Head of Primary School - August 2026

Al Ain English Speaking School (AAESS) is seeking a passionate and committed Head of Primary School to join our team in August 2026.

This critical leadership role will steer the Primary School with a motivating vision and a genuine dedication to student well-being. The ideal candidate will uphold exemplary standards in teaching, learning, and pastoral care, fostering an environment characterized by warmth, ambition, and inclusivity, where students thrive and staff are motivated to succeed.

About Cognita:

Cognita is a leading global organization in independent education. Founded in 2004, we have grown into a network of over 100 schools across 16 countries—including Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East—serving more than 85,000 students. While each institution has its own distinct character, our collective mission is to cultivate an environment where everyone can "Thrive in a rapidly evolving world."

At Cognita, we honor the individuality of every student. We support their unique traits and capabilities, offering academic, social, and emotional assistance, regardless of their location. We cherish their uniqueness while providing extensive knowledge, opportunities, and best practices, enabling them to experience world-class education within a larger community.

About AAESS:

Situated in Al Ain, one of the region’s oldest educational institutions, Al Ain English Speaking School enjoys a reputation that extends well beyond the city. Located in the 'Garden City,' renowned for its desert oasis, AAESS serves over 2,200 students aged 3 to 19 and is continually growing. Our spacious and welcoming campus features outstanding facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, floodlit tennis courts, a 566-seat auditorium, a food preparation and nutrition kitchen, an automotive garage, a TV and radio production studio, and two Apple Mac suites. We follow the British Curriculum, offering iGCSE, AS, and A Levels, with our sixth form students gaining admission to prestigious universities around the globe.

AAESS proudly holds the distinction of being the first school in Al Ain to earn the British Schools Overseas Award, recognized by the British Government and quality assured by Ofsted. Additionally, we have received the esteemed Silver Carnegie Mental Health Award, underscoring our commitment to both academic excellence and the mental health of our students and staff.

Al Ain English Speaking School nurtures a caring, multicultural community, empowering each individual to realize their full potential within a dynamic and innovative learning environment. We prioritize inquiry, perseverance, and reflection, treating one another with respect and integrity as we collaborate to develop responsible and resourceful global citizens.

Core Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Lead the Primary School with clarity, intention, and compassion, ensuring every student feels known, supported, and motivated.

• Collaborate with the Principal and Executive Leadership Team (ELT) to shape and implement the school’s strategic vision.

• Integrate the school’s values and mission into all aspects of Primary School operations.

• Ensure alignment between the Junior School and broader school priorities, facilitating continuity in curriculum, transitions, and a cohesive culture with the Senior School.

• Utilize data, self-assessments, and stakeholder feedback to identify and execute effective school improvement strategies.

• Oversee the curriculum design and development for Foundation Stage and Key Stages 1–2, ensuring diversity, balance, and inclusivity.

• Inspire and support a dynamic team of Deputy and Assistant Heads, Phase Leaders, and teachers through trust, clarity, and respect.

Requirements

• Significant and successful leadership experience in a primary or junior educational context.

• Proven track record in leading school improvement efforts and managing change effectively.

• Comprehensive understanding of the English National Curriculum.

• Inspirational communicator and leader, demonstrating emotional intelligence and humility.

• Strong organizational and administrative skills.

• Familiarity with the EYFS framework and the transition to Key Stage 1.

• Collaborative, empathetic, and adept at establishing strong professional relationships.

• Passionate about children’s learning, well-being, and character development.

• Proficient in curriculum design and innovation.

• Confident in using data for planning and decision-making.

• Experienced in developing and leading high-performing teams.

Key Accountabilities

• Acts as a member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) and chairs the Primary School ELT.

• Reports directly to the Principal.

• Responsible for safeguarding, operational management, and upholding academic and pastoral standards in the Primary School.

• Directly oversees the Primary School Deputy Heads, Assistant Heads, and Phase Leaders.

• Represents the Primary School at governor meetings and whole-school forums as required.

Desirable Attributes

• Experience in international schools.

• Background in leading a Junior School with transitions into a Senior School environment.

In Return, We Offer

• A tax-free salary.

• Furnished accommodation of high quality.

• Comprehensive medical insurance.

• Annual return flights to your home country.

• Coverage for visa costs and end-of-service gratuity.

• Year-round sunshine.

Benefits of living in Al Ain & the UAE:

Living in Al Ain City offers teachers an affordable lifestyle in a welcoming and cosmopolitan setting. Staff enjoy a high-quality lifestyle with numerous leisure options (e.g., Rugby, Golf, Swimming, discounted hotel memberships) and fascinating tourist attractions (e.g., Al Ain Zoo, Wadi Adventure, Jebel Hafeet). With the vibrant cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi nearby, there are plenty of opportunities for travel throughout the Gulf region and beyond.

This is a full-time, permanent position offering a competitive salary. Interested candidates should apply through the TES online application form; only complete applications will be considered. To enhance your application, please attach your most recent, up-to-date CV. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The school reserves the right to interview and hire strong candidates before the official closing date, so we encourage early applications.

Al Ain English Speaking School and Cognita are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expect the same dedication from our staff. All new hires will undergo comprehensive pre-employment screening, which includes identity verification, criminal background checks for all countries of residence, qualification verification, employment history checks to address any gaps, and satisfactory references for all employment over the past decade.