Principal

Job description

A rare opportunity to shape one of the world's most ambitious new schools.

GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI) has been created to challenge educational convention and redefine what exceptional education can be. Combining an enhanced British curriculum with research, innovation, industry partnership and future-focused learning, SRI is building a distinctive educational model designed for the next generation.

We are now seeking an outstanding educational leader to become Principal Senior School, responsible for leading the strategic development of Years 7–13 and shaping the future of Senior School education within this pioneering institution.

The opportunity

This is not a traditional headship. Most school leadership positions ask you to maintain something. This one asks you to build something.

This is a founding leadership role for an ambitious and visionary educator with the intellectual curiosity, academic credibility and strategic leadership capability to build something genuinely exceptional. Working alongside the CEO/Principal and Senior Leadership Team, you will help define the Senior School experience, establish Key Stage 4 and Sixth Form provision, shape curriculum and qualification pathways, and contribute to the design of a seamless 3–18 educational journey.

You will have the opportunity to:

• Shape the strategic direction and culture of a world-class Senior School.
• Develop an innovative and future-focused curriculum architecture.
• Establish distinctive qualifications and pathways beyond traditional frameworks.
• Build partnerships with leading universities, industry organisations and accreditation bodies.
• Drive academic excellence, innovation, wellbeing and student success across Years 7–13.
• Leave a lasting legacy within one of the most exciting educational developments globally.

Skills description

The person

We are seeking an accomplished school leader who combines educational expertise with entrepreneurial thinking.

Candidates will bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience within a high-performing secondary or all-through school.
• A proven track record of leading curriculum innovation and academic excellence.
• Experience in the development of Key Stage 4 and Sixth Form provision.
• Strong understanding of qualifications, assessment and university pathways.
• Expertise in pastoral leadership, safeguarding and student wellbeing.
• The capacity to lead, inspire and develop high-performing teams.
• A commitment to innovation, collaboration and educational excellence.

Most importantly, you will possess the vision, resilience and ambition required to help create a new benchmark for world-class education.

About GEMS School of Research and Innovation

At SRI, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, technology and real-world engagement are not additions to learning; they are fundamental to the school's identity. Through the Pioneer Curriculum, students are empowered to develop learning, digital and research capabilities whilst building the agency, character and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world.

About GEMS Education

With more than 65 years of educational excellence and over 200,000 students educated across its global network, GEMS Education is one of the world's leading private education providers. GEMS schools are recognised for delivering outstanding educational outcomes and enabling students to progress to the world's most prestigious universities.

Remuneration

An exceptional tax-free package is offered, including competitive salary, accommodation, free schooling, private medical insurance, annual airfares to country of residence and end-of-service gratuity.

GEMS employees also receive free access to GEMS Rewards, offering thousands of discounts and 2-for-1 offers across flights, hotels, restaurants and retail outlets throughout the UAE.

GEMS safeguarding

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are dedicated to creating safe, supportive and inclusive learning environments where students can thrive, and we expect all employees, volunteers and partners to share this commitment.

As part of our safer recruitment practices, all successful applicants will be subject to comprehensive pre-employment checks, including verification of identity, qualifications, employment history, professional references and criminal record checks from all countries of residence and employment, in line with local and international safeguarding requirements. These checks may include enhanced disclosure, prohibition, barring and overseas police clearance checks where applicable. We are committed to recruiting individuals who uphold the highest standards of professional conduct and child protection.