Assistant Head of Early Years Job Opportunity at GEMS Schools in Dubai

GEMS International School – Dubai Hills, part of GEMS Education, is offering a leadership opportunity for the position of Assistant Principal – Early Years, Student Life & Culture, joining the school’s Senior Leadership Team starting in January 2027.

The role aims to lead and enhance the educational and social environment for children in the Early Years, support their psychological and social well-being, and foster a positive, safe, and inclusive school culture that provides every child with equal opportunities to learn, grow, and develop essential skills.

The Assistant Principal will work closely with the Deputy Head of Primary and the Senior Leadership Team to oversee student life, behavior, and well-being, strengthen communication with parents, and further develop child safeguarding and inclusion practices across the school.

Benefits

• A competitive salary, free from personal income tax in the UAE.

• Independent furnished accommodation provided by the school.

• Annual round-trip flight tickets.

• Private health insurance.

• Tuition fee coverage for up to one child, subject to the school’s policy.

• Employment and residence visa sponsorship in the UAE.

• Relocation allowance.

• End-of-service gratuity in accordance with employment terms.

• Access to the GEMS Rewards program, which offers benefits and discounts to GEMS employees.

• Professional and leadership development opportunities across the international GEMS Education network.

1. Lead the Early Years phase: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the phase, guide teaching teams, and ensure a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment that supports children’s learning and development.

2. Promote student well-being and school culture: Develop practices related to children’s behavior, well-being, and safeguarding, and coordinate with support and inclusion teams to ensure early intervention and appropriate support for students’ needs.

3. Engage with parents and support students: Build positive relationships with families, strengthen effective communication, and oversee procedures for welcoming new students and supporting transitions between educational stages.

4. Contribute to school leadership and development: Participate in school improvement planning and quality assurance, support staff teams, and help embed the school’s vision, values, and International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy.

Educational Qualifications

Applicants must hold a recognized teaching qualification at degree level, such as:

• A Bachelor of Education (B.Ed).

• A Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).

• A Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE).

• An official State Teaching License.

• Or an equivalent recognized teaching qualification.

Professional Experience

• Proven experience in teaching and educational leadership within the Early Years stage.

• Previous experience in International Baccalaureate (IB) schools or international schools is preferred.

• Experience in educational leadership related to student care, well-being, behavior management, and school culture.

• Experience leading teaching teams, developing staff performance, and fostering a positive and inclusive working environment.

• Advanced understanding of child safeguarding procedures, school safety requirements, and student well-being.

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