Head of MOE

Job Description

We are seeking to appoint an exceptional, experienced, and dynamic Head of MOE at GEMS Cambridge International School, Abu Dhabi, to lead the delivery and development of the Ministry of Education curriculum across Arabic, Islamic Education, and UAE Social Studies. The role is either for a September 2026 or January 2027 start. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving high standards of teaching and learning, ensuring full compliance with ADEK and MOE requirements, and promoting a strong sense of national identity and cultural values within a high‑performing school environment.

This is an exciting opportunity for a forward‑thinking leader with excellent organisational, leadership, and interpersonal skills, and a proven ability to lead and develop teams while driving continuous improvement across the department and wider school community.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.