Deputy Head – Senior School; Academic

Job Description

GEMS Wellington Academy – Al Khail is seeking to appoint an exceptional and experienced leader to join the Senior Leadership Team as Deputy Head – Senior School (Academic) from August 2026. The successful candidate will provide strategic and operational leadership of the academic provision across Years 7–13, ensuring a rigorous, innovative and high‑performing curriculum that secures outstanding outcomes for all pupils.

The Deputy Head (Academic) is responsible for the strategic leadership, development and day‑to‑day management of curriculum, assessment and academic standards in the Senior School and Sixth Form. Working closely with the Head of Senior School and SLT, the postholder will ensure a progressive curriculum from Year 7 to Year 13, robust assessment systems and exceptional pupil progress, while overseeing timetabling and staff deployment.

• Lead the strategic and operational development of the Senior School curriculum and assessment framework.
• Monitor, evaluate and enhance academic standards across all departments.
• Report on curriculum and academic standards to the CEO, Head of Senior School, Local Advisory Board and GEMS Education.
• Lead curriculum development initiatives in line with the School Development Plan and inspection frameworks (KHDA, BSO).
• In partnership with the Deputy Head (Teaching and Learning), oversee the quality of teaching and learning across Years 7–13.
• Lead academic quality assurance processes and implement improvement strategies where required.
• Monitor performance of subject teachers, including oversight of the academic elements of the Professional Performance Review process.
• Lead Senior School CPD relating to curriculum and assessment.
• Stay informed of national and international developments in curriculum and assessment and guide departments accordingly.
• Oversee public examinations, including access arrangements and appeals processes.
• Monitor pupil progress across the Senior School and ensure effective intervention strategies are implemented.
• Lead the analysis of examination results and departmental performance.
• Oversee predicted grades processes in Year 13.
• Coordinate academic transition points (Y6–Y7, Y8–Y9 and Senior School to Sixth Form).
• Lead the preparation of the annual school timetable, ensuring balanced subject provision and efficient staff deployment.
• Oversee the options process and communication with pupils, parents and staff.
• Maintain and update the staffing matrix to ensure effective allocation of teaching and pastoral responsibilities.
• Coordinate timetables for new pupils in liaison with Heads of Department and Admissions.
• Line manage Heads of Department, the Examinations Officer and the Cover Supervisor.
• Oversee departmental development plans, examination analysis and curriculum documentation.
• Ensure departments align with the School’s Strategic Plan and academic priorities.
• Contribute to staff recruitment and induction.
• Work closely with the Assistant Head (Sixth Form) to ensure the smooth running of the Sixth Form academic programme.
• Support university preparation processes, including predicted grades and application coordination.
• Contribute to Sixth Form information evenings and scholarship programmes.
• Support pupil wellbeing and academic progress in the Sixth Form.
• Support Senior School admissions, including tours and pupil interviews.
• Maintain academic communications through the School website, Parent App and marketing materials.
• Produce academic documentation including sections of the Staff Handbook and Heads of Department Handbook.
• Operate within statutory safeguarding guidance and GEMS policies.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks including KHDA and BSO standards.

• Proven strategic and operational leadership experience within a Senior School setting.
• Strong track record of securing excellent academic outcomes.
• Excellent communication, organisational and interpersonal skills.
• Deep understanding of British curriculum frameworks and inspection standards (KHDA, BSO).
• Recognised teaching qualification (PGCE or equivalent).
• Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field;
  Master’s degree or NPQ desirable.

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students and staff. A UK‑enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is required for all successful applicants.