Associate Head of Upper School & DP Coordinator

This is an exciting opportunity to join an international school in Dubai that has high teaching and learning standards and excellent professional development opportunities. 

As a teacher in a Dwight school, you will nurture learners so that they can develop as compassionate global citizens, be curious and knowledgeable learners, become confident communicators, and discover their sparks of genius. As a middle leader, you will inspire your team in a collaborative and supportive environment to promote meaningful learning and the values of Dwight and the International Baccalaureate, towards education for a better and more peaceful world.

Dwight School Dubai is an IB World School offering Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma programmes. The Dwight School Dubai is a friendly and supportive community with diverse cultures, nationalities, and experiences. Our small classes allow for greater personalized learning and teacher support.

Further information about the school can be found on our website and you are encouraged to visit the website to find out more about the school, our mission, and our ethos.

Job Purpose

1. Lead by example in demonstrating excellence in leading DP curriculum planning, development and innovation.
2. To recognise the Spark of Genius in every child and endeavour to follow the Dwight vision, mission and pillars in every aspect of the role.

Role and Responsibilities

1) Diploma Programme (DP) Leadership

• Responsible for leading, managing, and monitoring the DP in line with IBO standards.
• Work closely with the DP teaching faculty to ensure the development of high standards of teaching, learning, assessment, student progress and achievement, in line with IBO and Dwight standards.
• Plan, implement, and lead a high-quality DP programme so that all students achieve their targets and progress to the next stage of education.
• Plan/prepare/implement and lead the DP scheduling, parent and student workshops, collaborative planning/meetings, and professional development for DP faculty.
• Oversee standards for DP unit planning and curriculum innovation.
• Ensure the DP curriculum is planned vertically and horizontally throughout the DP and across the transdisciplinary theme. 
• Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of assessment, in line with school policy, including effective use of data to inform planning and intervention.
• To track and monitor DP students’ academic, social, and emotional progress and intervene when students are under-performing.
• Establish, monitor, and evaluate short, medium, and long-term plans for the development of the DP. Plans will support the school’s strategic planning, improvement, and evaluation.
• To create a positive learning environment for DP students that is engaging and develops holistic learning and experiences - inside and outside the classroom.
• To plan for and co-lead the preparation for IB and NEASC (ACE Learning) evaluation visits. To continuously reflect on and implement action points suggested by the IB and NEASC as recommendations. 
• To work with the PYP and MYP Coordinators (as co-lead) of the Professional Development Committee) to plan and implement/deliver (a) professional development for faculty, and (b) student transition between the programs.

2. Professional responsibilities

• As a member of the senior leadership team, there will be designated and agreed line and performance management (employee review), School Improvement, and School Evaluation responsibilities.
• To deputize for the Head of Upper School in his / her absence.
• Establish clear expectations and constructive working relationships with the DP / Upper School team, students, and parents, ensuring collaboration and support.
• Consistently demonstrate professionalism, positivity, and high professional standards.
• Clearly and consistently communicate with families and other Dwight community members.
• Actively participate in the professional (Dwight) community.
• There will be a small teaching commitment with this role.
• Any other reasonable duties and outside hours of work as assigned by the Head of School or Head of Upper School.

We are looking for someone who:   

• Is an outstanding teacher & leader, committed to inquiry-led learning 
• Has expertise in a Leadership role in an International Baccalaureate framework 
• Is collaborative and will contribute to an ethos of teamwork and high standards 
• Has a willingness to innovate    
• Has an international outlook and values diversity and intercultural respect 
• Has a track record of success as a teacher and leader
• Has experience of leading a team through inspection

In return we can offer:   

• Friendly and helpful colleagues in a collaborative environment 
• Experienced and supportive leadership 
• A school environment that values language learning 
• Professional development opportunities     
• All the advantages of a vibrant, diverse international community.

How to Apply:

Please apply via the TES application form. In your cover letter of no more than 400 words outline how your skills and experience meet the job description and person specification. 

The deadline for applications is Friday, 14 March 2025.

Please note:

Incomplete applications will not be considered and Dwight School Dubai reserves the right to make an appointment at any stage of the recruitment process.

Any appointment requires two good references, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer.

Due to the expected high levels of interest in positions at the School, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted within 21 days of the closing date for applications.

Dwight School Dubai is committed to safeguarding and protecting the children and young people that we work with. As such, all posts are subject to a safer recruitment process, including the disclosure of criminal records and vetting checks. 

Dwight School Dubai is committed to safeguarding and protecting the children and young people that we work with. As such, all posts are subject to a safer recruitment process, including the disclosure of criminal records and vetting checks. 

We ensure that we have a range of policies and procedures in place that promote safeguarding and safer working practices across the school. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Dwight School Dubai aims to be a fair employer and is committed to equal opportunities. The School does not discriminate against employees based on gender, ethnic origin, disability or age. The School will endeavor to make any necessary reasonable adjustments to the job and working environment to enable access to employment opportunities for disabled job applicants.