Head Of Department -English - January 2027

Job Description

With a 65-year legacy of excellence and a global reputation as one of the largest and most awarded private education providers, GEMS Education integrates cutting-edge advancements through its extensive networks and high-level partnerships. Join the GEMS School of Research and Innovation, where significant investments in AI, robotics, and state-of-the-art facilities drive exceptional student outcomes in academics and well-being. As a leader in educational innovation, we offer a forward-thinking environment focused on personalised learning, holistic development, and the opportunity to shape the future of education.

At GEMS School of Research and Innovation, we provide a seamless educational journey from Pre-Prep + Prep to Sixth Form, enhanced by cutting-edge technology and a forward-thinking curriculum. In the Pre-Prep + Prep stages, we prioritise personalized learning through gamification and advanced technologies, alongside a strong emphasis on science, computing, reading, writing, and the arts. Our facilities include an innovation lab, specialist IT equipment, and programs in sports such as gymnastics, martial arts, basketball, and cricket. Emerging technologies like robotics, AI, machine learning, and VR/AR are integrated to enhance learning, including advanced Arabic provision.

In Secondary and Sixth Form, students benefit from tailored pathways with a wide range of GCSEs, A-levels in subjects like sciences, business, and fine arts, supported by university-linked lectures and industry placements. Advanced tools such as Web3/blockchain, drones, autonomous vehicles, and esports labs prepare students for future careers. Sixth Form further bridges school, university, and industry through global partnerships and cutting-edge technology, ensuring students excel academically while acquiring real-world skills.

The Head of Department – English will provide strategic leadership in delivering a dynamic and forward-thinking curriculum that balances traditional literary studies with contemporary communication skills. The program places strong emphasis on literature analysis, creative and academic writing, and critical thinking, while also embracing modern storytelling mediums such as digital media and journalism.

With access to extensive literary resources and strong industry partnerships, the Head of Department will foster a deep appreciation for language and ensure students develop skills relevant to evolving professional and creative fields. Responsibilities include leading the development of innovative teaching practices, overseeing writing workshops and literary projects, and supporting the English team to enhance student engagement, achievement, and curriculum excellence.

Skills Description

Person specifications:

• Hold a BEd or a Bachelor’s degree with PGCE/PGDE (or equivalent teaching qualification). A Master’s degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification is strongly preferred, reflecting the academic rigour expected of a departmental leader.
• Demonstrate substantial and successful experience teaching English at KS4/KS5 or equivalent, with a proven track record of securing excellent outcomes and driving high standards across a team.
• Show clear evidence of leadership capability, including curriculum development, staff coaching and mentoring, and contributing to whole-school improvement initiatives.
• Be committed to fostering a collaborative departmental culture, sharing outstanding practice, and guiding colleagues toward continuous pedagogical excellence.
• Possess a growth mindset—reflective, strategic, and solution-focused, with the ability to analyse data, identify priorities, and implement effective improvement strategies.
• Bring creativity, enthusiasm, and innovation to curriculum design, teaching, and departmental projects, ensuring the English curriculum remains engaging, contemporary, and academically rigorous.
• Have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, enabling strong relationships with staff, students, and parents, and demonstrating confident, inspirational leadership.
• Have a distinguished record of delivering outstanding teaching and learning, with the ability to model best practice and elevate standards across the department.
• Demonstrate ambition and professional drive, seeking to lead within a world-class school environment and contribute to a culture of high expectations and continuous growth.
• Be committed to the wider life of the school, taking an active role in extracurricular programmes, community events, and initiatives that enrich student experience and strengthen school culture.
  
  

All positions attract an excellent remuneration package including: Competitive tax-free salary, individual fully furnished accommodation, free schooling, private medical insurance, annual airfares to country of residence and end of Service Gratuity.

GEMS Teachers also have free access to our loyalty app GEMS rewards www.gemsrewards.com which provides significant savings on day-to-day life in the UAE. We offer thousands of discounts and 2 for 1 offers on everything from flights, hotels, restaurants and retail outlets, making your salary go further and enhancing the opportunity to save whilst working overseas.

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