Head of Islamic Studies - Immediate Start

Aldar Education is on the lookout for a Head of Islamic Studies Department to join our expanding network of owned and operated schools in the UAE. The available position is located at ADNOC School, Madinat Zayed Campus, situated in the Western Region (Al Dhafra) of Abu Dhabi, with an immediate start date.

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of Aldar Education and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of one of Abu Dhabi’s premier school groups. ADNOC Schools, managed by Aldar Education, provide exceptional facilities and are designed to deliver a 21st Century curriculum that leverages cutting-edge technology and outstanding resources.

Ideal candidates will possess a strong record of effective leadership experience, ideally gained in the UK, USA, or other international environments, along with excellent interpersonal abilities and cultural sensitivity. You should be adept at addressing the diverse needs of various stakeholders, including Board members, parents, teachers, and Principals.

The position necessitates high-level strategic thinking, coupled with a robust understanding of how to achieve exceptional educational outcomes across the institution. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to collaborating with other schools within the group and developing strategies to engage with partners that support the school's mission, the group’s objectives, and the broader educational vision of the UAE.

Successful applicants will resonate with our core values and philosophy and will have a genuine comprehension of the region's cultural values.

RESPONSIBILITIES

· Ensure comprehensive curriculum coverage, continuity, and progression in Islamic Studies for all students.

· Provide clear guidance for teaching the subject and enhance essential skills through structured work plans, including research and technology-based learning.

· Establish a clear departmental assessment policy that aligns with school directives and examination standards, including preparing internal examination papers and managing external examination entries as necessary.

· Assess the quality of instruction in the subject area and implement measures for ongoing improvement.

· Foster connections with members of the local and extended school community to enrich the subject curriculum, enhance teaching, and broaden students' understanding of the subject.

· Ensure adherence to school policies regarding equal opportunities, teaching and learning, and behavior management.

· Promote positive departmental behavior expectations that align with school-wide policies.

· Lead departmental meetings and represent the department in various curriculum committees and school events as needed.

· Evaluate staff effectiveness as outlined by school policy and utilize this process to enhance the personal and professional development of individual staff members.

· Identify training needs within the department and support the coordination of high-quality professional development opportunities.

· Facilitate the induction of new staff, particularly focusing on the requirements of trainee and newly qualified teachers.

· Collaborate with the HOD, Middle/High School Coordinators, and the SENCO to establish appropriate subject-specific targets and ensure that work is tailored to meet student needs effectively.

· Keep senior management, the Principal, the ELT, SGG, and Board members well-informed of all relevant matters.

· Oversee the effective deployment of staff and resources through:

1. Identifying staff and resource requirements.

2. Allocating available subject resources in accordance with UAE cultural sensitivities.

3. Deploying subject staff to optimize the use of subject-specific, technical, and other expertise.

4. Managing learning resources, including ICT, efficiently and effectively.

5. Organizing accommodation to foster an effective and stimulating teaching and learning environment for the subject.

Minimum Qualifications

Essential

· A Bachelor’s degree in Islamic Studies Education or a related field with a PGCE or another teaching qualification.

Desirable

· A Master’s degree in Education.

· Leadership/Management experience.

· Administrative/Leadership certification.

· Proven experience managing College Board Programming.

Minimum Experience

· A minimum of 6 years of experience, including 4 consecutive years of teaching, with performance consistently exceeding standards as demonstrated by Performance Appraisal.

Job Specific Knowledge & Skills

· Exceptional interpersonal skills.

· Ability to function in an environment with frequent interruptions.

· Capacity to make sound judgments and work under pressure.

· Effective communication skills across all levels.

· Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask.

· Strategic thinking and planning capabilities.

· Proven supervisory and leadership aptitude.

· Proficient in IT.

· Integrity and ability to maintain confidentiality.

WHAT WE OFFER

Aldar Education is a family of innovative, child-centered schools of the highest caliber based in the UAE. We currently educate over 22,000 students across our network of owned and managed schools, and as we continue to grow, we seek highly skilled, inspiring, and dedicated school leaders.

We offer a competitive compensation package that includes medical coverage, flight allowances, furnished housing, and free tuition for children. Our forward-thinking educational model involves both students and staff, placing a strong emphasis on professional growth, coaching, and training. Successful candidates will have access to a vast network of professionals and opportunities to both lead and contribute to the training of others while also developing themselves.

Aldar Education welcomes applications from like-minded, progressive school leaders who are ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities we present.

APPLICATION

Interested candidates should submit:

A one-page A4 letter of interest, an updated resume/CV, and two references (one from a current Principal or Supervisor).

Aldar Education and ADNOC Schools are dedicated to safeguarding children and young individuals. All job offers will be contingent upon relevant medical checks and clearance from appropriate safeguarding authorities.