Job title
Head of Secondary- Academic
Location
Dubai
Salary range and package details
- Salary: Competitive
- Top-tier medical insurance for the successful candidate and their family
- Family visa sponsorship
- Annual flight allowance
- Accommodation allowance
Start date
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
Who We Are – chk Education
chk Education is a leading boutique search firm specialising in placing exceptional educators in outstanding international schools across the globe. We pride ourselves on our personalised approach, taking time to understand both our candidates’ aspirations and our partner schools’ unique cultures and needs. Our commitment to quality extends beyond placement, we support educators throughout their international teaching journey, ensuring successful, fulfilling career transitions.
How to Apply
If this role isn’t quite right for you, but you are looking to secure an international teaching position, please reach out to Rachael with your preferences and she will be able to explore other opportunities with you.
Due to the number of applications we receive, we will contact only shortlisted candidates.
Please note: In some of the countries where our client schools operate, there are upper restrictions related to the issuance of visas and work permits. If you have any questions regarding this, please don’t hesitate to ask.