About GEMS International School, Dubai Hills

Located in the heart of Dubai Hills, GEMS International School (GIS) is a leading IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum.

As the official GEMS Centre of Excellence for Aeronautics, Aviation and Space, GIS combines academic excellence with future-focused learning, preparing confident, globally minded students for success at leading universities worldwide.

Why Join GEMS International School, Dubai Hills?

• Full IB continuum within a collaborative, inquiry-led learning environment.
• Prime location in the prestigious Dubai Hills community.
• Official GEMS Centre of Excellence for Aeronautics, Aviation and Space.
• Exceptional university outcomes, with 100% of the Class of 2024 securing university places and 91% gaining entry to their first-choice institution, and USD $31.5 million in university scholarships awarded to the Class of 2024.
• A culture that values innovation, wellbeing and professional growth.

Position Overview

We are seeking an outstanding Assistant Principal – Early Years (Student Life & Culture) to join the Senior Leadership Team at GEMS International School – Dubai Hills.

Working closely with the Vice Principal – Primary and wider Senior Leadership Team, the successful candidate will provide leadership across the Early Years phase, with responsibility for student culture, wellbeing, safeguarding, behaviour, family engagement and the overall student experience.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Early Years leader who is passionate about creating a positive, inclusive and nurturing environment where every child is known, supported and able to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide visible day-to-day leadership across the Early Years phase, ensuring a positive, safe and purposeful learning environment.
• Lead and support phase teams, embedding consistently high expectations for student wellbeing, behaviour, engagement and learning.
• Work closely with safeguarding, inclusion and wellbeing teams to ensure students receive appropriate support and early intervention.
• Build strong, positive relationships with families and ensure effective communication across the phase.
• Support student progress and engagement, working collaboratively with academic and pastoral leaders to ensure a holistic approach to each child's development.
• Lead effective transition and induction processes for students and families.
• Contribute to school improvement, quality assurance and strategic priorities as an active member of the Senior Leadership Team.
• Champion the school's vision, values and IB philosophy throughout the Early Years community.

Successful Candidate

• Hold a recognised teaching qualification at degree level, such as a B.Ed, PGCE, PGDE, State Teaching License or equivalent.
• Have proven teaching and leadership experience within Early Years, ideally within an IB or international school environment.
• Demonstrate successful experience in pastoral leadership, student wellbeing, behaviour and culture, with a strong understanding of safeguarding.
• Have experience leading and developing teams and creating a positive, inclusive and high-performing culture.
• Demonstrate excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the confidence to engage effectively with students, staff and families.
• Bring the vision, energy and commitment to contribute as a member of the Senior Leadership Team within a diverse international school community.

What We Offer

As part of GEMS Education, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Competitive tax-free salary
• Individual furnished accommodation
• Annual return flights
• Private medical insurance
• Tuition fee benefit for up to 1 child
• Visa sponsorship
• Relocation allowance
• End of service gratuity
• GEMS Rewards

Application Process

If you are an experienced Early Years leader looking to take the next step in your leadership journey within a dynamic international school community, we would welcome your application.

Join GEMS International School – Dubai Hills and become part of a collaborative community committed to innovation, academic excellence and preparing students for success in an ever-changing world.

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are dedicated to creating safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environments where students can thrive, and we expect all employees, volunteers, and partners to share this commitment.

As part of our safer recruitment practices, all successful applicants will be subject to comprehensive pre-employment checks, including verification of identity, qualifications, employment history, professional references, and criminal record checks from all countries of residence and employment, in line with local and international safeguarding requirements. These checks may include enhanced disclosure, prohibition, barring, and overseas police clearance checks where applicable. We are committed to recruiting individuals who uphold the highest standards of professional conduct and child protection.