Deputy Head of Primary

Dubai
Permanent
Full-time

1 month ago

Job DescriptionGEMS FirstPoint School is seeking to appoint an exceptional and experienced leader to the role of Deputy Head of Primary (EYFS & KS1). This is a key senior leadership opportunity within our high-performing, premium British curriculum school, rated Outstanding by BSO and Very Good by KHDA.The successful candidate will lead the strategic development of EYFS and Key Stage 1 while playing a central role in driving school improvement across the entire Primary phase (EYFS to Year 6). The role combines specialist expertise in early and lower primary education with wider whole-primary leadership responsibilities.Key responsibilitiesWhole-primary school improvement

Lead and drive strategic school improvement priorities across the Primary phase
Contribute to the development, implementation, and evaluation of the Primary School Improvement Plan
Monitor standards, teaching quality, and pupil outcomes across EYFS, KS1, and KS2
Work closely with the Head of Primary and wider leadership team to secure measurable impact
Lead primary-wide quality assurance processes including learning walks, book looks, moderation, and data reviews

Strategic leadership (EYFS & KS1 specialism)

Lead the strategic development of EYFS and KS1, ensuring alignment with whole-school priorities
Champion outstanding early years practice rooted in child development and research-informed pedagogy
Ensure seamless transition from EYFS through KS1 and into KS2
Drive high standards across all curriculum areas, including MOE subjects

Teaching, learning and curriculum

Embed evidence-informed teaching practice across the Primary phase
Lead curriculum refinement to ensure strong foundations and clear progression for all pupils
Support middle leaders in curriculum implementation and impact evaluation
Ensure high-quality learning environments across early and lower primary

Assessment and outcomes

Oversee assessment, moderation, and tracking systems across Primary
Use data strategically to inform intervention, accelerate progress, and close attainment gaps
Ensure strong EYFS GLD outcomes, KS1 attainment, and secure transition into KS2

Staff development and leadership capacity

Lead professional learning across the Primary phase
Coach and develop middle leaders and aspiring leaders
Strengthen accountability systems while maintaining a culture of support, collaboration, and professional growth

Pastoral and community leadership

Promote a nurturing, inclusive, and safe Primary environment
Strengthen parental engagement, particularly within the early years
Model visible, values-led leadership across the school community

SkillsEssential requirements

Proven leadership impact across Primary phases
Strong expertise in EYFS and KS1 pedagogy and curriculum
Experience leading whole-school or phase-wide improvement initiatives
Deep understanding of assessment, data analysis, and quality assurance systems
Research-informed and current in educational practice
Experience of inspection frameworks such as BSO and KHDA is highly desirable

GEMS FirstPoint School offers an exceptional working environment within a supportive and ambitious leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity for a talented leader who is passionate about early learning, committed to excellence, and eager to shape the continued success of a thriving Primary school in Dubai.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.

GEMS Education

Apply Now