Candidate Information Associate Principal
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DSIB Outstanding
Spears Top 100
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Jumeirah, Dubai
71 Nationalities
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION FROM THE COLLEGE PRINCIPAL/CEO Thank you for your interest in applying for the role of Associate Principal at Jumeirah College. This is an incredibly exciting opportunity to play a lead role in shaping the future for our wonderful students and dedicated staff. Recognised as one of the top 100 private schools in the world, you will be joining a school which celebrates the uniqueness of every individual through a shared commitment to excellence and ambition for the future.
WHY JUMEIRAH COLLEGE? Jumeirah College is an exceptional school: friendly, forward-thinking and innovative in its approach. Rated as ‘Outstanding’ for the last 15 years, our students continue to thrive and excel academically, socially, physically and emotionally. We have exciting plans for the future and our recent facilities expansion programme will further enhance our high quality provision.
THE ROLE OF THE ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL The Associate Principal is a senior executive leader responsible for the smooth day-to-day running and operational excellence of Jumeirah College. Reporting to the Principal, who as Deputy Executive Vice President for the GEMS Visionaries schools holds strategic oversight across multiple schools, the Associate Principal ensures that strategy is translated into exceptional practice, outstanding outcomes, and a thriving school culture at Jumeirah College.
THE PERFECT CANDIDATE The ideal candidate should demonstrate a commitment to student welfare, be able to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and have a comprehensive understanding of educational policies. The qualified candidate would also have experience in strategic thinking with strong operational execution.
LIFE IN DUBAI This multicultural city fosters an inclusive community, where people from various backgrounds coexist harmoniously. Dubai the 7th most visited city in the world, offers a lifestyle that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. A host of attractions include: the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel, an array of shopping malls including the largest in the world (Dubai Mall), beaches, restaurants, golf clubs and many entertainment venues.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
Introduction from the College Principal/CEO Welcome to Jumeirah College, a place where academic excellence, personal growth, and global citizenship converge to create an exceptional educational experience. As Principal of this wonderful institution, it is my privilege to introduce you to our vibrant community, where we foster a love for learning and empower our students to reach their full potential. At Jumeirah College, we believe that education goes beyond the classroom walls. We are committed to nurturing well-rounded individuals who possess not only knowledge and skills but also the values and character to make a positive impact on the world. Our educational philosophy is centred on holistic development, encompassing academic rigour, creativity, critical thinking, and social responsibility. As a member of the GEMS Education family, Jumeirah College upholds the highest standards of educational excellence. Our dedicated staff body comprises experienced and passionate educators who inspire and motivate students to strive for greatness. With their unwavering support, students are encouraged to explore their interests, pursue their passions, and embrace challenges with confidence.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
Our academic programmes are designed to challenge and engage students at every level, ensuring they acquire a strong foundation in core subjects while also offering a wide range of educational choices to cater to individual interests. We foster a culture of curiosity, innovation, and independent thinking, equipping our students with the skills necessary for success in an ever-evolving world. Beyond academics, we provide a rich and diverse co-curricular programme that encourages students to discover their talents and explore new areas of interest. Whether it's through participation in sports, music, drama, community service, or leadership opportunities, our students develop invaluable life skills and learn the importance of collaboration, resilience, and empathy. At Jumeirah College, we also recognise the significance of fostering global awareness and understanding. Our multicultural environment celebrates diversity and promotes cultural exchange, preparing our students to be responsible global citizens. We encourage them to embrace different perspectives, develop cross-cultural competencies, and engage in service initiatives that make a positive difference in our local and global communities. I invite you to explore our website to learn more about the outstanding opportunities at Jumeirah College. Discover our state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge resources, and the supportive network that forms the backbone of our educational community. We believe that education is a collaborative effort between students, parents, and educators. Together, let us embark on a transformative journey that will unlock the true potential of each student. Join us at Jumeirah College, where we strive for excellence, inspire a passion for learning, and prepare students for a future filled with success and fulfilment. Nick Brain Principal/CEO
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
Why Jumeirah College? Jumeirah College is a GEMS Premium Secondary School which delivers the National Curriculum for England, offering the full range of GCSE and A level courses. Our student body is a dynamic international community of over 1600 students from over 71 nationalities. We take pride in the development of the whole child, recognising the importance of developing cultural and global awareness. We have a thriving enriched curriculum which provides a diverse range of activities, initiatives and charitable endeavours that both engage our student body and embed our philosophy of global awareness and world citizenship. For more information please see our website. The College has been repeatedly judged to be Outstanding in inspections. Although non-selective at admission, our students achieve exceptional exam results which compare to top UK schools. In 2025 over 99% of GCSE results were 9-4 out of which 20% were 9, and at A level over 41% of all grades were A*/A with over 71% A*/B. This success enables our students to move on to the very top universities around the world, including Cambridge, UCL, Stanford, Monash and Toronto.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
We don’t believe in comparing our students to average benchmarks. Instead, we focus on understanding our students as learners and individuals, exploring and embracing every opportunity to encourage and support them in their learning and growth. With students from over 71 nationalities, we are a truly international school with a truly global mindset. We instill these values in our students, moulding them into successful, well-rounded, and open-minded international citizens of the 21st century. As one of the leading schools in the Middle East, Jumeirah College is the first-choice school for many families. The school is a member of BSME and COBIS. The success of the school has been repeatedly recognised with Jumeirah College being nominated for a series of awards, including being shortlisted as ‘International School of the Year’ by the TES, and being recognised as achieving the ‘Best Progress in Dubai’ by Which School Advisor. Jumeirah College is ranked in the Spears Index as one of the top 100 schools in the world and in the top 10 schools in the Middle East 2025.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
Role Overview The Associate Principal is a senior executive leader responsible for the smooth day-to-day running and operational excellence of Jumeirah College. Reporting to the Principal, who as Deputy Executive Vice President for the GEMS Visionaries schools holds strategic oversight across multiple schools, the Associate Principal ensures that strategy is translated into exceptional practice, outstanding outcomes, and a thriving school culture at Jumeirah College. This role requires an accomplished school leader with the credibility, experience, and confidence to lead the school in the Principal’s absence, taking responsibility for academic performance, staff leadership, student wellbeing, regulatory compliance, and parent confidence. Operating within a high-performing, for-profit international schools group, the Associate Principal will combine educational rigour with commercial awareness, ensuring the school delivers both outstanding learning experiences and operational efficiency. For individuals aspiring to Principalship, this post offers an excellent opportunity to develop as a leader in one of GEMS’ schools. Key Responsibilities Leadership & School Operations Lead the daily running of the school, ensuring smooth, safe, and effective operations. Contribute to the strategic development of Jumeirah College and oversee the effective implementation of the educational model including fidelity to the GEMS Playbooks. Act as ‘Principal-in-Charge’ in the absence of the Principal, with full accountability for academic, pastoral, operational, and regulatory matters. Ensure all group and school policies, procedures, and systems are implemented consistently and effectively. Maintain a strong visible presence across the school, promoting a culture of excellence, professionalism, respect, and high expectations.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
Education Leadership Oversee the day-to-day delivery of the curriculum, ensuring curriculum plans, schemes of work, and assessment practices are implemented with fidelity and high quality. Ensure teaching and learning across the school reflects evidence-informed pedagogical approaches, including cognitive science principles and agreed instructional models through Teach Like a GEM. Following weekly practice clinics, monitor the quality of instruction through lesson visits, learning walks, work scrutiny, and student voice, ensuring consistent standards across departments. Oversee the effective use of student performance data, ensuring assessment information is accurate, timely, and used by leaders and teachers to address misconceptions swiftly and drive improvement. Support Heads of Department in analysing outcomes, identifying trends, and implementing targeted interventions to raise attainment and close gaps. Ensure digital tools and learning technologies are used purposefully and consistently to enhance learning, assessment, and feedback, in line with group expectations. Ensure the student experience is well-structured, inclusive, and enriching, with co-curricular and pastoral provision delivered consistently and to a high standard. People Leadership Lead, inspire, and develop middle and senior leaders, working with the Principal to create a strong pipeline of future leadership. Drive a high-performance culture through rigorous appraisal, instructional coaching, and professional development linked to Pathway to World Class: Teachers Support recruitment, induction, retention, and succession planning in collaboration with the Principal. Foster a positive, high-performing staff culture aligned to the values and ambitions of Jumeirah College and GEMS.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
Student Wellbeing, Pastoral Care & Culture Secure a culture of excellence through the Be a GEM Playbook ensuring all staff and students are safe, happy and are able to reach their fullest potential. Ensure robust pastoral systems that support student wellbeing, behaviour, safeguarding, and inclusion. Promote a culture where students are known, supported, and challenged to excel academically and personally. Implement the Leadership Gemstones Playbook to ensure strong values are the beating heart of the school. Lead on serious behaviour, safeguarding matters, and complex parent concerns with professionalism and care. Champion student leadership, voice, and character development. Compliance, Inspection & Quality Assurance Ensure full compliance with KHDA, UK examination boards, and UAE regulatory requirements. Play a leading role in inspection readiness, school evaluations, and accreditation processes. Translate inspection feedback into measurable improvement actions with clear impact. External Relations Serve as a trusted senior leader for parents, building confidence through clear communication and strong relationships. Manage escalated concerns effectively, reinforcing the school’s commitment to excellence and partnership. Act as an ambassador for the school in the wider community, supporting enrolment growth and retention.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
Person Specification Essential Recognised teaching qualification and relevant degree. Substantial senior leadership experience in a British curriculum secondary school, including roles such as Deputy Principal, Vice Principal, or equivalent. Proven experience of running a school or large secondary phase independently, including during principal absence. Track record of improving teaching quality, examination outcomes, and inspection judgements. Experience working with inspection frameworks. Confident, credible leader able to operate at executive level. Desirable Master’s qualification in Educational Leadership or related field. Experience within a schools group or multi-school organisation. Experience working in the Middle East or comparable international settings. Leadership Attributes & Competencies Strong reputation within the school community. Strategic thinker with strong operational execution. Inspirational, values-driven leader with executive presence. Resilient, decisive, and solutions-focused. Highly effective communicator with strong parent/stakeholder management skills. Data-informed and impact-driven. Internationally minded with strong intercultural understanding. Commercially astute whilst delivering a world-class education and honouring the promise to parents.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
How to Apply The closing date for applications is 5 February 2026. However, early applications will be considered, and initial interviews may take place prior to this date. If you would like an informal discussion prior to submitting an application, please contact Katie Kettle, Head of Leadership Talent Acquisition at katie.kettle@gemseducation.com In order to apply, please complete the application process via the TES portal. Your letter should set out your interest in the role and encapsulate the aspects of your experience relevant to the required criteria. Please include current salary details and the names and addresses of two referees. Referees will not be approached until the final stages and not without prior permission from candidates.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
The Perfect Candidate The perfect candidate will be an ambitious, forward-thinking and highly credible senior educational leader, committed to providing an exceptional all-round education for every student at Jumeirah College. They will bring a deep passion for high-quality, evidence-informed teaching and learning, alongside a strong belief in the importance of modern, inclusive pastoral care and a rich, purposeful co-curricular programme. With the confidence and experience to lead the school in the Principal’s absence, the successful post holder will combine strategic thinking with operational excellence, inspiring staff, supporting students to thrive, and building strong, trusting relationships with parents and the wider community. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in the continued growth and development of Jumeirah College as the school continues to flourish within the GEMS family. Applications are encouraged from accomplished senior leaders from a range of backgrounds who are ready to make a lasting and meaningful impact on this exceptional school community, and who are eager to continue developing their leadership within a high-performing and ambitious school group.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
Life in Dubai Perpetual sun and blue skies sum up the UAE’s weather. The Country has a sub-tropical and arid climate that gets very hot in the height of summer, however, air conditioned houses, schools, shops and cars are standard and offer comfort during this time. Rainfall is infrequent and normally only occurs in winter. Culture in the UAE is rooted in Islamic traditions that form UAE National’s lifestyles. It is a very safe place, it has great schools that cater for the diverse resident population. The UAE is a great place to travel from, the geographical location makes it very easy to travel to Asia and Africa on short haul flights if this appeals. Dubai, the second largest emirate, is the commercial Capital of UAE and 7th most visited city in the world! Many attractions including the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa and the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel, lots of shopping malls including the largest in the world (Dubai Mall), beaches, restaurants, golf clubs and many entertainment venues. The Dubai Creek is the historic focal point of Dubai, signifying where trade with the outside world began more than a century ago. Along the Creek you will also find traditional Gold and Spice souks.
CANDIDATE BRIEF | ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
GEMS Education GEMS Education now has operations in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and the US and is firmly committed to expansion into other markets. It puts a significant focus on investment in Education Technology, Artificial Intelligence and building Centres of Excellence for the benefit of each and every student. Drawing on a legacy spanning over 60 years, the GEMS Education mission remains unwavering: to put a quality education within the reach of every learner no matter where they are.
Working with GEMS, the world’s largest K-12 private school operator, offers you a unique opportunity to enhance and progress your career on a global setting. Trusted for over 60 years and now a third generation education family, GEMS Education began in a single school room in Dubai. Today, we have the privilege of educating over 170,000 students from over 176 countries through GEMS owned and managed schools globally; over 270,000 students access resources through our services division. GEMS Education understands that students learn in different ways. It is our individualism that makes us unique with a commitment to ‘find the genius in every child’.