Director of Sport- January 2027

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.

We are seeking an outstanding Director of Sport to lead Physical Education, Sport, Health and Fitness across the school. The successful candidate will shape the strategic vision for sport, lead a high-performing team of teachers and coaches, and ensure exceptional curricular and co-curricular provision from Pre-Prep through to Sixth Form.

The role will oversee curriculum development, quality assurance, staff development, competitions, events and external sporting partnerships, while creating outstanding opportunities for student participation, performance and achievement.

SRI offers an extensive sporting programme including cricket, football, swimming, water polo, athletics, basketball, netball, padel, badminton, gymnastics, martial arts, fencing and esports, alongside off-site opportunities such as sailing, rowing, skiing, equestrian, golf and tennis.

Person specifications:

• Hold a BEd or Bachelor’s degree with PGCE/PGDE, or equivalent recognised teaching qualification, in a relevant subject area.
• A Master’s degree and/or recognised leadership qualification is highly desirable.
• Have a minimum of four years’ successful experience in subject leadership or a relevant senior leadership role.
• Demonstrate a strong track record of outstanding teaching, raising achievement and improving student outcomes.
• Have proven experience leading PE and Sport curriculum, staff development and co-curricular provision.
• Ideally have experience within a through-school environment covering ages 3–18.
• Be an inspirational people leader with strong coaching, organisational and communication skills.
• Have experience developing effective external sporting partnerships.
• Be collaborative, reflective, solution-focused and committed to continuous improvement.
• Bring creativity, energy and ambition to developing world-class sporting provision.
• Embody the values of integrity, empathy and fortitude and contribute actively to the wider school community.

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

GEMS employees also receive free access to GEMS Rewards, offering thousands of discounts and 2-for-1 offers across flights, hotels, restaurants and retail outlets throughout the UAE.