Head of College

HEAD OF COLLEGE

Brighton College Al Ain is on the lookout for an exceptional, inspiring, and seasoned Head of College, ideally starting in August 2026. Recently recognized as the 2025-26 British International School of the Year, this is a remarkable opportunity to guide the institution through its forthcoming phase of growth.

Brighton College in the UK is consistently celebrated as one of the nation's top independent schools—dubbed ‘School of the Decade’ by The Sunday Times. Brighton College Al Ain is part of the Brighton College International (BCI) network, which is dedicated to ensuring its international schools genuinely embody Brighton College’s unique combination of academic, pastoral, and co-curricular offerings. The core values of Curiosity, Confidence, and Kindness are central to this mission. BCI also encourages cooperation and a collaborative spirit throughout the group.

The three Brighton College international schools located in the UAE—Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Dubai—are the product of a successful collaboration between Brighton College and Bloom Education. Al Ain, known as ‘the Garden City,’ is the largest inland city in the UAE, located near the Oman border and part of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Brighton College Al Ain is a British curriculum school catering to around 1,000 students, set on a stunning 28-acre campus equipped with modern facilities. The school offers co-educational learning in the Pre-Prep, Prep School, and Sixth Form, while providing single-gender education for Years 6-11. Approximately 60% of the student body is Emirati.

The Head of Brighton College Al Ain reports to a Board consisting of representatives from Brighton College UK, Bloom Holdings, and Bloom Education. On a daily basis, the Head is responsible to the General Manager of Bloom Education for the school's educational and commercial operations, ensuring alignment with the inspection and regulatory frameworks set by ADEK, Abu Dhabi’s Department of Education and Knowledge.

The ideal candidate for the Head of College position will likely be a current Head/Principal with experience in both the UAE and esteemed British or British international schools. It is essential for the Head to understand the significance of the inspection framework and possess the expertise to firmly establish Brighton College Al Ain as an outstanding institution. Additionally, they should be innovative and forward-thinking, adept at responding to the evolving demographics and educational environment in Al Ain. A strong commitment to enhancing Brighton College Al Ain’s inclusive practices within a premium educational setting is also required.

The new Head of College will encounter numerous challenges and opportunities as Brighton College Al Ain embarks on its next chapter. The successful applicant will need to possess a diverse skill set: a dedication to excellence and clarity in recognizing and addressing areas needing improvement; the ability to integrate the unique Al Ain context with the Brighton College ethos; the gravitas and effective communication skills to reassure parents and stakeholders; and the commercial and political savvy to further enhance the school's position in the market. Like all Heads at Brighton College, they will be expected to lead with authenticity, purpose, and a profound commitment to the growth and development of every student.

For the right individual, this is an extraordinary opportunity to build upon the school’s achievements and elevate its profile in the UAE, the broader Middle East, and within the Brighton College International network—a school distinguished by its unique location while embodying the finest traditions of a Brighton College education.

The role is set to commence in August 2026; however, for an exceptional candidate, a January 2027 start date may be considered. The position offers a competitive compensation package that includes medical coverage, flights, housing, and school placements.

To initiate a confidential discussion about the position, please reach out to Jean Sullivan at jeansullivan@rsacademics.com, including your CV/resumé if you have not recently communicated with RSAcademics.

For more details, including a comprehensive candidate information brochure and to apply for this position, please visit https://www.rsacademics.com/current-vacancies/head-of-college-brighton-college-al-ain/

The deadline for applications is Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 10:00 UK / 13:00 UAE.

Brighton College, Brighton College International, and Bloom Education are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. They expect all staff and volunteers to uphold this commitment. Any employment offer will be contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS disclosure, satisfactory references, the College’s pre-employment medical questionnaire, relevant original ID documentation, and examination certificates. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, allowing the school to request job applicants to declare all convictions and cautions (including those that are "spent" unless they are "protected" under the DBS filtering regulations) to assess their suitability for working with children.

The safeguarding responsibilities associated with this role are outlined in the candidate information.

Brighton College is devoted to conducting recruitment and selection processes in a systematic, efficient, and effective manner that promotes equality of opportunity. Our full equal opportunities policy can be found on the ‘Careers’ section of our website.

RSAcademics is committed to promoting the welfare of children and young people while fostering diversity and inclusion in schools.