Head of Secondary - Academic

chk Education; Dubai; On-site; AED 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance for family

Family visa sponsorship

Job summary

chk Education in Dubai seeks a dynamic Head of Secondary to lead teaching excellence, safeguarding and student outcomes across the secondary phase. You will shape the strategic direction of the department and foster a warm, inclusive school culture.

The role requires a recognised teaching qualification, prior Head of Secondary experience in a Tier 1 international school, and a proven track record in leadership, curriculum development and stakeholder collaboration.

Qualifications

• Recognised teaching qualification/licence (PGCE, QTS or US licence).
• Must have prior Head of Secondary experience in a Tier 1 school.
• Significant teaching experience in a secondary school.
• Proven experience in senior or middle leadership with secondary-wide responsibilities.
• Strong academic and professional track record.
• Experience in international or British-curriculum schools advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead teaching, safeguarding and student outcomes across the secondary phase.
• Shape the strategic direction of the secondary department.
• Collaborate with staff, students and families to develop a high-quality curriculum.

Skills

Head of Secondary

Leadership

Curriculum knowledge

Safeguarding

Communication

Multicultural

Education

Teaching qualification

Job description

• Top-tier medical insurance for the successful candidate and their family
• Family visa sponsorship

Negotiable for the right candidate- Jan 27

About the School

The school is a well-established, outstanding, international school in Dubai serving a diverse, multinational student community. It provides a broad, ambitious education that prepares students for success at leading universities and in an increasingly global world.

The secondary school follows the English Curriculum, providing a rigorous academic pathway leading to internationally recognised qualifications. Students benefit from a broad curriculum and extensive opportunities in sport, the arts, technology, leadership and extracurricular activities.

The school places strong emphasis on high-quality teaching and learning, student wellbeing, pastoral care and developing confident, internationally minded young people.

The successful Head of Secondary will play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the secondary phase, ensuring high standards in teaching, learning, behaviour, pastoral provision and student outcomes.

Who Will Thrive Here

This school is likely to suit educators who are ambitious, collaborative, adaptable and genuinely passionate about international education. Teachers who thrive in a diverse environment, embrace different cultures and perspectives, and are committed to continuous professional development are likely to flourish.

The ideal leader will combine high expectations with a warm, inclusive approach and will be confident in inspiring colleagues, students and parents. A proactive mindset, strong emotional intelligence and a willingness to contribute positively to the wider life of the school will be highly valued.

About Dubai

Dubai is a dynamic, cosmopolitan city that combines a high standard of living with an exciting international lifestyle. Known for its modern architecture, excellent infrastructure and diverse expatriate community, it offers an extensive range of leisure, cultural, sporting and dining opportunities.

With year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, world-class shopping and easy access to destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe, Dubai is an attractive location for international educators and their families.

• Required qualifications
• A recognised teaching qualification/licence, such as PGCE, QTS or a US teaching licence
• Must have been a Head of Secondary previously within an established Tier 1 school
• Significant successful teaching experience within a secondary school
• Proven experience in a senior or middle leadership role, ideally with substantial responsibility across a secondary phase
• A strong academic and professional track record
• Experience working within an international or British-curriculum school would be highly advantageous
• Essential skills
• Inspirational and strategic leadership skills
• Excellent knowledge of secondary education, curriculum and assessment
• A proven ability to improve teaching, learning and student outcomes
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and student wellbeing
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to motivate, develop and support teaching staff
• Strong organisational and decision-making abilities
• A collaborative and inclusive leadership style
• High expectations combined with a student-centred approach
• Ability to work effectively within a multicultural and diverse school community
• Resilience, adaptability and a commitment to continuous improvement

Safeguarding skills and qualities required for international teachers

Candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to safeguarding and child protection and understand their responsibilities in creating safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments.

Successful international educators should demonstrate:

• A clear understanding of safeguarding procedures and professional boundaries
• A commitment to promoting the welfare and wellbeing of every child
• The ability to recognise and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns
• High levels of professional integrity and sound judgement
• Respect for confidentiality and appropriate information-sharing procedures
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• The ability to model appropriate professional behaviour at all times
• A willingness to follow school safeguarding policies and local regulations