Deputy Vice Principal – Academic, Curriculum and Standards (Sep 2026 or Jan 2027 Start)

We are pleased to invite applications from outstanding and ambitious leaders for the position of Deputy Vice Principal – Academic, Curriculum and Standards, at GEMS Cambridge International School, Abu Dhabi. The role is either for a September 2026 or January 2027 start. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced educational leader to play a pivotal role in driving academic excellence, curriculum innovation, teaching and learning, and whole-school standards across the school. The successful candidate must be a Secondary School specialist and will demonstrate a strong track record of impactful leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to achieving exceptional outcomes for students and staff alike.

Key Responsibilities:

Academic Leadership & Implementation
•    Embrace and encourage the ethos and standards of excellence as defined in the GEMS Core Values by promoting a culture of high expectations, professional excellence, and continuous improvement.
•    Support the Principal in delivering the school’s academic vision, priorities, and improvement plans.
•    Drive the implementation of teaching and learning strategies across the school.
•    Ensure consistency in academic practices across departments and phases.
•    Deputise for the Vice Principal and Principal when required in academic matters.

Teaching & Learning Excellence
•    Lead the development and implementation of high-quality teaching and learning practices across the school aligned with TLAG framework.
•    Monitor the quality of teaching through lesson observations, learning walks, and work scrutiny.
•    Ensure consistent application of teaching standards and expectations across the school, in line with GEMS T&L frameworks.
•    Support Heads of Department/Phase Leaders in improving teaching practice.
•    Follow up on areas for development identified through internal and external reviews.
•    Drive a culture of reflective practice and continuous professional improvement.

Curriculum Design & Implementation 
•    Oversee the design, implementation, and review of a broad, balanced, and inclusive curriculum aligned with national and TLAG frameworks.
•    Ensure curriculum progression, continuity, and challenge across all key stages.
•    Work with Heads of Department to ensure curriculum planning meets the needs of all learners.
•    Lead curriculum innovation and development in response to school priorities and inspection feedback.

Assessment, Data & Student Outcomes 
•    Support the implementation of whole-school assessment systems and processes.
•    Monitor student progress and attainment through regular data analysis.
•    Work with Heads of Department to identify gaps and implement targeted interventions.
•    Ensure data is used effectively to inform teaching and improve student outcomes.

Quality Assurance & School Improvement
•    Support the implementation of the School Improvement Plan with a focus on academic priorities.
•    Monitor the quality of teaching, learning, and assessment through structured review processes.
•    Support departments in addressing areas identified for improvement following internal and external reviews.
•    Lead data informed improvement strategies to raise attainment and progress.
•    Contribute to self-evaluation processes and ensure alignment with inspection frameworks.

Inspection Readiness & Compliance
•    Support preparation for external inspections (ADEK, BSO, and aligned frameworks).
•    Ensure teaching, learning, curriculum, and assessment evidence is accurate, robust, and inspection-ready.
•    Oversee the development and implementation of academic policies and procedures.
•    Support school self-evaluation and improvement documentation in line with regulatory expectations.

Staff Leadership, Development & Performance
•    Line manage direct reports in line with GEMS performance management frameworks.
•    Support coaching, professional development, and capacity-building across the team, ensuring strong succession planning.
•    Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.
•    Contribute to recruitment, induction, and retention of high-quality staff.

Operations, Administration & Compliance
•    Support timetabling, curriculum planning, and academic organisation.
•    Assist in the coordination of assessment cycles, reporting, and examinations.
•    Ensure accurate academic records and reporting systems are maintained.
•    Contribute to policy development and ensure adherence to academic requirements.
•    Ensure accurate reporting and documentation for inspection and regulatory submissions.

Parent, Student & Community Engagement
•    Support communication with parents regarding academic progress and expectations.
•    Assist in resolving academic-related concerns and queries.
•    Promote student engagement and achievement through academic initiatives.
•    Represent the school in academic related meetings with stakeholders and regulatory bodies.

Required Qualifications, Experience & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Recognised teaching qualification and leadership experience within a school setting.
• Minimum 8 years of teaching experience, including at least 3–5 years in a senior or middle leadership role, preferably within a British curriculum or international school environment.
• Secondary School specialism is essential, with strong experience in curriculum development, academic standards, assessment, and teaching and learning across Secondary phases.
• Proven ability to lead whole-school academic improvement initiatives and drive high standards of student achievement and outcomes.
• Strong understanding of ADEK frameworks, inspection requirements, and curriculum expectations.
• Demonstrated experience in leading, developing, and managing diverse teams effectively.
• Strong organisational, strategic leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent understanding and use of data, assessment, and technology to support school improvement and student progress.

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.