Secondary Deputy Headteacher

Deputy Head of Secondary

Under the direction of the Head of Secondary, the Deputy Head of Secondary will assume a vital strategic and operational leadership role at the school. The individual in this position will play a crucial part in promoting school improvement, upholding high standards, and ensuring an outstanding educational experience for every student.

Key Responsibilities

• Advocate for and embody the ethos, vision, and standards of excellence aligned with the GEMS Core Values
• Integrate and promote ‘The GFM Way’, ensuring it is central to all initiatives aimed at school improvement, prioritizing student-centered decision-making
• Assist in the formulation and execution of the school’s strategic plans and excellence initiatives, focusing on key improvement areas
• Provide strong leadership and management for both staff and students
• Ensure that all students have access to a high-quality educational experience that allows them to reach their full potential
• Cultivate a positive and responsive relationship with parents, maintaining a high standard of customer service
• Promote high academic standards in line with the school’s goals and UAE National Agenda targets
• Contribute to the creation of school aims, policies, and systems, ensuring effective implementation
• Monitor and assess progress towards school priorities and objectives
• Aid in the effective management of staff, resources, and budgets
• Take on teaching responsibilities and other professional tasks as assigned by the Principal

Leadership Qualities

The Deputy Head of Secondary will:

• Uphold the utmost standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical behavior
• Foster and maintain positive, respectful relationships within the school and the parent community
• Lead by example, showcasing excellence in practice and conduct
• Exhibit a commitment to continuous improvement and high expectations for all
• Serve as a positive role model, reflecting the values and behaviors expected of students
• Actively contribute to the broader life and ethos of the school
• Treat every member of the school community with dignity and respect, while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries

Key Areas of Responsibility

School Culture and Behaviour

• Champion and consistently promote ‘The GFM Way’
• Foster a culture of excellence that aligns with the GEMS Core Values
• Collaborate with the Head of School, Secondary Leadership Team, and Vice Principal to develop high-quality, globally relevant teaching and learning methodologies
• Create a positive, inclusive, and enriching school environment for all students
• Encourage high standards of behavior through clear routines, expectations, and consistent practices
• Ensure fair and effective management of behavior in accordance with school policies
• Maintain a strong culture of professionalism among staff

Teaching, Curriculum and Assessment

• Advocate for the ‘Teach Like a GEM’ approach
• Lead instructional coaching and utilize Steplab to enhance teaching practices
• Ensure consistently high-quality instruction across all subjects, rooted in evidence-based methodologies
• Promote strong subject expertise throughout the curriculum
• Develop and implement effective monitoring and evaluation systems to foster improvement
• Ensure the delivery of a broad, balanced, and coherent curriculum
• Support and foster curriculum leadership, including subject leaders
• Ensure assessment practices are valid, reliable, and conducive to student progress

Inclusion (SEN and Disabilities)

• Encourage an inclusive culture that allows all students to engage with the curriculum
• Maintain high expectations for students with additional needs
• Collaborate closely with parents to identify needs and put in place appropriate support and modifications

Organisational Management and School Improvement

• Assist in the development and realization of the school’s strategic direction in partnership with leadership and governance
• Ensure the presence of effective systems, processes, and policies to support school operations
• Safeguard the welfare and wellbeing of both students and staff
• Implement effective risk management strategies
• Identify barriers to school effectiveness and spearhead appropriate improvement initiatives
• Monitor, evaluate, and review the impact of school improvement efforts

Staff Management and Professional Development

• Line manage Assistant Headteachers and middle leaders, including overseeing performance management and appraisal processes
• Ensure staff have access to high-quality professional development opportunities
• Stay updated on advancements in education and leadership practices
• Engage in continuous professional development to enhance leadership effectiveness

Governance and Partnerships

• Operate effectively within governance frameworks, accepting accountability and responsibility
• Ensure staff are aware of and fulfill their professional responsibilities
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and statutory obligations
• Build effective partnerships with other schools and organizations within the GEMS network and beyond
• Collaborate with colleagues and external partners to enhance student outcomes

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A recognized teaching qualification (e.g., B.Ed, PGCE, PGDE or equivalent)
• At least five years of teaching experience in a British curriculum school
• Demonstrated experience in a leadership capacity
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to forge trusting, professional relationships
• A coaching approach to leadership and staff development
• A dedication to providing outstanding teaching and learning experiences
• The ambition to contribute to a world-class school environment and advance their career
• Excellent IT and communication skills
• A creative, proactive, and enthusiastic approach to school life, both within and outside the classroom