Assistant Headteacher Secondary

Job Description

Assistant Headteacher Secondary at Safa Community School – January 2027 Start

Safa Community School – a beacon of excellence. In 2024, we were honoured with the ‘Happiest School in the UAE’ title, a testament to our commitment towards student well-being. In addition, we were proud recipients of the ‘Value Add, Leaving No Child Behind Award,’ reflecting our dedication to academic progress. This was further underscored by our 2024 GCSE VA score of +2.2. Our high staff retention rates and inclusion in the top 15 Schools in the UAE by the SchoolsCompared.com survey are a source of pride for us all.

At Safa Community School, we are more than just a school—we are a community. With a parent body comprising expats, including around 35% from the UK, we have fostered a reputation for being a friendly, warm, and community-oriented school. Our positive relationships among staff, parents, and students are a testament to our inclusive approach, making everyone feel welcomed and part of a larger family. This sense of belonging sets us apart and should make you feel at home in our school.

Safa Community School is not just another school but an award-winning all-through UK curriculum school, from FS1 to Year 13, with 2,640 students. Follow our school Instagram channel for a glimpse into our vibrant community, showcasing student achievements, community events, and much more at safa_scs. Discover how we nurture talent, foster creativity, and build a thriving environment for every student.

Responsibilities

Due to continued expansion and growth in our thriving school, SCS seeks to appoint a highly qualified, inspirational and experienced leader to the post of Assistant Headteacher. The main responsibilities will be to lead and manage:

• Pastoral Care and Support and well-being.
• Strategically lead and oversee a Key Stage and curriculum offering.
• Develop and manage a thriving house structure at the very heart of our school.
• Work alongside the Deputy Headteacher to ensure data and academic tracking accelerate progress and attainment over time.
  

Naturally, you will bring an excellent understanding of pedagogy, a strong track record of accelerating progress and a creative approach to teaching and learning. You will be an inspiring leader with a natural flair for continuously challenging and empowering others to improve and strive for excellence.

Interested candidates may submit an application showcasing their knowledge, skills and prior success and how they will develop and drive the initiatives listed above. Please submit a current CV. In addition, we require an impactful application letter detailing how you will drive change at SCS and how this will be undertaken.

We offer the opportunity to work in a new, modern, spacious school with exceptional children who want to learn, supported by a great team.

The successful candidate may have a teaching commitment.

This role is being advertised as part of our strategic growth to meet increasing student enrollment and programme demand.

Requirements

• A high-quality degree.
• Experience in Middle leadership (Essential).
• Experience of Senior Leadership (Desirable).
• Leadership qualification (Desirable).
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• A drive and enthusiasm to inspire, nurture and empower teachers in pursuit of excellence.
• High expectations that motivate, support and challenge.
• A confident educator who can organise, shape and lead an effective team.
• A willingness to make a broader contribution to school life.
• The drive to continue to develop professionally through bespoke, high-quality CPD programmes.
• The ability to adapt quickly to a fast-paced international, multicultural and demanding environment.
• The selection process is to be held as applications are received.
• Safa Community School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.
  

Candidate Profile

It Is Desirable That The Successful Candidate

• Will hold relevant qualifications and QTS.
• Has strong leadership and management experience.
• Be an outstanding teacher with the ability to demonstrate outstanding practice and progress of students.
• Works effectively as part of a team.
• Actively keeps up to date with the developments in Secondary education.
• Has a willingness to develop as a professional, taking opportunities to train further to progress in their career.
  

Note

This job description will be reviewed regularly and may be subject to modification and amendment.

Application Process

Application Process

Closing date for applications is Friday, 9th October 2026 at 10h00 UAE time.

The Application Process Is

• All applications must be submitted on the TES/Schrole Portal. Only applications submitted through the Portal will be considered.
• Only applications with relevant experience will be considered.
• Submit an up-to-date, full resume/CV with all employment gaps stated.
• Submit a covering letter of no more than two A4 pages.
• Provide at least three referees’ names, telephone numbers (with international dialling codes), and email addresses. One must be a current employer.
• The closing date for all applications is Friday, 9th October 2026, at 10h00 UAE time.
• Applications will be assessed in order of receipt, and interviews may occur at any stage after applications are received. We reserve the right to appoint before the closing date and therefore invite interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.
• Once initial interviews are concluded, arrangements will be made individually with those candidates who will proceed to the second round of interviews.
• A demonstration lesson will be required.