Middle School Counselor - Aug 2026

Dubai American Academy (DAA), a leading American institution within GEMS Education, offers an exceptional world-class education from KG to Grade 12, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. Rated Outstanding by the KHDA consistently since 2011, DAA is renowned for its academic excellence, vibrant international community, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Middle School Counselor to join our dedicated team starting in August 2026.

This role provides an exciting opportunity for a counselor committed to education and eager to make a meaningful impact on our students' academic experiences.

Job Purpose:

To organize and provide academic, personal, social, and emotional counseling for students.

Job Scope:

You will be responsible for developing and implementing a counseling program that meets the needs of the school and its students, ensuring they excel in all aspects of their lives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Promote and uphold the ethos and standards of excellence as defined by the GEMS Core Values.
• Establish procedures and timelines to offer academic, personal, social, emotional, and psychological counseling to students.
• Facilitate the transition process for students.
• Create protocols for securing external support for students facing personal challenges and emotional needs.
• Collaborate with senior management to design initiatives and activities that support students’ holistic development, cultivating responsibility, leadership, cooperation, and other vital personal and social skills.
• Maintain comprehensive records of student progress, achievements, activities, and interests, monitoring student development using all available data and evidence.
• Implement proactive strategies and procedures to combat bullying.
• Administer relevant testing programs to evaluate student aptitude and achievement.
• Establish systems to promptly communicate with parents regarding issues related to academic performance, schoolwork, or behavior.
• Ensure compliance with GEMS policies, procedures, and codes of conduct at all times.
• Demonstrate commitment by engaging in initiatives beyond the typical workday when required.
• Attend staff meetings and participate in committees as needed.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by direct or dotted line managers/supervisors.

Successful candidates will have:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Education or an initial degree combined with a relevant qualification in psychology or counseling.
• At least one year of school-based experience or prior work with schools and students in a counseling capacity.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a high level of empathy.
• The ability to build strong relationships with students and gain their trust.
• A clear understanding of the importance of confidentiality and discretion.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A firm commitment to improving their practice and providing outstanding counseling services to students.
• Availability to start in August 2026.

Next Steps:

• Candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted regarding the subsequent steps.
• Interviews will take place soon, both in-person and online, by invitation only.

Join us in transforming education at Dubai American Academy. Together, we can significantly impact our students' lives and empower them to become world-class, globally prepared individuals.

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 appointments. Apply via the WhatSchool platform.