Deputy Head – Prep School; Pupil Wellbeing and Development

Job Description

GEMS Wellington Academy – Al Khail is seeking an exceptional and experienced leader to join the Prep Leadership Team as Deputy Head – Prep School (Pupil Wellbeing and Safeguarding) from August 2026. The successful candidate will provide strategic and operational leadership of pupil wellbeing, pastoral care and safeguarding across the Prep School, ensuring a nurturing, aspirational and high‑performing environment where every child thrives.

• Act as the School’s Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensuring full compliance with statutory and GEMS safeguarding requirements.
• Lead the Safeguarding Committee and embed a whole-school culture of vigilance and care.
• Develop and implement strategic initiatives that enhance pupil wellbeing, happiness and achievement.
• Lead the development and review of pastoral and safeguarding policies.
• Analyse pastoral and wellbeing data, including pupil voice, to inform improvement strategies.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding and pastoral developments locally and internationally (including KHDA and BSO frameworks).
• Line manage the Assistant Head (Pupil Wellbeing and Development) and Heads of Year.
• Oversee the induction, training and professional development of staff with pastoral responsibilities.
• Lead and monitor high-quality pastoral reporting and communication with parents.
• Manage pupil transition at key stages in collaboration with Senior School leaders and Admissions.
• Manage the Pupil Wellbeing budget and associated resources.
• Work closely with the School’s Medical Centre, counselling team and catering team from a pastoral perspective.
• Lead implementation and review of Behaviour, Rewards and Sanctions policies.
• Promote high standards of dress, conduct and community expectations.
• Support Class Teachers and Heads of Year with disciplinary matters.
• Lead investigations into serious incidents, providing clear reports and recommendations to the Head of Prep School and CEO.
• Liaise with HR to ensure safeguarding checks and the Single Central Register are maintained.
• Ensure due diligence checks on external providers in collaboration with Operations.
• Oversee online safety in partnership with ICT and GEMS safeguarding teams.
• Work collaboratively with Senior School colleagues and the Wellington cluster to ensure continuity in safeguarding and wellbeing practice.
• Support Prep School admissions processes, including tours and pupil interviews.
• Contribute to pastoral communications and maintain wellbeing content across school platforms.
• Deliver presentations and workshops for parents and staff on pastoral matters.
• Fulfil all Prep Leadership Team responsibilities, including deputising for the Head of Prep School where required.
• Contribute to recruitment, policy development and strategic planning.
• Lead and support whole-school initiatives aligned to the Academy’s vision and values.

• Proven strategic and operational leadership experience within a primary or Prep School setting.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, pastoral systems and pupil wellbeing frameworks.
• 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 its students and staff. A UK‑enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre‑requisite for all appointments.