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 – Wellbeing & Pastoral (Student Life & Culture) to join the Senior Leadership Team at GEMS International School – Dubai Hills from January 2027.

Reporting to the Senior Vice Principal – Student Life & Culture, the successful candidate will provide whole-school leadership across Primary and Secondary, supporting the development of a positive, inclusive and values-driven school culture, with a particular focus on student wellbeing, behaviour, safeguarding, student leadership and belonging.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced pastoral leader who is passionate about creating an environment where every student feels safe, valued and empowered to thrive, both academically and personally.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide visible whole-school leadership across Primary and Secondary, promoting a positive, inclusive and high-performing student culture aligned with the school's values and IB philosophy.
• Support the development and consistent implementation of behaviour and pastoral frameworks, including the Be a GEM initiative, promoting positive relationships, restorative practices and high expectations.
• Lead and contribute to whole-school wellbeing initiatives, working closely with safeguarding, counselling, inclusion and pastoral teams to ensure effective student support and early intervention.
• Champion student voice, leadership and agency, creating meaningful opportunities for students to contribute to school life, service and community engagement.
• Support the development of Beyond 100, promoting enrichment, co-curricular opportunities and experiences that strengthen student confidence, character and belonging.
• Promote Emirati culture, UAE heritage and international-mindedness through inclusive school initiatives, events and community engagement.
• Monitor student behaviour, attendance, wellbeing and engagement, using data and feedback to identify trends, inform interventions and drive continuous improvement.
• Build strong partnerships with students, families and staff, ensuring effective communication and a consistent approach to student wellbeing and pastoral care.
• Contribute to school improvement, quality assurance, safeguarding compliance and inspection readiness as an active member of the Senior Leadership Team.
• Champion the school's vision, values and commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and student wellbeing throughout the school 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, ideally within an IB or international school environment, with the ability to work effectively across Primary and Secondary.
• Demonstrate successful experience in pastoral leadership, student wellbeing, behaviour management and school culture, with a strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection.
• Have experience developing and implementing whole-school initiatives, policies or frameworks that positively impact student engagement, behaviour and wellbeing.
• Demonstrate the ability to lead, coach and collaborate with staff, building a positive, inclusive and high-performing school culture.
• Possess excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the confidence to engage effectively with students, families and colleagues.
• Bring the vision, energy and strategic thinking required to contribute as a member of the Senior Leadership Team within a diverse international school community.
• Available to start from January 2027.

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 pastoral 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 play a key role in shaping a positive, inclusive and inspiring school culture where every student is supported to thrive.

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.