Job Description
Since opening in September 2013, GEMS International School Al Khail (GIS) has been committed to providing a premium education that prepares students for life beyond the classroom.
As an IB World School, we ensure our students develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a global society. With a vibrant and multicultural community of students and faculty from over 100 nationalities, GIS fosters an environment of acceptance, communication, appreciation, and understanding. These core values are at the heart of our ethos, empowering our students to become true global citizens who contribute meaningfully to the world around them.
We are now seeking a Senior Vice Principal (Curriculum, Standards & Assessment) for August 2026. The appointee will play a a critical leadership role in defining and driving the school's strategic direction for curriculum design, assessment systems, academic standards and student outcomes across Early Years, Primary, Middle School and High School. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, the postholder deputises for the Principal/CEO when required and ensures that GIS delivers a coherent, rigorous and future-focused curriculum aligned to the IB continuum, KHDA expectations, CIS accreditation and GEMS quality standards.
The role has whole-school responsibility for:
- Curriculum intent, design and coherence across all phases
- Assessment strategy, systems and reporting, including internal and external benchmarking
- Academic standards, outcomes and data integrity
- Accreditation, compliance and inspection alignment
- Ensuring that what is taught, assessed and reported is consistent, rigorous and aligned to strategic priorities
Please note early applications will be considered and initial interviews may take place prior to the closing date.
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership for curriculum, assessment and academic standards across the whole school.
- Deputise for the Principal/CEO as required, representing GIS with internal and external stakeholders, including KHDA, IB and accreditation bodies.
- Lead on the development, implementation and evaluation of the School Development Plan (SDP), School Self-Evaluation Framework (SEF) and associated academic priorities.
- Work closely with the Senior Vice Principal Teaching & Learning to ensure a unified and coherent approach to academic excellence.
- Collaborate with the Senior Vice Principal Student Life & Culture to ensure curriculum and assessment systems support inclusive, student-centred outcomes.
- Maintain expert knowledge of KHDA/DSIB frameworks, IB programme standards and practices, and UAE National Agenda requirements.
Skills
Qualifications
- Recognised teaching qualification (PGCE or equivalent)
- Bachelor's degree (Education or relevant field)
- Master's degree / NPQH (desirable)
Experience- Significant senior leadership experience in a large international school
- Proven track record in:
- Curriculum design and implementation
- Assessment systems and data strategy
- Raising academic standards and outcomes
- Experience within IB programmes
- Strong understanding of KHDA/inspection frameworks
- Experience with accreditation processes (desirable)
Skills & Attributes
- Strategic and systems-level thinking
- Deep expertise in curriculum and assessment
- High-level data literacy and analytical capability
- Strong leadership and team development skills
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management
- Precision, evaluative rigour and attention to detail
- Commitment to inclusion, innovation and excellence
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. 
