Deputy Vice Principal – Academic, Curriculum and Standards (Sep 2026 or Jan 2027 Start)

Job Description

September 2026 or January 2027

Academic Leadership & Implementation

• Embrace and encourage the ethos and standards of excellence as defined in the GEMS Core Values by promoting a culture of high expectations, professional excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Support the Principal in delivering the school’s academic vision, priorities, and improvement plans.
• Drive the implementation of teaching and learning strategies across the school.
• Ensure consistency in academic practices across departments and phases.
• Deputise for the Vice Principal and Principal when required in academic matters.

Teaching & Learning Excellence

• Lead the development and implementation of high-quality teaching and learning practices across the school aligned with TLAG framework.
• Monitor the quality of teaching through lesson observations, learning walks, and work scrutiny.
• Ensure consistent application of teaching standards and expectations across the school, in line with GEMS T&L frameworks.
• Support Heads of Department/Phase Leaders in improving teaching practice.
• Follow up on areas for development identified through internal and external reviews.
• Drive a culture of reflective practice and continuous professional improvement.

Curriculum Design & Implementation

• Oversee the design, implementation, and review of a broad, balanced, and inclusive curriculum aligned with national and TLAG frameworks.
• Ensure curriculum progression, continuity, and challenge across all key stages.
• Work with Heads of Department to ensure curriculum planning meets the needs of all learners.
• Lead curriculum innovation and development in response to school priorities and inspection feedback.

Assessment, Data & Student Outcomes

• Support the implementation of whole-school assessment systems and processes.
• Monitor student progress and attainment through regular data analysis.
• Work with Heads of Department to identify gaps and implement targeted interventions.
• Ensure data is used effectively to inform teaching and improve student outcomes.

Quality Assurance & School Improvement

• Support the implementation of the School Improvement Plan with a focus on academic priorities.
• Monitor the quality of teaching, learning, and assessment through structured review processes.
• Support departments in addressing areas identified for improvement following internal and external reviews.
• Lead data informed improvement strategies to raise attainment and progress.
• Contribute to self-evaluation processes and ensure alignment with inspection frameworks.

Inspection Readiness & Compliance

• Support preparation for external inspections (ADEK, BSO, and aligned frameworks).
• Ensure teaching, learning, curriculum, and assessment evidence is accurate, robust, and inspection-ready.
• Oversee the development and implementation of academic policies and procedures.
• Support school self-evaluation and improvement documentation in line with regulatory expectations.

Staff Leadership, Development & Performance

• Line manage direct reports in line with GEMS performance management frameworks.
• Support coaching, professional development, and capacity-building across the team, ensuring strong succession planning.
• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.
• Contribute to recruitment, induction, and retention of high-quality staff.

Operations, Administration & Compliance

• Support timetabling, curriculum planning, and academic organisation.
• Assist in the coordination of assessment cycles, reporting, and examinations.
• Ensure accurate academic records and reporting systems are maintained.
• Contribute to policy development and ensure adherence to academic requirements.
• Ensure accurate reporting and documentation for inspection and regulatory submissions.

Parent, Student & Community Engagement

• Support communication with parents regarding academic progress and expectations.
• Assist in resolving academic-related concerns and queries.
• Promote student engagement and achievement through academic initiatives.
• Represent the school in academic related meetings with stakeholders and regulatory bodies.

Required Qualifications, Experience & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Recognised teaching qualification and leadership experience within a school setting.
• Minimum 8 years of teaching experience, including at least 3–5 years in a senior or middle leadership role, preferably within a British curriculum or international school environment.
• Secondary School specialism is essential, with strong experience in curriculum development, academic standards, assessment, and teaching and learning across Secondary phases.
• Proven ability to lead whole-school academic improvement initiatives and drive high standards of student achievement and outcomes.
• Strong understanding of ADEK frameworks, inspection requirements, and curriculum expectations.
• Demonstrated experience in leading, developing, and managing diverse teams effectively.
• Strong organisational, strategic leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent understanding and use of data, assessment, and technology to support school improvement and student progress.
• GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff.
• A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.