Head - Islamic & Social Studies (Native and Non-Native)- Mamoura British Academy (AY 24/25)

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mamoura British Academy is seeking an outstanding and experienced Head of Islamic and Social Studies (Native & Non-Native). The successful candidate will oversee a department that has an excellent reputation and is consistently rated Very Good in inspections. This role requires a profound understanding of Islamic and social studies, Emirati culture, and a dedication to advancing educational and cultural objectives within our Academy.

A. Strategic direction and development:

• Contribute to the whole school vision, the strategic direction of the school and attend and present at Executive Leadership Team meetings when invited.

• Analyse and interpret relevant school data, to inform policies and faculty/school SEF writing.

• Develop and implement policies and practices for the Islamic and Social Studies department in alignment with the school's vision and high standards.

• Establish short, medium and long-term plans for departmental development, utilizing data effectively to identify areas for improvement.

• Ensure that appropriate and relevant schemes of work are developed, in place and regularly reviewed and evaluated, for all year groups and courses. These must include suitable provision for SEN/POD, MAT, and EAL students.

• Develop and implement policies and practices for the Islamic and social studies department that reflect the school's vision and commitment to high standards of achievement.

B. Learning and teaching

• In line with the school's USPs, create and lead a vision for the department that promotes innovative learning experiences and high-quality outcomes.

• Ensure comprehensive curriculum coverage, continuity, and progression in the Islamic and social studies department for all students, including those with special educational needs.

• Set clear expectations for staff regarding standards of achievement and quality of teaching in Islamic and social studies in line with the Mamoura Teacher and Learner DNA.

• Regularly evaluate the quality of learning and teaching within the Islamic and social studies department to identify effective practices and areas for improvement.

• Promote Islamic values and UAE culture across the curriculum and the school.

• Ensure the department is regularly contributing towards the school's ECA provision, revision and booster schemes, and wider initiatives.

C. Leading and managing staff

• Undertake effective performance enablement of Islamic and social studies department in accordance with school policies and Director of MOE.

• Establish constructive working relationships with the team, emphasizing collaboration, support, and accountability.

• Conduct regular department meetings with a focus on improving standards and student achievement.

D. Assessment

• To be responsible for leading the organization of International Benchmark Assessments.

• Undertake the organization and collection of departmental data and present this to the Director of MOE subjects.

• Analyse data to identify patterns and trends that inform planning and interventions to support the children in the phase.

• Ensure that high quality interventions are delivered across the phase that support and challenge all groups of students.

• Lead the Monitoring, Evaluation and Review processes to quality assure all aspects of provision and seek improvements to ensure that consistently high standards are promoted.

E. Other duties and responsibilities

• Lead initiatives to enhance Islamic studies proficiency, foster a deep understanding of Islamic values, UAE culture, and National Identity.

• To be responsible for organizing and participating in events such as Ramadan celebrations and Iktar, promoting cultural understanding and unity within the school community.

• Ensure efficient deployment of staff and resources within the Arabic department to maximize effectiveness.

• Maintain control over the department's budget to support teaching and learning initiatives.

• Create, use and maintain learning environments, aligned to the schools USP that are conducive to outstanding learning and teaching.

• Provide targeted support and challenge to Emirati students in Arabic literacy to facilitate their academic progression and post-secondary education readiness.

• Fulfill additional duties as required, including covering for absent colleagues and invigilating examinations.

• Any other duties assigned by the Principal.

Qualifications:

REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in a related subject with PGCE or an equivalent teacher qualification.

• Master in related subject or education is preferred but not necessary.

Minimum Experience

• 5 Years teaching experience and it is desirable that candidates have some leadership experience.

Job Specific Knowledge & Skills

• Strong leadership skills and impact of improving learning and teaching.

• Outstanding teacher

• Commitment to the ideals of the UAE Ministry of Education and international education.

• Ability to work under pressure, problem-solve, and be resilient.

• Commitment to continuing professional development.

• Demonstrated understanding of Islamic and social studies, Emirati culture, and a commitment to advancing educational and cultural objectives within the institution.

• Outstanding leadership skills, fostering collaboration, and promoting effective decision-making.

• Passion for teaching and dedication to educating the whole child.

• Proven record of successful teaching pedagogy and leadership across all year groups.

• Experience with the MOE curriculum, standards, and research-based pedagogy.

• Respect for all members of the school community and commitment to continued improvement.