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.
As a school grounded in research-based learning, we are seeking an experienced, digitally fluent, and forward-thinking School Librarian to lead our library programme and foster a reading and research culture that matches the pace of innovation at SRI.
This is more than a traditional library role. At SRI, our ideal candidate is not only passionate about literacy but also excited by the opportunities that technology and research-based learning bring to education. You'll play a central role in supporting students as they explore both physical and digital resources, helping them grow as curious, thoughtful, and independent learners. Whether it's guiding a student to their next favourite book or supporting a Sixth Form research project, you'll be part of a school culture that values inquiry, innovation, and lifelong learning.
Skills
Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of a future-ready, inclusive library environment that supports reading, research, and independent learning across all key stages.
• Promote a strong reading culture through events, curated displays, and student engagement initiatives that reflect diverse voices and support personalised learning.
• Equip students with research, referencing, and source evaluation skills, supporting project-based learning, and academic pathways in collaboration with curriculum leaders.
• Work in close coordination with SRI's Centres of Excellence and curriculum teams to align library provision with key learning themes, interdisciplinary projects, and whole-school priorities in innovation, inclusion, and digital learning.
• Support teachers in embedding library resources into schemes of work, recommending relevant texts, research tools, and enrichment materials that reinforce classroom learning.
• Maintain a diverse, current, and balanced collection of physical and digital resources based on student need, curriculum requirements, and strategic development goals.
• Manage digital subscriptions and promote access to e-books, academic databases, and emerging technologies (e.g., AR/VR, AI tools) to enhance the research and reading experience.
• Ensure the library supports all learners, offering differentiated resources, multilingual materials, and inclusive practices that meet the needs of a diverse student body.
• Encourage student voice, ownership, and leadership within the library through peer-led initiatives, student librarianship opportunities, and regular feedback channels.
• Use borrowing trends, digital engagement analytics, and student/staff feedback to inform decisions on library programming, space design, and resource acquisition.
• Oversee library systems and daily operations, ensuring accurate cataloguing, borrowing processes, inventory management, and policy compliance in line with GEMS and regulatory standards.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Library and Information Science.
• Minimum 2 years' experience in a school or academic library setting.
• Strong understanding of research skills, digital resource curation, and inquiry-based education.
• Experience with British or equivalent curricula is preferred.
• Comfortable using library management systems and digital tools (e.g., databases, citation software, online repositories).
• A proactive approach to supporting learners in a tech-enhanced and innovation-led environment.
• Excellent interpersonal and organisational skills with a clear passion for reading, research, and lifelong learning.
• Strong organisational abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• A friendly and approachable manner, with a commitment to providing excellent customer service.

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