. Emerging technologies like robotics, AI, machine learning, and VR/AR are integrated to enhance learning, including advanced Arabic provision.

In Secondary and Sixth Form, students benefit from tailored pathways with a wide range of GCSEs, A-levels in subjects like sciences, business, and fine arts, supported by university-linked lectures and industry placements. Advanced tools such as Web3/blockchain, drones, autonomous vehicles, and esports labs prepare students for future careers. Sixth Form further bridges school, university, and industry through global partnerships and cutting-edge technology, ensuring students excel academically while acquiring real-world skills.

The Director of Enrichment will lead and develop the school’s “beyond the classroom” provision, ensuring it aligns with the GEMS School of Research and Innovation’s vision for a holistic, future-focused education. This role involves designing and delivering a high-quality programme of co-curricular activities, trips, service opportunities, and academic enrichment that is engaging, challenging, and values-driven. The Director will play a key role in shaping the Student Digital Portfolio, supporting students in showcasing their achievements and preparing for university and college pathways.

With responsibility for maintaining high standards across all areas of enrichment, the Director will foster a culture of excellence, intellectual curiosity, service, challenge, and wellbeing. They will oversee the development of the Trailblazer curriculum and line manage key coordinators, ensuring strong alignment between enrichment and the academic curriculum to support the development of core skills and values.

The role includes leading the academic enrichment programme, working closely with departments to embed meaningful opportunities beyond the classroom, and collaborating with senior leaders such as the Director of Sport and Director of CAPA. The Director will also support staff recruitment, induction, and professional development, including leading CPD linked to enrichment and establishing consistent planning and quality assurance processes.

In addition, the Director of Enrichment will contribute to innovation across the school by aligning with research, technology, and innovation initiatives, working closely with the Vice Principal to ensure these elements are embedded within the wider enrichment provision.

Person Specifications:

B.Ed. or bachelor’s degree with PGCE/PGDE (or equivalent)
• Leadership experience at whole-school level
• Experience managing CCAs and or Activities programmes in schools
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and risk assessment processes
• Proven ability to drive sustained staff adoption of agreed platforms
• Experience delivering staff CPD
 Strong strategic planning and operational oversight capability

Experience working with external agencies and providers
• Experience representing a school at regional or international events
• Experience leading whole-school or multi-school group events
• Evidence of delivering and evaluating an effective beyond the classroom strategy
Commitment to School Culture:
• Aspiration to contribute to a world-class school with an innovation-driven culture
• Commitment to high standards of safeguarding and, health and safety
• Willingness to operate at both strategic and operational levels in a growing institution

All positions attract an excellent remuneration package including: Competitive tax-free salary, individual fully furnished accommodation, free schooling, private medical insurance, annual airfares to country of residence and end of Service Gratuity.

GEMS Teachers also have free access to our loyalty app GEMS rewards www.gemsrewards.com which provides significant savings on day-to-day life in the UAE. We offer thousands of discounts and 2 for 1 offers on everything from flights, hotels, restaurants and retail outlets, making your salary go further and enhancing the opportunity to save whilst working overseas.

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.