Our client, a private school under British Curriculum is urgently looking for a Principal to be based in Al Shamkha, Abu Dhabi. Must have experience working as a Principal in Abu Dhabi.Overview: The Principal is the educational leader and manager of the school, responsible for overseeing the overall administration, curriculum implementation, and strategic development of the school. As the school follows the British Curriculum, the Principal ensures the highest standards of academic excellence, student welfare, and staff development, while adhering to local regulations and cultural norms in the UAE.Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Management:
Provide visionary leadership and manage the strategic direction of the school.
Report regularly to the Board of Governors on academic performance, operational issues, and financial health.
Foster a school culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and innovation, with a focus on student achievement.
Ensure compliance with UAE regulations, including those from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the Ministry of Education, and other relevant authorities.
Curriculum & Instruction:
Oversee the effective implementation of the British Curriculum ensuring alignment with both UK standards and UAE educational goals.
Monitor and evaluate teaching quality, student progress, and the overall learning environment.
Encourage the use of technology and innovative educational methods to enhance student learning experiences.
Ensure students meet or exceed academic standards, preparing them for local and international qualifications (e.g., IGCSEs, A-Levels).
Student Achievement & Welfare:
Monitor student academic performance, providing regular assessments and ensuring interventions are in place for students who require additional support.
Promote an environment of student wellbeing, ensuring the school is a safe and supportive space for all students.
Lead initiatives that promote the personal development of students, including extracurricular activities and character-building programs.
Address and resolve any student behavioral issues in accordance with the schools policies and UAE cultural values.
Staff Development:
Recruit, retain, and support high-caliber teaching and non-teaching staff.
Ensure that teachers are regularly trained and develop professionally to keep up with the best practices in education.
Promote a culture of high expectations for staff performance, with a focus on both academic and personal growth.
Lead performance management processes and ensure clear feedback and development opportunities for staff.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement:
Act as the key representative of the school, building positive relationships with parents, the local community, and other educational institutions.
Establish effective communication with parents to keep them informed of their childs progress and school activities.
Develop partnerships with external stakeholders, including businesses, universities, and cultural organizations, to enrich the student experience.
Operational & Financial Management:
Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth functioning of all school activities.
Ensure that the schools financial resources are effectively managed, preparing and monitoring the annual budget in consultation with the Board.
Ensure the maintenance of school facilities, equipment, and resources, in line with safety and quality standards.
Address any operational challenges promptly to ensure minimal disruption to the academic program.
Compliance & Quality Assurance:
Ensure the school meets the educational standards set by UAE regulators, including KHDA, ADEK, and other relevant authorities.
Prepare for and manage school inspections (KHDA or equivalent), ensuring the school achieves accreditation and meets international standards.
Oversee the schools self-evaluation process, ensuring continuous improvement and high standards of academic excellence.
Required Qualifications and Experience:
Masters degree in Education, School Leadership, or a related field.
At least 10 years of experience in education, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role, preferably as a Principal in a British Curriculum school.
In-depth knowledge of the British Curriculum and its application in an international setting.
Strong understanding of the UAE educational landscape, including KHDA regulations and cultural considerations.
Proven success in improving student outcomes and school performance.
Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Familiarity with managing school budgets and financial operations.
Knowledge of child protection and safeguarding policies and practices.
Desirable Skills and Attributes:
Experience working in a multi-cultural international school environment.
Strong understanding of educational technologies and their integration into the curriculum.
Ability to build strong relationships with students, parents, staff, and the community.
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.