Head of Department

CACTUS RECRUITMENT; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent international school in the United Arab Emirates is looking for an experienced Head of English Department to lead and innovate English teaching across Middle and High School. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in English, a recognized teaching qualification, and at least two years of experience in a leadership role. The position offers an all-inclusive salary up to AED 18,000 per month, along with annual flight allowance and medical insurance, making it an excellent opportunity to shape curriculum and impact student outcomes.

Benefits

Annual flight allowance

Medical insurance

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Head of English Department.
• Experience teaching English at Middle and High School level.
• Proven ability to raise standards and lead teams effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead and implement a coherent English curriculum across Middle and High School.
• Support teachers with planning, delivery, and assessment.
• Line-manage English teachers and conduct performance reviews.
• Oversee assessment design and moderation.
• Collaborate with other Heads of Department and senior leaders.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Curriculum knowledge

Teaching strategies

Education

Bachelor’s degree in English or related field

Recognised teaching qualification (e.g. PGCE, B.Ed)

Job description

Head of English Department (Middle & High School)

Location: United Arab Emirates | Start: August 2026
Reporting To: Principal / Director of Teaching & Learning
Contract Type: Full-time, permanent
Start date: August (or as agreed)

Role Overview

The school is seeking an experienced and inspirational Head of English Department to lead English teaching and learning across Middle School and High School.

The successful candidate will be a proven subject leader with strong curriculum knowledge, excellent people‑management skills, and a clear vision for developing literacy, language, and literature outcomes in a diverse international setting.

This role combines strategic leadership with high-quality classroom practice, ensuring academic rigour, consistency, and innovation across the department.

Key Responsibilities

• Academic & Curriculum Leadership
  Lead, develop, and implement a coherent English curriculum across Middle and High School. Ensure alignment with international best practice (preferably American curriculum frameworks). Monitor curriculum progression, assessment, and student outcomes. Drive improvements in literacy, reading culture, and academic writing across year groups.
• Teaching & Learning Model
  Review outstanding classroom practice. Support teachers in planning, delivery, differentiation, and assessment. Use data to track progress, identify gaps, and implement targeted interventions. Promote innovative teaching strategies and effective use of educational technology.
• Staff Leadership & Development
  Line‑manage English teachers across Middle and High School. Conduct lesson observations, learning walks, and performance reviews. Mentor and support teachers through coaching and professional development. Lead departmental meetings and contribute to whole‑school CPD.
• Assessment & Quality Assurance
  Oversee assessment design, moderation, and reporting. Ensure consistency in marking and feedback practices. Analyse internal and external assessment data to inform improvement plans.
• Whole‑School Contribution
  Contribute to school improvement initiatives and academic strategy. Collaborate with other Heads of Department and senior leaders. Support accreditation, inspection, and quality assurance processes. Engage positively with parents and the wider school community.

Person Specification

• Essential Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in English or a related field.
  • Recognised teaching qualification (e.g. PGCE, B.Ed, or equivalent).
  • Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Head of English Department.
  • Experience teaching English at Middle and High School level.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
  • Proven ability to raise standards and lead teams effectively.
• Desirable:
  • Experience within the American curriculum (or international equivalent).
  • Experience in an international or multicultural school environment.
  • Master’s degree in Education, English, or Leadership.
  • Experience supporting accreditation or inspection processes.

Salary & Benefits

• All‑inclusive salary up to AED 18,000 per month (commensurate with experience).
• Annual flight allowance.
• Medical insurance.
• End‑of‑service gratuity in line with UAE labour law.
• Professional development opportunities.

Why Apply

This is an excellent opportunity for an established or aspiring English leader to make a meaningful impact in a growing international school, with genuine scope to shape curriculum, culture, and outcomes across Middle and High School.