Vice Principal Senior School - Jan 2027

THE ACADEMY

GEMS World Academy – Dubai (GWA) is a leading, co-educational IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP). Established in 2008, GWA is home to a diverse international community and is committed to developing inquiring, reflective and caring learners through an inclusive, innovative and academically ambitious learning environment.

THE ROLE

We are seeking an experienced and inspirational Vice Principal – Senior School (Grades 9–12) to join GEMS World Academy in January 2027.

Working closely with the Senior Campus Principal and wider Senior Leadership Team, the successful candidate will play a key role in the strategic leadership and continued development of the Senior School.

The position will have a particular focus on student wellbeing, pastoral care, behaviour, safeguarding and personal development, alongside supporting school improvement, quality assurance and staff development.

This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate educational leader to contribute to a positive, inclusive and high-achieving school culture, ensuring every student is supported to thrive both academically and personally.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic and operational leadership across Grades 9–12, supporting the Academy's vision, values and school improvement priorities.
• Lead the development and implementation of effective pastoral systems, student wellbeing initiatives, behaviour expectations and safeguarding practices.
• Lead, coach and support Assistant Principals, Grade Leaders and pastoral teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performing school culture.
• Promote student voice, leadership and engagement, ensuring a positive, inclusive and supportive learning environment.
• Monitor student attendance, progress and wellbeing, using data to inform decisions and implement appropriate interventions.
• Contribute to whole-school improvement, quality assurance, self-evaluation and strategic planning.
• Build strong relationships with students, parents, staff and the wider school community.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• A recognised teaching qualification, such as a B.Ed, PGCE, PGDE or equivalent, alongside a relevant bachelor's degree.
• Significant experience in a senior leadership role within a secondary school setting, ideally as a Vice Principal, Assistant Principal or equivalent.
• Proven experience in pastoral leadership, student wellbeing, behaviour management and safeguarding.
• Experience within an IB curriculum school, ideally with knowledge of the MYP and DP frameworks (preferred but not essential).
• A strong track record of leading school improvement initiatives, developing staff and driving positive student outcomes.
• Excellent leadership, communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to inclusive education and the IB philosophy.
• Availability to start in January 2027.

For a comprehensive overview of the position and responsibilities, please refer to the full Job Description attached on our TES page.

YOUR PACKAGE AND BENEFITS

An excellent remuneration package is available for successful candidates, including a competitive tax-free salary, furnished accommodation, premium medical insurance and life insurance, work permit and residence visa, annual flight allowance, tuition fee concession, and other benefits in line with UAE Labour Law.

In addition to these, we offer:

• A highly collaborative working environment and excellent support system.
• An extensive programme of continuing professional development.
• Training with the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO), where applicable.
• The opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction and continued development of a leading IB World School.
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth within GEMS Education.
• A commitment to staff wellbeing, including access to sports facilities, fitness and wellbeing sessions, and staff social events.
• GEMS Rewards, offering a range of benefits including retail discounts, savings on gym memberships, cinema tickets and more.

NEXT STEPS

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an initial screening call, followed by interviews (held both in person and virtually).

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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.