Headteacher

Job Description

Job overview

About Us

Collectively, the DESS family of schools is known as Dubai English Speaking Schools, comprising of two primary schools, DESS Primary Oud Metha and DESS Primary Academic City and one secondary school, DESS College, located in Academic City, Dubai.

DESS Primary Oud Metha (ages 3–11) has been a cornerstone of the Dubai community since 1963, while DESS College (ages 11–18) has built on this legacy since opening in 2005. Both schools have been consistently rated Outstanding by KHDA and BSO, reflecting a long-standing commitment to educational excellence. DESS Primary Academic City, which opened in September 2025, extends this heritage by offering the same high standards, values and ambitions that have defined DESS for more than six decades.

As a respected not-for-profit educational group, DESS is committed to placing students at the centre of every decision, investing in outstanding teaching, exceptional learning environments and a strong sense of community.

Watch our DESS Academic City Video to learn more about our school, campus and community.

For more information about DESS please visit our Website.

About the Role

The first chapter is written. Yours starts here.

This is a rare opportunity to take forward a new primary school at a pivotal stage in its journey – where strong foundations are already in place and thoughtful, deliberate leadership will shape what comes next.

We are looking for an experienced primary leader who understands how to grow a school methodically, build a strong culture, lead people well, and become an influential part of a community. Someone who is comfortable establishing clarity, embedding high standards, and developing a team that works with purpose and consistency.

Having opened in September 2025, the school is established and ready for its next phase. The foundations are secure; the next step is about a clear strategic direction, purposeful growth, consistent excellence, and a distinct sense of identity.

This is a school with real ambition and the resources to match: an exceptional campus, a skilled and experienced team, and the support of a well-established not-for-profit group.

Dubai life suits people who are ready to commit, contribute, and put down roots – not just pass through.

What We Offer

DESS Academic City offers a competitive package commensurate with the seniority and importance of the role. It includes a highly competitive salary, a generous housing allowance, an annual flights allowance, comprehensive medical insurance, and 100% fee remission for children at DESS schools, subject to meeting admissions criteria.

Specific package details will be discussed with shortlisted candidates.

Additional Information

• Headteacher Brochure – Provides a comprehensive overview of DESS Academic City, the Headteacher opportunity, and the qualities, experience and leadership required for the role.
• DESS Direction 2025-2028 – Outlines our strategic vision, priorities and ambitions for the future of the DESS family of schools.

Application Process

Odgers has been appointed to support this recruitment process and manage applications on our behalf.

To apply, please submit a comprehensive CV, together with a covering letter, outlining your interest in the role and highlighting how your skills, experience and achievements meet the requirements of the position.

Please also provide the names and contact details of three referees. Referees will only be contacted at the final stage of the recruitment process and only with your prior consent.

To submit your application, please click Apply button below. If your experience any difficulties applying online, or wish to have a conversation in confidence, please contact: Conor Wilson, Head of Schools Practice conor.wilson@odgers.com or Sruthy Nair, Associate sruthy.nair@odgers.com.

All applicants will receive an automated acknowledgement from Odgers to confirm receipt of their application.