Senior Vice Principal (Curriculum, Standards & Assessment) - Aug 2026

Since opening its doors in September 2013, GEMS International School – Al Khail (GIS) has been committed to providing an exceptional educational experience that prepares students for success in life beyond academics.

As an IB World School, we focus on cultivating the skills and knowledge necessary for thriving in a global society. Our vibrant and diverse community includes students and staff representing over 100 nationalities, creating an environment of acceptance, communication, appreciation, and understanding. These core values are central to our mission, empowering students to emerge as global citizens who make meaningful contributions to the world.

We are currently seeking a Senior Vice Principal (Curriculum, Standards & Assessment) to join us in August 2026. This role will be crucial in leading the development and implementation of the school’s strategic vision regarding curriculum design, assessment systems, academic standards, and student achievement across Early Years, Primary, Middle School, and High School. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, the appointee will act in place of the Principal/CEO when necessary, ensuring that GIS maintains a cohesive, rigorous, and progressive curriculum that adheres to the standards of the IB continuum, KHDA expectations, CIS accreditation, and GEMS quality benchmarks.

Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing curriculum intent, design, and coherence throughout all educational stages.
• Managing assessment strategies, systems, and reporting, which encompass both internal and external benchmarking.
• Ensuring academic standards, outcomes, and data integrity are maintained.
• Handling accreditation, compliance, and alignment with inspection protocols.
• Ensuring consistency, rigor, and alignment with strategic priorities in teaching, assessment, and reporting.

Please note that early applications will be considered, and initial interviews may be conducted prior to the closing date.

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership for curriculum, assessment, and academic standards throughout the school.
• Represent the Principal/CEO as required, engaging with internal and external stakeholders, including KHDA, IB, and accreditation organizations.
• Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of the School Development Plan (SDP), School Self-Evaluation Framework (SEF), and associated academic objectives.
• Work closely with the Senior Vice Principal – Teaching & Learning to foster an integrated approach to academic excellence.
• Collaborate with the Senior Vice Principal – Student Life & Culture to ensure that curriculum and assessment systems promote inclusive, student-centered outcomes.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of KHDA/DSIB frameworks, IB program standards, and UAE National Agenda mandates.

Qualifications:

• Recognized teaching qualification (PGCE or equivalent).
• Bachelor’s degree (in Education or a related field).
• Master’s degree / NPQH (preferred).

Experience:

• Significant senior leadership experience in a large international school.
• Proven success in:
• Curriculum design and implementation.
• Assessment systems and data strategy.
• Improving academic standards and outcomes.
• Experience with IB programs.
• Solid understanding of KHDA/inspection frameworks.
• Experience with accreditation processes (preferred).

Skills & Attributes:

• Strategic and systems-level thinking.
• Expertise in curriculum and assessment.
• Advanced data literacy and analytical skills.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Attention to detail, evaluative rigor, and precision.
• Commitment to inclusion, innovation, and excellence.

GEMS Education is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is required for all positions. Apply via the WhatSchool platform.