Abu Dhabi teaching jobs 2025 – Lead as Head of Secondary at GEMS World Academy

Job Overview – Abu Dhabi Teaching Jobs at GEMS
About GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi
Available and Related Abu Dhabi Teaching Jobs
Head of Secondary – Role Overview
Key Job Responsibilities
Why This Role Stands Out Among Abu Dhabi Teaching Jobs
Requirements and Ideal Candidate Profile
How to Apply
FAQs – Abu Dhabi Teaching Jobs and This Role

1. Job Overview – Abu Dhabi Teaching Jobs at GEMS

If you are exploring senior-level Abu Dhabi teaching jobs and are ready to step into a high-impact school leadership position, the Head of Secondary role at GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi is a compelling opportunity.

Job Title: Head of Secondary
School: GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi
Location: Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Curriculum: IB framework (PYP and MYP) blended with the National Curriculum for England, including IGCSE
Phase: Secondary (currently up to Year 11, with plans to grow to Year 13)
Employment Type: Full-time, senior leadership
Start Date: August 2026 (Academic Year 2026–27)

Reporting directly to the Principal, the Head of Secondary will lead the secondary phase academically, pastorally, and operationally. This is not just a teaching job; it is a strategic leadership role for an experienced educator who wants to shape curriculum, drive results, and build a thriving learning culture in one of the most respected schools in the region.

Abu Dhabi teaching jobs 2025 – Lead as Head of Secondary at GEMS World Academy

2. About GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi

GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi is a dynamic, inclusive, and diverse international school situated on Al Reem Island. The school:

Blends the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework with the National Curriculum for England
Offers PYP and MYP, with IGCSE running through FS1 to Year 11 and plans to expand to Year 13
Is committed to a Culture of Dignity, where every community member feels safe, valued, and included

As part of the wider GEMS Education network, the academy benefits from:

Established educational standards and support structures
Access to professional development and leadership pathways
A worldwide reputation for quality and innovation in schooling

For educators considering Abu Dhabi teaching jobs, GEMS World Academy offers an environment where pedagogy, leadership, and student wellbeing are all central priorities.

3. Available and Related Abu Dhabi Teaching Jobs

While this role specifically focuses on the Head of Secondary position, candidates browsing Abu Dhabi teaching jobs may also be interested in related roles that often operate alongside this post, such as:

Deputy Head of Secondary
Head of Primary
IB MYP Coordinator or PYP Coordinator
Head of Department (English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Languages)
Pastoral Leader or Year Leader in Secondary

These positions all contribute to the broader teaching and learning culture of the school and can be natural stepping stones toward a Head of Secondary role.

See more Abu Dhabi teaching jobs

4. Head of Secondary – Role Overview

Among Abu Dhabi teaching jobs, the Head of Secondary position stands out as a senior management role that combines strategic leadership with direct impact on teaching and learning.

The Head of Secondary will:

Lead the secondary phase academically, pastorally, and operationally
Drive curriculum development and assessment aligned with IB and UK standards
Oversee student discipline, welfare, and personal development
Support enrolment growth and strengthen the academy’s reputation
Work closely with middle leaders, teachers, and the Principal to maintain high standards

This role is suited to an experienced school leader who can think strategically, inspire teams, and translate vision into action while maintaining a strong presence in classrooms and corridors.

5. Key Job Responsibilities

5.1 Ethos, Culture, and Pastoral Care

Embrace and model the GEMS Core Values, setting the tone for the Secondary phase
Oversee student discipline and pastoral care, ensuring systems support positive behaviour and wellbeing
Liaise with administration, form tutors, subject teachers, and parents where pastoral needs arise
Ensure smooth transitions, particularly from Year 6 to Year 7, including induction procedures and orientation

5.2 Community, Events, and Enrolment

Collaborate with the Principal to maximise and grow enrolment in the Secondary phase
Ensure the effective provision of:
- Support classes and academic booster programmes
- Activity programmes and extra-curricular offerings
- Educational trips, assemblies, sports days, and prize days
Assist with Parent–Teacher meetings, charity drives, GEMS initiatives, and major school events

5.3 Curriculum Development and Assessment

Lead the development and management of the secondary curriculum in line with:
- GEMS curriculum model and policy
- IB framework requirements
- National Curriculum for England and IGCSE expectations
Oversee curriculum planning and progression, ensuring continuity from year to year
Lead the development of curriculum transition and pedagogy, keeping the school at the forefront of effective teaching practice
Manage the timetabling of the curriculum and the introduction of secondary strategies across the academy
Lead the options process, including guidance and information for students and families
Support departments to implement effective subject tracking systems
Track and review student progress using half-termly data, implementing intervention where necessary

5.4 Teaching, Learning, and Achievement

Ensure the highest quality of teaching and learning across the Secondary phase, as judged by GEMS Education standards
Lead strategies aimed at raising attainment and achievement in all subjects
Develop and implement intervention strategies that support learners at all levels to achieve outstanding outcomes
Promote a wide range of extra-curricular activities to enrich the academic and personal development of students

5.5 Management, Budgets, and Professional Duties

Chair meetings and committees as required, ensuring clear communication and follow-up
Manage budgets relevant to Secondary operations, curriculum, and resourcing
Undertake teaching and professional duties as reasonably delegated by the Principal or Head of School
Ensure all GEMS policies, procedures, and codes of conduct are consistently implemented
Demonstrate flexibility by contributing effort beyond the standard workday when tasks and events require extra commitment

5.6 Staff Leadership and Professional Development

Ensure effective teamwork among teaching and support staff in the Secondary phase
Support supervisory staff in developing their skills in academic leadership and classroom supervision
Provide coaching, guidance, and feedback to teachers to support continuous improvement
Promote a culture of reflective practice, professional learning, and collaborative planning

6. Why This Role Stands Out Among Abu Dhabi Teaching Jobs

For seasoned educators seeking ambitious Abu Dhabi teaching jobs, this Head of Secondary role offers:

Strategic Leadership Influence: Play a pivotal role in shaping the direction and growth of a leading international school’s Secondary phase.
Curriculum Depth: Engage with a rich blend of IB programmes and the National Curriculum for England, including IGCSE and future Post-16 planning.
Professional Environment: Work within the respected GEMS network, with access to training, collaboration, and support from other senior leaders.
Dynamic Location: Enjoy life in Abu Dhabi’s Al Reem Island community, a rapidly developing area with strong appeal to international families and staff.
Impactful Work: Make a tangible difference in students’ academic outcomes, personal development, and readiness for global futures.

This is a role for leaders who want their work to truly matter and to be visible in the progress of both students and staff.

7. Requirements and Ideal Candidate Profile

To be competitive for this senior role, candidates for one of the top Abu Dhabi teaching jobs should demonstrate the following:

Qualifications

Bachelor of Education degree
- or an initial degree plus a recognised teaching qualification such as PGCE, PGDE, or equivalent
Leadership qualification such as NPQSL or equivalent is highly desirable

Experience

Minimum of 10 years’ experience in reputable schools
Strong experience with the IB framework, particularly in Secondary, and a solid understanding of the English National Curriculum
Proven track record in:
- Pedagogical leadership
- School organisation and systems
- Change management
- Staff development and team leadership

Skills and Competencies

Excellent communication and public relations abilities
Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills when working with staff, students, and parents
Financial acumen and experience managing budgets
Deep understanding of curriculum design, teaching and learning, and authentic assessment practices
Ability to lead and inspire a diverse team of teachers and leaders

Safeguarding

Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students and staff
Ability to obtain and maintain relevant police checks or equivalent clearances as per GEMS Education standards

8. How to Apply

If this Head of Secondary role aligns with your aspirations and you are serious about senior Abu Dhabi teaching jobs, here is a suggested approach:

Click Here to Apply!

Early and well-prepared applications are key in a competitive field like senior Abu Dhabi teaching jobs.

9. FAQs – Abu Dhabi Teaching Jobs and This Role

1. Is this Head of Secondary position a teaching role or purely managerial?
It is primarily a leadership role with significant management responsibilities, but it may include some teaching and modelling of best practice in the classroom.

2. Do I need IB experience for this role?
Yes, strong experience with IB, particularly in the Secondary phase, is expected, alongside a solid understanding of the English National Curriculum.

3. What level of experience is required for senior Abu Dhabi teaching jobs like this?
At least 10 years of experience in reputable schools, with substantial time spent in leadership roles, is required.

4. Will I be involved in staff recruitment and development?
Yes, as Head of Secondary, you will play a key role in supporting recruitment, induction, coaching, and performance management of Secondary staff.

5. Is knowledge of local regulations and safeguarding practices important?
Absolutely. You must be committed to safeguarding and ready to meet all regulatory requirements, including relevant police checks and compliance expectations.