Deputy Head of Primary

Deputy Head of Primary

In the role of Deputy Head of Primary, reporting to the Head of Primary, you will be instrumental in both strategic and operational leadership within the school. The successful candidate will aid in school improvement efforts, uphold exceptional standards, and ensure an exemplary educational experience for every student.

Key Responsibilities

• Foster and maintain the ethos, vision, and standards of excellence in alignment with the GEMS Core Values.
• Advocate for and integrate ‘The GFM Way,’ ensuring it remains the focal point of all school improvement initiatives, with students at the center of all decision-making processes.
• Assist in the formulation and execution of the school’s strategic and excellence plans, in conjunction with key improvement initiatives.
• Provide strong leadership and management for both staff and students.
• Ensure a high-quality educational experience that enables every student to reach their full potential.
• Cultivate robust relationships with parents, ensuring consistent engagement and communication standards.
• Promote high academic achievements in accordance with the school’s goals and UAE National Agenda targets.
• Contribute to the formulation of school aims, policies, and systems, ensuring effective execution.
• Monitor and assess progress towards the school’s priorities and objectives.
• Support the efficient management of staff, resources, and budgets.
• Assume teaching and additional professional duties as assigned by the Principal.

Key Areas of Responsibility

School Culture and Behaviour

• Uphold and promote ‘The GFM Way’ consistently.
• Encourage a culture of excellence aligned with the GEMS Core Values.
• Collaborate with the Head of School, Primary Leadership Team, and Vice Principal to establish high-quality, globally relevant teaching and learning methodologies.
• Create a positive, inclusive, and enriching learning environment for all students.
• Advocate for high behavioral standards through established routines, clear expectations, and consistent practices.
• Ensure fair and effective behavior management in accordance with school policies.
• Promote a strong culture of professionalism among staff members.

Teaching, Curriculum and Assessment

• Champion the ‘Teach Like a GEM’ methodology.
• Lead instructional coaching and utilize Steplab to enhance teaching practices.
• Ensure high-quality teaching is consistently delivered across all phases, based on evidence-based methodologies.
• Enhance subject knowledge and pedagogical practices across the curriculum.
• Develop and implement effective monitoring and evaluation frameworks to drive continuous improvement.
• Ensure a comprehensive, balanced, and coherent curriculum is effectively delivered.
• Support and nurture curriculum leadership, including subject leaders.
• Ensure that assessment practices are valid, reliable, and conducive to student progress.

Inclusion (SEN and Disabilities)

• Promote an inclusive environment that allows all students to engage with the curriculum.
• Maintain high expectations for students with additional needs.
• Collaborate closely with parents to identify needs and implement suitable support and adjustments.

Organisational Management and School Improvement

• Assist in the development and execution of the school’s strategic direction in partnership with leadership and governance.
• Ensure that efficient systems, processes, and policies are in place to support school operations.
• Safeguard the welfare and well-being of both students and staff.
• Implement comprehensive risk management processes.
• Identify challenges to school effectiveness and lead relevant improvement strategies.
• Monitor, evaluate, and assess the impact of school improvement initiatives.

Staff Management and Professional Development

• Line manage Assistant Headteachers and middle leaders, including overseeing performance management and appraisal.
• Ensure staff have access to high-quality professional development opportunities.
• Stay updated on developments in educational and leadership practices.
• Engage in ongoing professional development to enhance leadership capabilities.

Governance and Partnerships

• Operate effectively within governance frameworks, accepting accountability and responsibility.
• Ensure staff comprehend and fulfill their professional obligations.
• Maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and statutory duties.
• Build effective partnerships with other schools and organizations within the GEMS network and beyond.
• Collaborate with colleagues and external partners to enhance outcomes for all students.

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A recognized teaching qualification (e.g., B.Ed, PGCE, PGDE, or equivalent).
• At least five years of teaching experience in a British curriculum primary school.
• Demonstrated experience in a leadership position.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trusting, professional relationships.
• A coaching-oriented approach to leadership and staff development.
• A dedication to providing exceptional teaching and learning experiences.
• The ambition to contribute to a world-class school environment and advance their career.
• Excellent IT and communication skills.
• A creative, proactive, and enthusiastic attitude toward school life, both in and out of the classroom.