Head of English

Job Description

Job Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and inspirational individual to lead our English Department and deliver a curriculum that is exciting, innovative and diverse. This is a rare opportunity to take on the leadership of a key department. Our mission is to foster as many possible talents of the individual, by providing an environment which motivates the child to explore.

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 16 countries – in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East – serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.

At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever they’re starting from. We protect what’s special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger; ensuring they get an education that’s, quite literally, world class.

About AAESS

Al Ain English Speaking School is one of the oldest schools in Al Ain with a reputation that goes beyond the city boundaries. It sits in the ‘Garden City’ renowned for being an oasis in the desert. AAESS is an all through school with over 2200 children from 3 to 19, and continually growing. The campus is spacious and welcoming and prides itself with good facilities such as our fantastic indoor swimming pool; floodlit tennis courts; 566 seat auditorium; food prep and nutrition kitchen; automotive garage; TV & radio production studio and two Apple Mac suites. We deliver the British Curriculum and offer iGCSE, AS and A Levels, with our 6th Form students securing places in prestigious universities all over the world.

Al Ain English Speaking School is the first school in Al Ain to hold the British Schools Overseas Award, where we are endorsed by the British Government and quality assured by Ofsted. Additionally, the school holds the prestigious Silver Carnegie Mental Health Award, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and the mental well-being of its students and staff.

Al Ain English Speaking School is a caring and multicultural community that enables all individuals to realise their potential in a dynamic and innovative learning environment. We value enquiry, perseverance and reflection, treating one another with respect and integrity, while learning together to become responsible and enterprising global citizens.

Role Overview

AAESS is seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of English to lead and inspire excellence in our English curriculum. This pivotal role involves driving innovative teaching strategies, supporting staff development, and ensuring outstanding outcomes for all students.

We are looking for a passionate leader with a deep understanding of English education, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to fostering a love for learning. If you are ready to make a meaningful impact and shape the future of English education at AAESS, we’d love to hear from you!

The successful candidate will ensure that the provision of English across the school is outstanding and everybody is engaged positively in learning and the standards of progress are excellent. The successful candidate will be an experienced professional with a sound knowledge of the complexities of teaching, learning and curriculum development.

Personal Specification And Experience

• Hold a Bachelor of Education, PGCE, or an internationally recognized equivalent qualification.
• Be a qualified teacher with a degree in English or a related field.
• Have minimum of 2 years experience.
• Be a first-rate classroom teacher and role model;
• Have an active commitment to the safeguarding and welfare of children;
• Have strong interpersonal skills that inspire confidence;
• Be an effective communicator with pupils, parents and colleagues alike;
• Have a love of English;
• Good knowledge of Common Entrance requirements;
• The ability to work collaboratively and supportively;
• Commitment to the protection and safeguarding of children;
• Have good IT skills and be prepared to embrace technological innovations;
• Effective classroom management skills;
• Commitment to ongoing professional development;
• Willingness to contribute to the co-curricular life of the school;
• Enthusiasm for teaching, empathy with young people and a sense of humor.

Benefits Include

• An attractive and competitive tax free salary.
• High quality furnished accommodation.
• Generous medical insurance.
• Return annual flights to your home country.
• Visa costs and end of service gratuity.
• Year-round sunshine.