Vice Principal Teaching and Learning (Jan/Apr 2027)

About the role

GEMS International School – Dubai Hills, an IB World School offering education from Early Years to Grade 12, is seeking an experienced Vice Principal Teaching and Learning to lead teaching, professional development and inclusive education across all phases. Reporting to the Senior Vice Principal Teaching and Learning, the role also serves as the school's Inclusion Champion, overseeing personalised learning and learner experience. The ideal start date is January/April 2027, though it can be discussed.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for teaching and learning across all phases, keeping classroom practice aligned with IB philosophy and whole-school priorities.
• Lead professional learning, coaching and staff development, building a culture of reflection, collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Drive quality assurance and improvement through lesson observations, learning walks, data analysis, professional dialogue and evidence-informed evaluation.
• Act as Inclusion Champion: oversee inclusive education strategies, regulatory compliance and personalised learning for students of determination, gifted and talented learners and those needing additional support.
• Line-manage the Head of Personalised Learning and the Head of Learner Experience.
• Work with curriculum and academic leaders to strengthen consistency across IB programmes and promote inquiry-based learning and student agency.
• Contribute to strategic planning, inspection and accreditation readiness and staff development as a member of the leadership team.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree and recognised teaching qualification (PGCE, BEd or equivalent); a relevant Master's or leadership qualification is desirable.
• Proven senior leadership experience with a track record of improving teaching, learning and student outcomes.
• Significant experience leading professional development, coaching, quality assurance and school improvement.
• Demonstrated success in leading and developing academic and inclusion leaders.

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of inclusive education, personalised learning and regulatory compliance.
• Experience in an IB environment, ideally across multiple IB programmes and phases.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organisational skills, with a collaborative leadership style.

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