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.
Job Purpose:
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.

Skills

• 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.
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.

Skills Required