Assistant Principal – Early Years (Student Life & Culture)

About the role

GEMS International School, Dubai Hills is seeking an Assistant Principal for Early Years to lead student life and culture. This senior leadership position focuses on wellbeing, safeguarding, behaviour, and family engagement across the Early Years phase.

Key responsibilities

• Provide visible day‑to‑day leadership ensuring a safe, purposeful learning environment.
• Lead phase teams, embedding high expectations for wellbeing, behaviour and learning.
• Collaborate with safeguarding, inclusion and wellbeing teams for early intervention support.
• Build strong relationships with families and ensure effective communication.
• Support student progress through holistic development with academic and pastoral leaders.
• Oversee transition and induction processes for students and families.
• Contribute to school improvement, quality assurance and strategic priorities as a senior leader.

Required profile

• Recognised teaching qualification at degree level (B.Ed, PGCE, PGDE, State Teaching License or equivalent).
• Proven teaching and leadership experience in Early Years, preferably in an IB or international school.
• Experience in pastoral leadership, student wellbeing, behaviour management and safeguarding.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high‑performing, inclusive teams.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills with students, staff and families.

Required skills

• Teaching qualification (e.g., B.Ed, PGCE, PGDE).
• Leadership experience in Early Years education.
• Knowledge of IB curriculum and international school standards.
• Understanding of safeguarding policies and procedures.

What we offer

• Competitive tax‑free salary.
• Individual furnished accommodation.
• Annual return flights.
• Private medical insurance.
• Tuition fee benefit for up to one child.
• Visa sponsorship and relocation allowance.
• End‑of‑service gratuity and GEMS Rewards.