Head of Foundation Stage (FS1 & FS2)

Job Purpose
The Head of Foundation Stage at GCS is responsible for the strategic development, implementation, and ongoing enhancement of Early Years provision (FS1 and FS2) within a British curriculum context. This position guarantees exceptional teaching, learning, and assessment consistent with the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum (EYFS) and UAE regulatory standards, creating a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment where every child can flourish.

Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Management
- Direct and manage the Foundation Stage team, fostering a culture of high expectations, teamwork, and ongoing improvement.
- Design and execute the EYFS curriculum and strategic plan in alignment with the overall objectives of the school.
- Supervise FS teachers and support staff, focusing on performance management, coaching, and professional growth.
- Participate in whole-school leadership as a member of the GCS Primary Leadership Team.
- Ensure adherence to UAE regulatory requirements (SPEA/MOE) and safeguarding protocols.

Teaching and Learning
- Guarantee high-quality, play-based, and inquiry-driven instruction across FS1 and FS2, adhering to EYFS principles.
- Oversee planning, teaching, and assessment practices to ensure consistency, progression, and challenge for every learner.
- Advocate for best practices in early years education, including continuous provision, child-initiated learning, and effective adult-child interactions.
- Assist staff in addressing the diverse needs of all learners, including EAL, gifted and talented students, and those with additional needs.

Curriculum and Assessment
- Supervise the planning, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive, balanced, and engaging EYFS curriculum.
- Ensure robust baseline, formative, and summative assessment systems, with precise tracking and moderation processes.
- Analyze data to guide instruction, interventions, and strategic initiatives.
- Facilitate seamless transition processes into and out of the Foundation Stage.

Safeguarding and Wellbeing
- Uphold and promote the highest standards of safeguarding and child protection.
- Create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing educational atmosphere that supports children's wellbeing and development.
- Collaborate closely with the GCS Designated Safeguarding Lead and inclusion team to assist vulnerable students.

Parental Engagement
- Foster strong relationships with GCS families, ensuring effective communication regarding children’s progress and wellbeing.
- Lead parent workshops, meetings, and transition events.
- Address parental inquiries and concerns professionally and promptly.

Operational Management
- Oversee the daily operations of the Foundation Stage, including timetabling, staffing, and resource management.
- Ensure that learning environments (both indoor and outdoor) are engaging, well-resourced, and aligned with EYFS best practices.
- Manage budgets and resources efficiently.

Person Specification
Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field; EYFS specialization is preferred.
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or an equivalent qualification.
- At least 5 years of teaching experience, including Early Years.
- Proven leadership experience in EYFS or Primary education settings.
- Experience in a British curriculum international school is desirable.

Personal Attributes
- Strong passion for early years education.
- Resilient, adaptable, and solution-oriented.
- Collaborative and culturally sensitive.
- High degree of professionalism and integrity.

This position presents an exciting opportunity to lead and enhance exceptional Early Years provision within a vibrant international school setting at GEMS, a leading world-class educational provider.