Vice Principal Secondary (Jan/Apr 2027)

About the role

GEMS International School – Dubai Hills, an IB World School offering education from Early Years through Grade 12, is seeking an experienced Vice Principal Secondary to provide strategic and operational leadership across its Middle School and High School. Reporting to the Senior Vice Principal – Teaching & Learning, the role leads and supports secondary leadership teams so that whole-school priorities improve student outcomes, staff development and the student experience. The start date is January/April 2027, but can be discussed.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership across Middle School and High School, keeping teaching, learning and student achievement at a high standard.
• Drive school improvement through planning, quality assurance, data analysis and evaluation of impact.
• Oversee the delivery of the MYP, DP and CP programmes, ensuring coherent curriculum, high-quality assessment and ambitious outcomes.
• Lead, develop and support secondary leadership teams, including the Assistant Principals for Middle School and High School.
• Promote an inclusive, student-centred culture covering behaviour, attendance, wellbeing and pastoral care.
• Strengthen partnerships with parents and the wider community, supporting communication, transitions, admissions and retention.
• Keep the school compliant with GEMS, KHDA, IB and other accreditation requirements.
• Contribute to strategic planning, inspection readiness, staff development and wider initiatives.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree and a recognised teaching qualification (PGCE, BEd or equivalent); a relevant Master's or leadership qualification is desirable.
• Proven senior leadership experience in secondary education with a track record of improving teaching, learning and student outcomes.
• Significant experience in an IB environment, ideally including the MYP and either the DP or CP.
• Experience leading and developing senior and middle leaders, with a focus on professional growth and accountability.
• Experience of pastoral leadership, student wellbeing, parent engagement and school operations, ideally in an international school.

Required skills

• Curriculum development, assessment, school improvement and quality assurance.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organisational skills, with a collaborative, inclusive leadership style.

Candidates apply through the school's careers portal with an up-to-date CV; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Successful applicants undergo safeguarding checks, including identity, qualifications, employment history, references and criminal record checks.