Head of Department -English - January 2027 Basic

🏷️ Teacher 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates 🕐 Posted 3h ago

About the school

GEMS Education brings a 65-year legacy of excellence and a global reputation as one of the largest and most awarded private education providers. The GEMS School of Research and Innovation integrates cutting-edge advancements in AI, robotics and state-of-the-art facilities to deliver exceptional academic and well-being outcomes. The school offers a seamless journey from Pre-Prep and Prep through to Sixth Form, combining personalised learning, gamification and advanced technologies with specialist programmes in science, computing, the arts and emerging fields such as robotics, machine learning and VR/AR. Secondary and Sixth Form pathways include a wide range of GCSEs and A-levels, university-linked lectures, industry placements and specialist labs in Web3, drones, autonomous vehicles and esports.

The role

The Head of Department – English will provide strategic leadership for a dynamic curriculum that balances traditional literary studies with contemporary communication skills. The post commences January 2027 and emphasises literature analysis, creative and academic writing, critical thinking, digital media and journalism. The successful candidate will foster a deep appreciation for language while ensuring students develop skills relevant to evolving professional and creative fields.

Key responsibilities

  • Lead the development of innovative teaching practices across the English department.
  • Oversee writing workshops and literary projects that enhance student engagement and achievement.
  • Support and coach the English team to maintain curriculum excellence and high standards.
  • Contribute to whole-school improvement initiatives through data analysis and strategic planning.
  • Model outstanding classroom practice and promote a collaborative, growth-oriented departmental culture.

Requirements

  • BEd or Bachelor’s degree with PGCE/PGDE (or equivalent teaching qualification); a Master’s degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification is strongly preferred.
  • Substantial and successful experience teaching English at KS4/KS5 or equivalent, with a proven record of securing excellent outcomes.
  • Demonstrated leadership capability in curriculum development, staff coaching and mentoring.
  • Strong commitment to fostering a collaborative departmental culture and sharing outstanding practice.
  • Growth mindset with the ability to analyse data, identify priorities and implement effective improvement strategies.
  • Creativity, enthusiasm and innovation in curriculum design and departmental projects.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the capacity to build strong relationships with staff, students and parents.
  • Distinguished record of delivering outstanding teaching and learning, with the ability to model best practice.
  • Commitment to the wider life of the school through extracurricular programmes and community initiatives.

Benefits & package

  • Competitive tax-free salary.
  • Individual fully furnished accommodation.
  • Free schooling.
  • Private medical insurance.
  • Annual airfares to country of residence.
  • End of service gratuity.

How to apply

Candidates can apply via TheTeacherJob or request the school contact after signing in.

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Expires Nov 14, 2026 · Basic listing

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Company

GEMS School of Research and Innovation

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