Primary School Librarian at Safa Community School

POST: Primary School Librarian at Safa Community School, Dubai

We were rated 'Outstanding' by KHDA and BSO and won the Happiest School in the UAE in 2023. In 2019, our school was honoured with the title of 'Best New School in the UAE; in 2021, we were not only shortlisted as a finalist for 'Most Loved' and 'Happiest' but also secured the award for 'Best Value Added' among schools in the UAE for the 2021-2022 academic year. 

We are proud to maintain one of the highest staff retention rates in Dubai and are recognised as one of the top 15 schools in the UAE, according to the SchoolsCompared.com survey.

Safa Community School is an all-through UK curriculum school, from FS1 to Year 13, with 2,400 on roll. We pride ourselves on our high standards across all aspects of school life. This includes high academic progress and a wide variety of extra-curricular success

Currently, we are in search of a dynamic and passionate Primary School Librarian to join our highly accomplished secondary department. This is an exhilarating juncture to become a part of the SCS team.

Main Purpose

The librarian works collaboratively with teachers to provide education to pupils based on the Safa Community School's ethos and values. The librarian must support each individual student’s growth and development, encouraging them to be inspired, intellectual, independent, individual and inclusive.

The librarian must demonstrate an understanding of the wider curriculum and administration needs of the school, and achieve high standards by responding professionally, sensitively and caringly to the needs of the pupils.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead groups or classes of children during activities in the library (e.g. library skills, information literacy, and reading engagement activities).
• Maintain the computerised library lending system with accurate title and copy records.
• Ensure all publications meet UAE and UK national requirements.
• Maintain a welcoming and appealing library environment.
• Maintain and manage the eLibrary.
• Organise displays of books to promote particular authors, topics of interest etc.
• Conduct readers’ advisory with all members of the school community.
• Select, acquire, maintain, and withdraw library stock, ensuring a balance between subjects and ability levels, working closely with appropriate teaching staff.
• Collaborate with teachers to develop and support resource use across the curriculum.
• Supervise and train volunteers and student helpers.
• Work with the wider community, especially parents.

Job Qualifications Education

Bachelor’s degree or above.

Major

Library Science and/or Education.

Language

Strong communication skills in English.

Working Experience

• The effective use of resources and budgets.
• Relevant experience as a librarian, minimum of three years.
• Experience working with children and young adults.
• Experience in international schools within the UAE is preferable.
• Experience with library-specific software (e.g. Library Management Systems, digital resources etc.).

Expertise

• Have a qualification in librarianship and have had experience working in a library of a British Curriculum school.
• Have a proactive and positive attitude.
• Be hands-on with a strong sense of initiative and responsibility.
• Enjoy working with children and be able to effectively manage groups, encouraging reading and enjoyment of literature.
• Most importantly should be enthusiastic about the library and be able to convey this to students. 
• Have a keen eye for attractive displays to make the library a welcoming and inviting place.
• Be confident in the use of IT.
• Be an effective team member and at the same time be able to work on one’s own initiative.
• Actively keeps up to date with the developments in their field.
• Be able to maintain the school’s code of confidentiality. 

Note: 

• This job description will be reviewed regularly and may be subject to modification and amendment.

Application Process

Closing date for applications is Friday, 17th May 2024 at 10h00 UAE time.

The application process is: 

1. All applications must be submitted on the TES Portal. Only applications submitted through the Portal will be considered.
2. Submit a full resume / CV.   
3. Submit a covering letter of no more than two A4 pages.   
4. Provide at least three referees’ names, telephone numbers (with international dialling codes), and email addresses. One must be a current employer.   
5. The closing date for all applications is Friday, 17th May 2024 at 10h00 UAE time. However, applications will be processed as received, and initial interviews will be arranged for successful candidates as applications are received.   
6. Once initial interviews are concluded, arrangements will be made individually with those candidates who will proceed to the second round of interviews.

Upon request, feedback will only be provided to candidates who progress to the interview stages.

Important Note: 

Safa Community School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students. Applicants will be required to submit a current police criminal clearance check or equivalent from their home country or current country of residence prior to appointment.