Secondary Head of Performing Arts at Safa Community School 2027/2028

Safa Community School; Dubai; On-site; AED 350,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

Safa Community School in Dubai invites an inspiring Head of Secondary Performing Arts with a Drama specialism to lead the department from KS3 to KS5 and deliver GCSE/IGCSE and A‑Level drama.

You will design schemes of work, lead staff, manage performance spaces and co‑curricular programmes, and foster student achievement while aligning with UAE educational standards and the school's strategic growth.

Qualifications

• Must hold degree in Drama, Theatre or related discipline with recognised teaching qualification.
• Experience teaching Drama in British Curriculum schools at GCSE/IGCSE and A‑Level is essential.
• Demonstrated middle or senior leadership experience or readiness for first Head of Department role.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic vision and leadership for Performing Arts aligning with the school improvement plan.
• Design, review and quality‑assure schemes of work and assessment across KS3‑KS5.
• Lead, coach and support department staff, including CPD and performance management.
• Monitor teaching and student progress through data analysis and moderation, ensuring progression.
• Direct and oversee examinations, coursework, moderation and results analysis.

Skills

Curriculum leadership

Drama education

GCSE/IGCSE & A‑Level

Co-curricular leadership

Team collaboration

Assessment understanding

Public speaking

Education

Degree in Drama or related discipline

Teaching qualification

Job description

Job Overview

Head of Secondary Performing Arts (Drama Specialism) at Safa Community School, Dubai

Safa Community School is a beacon of excellence. In 2024 we were honoured with the ‘Happiest School in the UAE’ title, a testament to our commitment to student well‑being, and we received the ‘Value Add, Leaving No Child Behind Award’, backed by a GCSE VA score of +2.2. Our high staff retention and inclusion in the top 15 schools in the UAE (Schoolscompared.com) reflect a friendly, warm, community‑oriented school.

Safa is an award‑winning, all‑through UK curriculum school from FS1 to Year 13 with [number] students, and around 35% of our parents are from the UK. Follow us on Instagram at safa_scs to see our vibrant community, student achievements and performances.

We are seeking an inspiring and ambitious Head of Secondary Performing Arts with a Drama specialism to lead and grow the department. The successful candidate will lead the Performing Arts curriculum from KS3 to KS5 and teach Drama across the age and ability range, to GCSE/IGCSE and A-Level. This is a leadership role advertised as part of our strategic growth to meet increasing enrolment and programme demand.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Provide strategic vision and leadership for Performing Arts (Drama, and Music/Dance where applicable), setting and delivering a development plan aligned to the school improvement plan.
• Design, review and quality‑assure schemes of work and assessment across KS3-KS5, ensuring progression and high standards.
• Lead, line‑manage, coach and support department staff, including performance management and CPD, and mentor beginning teachers.
• Monitor teaching, learning and student progress through data analysis, lesson observation and work scrutiny; plan timely interventions.
• Take responsibility for examination entries, coursework and practical assessment, moderation and results analysis.
• Manage the department budget, resources, and performance spaces and equipment, including health and safety and safeguarding in rehearsal and performance settings.
• Direct and oversee the school's productions, concerts, showcases and festivals, and develop co‑curricular and enrichment programmes.
• Build links with the wider community, including external performances, theatre visits, workshops and competitions.
• Contribute to the senior secondary leadership team and whole‑school development.

General Professional Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare lessons; set and mark work; assess, record and report on progress and attainment in line with school policy.
• Prepare students for public examinations and practical assessments, including devised and scripted performance.
• Communicate with parents, including writing reports; attend Parents’ Evenings and Open Evenings.
• Maintain good order and discipline among students.
• Work collaboratively with support teachers, and cover or set work for absent colleagues where required.
• Keep up to date with curriculum innovation and engage in CPD.
• Familiarise yourself with the DSIB inspection framework and the expectations of outstanding teaching and learning in the UAE.
• Be supportive of UAE initiatives and cultural expectations, including in the choice of performance material.
• Carry out other tasks reasonably directed by the Head of Secondary or Principal.

Candidate Profile

The Successful Candidate

• Will hold relevant qualifications (a degree in Drama, Theatre or a related discipline plus a recognised teaching qualification).
• Must have experience teaching Drama in British Curriculum schools at both GCSE/IGCSE and A-Level.
• Must have middle or senior leadership experience, or demonstrable readiness for a first Head of Department post.
• Has a strong record of directing productions and running co‑curricular performing arts.
• Is enthusiastic about the performing arts and able to convey this to students.
• Understands assessment and examination requirements for KS3, KS4 and KS5.
• Is an outstanding teacher and a confident, collaborative leader who builds strong teams.
• Keeps up to date with developments in the subject and is willing to develop professionally.

Application Process

• Closing date: Friday, 11 December 2026 at 10h00 UAE time. Applications are assessed in order of receipt and we reserve the right to appoint before the closing date.