Head of Islamic & Social Studies - Mamoura British Academy

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 organisation of International Benchmark Assessments.
•   Undertake the organisation 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 Iftar, 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.
 

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.