Head of MOE (Sep 2026 or Jan 2027 Start)

Job Description

September 2026 or January 2027

Strategic Leadership & School Improvement

• Embrace and encourage the ethos and standards of excellence as defined in the GEMS Core Values by promoting a culture of high expectations, national identity, and academic excellence aligned with UAE values and school vision.
• Lead the strategic direction and operational management of MOE subjects across the school.
• Develop and implement a cohesive improvement plan for Arabic, Islamic Education, and UAE Social Studies aligned with whole-school priorities.
• Ensure compliance with MOE regulations, ADEK requirements, and inspection frameworks.
• Monitor and evaluate departmental performance, driving continuous improvement in student outcomes.

Teaching, Learning & Curriculum

• Ensure high-quality teaching and learning across all MOE subjects and phases.
• Oversee curriculum planning, sequencing, and delivery in line with ADEK and MOE requirements.
• Ensure curriculum content reflects national priorities, values, and cultural context.
• Monitor lesson quality through observations, learning walks, and performance reviews.
• Promote innovative and engaging teaching methodologies to enhance student learning.
• Ensure differentiation and inclusive practices are embedded within MOE subjects teaching.

Assessment, Data & Student Outcomes

• Lead assessment practices across MOE subjects, ensuring consistency and alignment with regulatory standards.
• Analyse student performance data to inform targeted interventions and improvement strategies.
• Monitor student progress and attainment in Arabic, Islamic Education, and UAE Social Studies.
• Oversee internal and external assessments, ensuring readiness and accurate reporting.
• Drive improvement in student outcomes in line with national benchmarks and expectations.

Pastoral Care, Welfare & Behavior

• Ensure the GEMS policies, procedures, and codes of conduct are followed at all times.
• Support the implementation of the school’s behaviour framework, promoting high standards of conduct and engagement in all learning environments.
• Work collaboratively with pastoral leads to ensure appropriate pastoral support and safeguarding practices for students within MOE subjects.
• Monitor attendance patterns within MOE classes and support interventions to improve student attendance and engagement.
• Contribute to student wellbeing initiatives, promoting a positive and inclusive learning environment.
• Support the organisation of enrichment activities, assemblies, cultural events, and educational trips linked to MOE subjects.
• Promote student leadership, national identity, inclusion, and a positive school culture.

Staff Leadership, Development & Performance

• Lead the whole-school performance management process as per GEMS framework, including staff goal-setting, monitoring progress, and ensuring accountability.
• Line manage MOE subject teachers, promoting high standards of performance and accountability.
• Support SLT with formal PEF processes (bluesky or similar), contributing to staff appraisal, evidence tracking, and development planning.
• Support staff through coaching, mentoring, and professional development initiatives.
• Ensure effective deployment and timetabling of MOE teaching staff.
• Contribute to recruitment, induction, and retention of MOE staff.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performing departmental culture.

Operations, Administration & Compliance

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of MOE departments, ensuring effective curriculum delivery and resource utilization.
• Ensure full compliance with MOE regulations, ADEK requirements, and inspection frameworks.
• Act as the key liaison with ADEK/MOE for curriculum, audits, and regulatory requirements.
• Lead preparation for inspections, audits, and compliance reviews, ensuring all documentation is accurate and up to date.
• Monitor updates to ADEK/MOE policies and ensure timely implementation across the school.
• Ensure accurate reporting and submission of required documentation to internal and external stakeholders.
• Support HR in disciplinary investigations, grievance matters, and staff relations where required.

Parent, Student & Community Engagement

• Build strong relationships with parents to support student progress in MOE subjects.
• Communicate effectively with parents regarding student performance and expectations.
• Promote the importance of Arabic, Islamic Education, and UAE Social Studies within the school community.
• Represent the school in MOE-related meetings, events, and community initiatives.
• Support student engagement through enrichment activities and cultural programmes.

Required Qualifications, Experience & Skills

• Bachelor’s Degree in Arabic, Islamic Studies Education, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Recognized teaching qualification in relevant specialization.
• Minimum 5 years of teaching experience with atleast 2 years in a leadership role (preferably within a British curriculum or international school setting).
• Strong knowledge of ADEK and MOE framework and guidelines.
• Knowledge of the use of ICT in schools to aid teaching and learning.
• Bilingual speaker (English and Arabic)
• Strong organizational, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a diverse team of teachers.
• 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.