Assistant Principal - Head of Middle School (MYP) Aug 26 or Jan 27

Taaleem is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. At Taaleem, we hold ourselves to a high standard of effective practices in relation to child protection, and we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We expect all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to various background checks including receipt of references, proof of relevant qualifications, identification, and police checks, including overseas checks.Uptown International School (UIS), located in the United Arab Emirates, is a leading IB World School committed to providing an exceptional education that fosters global citizenship and academic excellence. We are seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Assistant Principal - Head of Middle School (MYP) to join our team starting August 2026. This position offers a unique opportunity for someone passionate about education leadership within the IB Diploma Programme framework, focusing on cross-curricular topics at the high/secondary school level.Position TitleHead of Middle School / MYP Coordinator (Open to a January 2026 start) Reports ToPrincipal / Head of School Position PurposeThe Head of Middle School provides strategic and operational leadership for the Middle Years Programme (MYP), ensuring high-quality teaching, learning, student wellbeing, and programme implementation aligned with the philosophy and standards of the International Baccalaureate Organization.The role is responsible for the effective day-to-day running of the Middle School, leading curriculum development, staff performance, student achievement, pastoral systems, and continuous school improvement.Key Responsibilities1. Leadership & ManagementLead and manage all aspects of the Middle School division.Develop and implement the strategic vision for the MYP.Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performing learning culture.Ensure alignment with school mission, values, and IB philosophy.Oversee daily operations, policies, procedures, and student conduct.Lead Middle School meetings, planning sessions, and school initiatives.Collaborate with Senior Leadership Team on whole-school priorities.2. IB MYP Programme LeadershipEnsure full implementation and compliance with IB MYP standards and practices.Lead curriculum planning, articulation, and programme evaluation.Coordinate MYP authorization/evaluation processes and documentation.Support interdisciplinary learning and inquiry-based instruction.Ensure effective assessment practices aligned with MYP criteria.Monitor curriculum delivery, unit planning, and moderation processes.Promote approaches to learning (ATL) and student agency.Facilitate professional development related to MYP pedagogy and assessment.3. Teaching & LearningDrive excellence in teaching and learning across all subject areas.Monitor instructional quality through lesson observations and feedback.Use student performance data to improve outcomes and intervention strategies.Promote differentiated instruction and inclusive education practices.Support innovation, digital learning, and collaborative teaching practices.Ensure consistency in curriculum standards and academic expectations.4. Student Wellbeing & Pastoral CarePromote a safe, supportive, and student-centered school environment.Oversee behaviour management and restorative practices.Monitor student attendance, wellbeing, and safeguarding concerns.Work closely with counsellors, SEN staff, and pastoral teams.Encourage student leadership, voice, and participation in school life.5. Staff Leadership & DevelopmentRecruit, mentor, and evaluate Middle School staff.Conduct performance appraisals and professional growth planning.Build collaborative teams and professional learning communities.Support teacher wellbeing and retention initiatives.Ensure accountability and continuous professional improvement.6. Parent & Community EngagementBuild strong partnerships with parents and guardians.Communicate effectively regarding student progress and school initiatives.Address parent concerns professionally and proactively.Represent the Middle School in school events and community engagements.Person SpecificationMaster’s degree in Education, Educational Leadership, or relevant field preferred.Recognized teaching qualification.IB training and certification preferred.ExperienceMinimum 5–7 years teaching experience.Minimum 3 years leadership experience in a Middle School or IB setting.Proven experience leading or coordinating the MYP.Experience with curriculum development and school improvement initiatives.Experience managing teams and performance appraisal processes.Skills & CompetenciesStrong leadership and organizational skills.Deep understanding of IB MYP philosophy and practices.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Strong data analysis and problem-solving ability.Ability to lead change and innovation.Strong conflict resolution and relationship management skills.High emotional intelligence and cultural awareness.Commitment to safeguarding and student wellbeing.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Student academic progress and achievement.Quality of teaching and learning.Successful IB evaluation outcomes.Staff performance and retention.Student wellbeing and behaviour indicators.Parent satisfaction and engagement.Compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards.