Deputy Head of Middle School - Al Jaddaf, United Arab Emirates - Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai

· Ensure school policies related to pastoral systems are followed by all secondary staff and that all secondary staff are held accountable for their implementation, the attendance policy is fully implemented, and attendance is monitored, and protocols followed

· Promote high levels of student well-being through bespoke initiatives that evolve dependent upon current trends in student care and support

· Monitor, support and track student well-being

· Communicate effectively with parents on sensitive issues

· Enjoyment of, and proven ability in, communicating with young people

· Maintain effective partnerships with parents to support student achievement, well-being and growth

· Liaise with other schools and relevant organisations in matters of pastoral care

· Effectively manage student behaviour and nurture the creation of an effective climate for learning

Management

· Manage and deliver the Secondary School cover program for staff absence in a consistent and transparent manner

· Organisation of supervision rotas outside of class time

· Organisation of assemblies and coordination of relevant events promoting community cohesion and a sense of belonging for all stakeholders

· Collaboration with Admissions and the Head of Secondary to ensure an effective admissions process

· Effectively manage, lead and inspire Grade Coordinators to have oversight, lead and monitor pastoral systems at grade level

· Responsibilities may include creating and maintaining duty schedule and staff cover.

· Collaboration and coordination of school trips for students in Grade 6-8 to enhance students learning experiences.

Professional development

·Support an ethos that embodies learning at all levels

· Keep abreast of developments in international schools to ensure that SISD maintains a place at the forefront of international best practice

· Lead, promote and cascade professional learning within the pastoral section

· Provide necessary training for all pastoral staff to enable them to perform their roles and responsibilities to high standards

· Collaborate with other Deputies and the Principal on recruitment, with a focus on those aspects that relate to the pastoral and wellbeing systems e.g., Grade Coordinators, Home Room Teachers and Counsellors etc.

· Assist with whole school monitoring and evaluating of the professional Development Cycle

Compliance and inspection

· Assist with monitoring and regular review of key policies

· Ensure regulatory compliance in areas relating to safeguarding and pastoral life at school

· Seek excellence in all areas of the school SEF and school inspections relating to teaching and learning, pastoral and personal development.

Position Requirements

Education

Degree

Postgraduate teaching qualification

Qualification in leadership and management (desirable)

Experience

Leadership experience in a secondary school environment

IB/MYP Teaching experience

Experience of leading school initiatives that have led to demonstrable improvement in standards and achievement

Competencies

Proven ability to lead and inspire educational teams toward achieving academic excellence.

Experience in curriculum development, implementation, and assessment strategies.

Effective management of staff, fostering a positive and collaborative school culture.

In-depth understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities associated with middle school education.

Development and implementation of age-appropriate teaching methodologies.

Strong commitment to the social and emotional well-being of middle school students.

Demonstrated success in developing and executing strategic plans to enhance school performance.

Sound decision-making skills, considering both short-term and long-term goals.

Excellent communication skills with staff, students, parents, and stakeholders.

Building strong relationships within the school community to foster a supportive and inclusive environment.