Candidate Information
Assistant Principal
Student Culture and Experience
INTRODUCTION FROM THE COLLEGE PRINCIPAL/CEO
Thank you for your interest in applying for the role of Assistant Principal at Jumeirah College This is an incredibly exciting opportunity to play a lead role in shaping the future for our wonderful students and dedicated staff Recognised as one of the top 100 private schools in the World, you will be joining a school ates the uniqueness of every individual through a itment to excellence and ambition for the future
WHY JUMEIRAH COLLEGE?
lege is an exceptional school: friendly, forwardinnovative in approach Rated as ‘Outstanding’ for ears, our students continue to thrive and excel socially, physically and emotionally We have s for the future and our facilities expansion will further enhance our high quality provision.
THE ROLE OF THE ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
ssistant Principal will collaborate with teachers and staff to a positive learning environment, which inspires students ncourages them to be the very best version of themselves art of a senior leadership group, the role will focus on oping student leadership, student culture including a strong ethos and a range of co-curricular and super-curricular ences
THE PERFECT CANDIDATE
date should demonstrate a commitment to be able to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, comprehensive understanding of educational lified candidate would also have experience in nt leadership, wellbeing and have a passion for e and inclusive learning environment
LIFE IN DUBAI
e multicultural city fosters an inclusive community, where ople from various backgrounds coexist harmoniously Dubai ers a lifestyle that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity ubai is the 7th most visited city in the world! Many attractions cluding the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa and the iconic rj Al Arab hotel, lots of shopping malls including the largest in e world (Dubai Mall), beaches, restaurants, golf clubs and many tertainment venues.
Welcome to Jumeirah College, a place where academic excellence, personal growth, and global citizenship converge to create an exceptional educational experience. As Principal of this wonderful institution, it is my privilege to introduce you to our vibrant community, where we foster a love for learning and empower our students to reach their full potential.
At Jumeirah College, we believe that education goes beyond the classroom walls. We are committed to nurturing well-rounded individuals who possess not only knowledge and skills but also the values and character to make a positive impact on the world. Our educational philosophy is centred on holistic development, encompassing academic rigour, creativity, critical thinking, and social responsibility.
As a member of the GEMS Education family, Jumeirah College upholds the highest standards of educational excellence. Our dedicated staff body comprises experienced and passionate educators who inspire and motivate students to strive for greatness. With their unwavering support, students are encouraged to explore their interests, pursue their passions, and embrace challenges with confidence.
Our academic programmes are designed to challenge and engage students at every level, ensuring they acquire a strong foundation in core subjects while also offering a wide range of educational choices to cater to individual interests. We foster a culture of curiosity, innovation, and independent thinking, equipping our students with the skills necessary for success in an ever-evolving world.
Beyond academics, we provide a rich and diverse co-curricular programme that encourages students to discover their talents and explore new areas of interest. Whether it's through participation in sports, music, drama, community service, or leadership opportunities, our students develop invaluable life skills and learn the importance of collaboration, resilience, and empathy.
At Jumeirah College, we also recognise the significance of fostering global awareness and understanding. Our multicultural environment celebrates diversity and promotes cultural exchange, preparing our students to be responsible global citizens. We encourage them to embrace different perspectives, develop cross-cultural competencies, and engage in service initiatives that make a positive difference in our local and global communities.
I invite you to explore our website to learn more about the outstanding opportunities at Jumeirah College. Discover our state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge resources, and the supportive network that forms the backbone of our educational community.
We believe that education is a collaborative effort between students, parents, and educators. Together, let us embark on a transformative journey that will unlock the true potential of each student. Join us at Jumeirah College, where we strive for excellence, inspire a passion for learning, and prepare students for a future filled with success and fulfilment.
Nick Brain Principal/CEO
Jumeirah College is a GEMS Premium Secondary School which delivers the National Curriculum for England, offering the full range of GCSE and A level courses. Our student body is a dynamic international community of over 1300 students from over 64 nationalities. We take pride in the development of the whole child, recognising the importance of developing cultural and global awareness. We have a thriving enriched curriculum which provides a diverse range of activities, initiatives and charitable endeavours that both engage our student body and embed our philosophy of global awareness and world citizenship. For more information please see our website.
The College has been repeatedly judged to be Outstanding in inspections. Although non-selective at admission, our students achieve exceptional exam results which compare to top UK schools. In 2023 over 99% of GCSE results were 9-4 out of which 47% were 9, and at A level over 44% of all grades were A*/A with over 77% A*/B. This success enables our students to move on to the very top universities around the world, including Cambridge, UCL, Stanford, Monash and Toronto.
We don’t believe in comparing our students to average benchmarks. Instead, we focus on understanding our students as learners and individuals, exploring and embracing every opportunity to encourage and support them in their learning and growth.
With students from over 64 nationalities, we are a truly international school with a truly global mindset. We instill these values in our students, moulding them into successful, well-rounded, and open-minded international citizens of the 21st century.
As one of the leading schools in the Middle East, Jumeirah College is the first-choice school for many families. The school is a member of BSME and COBIS. The success of the school has been repeatedly recognised with Jumeirah College being nominated for a series of awards, including being shortlisted as ‘International School of the Year’ by the TES, and being recognised as achieving the ‘Best Progress in Dubai’ by Which School Advisor. Jumeirah College is ranked in the Spears Index as one of the top 115 schools in the world and in the top 15 schools in the Middle East 2023.
Phase 1:
Completed Oct 2023
The Palace:
Sixth Form Common Room Sixth Form Café
Sixth Form Careers & Research Library
14 additional classrooms for Economics, Business Studies, Psychology and Sociology
2 Physics Laboratories Landscaped Grounds, including full human size chessboard, hydroponics garden, food truck & quiet study gardens
Phase 2:
Completed Jan 2024
Robotics Suite:
Drone design and racing AI/VR zones
Green Room/Green Screen for Media Studies Maker Space with 3D printers
Robotics zone: building and programming
6 additional Science Laboratories
2 Basketball/Netball Courts
3 Padel Courts
Phase 3:
Completed Sept 2024
Jumeirah College (current site) upgrade:
New Sports Hall & gymnasium
Auditorium with retractable seating and 2 Black Box Theatres
Remodeled Swimming Pool
Expanded administration area
Upgraded prayer rooms
Expanded Music and Drama facilities New Food Science suite
Remodeled Exam Hall
New AstroTurf
Vision, Mission, Core Values and School Progress Plan
Vision
A vibrant learning community, nurturing happy, confident and accomplished students who, through a commitment to academic and personal excellence, progress beyond limits
Mission
We recognise the importance of honesty and strong moral principles. We seek to build trust and establish authentic relationships.
We treat others with compassion, empathy, and generosity. We actively seek opportunities to make a positive impact on the well- being of others.
We bounce back from challenges, adversity, and setbacks. We maintain a positive attitude, adapting to change, and learning from difficult experiences to grow stronger and more capable.
We strive to provide a high quality, British independent education in an international context, with excellent academic and personal outcomes, consistent with the needs of each pupil. Every child is known and valued; we provide opportunities for them to explore and discover new talents which we nurture and celebrate. Our mission is to enable every child to shine and to equip them for the brightest future.
Core Values
Our mission is expressed through core values that form the guiding principles which underpin everything we do at Jumeirah College
We always adopt an optimistic and constructive outlook and focus on solutions rather than problems, cultivating a positive mindset, and spreading encouragement to others.
We treat others with dignity, courtesy, and consideration. We recognise and appreciate the diversity of individuals and cultures, valuing differences, and promoting a harmonious and inclusive environment.
We acknowledge and appreciate the positive aspects of life. We recognise the contribution of others and foster a sense of community and appreciation, where we express our thanks to each other in a positive learning environment.
Key Priorities – these provide the framework for our development during the next 3 years – 2023-26
Vibrant & Engaging Experiences
A Connected & Cohesive Community
Exceptional Outcomes for All
Growing Tomorrow’s Leaders
Exceptional Outcomes for All– we are committed to ensuring every student achieves outstanding outcomes and is fully prepared for the next step on their journey.
Vibrant & Engaging Experiences– we aim to provide a rich variety of authentic curricular and cocurricular experiences, which enable students to thrive academically and personally
A Connected and Cohesive Community– we strive to provide a positive learning culture with high quality opportunities to collaborate and succeed together
Growing Tomorrow’s Leaders– a focus on developing student/staff agency and ownership, to prepare for a bright future.
CRITERIA ESSENTIAL
QUALIFICATIONS
Sound knowledge and understanding of the British education system, with experience in state or private education in the UK
Previous experience of managing an academic department or school team
Honours degree.
Qualified Teachers Status.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Excellent management and leadership skills.
Excellent organisational and administrative skills
Excellent IT skills
Excellent classroom practitioner.
Approachable, enthusiastic, able to form strong relationships
Able to work with diplomacy and discretion
Highly professional in their approach to all aspects of the role.
Able to work flexibly
Able to empathise with, and prioritise students’ needs.
Able to manage conflicting priorities and quickly de-escalate parental and staff concerns
DESIRABLE
Higher degree or equivalent relevant qualification
Experience of working in British independent or international education.
Evidenced experience of leading and managing change in a school
An effective listener, able to reflect and consider various viewpoints before making a decision
Ability to approach situations in a calm and reassuring manner
Creative and innovative approaches to problem solving.
Proven experience of monitoring, evaluating and reviewing performance in order to raise achievement.
CRITERIA ESSENTIAL
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
A commitment to Jumeirah College and its values and ethos
Proactive, enthusiastic and a role model for the students
Integrity, energy, honesty, enthusiasm and stamina.
Willingness to participate in a community.
Willingness to be involved in cocurricular activities
Ability to articulate and communicate a clear vision of high quality educational provision for the school.
Ability to lead, manage and motivate staff and students to achieve high standards
The ability to be resilient under pressure and remain positive and enthusiastic
Sound understanding of the social and political context in which schools operate
Ability to demonstrate sound and balanced judgement, decisiveness and flexibility.
Integrity, loyalty and sensitivity
DESIRABLE
CONTINUOUS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Evidence of continuous professional development
Participation in recent training and development activities relating to managing a school
Experience of leading INSET and professional development for others.
How to Apply
The closing date for applications is 15th April 2025. However, early applications will be considered and initial interviews will be available prior to this date.
If you would like an informal discussion with the Principal/CEO prior to submitting an application, please contact Brenda Farrell, HR Manager at b.farrell jcd@gemsedu.com.
In order to apply, please complete the application process via the TES portal. Your letter should set out your interest in the role and encapsulate the aspects of your experience relevant to the required criteria. Please include current salary details and the names and addresses of two referees. Referees will not be approached until the final stages and not without prior permission from candidates.
The Perfect Candidate
The successful candidate will be an ambitious, forward-thinking educational leader, committed to the all-round education of our exceptional students. A passion for exciting and effective teaching and learning, modern pastoral care and a commitment to the co-curriculum, are vital. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in the ongoing growth and development of Jumeirah College as the school continues to flourish. Applications are encouraged from talented and committed individuals, who are ready to make a lasting impact upon this school community.
An excellent remuneration package is on offer to successful candidates including competitive tax free salary, furnished accommodation, annual flight allowance, medical insurance, free school places for dependents and end of service gratuity.
If you have the drive and passion to get the most from our students, we would very much welcome your application.
THE ROLE
Assistant Principal - Student Culture and Experience
You will be student focused and will be passionate about celebrating the achievements of our exceptional students. You will lead and co-ordinate all aspects of our provision for the learners in your care, ensuring the progress, wellbeing, support and guidance is outstanding
As an Assistant Principal, you will play a key strategic role, supporting the Principal/CEO and wider team in our pursuit of excellence and ambitious plans for the future
Specific areas of responsibility include the following:
Student leadership
House system
Co-curricular experiences and enriched curriculum
Educational visits and experiences
Student rewards/celebrations
Parental engagement
STRATEGIC DIRECTION AND DEVELOPMENT
Lead by example and provide inspiration and motivation to the school community
Work closely with the leadership team to generate a vision, ethos and policies for the school which promote high levels of achievement.
Create and implement strategic improvement plans and goals, underpinned by sound financial planning, which identify priorities and targets for ensuring that pupils achieve high standards and that teaching is effective
Build effective and positive relationships with all members of the school community.
TEACHING AND LEARNING
Support an environment which secures effective learning across the breadth of the curriculum experience and high standards of achievement
Develop a high performing collaborative culture, with learning and curricular innovation
Develop the quality of teaching and students’ achievements through high quality analysis and provision
Develop links with parents, other schools, educational establishments and the wider community, including business and industry, in order to enhance teaching and learning and students’ personal development
Secure success and improvement through the school through the school self-evaluation cycle
Support all staff to achieve the priorities which the school sets for itself, inspiring colleagues and students.
Ensure that the day-to-day management of the school is high quality and impacts positively on the experience for all members of the community.
Monitor and review all aspects of attainment, priorities, targets and policy and take necessary action.
Ensure that curriculum continuity and progression are achieved across the key stages
Promote opportunities for and encourage participation of all students in a wide range of co-curricular activities, including culture, sport, creative arts and the environment.
Contribute as appropriate to the teaching in the school
Encourage and engage in purposeful sharing of good practice
To lead in modelling and developing best practice in teaching and assessment
LEADING AND MANAGING STAFF
Support the Principal/CEO in developing an appropriate staffing structure that takes account of the changing needs of the school.
Develop positive working relationships with and between all members of the school community Implement and sustain effective strategies for the leadership of all staff.
Plan, evaluate and support the work of groups of staff Delegate appropriately and clearly evaluate outcomes
Enable and challenge staff to develop expertise in their respective roles through the identification of needs, ensuring an effective programme of access to continuing professional development
Support effective high-quality appraisal with relevant staff.
Sustain personal and staff motivation, displaying exceptional levels of personal energy, enthusiasm, drive and humility
EFFECTIVE DEVELOPMENT OF STAFF AND RESOURCES
Work with the Principal/CEO and colleagues to recruit high quality staff.
Ensure that all staff and students understand their respective roles and responsibilities.
Support the deployment and development of staff to make the most effective use of their skills, expertise and experience and to ensure the effective management of the school
Manage and organise relevant groupings of children to ensure effective teaching and learning takes place and that children’s personal development needs are met
Support the establishment of priorities for expenditure and monitor the effectiveness of spending in line with the priorities identified
Monitor the use of resources with a view to achieving value for money, within the school’s financial context.
EFFECTIVE DEVELOPMENT OF STAFF AND RESOURCES
Provide information and advice, working with the Principal/CEO to meet the school’s responsibilities and ensure effective accountability throughout the school
Support the CEO in ensuring that the school meets all statutory and legal requirements.
Support the financial success of the school
Create an ethos in which all staff recognise their accountability through positive relationships.
Provide relevant information about all aspects of the school to parents, the community and other interested parties
Perpetual sun and blue skies sum up the UAE’s weather. The Country has a sub-tropical and arid climate that gets very hot in the height of summer, however, air conditional houses, schools, shops and cars are standard and offer comfort during this time. Rainfall is infrequent and normally only occurs in winter.
Culture in the UAE is rooted in Islamic traditions that form UAE National’s lifestyles. It is a very safe place, it has great schools that cater for the diverse resident population. The UAE is a great place to travel from, the geographical location makes it very easy to travel to Asia and Africa on short haul flights if this appeals.
Dubai, the second largest emirate, is the commercial Capital of UAE and 7th most visited city in the world! Many attractions including the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa and the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel, lots of shopping malls including the largest in the world (Dubai Mall), beaches, restaurants, golf clubs and many entertainment venues. The Dubai Creek is the historic focal point of Dubai, signifying where trade with the outside world began more than a century ago. Along the Creek you will also find t diti l G ld d S i k
G
, E r
markets. It puts a significant focus on investment in Education Technology, Artificial Intelligence and building Centres of Excellence for the benefit of each and every student. Drawing on a legacy spanning over 60 years, the GEMS Education mission remains unwavering: to put a quality education within the reach of every learner no matter where they are.
Working with GEMS, the world’s largest K-12 private school operator, offers you a unique opportunity to enhance and progress your career on a global setting. Trusted for over 60 years and now a third generation education family, GEMS Education began in a single school room in Dubai. Today, we have the privilege of educating over 170,000 students from over 176 countries through GEMS owned and managed schools globally; over 270,000 students access resources through our services division. GEMS Education understands that students drearn in different ways. It is our individualism that makes us unique with a commitment to ‘find the genius in every child’.
