Assistant Head (Student Development)

Due to expansion, restructuring and the opening of two new schools, we are seeking a dynamic and committed Assistant Head, Primary or Secondary trained,  to join us at this exciting time in our development.Nestled between the Hajar mountains and the clear blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, Ras Al Khaimah Academy Family of Schools is based in Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost Emirate of the UAE. Just one hour’s drive from Dubai International Airport, the Academy provides UK and IB education to almost 4000 students from 88 nationalities across its 5 schools, each with its own unique character.  Over the past five years the Academy has grown markedly, in both our student numbers and our reputation for developing academic achievement; certainly the international school of choice in the Emirate. 

We need an Assistant Headteacher, with either primary or secondary experience, who can confidently take the lead in specific areas of school improvement and help in our search for “Excellence in Learning at the Heart of the Community”.

Your role is to ensure that student support policies and processes are fully effective in providing the frameworks which facilitate maximum student attainment. To ensure that students remain ‘at the centre of all we do’ and that prioritising behaviour for learning approaches is at the core of student academic attainment and personal development. To consolidate and enhance all student attainment, linking to attitudinal and metacognitive approaches.

• Ensure that all students understand how and why attitudinal factors can impact academic performance and, working jointly with the Senior Leadership Team, introduce and monitor strategies which maximise the potential of each student;

• In close collaboration with colleagues, play a lead in promoting and consolidating student achievement rates through high and consistent levels of well-being;

• Ensure high quality guidance systems are in operation with regard to life choices, concentrating particularly on Behaviour4Learning and making the 'right' choices; 

• Contribute to the school improvement plan and promote school improvement through identifying areas where student confidence and self-worth can be developed;

• Work closely with the Assistant Head (Teaching and Learning) to ensure that students are motivated through intelligent curriculum design and high-quality teaching and learning and to recommend strategies and provide solutions and strategies when barriers are highlighted;

• Ensure school policies related to the Student Support Systems are followed by all staff and that all staff are held accountable for their implementation and success;

• Lead in the development of processes to enhance the way the Student Support Systems work in school;

• Undertake self-evaluation of the support systems in order to contribute to school systems of monitoring, evaluation and review;

• Monitor progress and evaluate the effects of developments and targets on student behaviour by working alongside colleagues, analysing work and outcomes through recording and tracking using iSAMs;

• Lead on issues associated with attendance and absence.

• Ensure that positive student behavioural choices are a focal point,  and a valued, well-informed vehicle for dissemination of issues affecting student life experiences  

• To help in maintaining and developing effective communications and links with parents and to provide positive responses to concerns and problems regarding their children’s education and well-being;

The successful candidate will have and be able to demonstrate:

• At least 5 years of teaching experience 

• Relevant experience in leadership, either as a Subject Coordinator, Head of Year,  Head of Department or in another Senior Leadership position

• Experience of high quality checking frameworks based around the enhancement of student well-being

• Experience of school improvement through improvements in attitudinal approaches

• A strong sense of values coupled with a strong understanding of the school’s mission, vision and aims

• A high level of organization, energy and drive to achieve the best outcomes for students

• A high level of openness and honesty in working with colleagues

• A strong sense of teamwork

• An appreciation for the academic and personal issues facing children with language backgrounds other than English

• An experience in open-access, inclusive schools and able to deal effectively with low level behavioural issues

• The ability to think quickly, respond to situations and be consistent in decision-making.

We Offer:

An attractive employment package that includes tax free salary, free accommodation, free utilities and medical insurance, end of service gratuity and annual return flights to the home country. In addition, we provide a supportive working environment with a commitment to Professional Development.

To apply for this position please use 'Quick Apply'. 

RAK Academy Family of Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must have undergone child protection screening and any offer of appointment will be subject to the above checks.