Admissions Secretary

THE ACADEMY

GEMS World Academy-Dubai (GWA) is a private, co-educational IB World School for PreK to Grade 12 students. Established in 2008 as a member of GEMS Education, the Academy is authorised to deliver the PYP, MYP, DP and CP programmes (across 2 campuses), and is also accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). We serve a multi-ethnic community in the heart of Dubai, with a student body drawn from over 100 countries. Non-selective, our ethos is grounded in the IB Learner Profile; we encourage intellectual curiosity, entrepreneurial spirit, and foster a real sense of communal endeavour. The Academy has gained national and international recognition for its work to improve outcomes for students, as well as its aspirational and inclusive vision. As a member of the GWA community you will have the opportunity to shape the future of the Academy whilst working alongside an exceptionally talented group of teachers and leaders.

GEMS World Academy-Dubai develops inquiring, reflective and caring learners who, through the rigour of the IB programmes, have the knowledge, skills and character to take action and create a better, more peaceful world. Supported by highly qualified staff in world-class facilities, our diverse international community is encouraged to develop intercultural understanding and respect. Our aim is to be a leading world-class IB school that maximises every student’s learning and character to enable them to choose their own successful path, and positively contribute to the local and global society.

THE ROLE

We are looking to appoint an outstanding candidate to assist the Admissions team with admitting new and leaving students with all that it entails, including paperwork, phone calls and reports. Organise and manage the admission procedures of students in order to maintain academy specific enrollment budget consistently throughout the academic year. Ensuring all students are registered in accordance with the GEMS enrollment Process and the specific governing body (such as KHDA).  The successful candidate should be enthusiastic and determined to support the school in continuing its improvement and growth.

Key Accountabilities

• Models and encourages a culture of kindness in support of the GEMS/GWA core values and IB Learner Profile.
• Support the Admissions Manager by meeting with prospective parents to explain admission procedures, curriculum, fee structure and regulations in order to ensure prospective parents enroll their children at the school.
• Update, maintain and manage the student information database, including all non-mandatory fields, ensuring that up to date information is available on a daily basis.
• Support the Admissions Manager to ensure annual enrollment processes such as; the re-enrollment process, Parent School Contract and registration of students, is completed within the agreed timetable.
• Answers phone and online queries regarding admission.
• Sends admission packs to parents who registered online.
• Tours parents if SLT are not available.
• If parents have inquiries which are not for the admissions team, guide them to the proper department.
• Ensure the GEMS policies, procedures and codes of conduct are followed at all times and ensure all audit items are addressed in a timely manner.
• Maintain and create files for all new applicants, new students, current students, exiting students and alumni and complete all exit documentation for students withdrawing from the academy.
• Files additional documents that parents submit during the school year.
• Covers the Admissions Manager’s post when she is unavailable.
• Informs the concerned divisions if a student is joining or leaving the academy.
• Schedules assessments for students.
• Schedules course selection sessions for Middle School and High School Counselors.
• Maintains exemplary personal presentation as provided within guidelines from GEMS.
• Perform other duties as requested by direct and dotted reporting line managers/supervisors.

Expected Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree is mandatory and must be attested in country of study & UAE MOFA attestation.
• Proficient secretarial skills, and extensive knowledge & experience with MS office programmes.

Expected Experience:

• A minimum of 2 years in a customer service focused role.
• Relationship management experience – able to build and influence professional relationships with peer groups as well as parental community.

Job-Specific Knowledge & Skills:

• English Speaker with exceptional skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to multi-task and cope with peaks of demand
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills
• Excellent organisational skills
• Must enjoy public contact and dealing with customers face to face
• Exceptional English skills, both verbal and written
• Bi-lingual is an advantage

We are committed to safeguarding children and promoting their welfare. We expect all staff to share this commitment. The post is subject to enhanced checks.

YOUR PACKAGE AND BENEFITS

An excellent remuneration package is available for successful candidates including; a competitive tax free salary, premium medical insurance and life insurance, working permit and residence visa, flight allowance, tuition fee concession within GEMS schools, 38 calendar days yearly annual leave and other benefits in line with the UAE Labour Law.

• In addition to these, we offer:
• A collaborative team with an excellent support system
• An excellent programme of continuing professional development
• The opportunity to develop personally and professionally
• A commitment to staff wellbeing, including access to all of our sports facilities, weekly fitness sessions, and staff social events
• GEMS Rewards which offers a package of benefits for staff such as retail discounts, savings on gym membership, cinema tickets and many other offers