Head of Key Stage 1 - August 2026

Due to the continued success of GEMS Metropole School Al Waha, we are seeking an exceptional Head of Key Stage 1 to join our team from August 2026.

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious teacher to gain international experience, make a real impact on teaching and learning, and help shape the next generation of learners in a world-class school in the heart of Dubai.

GEMS Metropole School Al Waha is truly unique. Anyone joining our team will have the opportunity to leave their mark on a sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking school community. Our values—curiosity, confidence, creativity, respect, and kindness—underpin our distinctive curriculum, complemented by extraordinary facilities including a forest with over 170 trees, a farm with animals and crops, a bio-cube tropical ecosystem, cutting-edge BTEC offerings including an electronic automotive engineering workshop, advanced performing arts spaces, and state-of-the-art sporting facilities.

At GEMS, teaching is not just a job—it’s a career. Our teachers benefit from world-class CPD, international growth opportunities, and the chance to progress within a global network of schools.

The post holder will lead, manage, and take accountability for:

• Leadership & Management

• Student Achievement & Well-being

• Parental Engagement & Communication

• Administrative & Operational Responsibilities

• Supporting the Behaviour for Learning Policy

• Driving the school’s vision and ethos to ensure every child thrives

Key Responsibilities

As part of the Extended Leadership Team, you will:

• Articulate a clear vision for Key Stage 1 aligned with the school’s values, ensuring high expectations and standards

• Promote student progress, well-being, and positive behaviour, setting high-performance targets and fostering an inclusive learning environment

• Oversee curriculum delivery, assessment, and the professional development of staff to ensure innovative and consistent teaching practices across KS1

• Inspire and manage teams effectively, promoting collaboration, professional growth, and a commitment to excellence

• Ensure the efficient use of resources, from financial planning to staff deployment, to support high-quality learning outcomes

• Build strong relationships with parents, carers, external agencies, and the local community, acting as an ambassador for the school and Key Stage 1

Promoting High Performance Learning

• Leading staff to promote the HPL framework and fostering a culture of excellence

• Driving improvements in learner outcomes and developing cognitive and personal growth

• Supporting staff training and development aligned with HPL principles

• Ensuring compliance with HPL World Class School standards through accreditation processes

Why Join Us?

At GEMS Metropole Al Waha, we are passionate about nurturing the potential of every child and equipping them for lifelong success. We offer:

• A supportive and collaborative leadership team

• A strong focus on professional development and career progression

• The opportunity to shape the future of Key Stage 1 education

• A vibrant school community committed to high achievement and inclusion

We are looking for an educational leader who:

• Has a proven track record of successful leadership and impact on student outcomes

• Is passionate about primary education and committed to achieving excellence

• Demonstrates exceptional interpersonal and organisational skills

• Is a team player who can inspire and lead others towards a shared vision