Secondary Head of Creative Arts (Founding Role – August 2026)

RAK Academy is a renowned network of international schools offering both the British and International Baccalaureate curriculum options. Our goal is to foster Learning Excellence with a Community Heart.

By cultivating outstanding leadership at every level within our schools, we aim to provide a premier education that prioritizes innovation, sustainability, and community values.

RAK Academy Al Hamra:

Located in the southern area of Ras Al Khaimah within the Al Hamra community, RAK Academy – Al Hamra is a growing primary and lower secondary school implementing an adapted UK National Curriculum from Pre-K through Grade 8, alongside the UAE MOE subjects. Our newly established secondary school, which will serve Grades 6 to 8, is scheduled to open in August 2026. We are accredited by British Schools Overseas (BSO), aligned with leading British international institutions, and are fully prepared to provide the ECT induction to our teaching staff.

The Role (Founding Position):

RAK Academy – Al Hamra is seeking a passionate, driven, and imaginative founding Head of Creative Arts to lead the establishment of our new secondary Creative Arts department. This distinctive role presents the chance to design curriculum pathways, foster an artistic culture, establish assessment frameworks, and set teaching standards in a school that will commence operations in August 2026.

As the inaugural middle leader, the Head of Creative Arts will:

• Develop and implement the Creative Arts curriculum for Grades 6–8.
• Create assessment frameworks, departmental guidelines, and high teaching standards.
• Foster a vibrant atmosphere of creativity, expression, and artistic excellence throughout the new secondary school.
• Support the recruitment, onboarding, and professional growth of Creative Arts instructors.
• Work closely with the Head of School, Deputy Head, and primary arts leaders to ensure alignment and progression.
• Manage curriculum planning, exhibitions, performances, resource allocation, and professional development needs.
• Teach across various key stages as the school grows.

This position is ideal for a leader who thrives in dynamic environments, enjoys building systems from scratch, and is excited about the prospect of launching a new school.

Essential:

• Bachelor’s degree in Design and Technology or Art and Design.
• Post Graduate Certificate in Education (or equivalent).
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• Strong grasp of teaching and learning principles.
• Skilled in utilizing technology to enhance educational experiences.
• Ability to engage, inspire, and support students.
• Reflective practitioner with a flair for creative thinking and innovation.
• Positive, enthusiastic team player with a growth-oriented mindset.
• Willingness to actively engage in extracurricular activities.
• Excellent communication abilities.
• Experience teaching GCSE/IGCSE/A-Level courses (Early Career Teachers are encouraged to apply).

Desirable:

• National Professional Qualification Middle Leadership (NPQML).
• National Professional Qualification Leading Teaching (NPQLT).
• Experience in contributing to or leading curriculum development.
• Proven history of improving student outcomes.

The school offers:

• A tax-free salary that includes a housing allowance.
• Additional benefits such as an annual travel allowance, medical insurance, and a UAE residency visa.
• Opportunities for extensive professional development, both internally and externally.
• A supportive leadership team and pathways for rapid career progression.
• A unique opportunity to shape a new secondary school from its foundation.

Single status candidates and teaching couples are strongly encouraged to apply.

To apply for this position, please use the 'Apply via the WhatSchool platform.'

RAK Academy Family of Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Candidates will undergo a child protection screening before receiving an employment offer.