Requirements
The role requires a recognized teaching qualification and degree, with a further leadership qualification desirable. Substantial senior school leadership experience covering academic standards, staff management, and school operations is essential, along with strong experience in Early Years and/or Primary education. Experience working within an ADEK or equivalent regulatory framework and supporting inspection readiness, as well as experience with strategic planning aligned to national vision frameworks, are also required. The ideal candidate will possess strong strategic, academic, and operational leadership skills, coupled with a deep knowledge of Early Years and Primary teaching, learning, curriculum, and assessment.
Description
Vision, Mission and PurposeGordonstoun has been leading the way in character education for more than 90 years. Our uniquely broad curriculum provides challenge in the classroom, at sea and in the desert, on the stage and on the sports fields, and enables students to discover the truth in our motto – Plus Est En Vous – there is more in you.In addition to challenge, all pupils and staff partake in service activities, which promote a sense of purpose and duty to our school community, Jubail Island, the UAE and the world.We uphold the heart of Al Sanaa, a comprehensive set of authentic Emirati customs, traditions, and etiquette governing social behaviour, respect, and hospitality. Rooted in Arab culture, it embodies politeness, proper upbringing, and refined manners in daily life, such as honouring guests, respecting elders, and using appropriate etiquette.The key focus of all staff at Gordonstoun Jubail Island is to enthuse pupils, promoting the highest possible academic attainment for each individual child, whilst actively modelling compassion, service and challenge for the young people of Gordonstoun. Through outstanding practice, all staff support students in all areas of school life.Gordonstoun Jubail Island was founded on the conviction that while academic achievement is essential, it is not the sole purpose of education. Dr Kurt Hahn, founder of Gordonstoun, believed that young people flourish when their horizons are broadened alongside academic study — when they are stretched, challenged, nurtured and developed so they can grow into all that they can be.Our curriculum and school life are built on four pillars:Academic excellence — pursuing the highest standards of intellectual achievementOutdoor education and adventure — developing resilience, teamwork and self-relianceService to others — contributing meaningfully to our community and the wider worldCharacter development — building integrity, compassion, responsibility and courageThis is not a job – it is a lifestyle.Responsibilities of all members of staffComply with Gordonstoun's policies and procedures on Safeguarding, Child Protection and Health and Safety.Model and contribute positively to the ethos of the school, in line with Gordonstoun's values: Compassion, Courage, Integrity, Service and Respect.Undertake a service activity alongside pupils on a weekly basis and participate in character/challenge activities in accordance with the expectations of academic staff.Carry out any other task reasonably required to support the School, which may include some evenings, Friday afternoons and weekend activities.Play an active role in community events organised for children, families, staff and the wider community.Actively and enthusiastically contribute where and as needed to build the Gordonstoun Jubail Island reputation and community.Support and uphold the agreed policies and practices of the School and undertake other duties reasonably requested by the Principal.Purpose of the RoleSupport the Principal in shaping and implementing the vision, mission and strategic direction of Gordonstoun Jubail Island, providing professional leadership across Prep and Pre-Prep.Ensure that curriculum, teaching and assessment from FS1 through Prep inspire high levels of engagement, achievement and progress for students of all abilities.Provide highly effective leadership that secures outstanding standards across Early Years and Primary education, while ensuring a coherent educational journey across both sections.Lead education operations across Prep and Pre-Prep, supporting financial management, manpower planning, timetabling and the smooth day-to-day operation of the school.Ensure the School meets ADEK expectations, regulatory requirements and the commitments set out in the academic plan.Key ResponsibilitiesInspirational and Strategic LeadershipPromote, role model and firmly believe that every child is valued.Provide inspiring and purposeful leadership for Prep and Pre-Prep staff and students, working in partnership with the Principal, SLT, governing body, staff and parents.Promote a clear and ambitious vision for high standards across Prep and Pre-Prep, aligned with the School's vision, mission, values and development priorities.Support the Principal in motivating and engaging stakeholders to activate an organisational vision aligned with UAE Vision 2031 and international best practice.Demonstrate commitment to UAE heritage and cultural values, including Al Sanaa, and model integrity, respect and fairness.Lead improvement priorities through effective strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation, contributing to the School Development Plan and reporting as required.Ensure school policies and practices reflect national, local, ADEK and school requirements.Maintain sufficient knowledge of the Inclusion Education Framework and ensure equitable, inclusive education for students experiencing SEND.Lead effectively to create an ethos of collective responsibility, collaboration, high expectations and mutual support.Work effectively with school governance teams, parent bodies and School Leaders to support informed decision-making and effective use of resources.Participate in and lead professional development opportunities in the UAE, including relevant ADEK events.Person SpecificationPart A: The CommitmentEvery appointment at Gordonstoun Jubail Island is a values appointment first, skills appointment second. We ask for:Commitment to our vision and values — genuine commitment to GJI's mission and the Hahnian tradition of challenge, service, compassion, self-reliance and adventurous spirit.Respect for the UAE — authentic respect for Emirati culture and heritage, and genuine engagement with Al Sanaa and the traditional ways of the UAE.Character to teach character — personal honesty, resilience, self-discipline, humility and care for others, lived rather than just described.Tolerant and respectful — fair-minded and warm across a diverse community, regardless of culture, faith, nationality or background.Going the extra mile — a service ethos that notices what is needed and acts without being asked.Appropriate challenge, with care — able to push students beyond their comfort zone while remaining attentive to individual wellbeing.Part B: Role-Specific CriteriaQualificationsRecognised teaching qualification and degree.Further leadership qualification desirable (e.g. NPQH or equivalent).ExperienceSubstantial senior school leadership experience covering academic standards, staff management and school operations.Strong experience of Early Years and/or Primary education, with the ability to lead effectively across the FS1–Prep age range.Experience working within an ADEK or equivalent regulatory framework and supporting inspection readiness.Experience with strategic planning aligned to national vision frameworks (e.g. UAE Vision 2031).Skills and AttributesStrong strategic, academic and operational leadership.Strong knowledge of Early Years and Primary teaching, learning, curriculum and assessment.Skilled in managing SEND/inclusion provision.Excellent people leadership, coaching and performance management skills.Excellent stakeholder management with governors, staff, parents and the wider community.Genuine commitment to UAE heritage and cultural values as a lived part of school life.