Senior Vice Principal (Teaching & Learning) - Aug 2026

Since its establishment in September 2013, GEMS International School – Al Khail (GIS) has been devoted to delivering a high-quality education that equips students for life beyond academic settings.

As an IB World School, we are dedicated to nurturing students with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in a global environment. Our diverse and dynamic community, comprising students and faculty from over 100 nationalities, cultivates a culture of acceptance, communication, appreciation, and understanding. These fundamental values are integral to our mission, empowering our students to emerge as true global citizens who make meaningful contributions to society.

We are currently in search of a Senior Vice Principal (Teaching & Learning) to join us in August 2026. The successful candidate will assume a vital leadership position in shaping and advancing the school’s strategic vision for exceptional teaching, learning, and educational outcomes. This role, part of the Senior Leadership Team, will step in for the Principal/CEO as necessary and ensure that GIS provides an outstanding educational experience that meets and surpasses standards set by KHDA inspections, IB and CIS accreditations, and GEMS quality benchmarks. The position encompasses comprehensive oversight of the development, execution, and assessment of teaching and learning excellence throughout all school phases.

Please be aware that early applications will be evaluated, and initial interviews may be conducted before the application deadline.

Responsibilities

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Offer strategic leadership for teaching, learning, and academic excellence across the entire school, ensuring alignment with the institution’s mission, values, and strategic objectives.

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Act in place of the Principal/CEO as required, representing GIS to both internal and external stakeholders, including regulatory and accreditation organizations.

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Lead the creation and assessment of the School Development Plan (SDP), School Self-Evaluation Framework (SEF), and other strategic initiatives.

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Collaborate closely with the Senior Vice Principal for Curriculum & Assessment to maintain a cohesive and integrated approach to academic standards, learning design, and assessment philosophy.

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Partner with the Senior Vice Principal for Student Life & Culture to foster inclusive and learner-centered practices throughout the school.

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Possess comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the KHDA/DSIB UAE Inspection Framework and Supplement as well as the UAE National Agenda, utilizing this knowledge to support effective leadership and management.

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Supervise the implementation of key GEMS initiatives, ensuring alignment of school operations and educational practices with group expectations.

Qualifications

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Recognized teaching qualification (PGCE or equivalent).

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Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field; a Master’s degree or National Professional Qualification in Education (NPQ) is preferred.

Experience

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At least 10 years of teaching experience, including a role within a Senior Leadership Team (SLT).

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Demonstrated success in operational and academic leadership in an IB curriculum institution.

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Proven experience in managing large teams and facilitating whole-school improvement efforts.

Skills & Attributes

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Ability to lead strategically and operationally.

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Exceptional communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

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Capacity to motivate and inspire diverse teams across all educational phases.

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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

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Thorough understanding of IB curriculum frameworks, inspection standards (KHDA, BSO), and GEMS expectations.

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Dedication to innovation, wellbeing, and inclusive practices.

GEMS Education is dedicated to ensuring the safety and welfare of all students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is mandatory for all appointments.