Assistant Headteacher

About Us

Dubai English Speaking School (DESS) is a multi-award winning, thriving, not-for-profit provider of primary education (3-11 years). DESS is the oldest British Curriculum School in Dubai but is always at the cutting edge of new developments in Education.

This is your chance to be part of our growth story. We are in the process of establishing a new school and by August 2025, we will proudly offer, two Primary Schools and will have opportunities available at both sites. We seek skilled, forward-thinking educators who have a passion for education and delivering unparalleled learning experiences. This is your opportunity to grow with us and work at one of our primary schools.

All of this unfolds against the backdrop of the Emirate of Dubai - a bustling, multicultural hub where each day promises excitement and boundless opportunities.

For more information about our schools, please visit our website www.dessc.sch.ae and see the attached brochure.

About the Role

Inevitably, being a member of an SLT team results in there being many aspects to your portfolio (including areas that you may not have had previous experience in). 

 Does this sound like you?

•  You love being part of a team; relationships are a priority for you
• You are inspirational; you can lead educational change and know how to take people with you
• You take pride in all you do; you dream big and aim high
• You are authentic you are open and honest and confident to share your vulnerability
• Your wellbeing and the wellbeing of children and staff is a key responsibility for you
• You are an expert listener; you seek first to understand 
• You are resilient, flexible and calm under pressure; you keep cool when the going gets tough
• You are innovative and creative; you always find opportunities to think outside the box
• You have a positive attitude; you are solution focused
• You are flexible, positive and have a solution focused approach with a growth mindset

For a comprehensive understanding of the role and its requirements, we encourage you to review our detailed job description.

Are you ready to join our team? Here's what we're looking for

• Previous Middle Leadership experience.
• A track record of driving school improvement in positions of Middle/Senior Leadership.
• Knowledge and experience of innovative educational developments including innovative technology.
• A demonstrable commitment to professional development, for self and others.
• A proven ability to work with and lead others.
• The capacity to influence and manage change effectively.
• A track record and evidence of demonstrating creative thinking and showing initiative.
• A love of learning and a passion for securing the best outcomes for the children in our care.
• A determination to energise and inspire others.
• The proven capacity to see ideas through to the finish.
• A commitment to working with the existing senior team at DESS in a loyal and mutually supportive manner.
• Flexible, positive and solution focused approach with a growth mindset

In return we offer

• An opportunity to work at one of our primary schools
• Highly competitive tax-free salary
• Accommodation allowance or fully furnished accommodation
• Premium Medical Insurance coverage
• Annual flight allowance
• Tuition fees for up to two children
• End of service gratuity in line with UAE Labour Law

Application Process

• To apply for this position, please utilise the TES Portal by clicking the Quick Apply button. Applications not submitted through the Portal will not be considered.
• Within your application, please include a supporting statement.
• Additionally, provide contact information for two referees, one of whom must be your current Principal/Headteacher. Ensure to include their names, telephone numbers (including international dialling codes), and email addresses.
• Applications will be reviewed in the order they are received.
• Initial interviews will be scheduled in the UK week commencing 28th October 2024 and in the UAE during September 2024.
• Please note that only successful applicants will be contacted.

Safer Recruitment Statement

DESS is an equal opportunities employer committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers who work with the school to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo a rigorous screening process that includes: verification of qualifications, birth certificate and passport; obtaining three satisfactory references (including current / most recent employer and two previous employers); providing a Police Certificate(s) for the last five years from all countries that the applicant has resided in; Prohibition Checks (for applicants with a UK background). Any employment gaps on the application form will be addressed during an interview and may be explored further.

DESS welcomes applications from UAE Nationals who have the relevant qualifications and experience.