Deputy Head of Secondary (August 2026)
About This Role
The Deputy Head of Secondary is an essential member of the school's executive leadership team, working in close partnership with the Head of Secondary and the Senior Leadership Team to promote academic excellence, operational effectiveness, and a supportive educational atmosphere. The chosen candidate may also assume responsibilities that align with the school’s strategic objectives, contributing to the overall enhancement of school improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
•
Promote and exemplify the ethos, vision, and standards of excellence that reflect the GEMS Education Core Values.
•
Collaborate with the Head of Secondary to develop and implement innovative, effective, and globally relevant teaching and learning practices.
•
Support the realization of the school’s strategic vision, aimed at elevating educational quality and fostering continuous improvement.
•
Ensure that GEMS Core Values are integrated throughout all curricular and co-curricular activities, nurturing a culture of aspiration, respect, and inclusivity.
Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum
•
Lead the development of comprehensive monitoring and evaluation systems to assess the quality of teaching and learning, implementing focused improvement actions as required.
•
Conduct lesson observations and performance assessments based on identified needs, providing targeted developmental feedback that aligns with school priorities.
•
Work alongside Heads of Department and coordinators to guarantee continuity, progression, and compliance with regulatory standards in the curriculum.
•
Ensure that the curriculum remains responsive to student needs while meeting established standards and content frameworks.
Staff Development and Leadership
•
Promote the professional growth of staff through coaching, mentoring, and structured professional development aligned with specific improvement objectives.
•
Lead meetings, direct working groups, and participate in whole-school leadership initiatives.
•
Encourage leadership skills throughout the Secondary phase, contributing to succession planning and talent development efforts.
Student Experience and Enrichment
•
Oversee the successful delivery of support programs, enrichment activities, educational trips, assemblies, and special events that enhance student learning and well-being.
•
Collaborate with pastoral and inclusion teams to ensure a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Community Engagement and Operations
•
Build strong relationships with parents and the wider community through clear and consistent communication and engagement strategies.
•
Coordinate with the Registrar regarding admissions processes, including student induction, assessment, and transition protocols.
•
Assist in the organization of Parent-Teacher meetings, school events, charity initiatives, and activities within the broader GEMS network.
Strategic and Operational Leadership
•
Contribute to budget planning and resource management to ensure effective staffing and facility allocation.
•
Fulfill a teaching role and undertake additional professional responsibilities as assigned by the Head of Secondary and the Senior Leadership Team.
•
Ensure the consistent application of all GEMS policies, procedures, and professional standards.
•
Demonstrate flexibility and commitment, recognizing that senior leadership responsibilities may extend beyond standard school hours.
•
Engage in leadership meetings and serve on committees as required.
•
Perform any other tasks reasonably assigned by direct or indirect supervisors.