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Director/Principal Pre-K to Grade 1
Posted: today
Ignite School
دبي, United Arab EmiratesJob Description
Ignite School is expanding with the opening of a purpose-built Pre-K to Grade 1 campus located adjacent to our existing Dubai campus. Currently under construction, the new campus is scheduled to open for the 2027/28 academic year.
The appointed School Director will join the existing campus for the 2026/27 academic year and work closely with the Board of Trustees and KHDA to ensure all regulatory and operational requirements for opening are successfully achieved. The Director will lead the development and adaptation of campus policies, procedures, systems, and operational readiness plans, drawing upon the established practices of the existing campus, while overseeing student recruitment and enrolment growth for the new campus. The Director will also lead the transition of staff, students, and families to the new facility, ensuring a smooth and successful opening. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the culture, systems, and educational environment of a new Pre-K to Grade 1 campus from its inception.
The new 820 seat campus has been designed to provide a modern, student-centered learning environment that promotes inquiry, collaboration, creativity, and early childhood development. Facilities will include dedicated learning spaces, specialist teaching areas, a parent and staff café, and extensive outdoor play and exploration environments.
This exciting expansion represents a significant investment in the future of Ignite School and offers a unique opportunity for an experienced and visionary educational leader to establish, shape, and lead a new campus from its inception.
As outlined in the Executive Council Resolution No. 2 (2017), the Director [KHDA “Principal”] is responsible for the management of the school, and his/her duties and responsibilities will be determined according to the relevant rules approved by KHDA.
· The Director serves as a central point for all communication and visits from KHDA, including matters of compliance and inspection. (S)he is the person ultimately accountable for the school’s health, safety, well-being, standards and performance.
· As such, the Director is the person named as KHDA Principal on the KHDA Educational Services Permit of the approved school.
The Ignite School Director is responsible for the overall strategic direction, management, and efficient operation of the school.
· This role includes proactive follow-up with stakeholders, strategic planning, effective resource allocation, and maintaining a high-quality educational environment.
· The Director ensures the school’s mission and vision are realized while fostering positive relationships with parents, ensuring regulatory compliance, and monitoring key performance outcomes such as the “Good” DSIB rating and full NEASC accreditation.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:
1. Proactive Follow-Up (Communication - Parent Partnership)
a. Proactively follow up on parent relationships to restore parent satisfaction and loyalty, aiming for a >90% student re-registration rate for the next campaign.
b. Facilitate positive parent engagement by inviting every family to meet informally with the Director over the course of the academic year, fostering positive relationships between school and home.
c. Regularly engage with parents through PAEC meetings, routine parent events, and meetings.
d. Ensure timely and clear parent written communication from the Director's office.
e. Develop opportunities for providing services to the community, enhancing relationships and engagement.
f. Organize ad-hoc parent service recovery meetings as needed to address concerns and strengthen partnerships.
g. Actively follow up on survey and other evaluation sources to implement timely school improvements.
2. Focus on Mission (Strategy, Planning, & Organizational Management)
a. Realize the school’s vision and mission through strategic planning and organizational management.
b. Proactively monitor and follow up on all school KPIs through a Scorecard for school success and Director accountability, as defined by KHDA (Section 2.7 Governance Framework).
c. Implement robust risk management strategies, ensuring zero serious injuries, safeguarding incidents, and government fines.
d. Ensure high-quality teaching and learning as well as educational service.
e. Ensure high-quality facilities that support service delivery, aiming for an ‘A’ rating in Dubai Municipality Health & Safety Department inspections and other facility inspections.
f. Target a reduction in staff absenteeism by 5%.
g. Maintain a culturally appropriate learning environment that nurtures Emirati culture, Arabic language, and Islamic values.
h. Actively monitor and follow up on the progress of specific student groups, especially Emirati and SoD groups.
i. Oversee the implementation of policies and procedures by the vertical leads team to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
j. Meet the needs of all students, including Emirati students, students of determination, and high performing students.
k. Promote Arabic language and Emirati heritage within the school culture.
l. Implement key policies and procedures in admissions, health and safety, inclusion, wellbeing, safeguarding, curriculum, assessment, teaching, and official complaints
m. Manage all human resource policies, including performance management, disciplinary actions, managing allegations against members of staff, and grievance procedures.
n. Ensure compliance with KHDA and other regulatory Requirements.
Ensure all school records are updated, accurate, and available to KHDA upon request.
3. Active Resource Allocation (Operational Efficiency & Financial Management)
a. Achieve 100% fee collection and enrollment targets on time, including new admissions and re-registration, with specific targets for Term 2 2023/24 and 2024/25 enrollment campaigns.
b. Maintain 100% expenditure within the approved budget, ensuring no overspending.
c. Proactively manage resource allocation and optimize revenue opportunities while minimizing wasted expenditure.
d. Evaluate service quality across various aspects, adjusting resource distribution to assist educators effectively for school success.
e. Continuously assess where the greatest challenges and needs lie within the school and adjust resources accordingly.
f. Lead the recruitment of a 7-person vertical leads team and Director’s Secretary, ensuring compliance with school policy.
g. Oversee performance management, ensuring vertical leads complete mid-point probation and annual performance evaluations on time.
h. Collaborate with vertical leads to maintain 90% staff retention and limit staff turnover to 10% or less.
i. Recruit and appoint suitably qualified staff, including vice principals and heads of departments, adhering to standards set by KHDA, curriculum requirements, and other relevant agencies.
4. School Improvement & Development
a. Implement the vision and mission outlined in the KHDA - approved education plan.
b. Oversee the school’s commitment to quality education and continuous improvement.
c. Lead the collaborative development of DSIB/NEASC Self-evaluation and School Improvement Plan to reach a “Good” or better-quality level.
d. Monitor and proactively follow up on the School Improvement Plan to ensure timely, high-quality deliverables.
Subject & Grade Level
Job Benefits
Ignite School offers a supportive and professional working environment with opportunities for growth, collaboration, and career development. The successful candidate will join a diverse school community committed to academic excellence, staff wellbeing, and continuous improvement. A competitive salary and employment package will be offered, aligned with the candidate’s experience and qualifications.
Job Requirements
Teaching qualification (e.g., BEd, PGCE).
Doctoral or Master’s degree in Education Leadership or related leadership field.
USA Administrative certification.
5+ Teaching experience in an American Curriculum school.
3+ leadership years in an American curriculum school.
Proven leadership experience in education with a strong track record in school management.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to foster positive relationships with all school stakeholders, especially parents.
Strong financial management and resource allocation skills.
Experience in strategic planning, risk management, and school improvement initiatives.
Ability to lead and motivate teams, driving toward educational excellence and operational efficiency.
Deep understanding of the UAE education landscape, regulatory compliance, and accreditation standards.
About Ignite School
Street No. 414 Al Warqa'a 3 - الورقاء - الورقاء الثالثة - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Ignite School offers an American curriculum education from pre-K to Grade 12, leading to a High School Diploma for Emirati and expatriate students in Dubai. Our curriculum is aligned with American learning standards and KHDA expectations, providing students with a strong academic foundation in a student-centered, future-focused learning environment.
Since opening in September 2018, Ignite School has continued to grow significantly. As of the 2025–2026 academic year, the school has approximately 1,900 students enrolled, with ongoing expansion planned to support more than 2,000 students in the coming years.
Ignite School is a NEASC-accredited school that combines academic excellence with a culturally responsive environment that values Emirati culture, Arabic language, and Islamic values. Our vision is for all young people to experience that learning has lasting value beyond their life at school.
Our mission is to know the needs of every student and collaboratively create a sustainable 21st-century learning environment that fosters leadership, social cohesion, creativity, responsibility, and ambition providing a catalyst for abilities of lasting relevant to emerge.
Learning at Ignite is a student-centered and engaging process that empowers students to become responsible and respectful global citizens, while preserving Emirati and global cultural values. Ignite students are encouraged to become future leaders and lifelong learners who are resilient, creative, inquisitive, and collaborative contributors to their communities.
With experienced US Licensed educators, advanced facilities, Advanced Placement courses, diverse electives, and more than 62 after-school clubs, students are encouraged to discover their strengths and prepare for university and future success. Ignite provides opportunities across academics, STEM, arts, sports, leadership, and community service through programs such as NHS, NJHS, Student Council, and volunteering initiatives.
Students at Ignite consistently excel in local and international competitions, reflecting the school’s commitment to developing confident, well-rounded learners who are ready to make a positive impact in the world.
Our core values are Collaboration, Respect, Responsibility, Creativity, and Leadership.
Join the Ignite School community in Dubai and be part of a growing school where educators have the opportunity to shape school culture, promote best teaching practices, and contribute to a dynamic and ambitious learning community in the UAE.
More All Subjects Teacher Jobs
Other Teaching Jobs at Ignite School
Our Commitment
Please note that Teach Away provides information on behalf of schools and cannot accept liability for information provided or policies schools may adopt. Be sure to verify all details that apply to you, and check for the latest visa and work permit requirements. For any questions regarding job postings, please contact the school directly.
Teach Away believes in diversity and inclusivity, and that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and be considered fairly and equally for employment. We ensure all schools we work with adhere to our pledge to promote inclusivity and diversity in education and recruitment practices.
All Subjects Teaching Jobs
Director/Principal Pre-K to Grade 1
Job Description
Ignite School is expanding with the opening of a purpose-built Pre-K to Grade 1 campus located adjacent to our existing Dubai campus. Currently under construction, the new campus is scheduled to open for the 2027/28 academic year.
The appointed School Director will join the existing campus for the 2026/27 academic year and work closely with the Board of Trustees and KHDA to ensure all regulatory and operational requirements for opening are successfully achieved. The Director will lead the development and adaptation of campus policies, procedures, systems, and operational readiness plans, drawing upon the established practices of the existing campus, while overseeing student recruitment and enrolment growth for the new campus. The Director will also lead the transition of staff, students, and families to the new facility, ensuring a smooth and successful opening. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the culture, systems, and educational environment of a new Pre-K to Grade 1 campus from its inception.
The new 820 seat campus has been designed to provide a modern, student-centered learning environment that promotes inquiry, collaboration, creativity, and early childhood development. Facilities will include dedicated learning spaces, specialist teaching areas, a parent and staff café, and extensive outdoor play and exploration environments.
This exciting expansion represents a significant investment in the future of Ignite School and offers a unique opportunity for an experienced and visionary educational leader to establish, shape, and lead a new campus from its inception.
As outlined in the Executive Council Resolution No. 2 (2017), the Director [KHDA “Principal”] is responsible for the management of the school, and his/her duties and responsibilities will be determined according to the relevant rules approved by KHDA.
· The Director serves as a central point for all communication and visits from KHDA, including matters of compliance and inspection. (S)he is the person ultimately accountable for the school’s health, safety, well-being, standards and performance.
· As such, the Director is the person named as KHDA Principal on the KHDA Educational Services Permit of the approved school.
The Ignite School Director is responsible for the overall strategic direction, management, and efficient operation of the school.
· This role includes proactive follow-up with stakeholders, strategic planning, effective resource allocation, and maintaining a high-quality educational environment.
· The Director ensures the school’s mission and vision are realized while fostering positive relationships with parents, ensuring regulatory compliance, and monitoring key performance outcomes such as the “Good” DSIB rating and full NEASC accreditation.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:
1. Proactive Follow-Up (Communication - Parent Partnership)
a. Proactively follow up on parent relationships to restore parent satisfaction and loyalty, aiming for a >90% student re-registration rate for the next campaign.
b. Facilitate positive parent engagement by inviting every family to meet informally with the Director over the course of the academic year, fostering positive relationships between school and home.
c. Regularly engage with parents through PAEC meetings, routine parent events, and meetings.
d. Ensure timely and clear parent written communication from the Director's office.
e. Develop opportunities for providing services to the community, enhancing relationships and engagement.
f. Organize ad-hoc parent service recovery meetings as needed to address concerns and strengthen partnerships.
g. Actively follow up on survey and other evaluation sources to implement timely school improvements.
2. Focus on Mission (Strategy, Planning, & Organizational Management)
a. Realize the school’s vision and mission through strategic planning and organizational management.
b. Proactively monitor and follow up on all school KPIs through a Scorecard for school success and Director accountability, as defined by KHDA (Section 2.7 Governance Framework).
c. Implement robust risk management strategies, ensuring zero serious injuries, safeguarding incidents, and government fines.
d. Ensure high-quality teaching and learning as well as educational service.
e. Ensure high-quality facilities that support service delivery, aiming for an ‘A’ rating in Dubai Municipality Health & Safety Department inspections and other facility inspections.
f. Target a reduction in staff absenteeism by 5%.
g. Maintain a culturally appropriate learning environment that nurtures Emirati culture, Arabic language, and Islamic values.
h. Actively monitor and follow up on the progress of specific student groups, especially Emirati and SoD groups.
i. Oversee the implementation of policies and procedures by the vertical leads team to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
j. Meet the needs of all students, including Emirati students, students of determination, and high performing students.
k. Promote Arabic language and Emirati heritage within the school culture.
l. Implement key policies and procedures in admissions, health and safety, inclusion, wellbeing, safeguarding, curriculum, assessment, teaching, and official complaints
m. Manage all human resource policies, including performance management, disciplinary actions, managing allegations against members of staff, and grievance procedures.
n. Ensure compliance with KHDA and other regulatory Requirements.
Ensure all school records are updated, accurate, and available to KHDA upon request.
3. Active Resource Allocation (Operational Efficiency & Financial Management)
a. Achieve 100% fee collection and enrollment targets on time, including new admissions and re-registration, with specific targets for Term 2 2023/24 and 2024/25 enrollment campaigns.
b. Maintain 100% expenditure within the approved budget, ensuring no overspending.
c. Proactively manage resource allocation and optimize revenue opportunities while minimizing wasted expenditure.
d. Evaluate service quality across various aspects, adjusting resource distribution to assist educators effectively for school success.
e. Continuously assess where the greatest challenges and needs lie within the school and adjust resources accordingly.
f. Lead the recruitment of a 7-person vertical leads team and Director’s Secretary, ensuring compliance with school policy.
g. Oversee performance management, ensuring vertical leads complete mid-point probation and annual performance evaluations on time.
h. Collaborate with vertical leads to maintain 90% staff retention and limit staff turnover to 10% or less.
i. Recruit and appoint suitably qualified staff, including vice principals and heads of departments, adhering to standards set by KHDA, curriculum requirements, and other relevant agencies.
4. School Improvement & Development
a. Implement the vision and mission outlined in the KHDA - approved education plan.
b. Oversee the school’s commitment to quality education and continuous improvement.
c. Lead the collaborative development of DSIB/NEASC Self-evaluation and School Improvement Plan to reach a “Good” or better-quality level.
d. Monitor and proactively follow up on the School Improvement Plan to ensure timely, high-quality deliverables.
Subject & Grade Level
Job Benefits
Ignite School offers a supportive and professional working environment with opportunities for growth, collaboration, and career development. The successful candidate will join a diverse school community committed to academic excellence, staff wellbeing, and continuous improvement. A competitive salary and employment package will be offered, aligned with the candidate’s experience and qualifications.
Job Requirements
Teaching qualification (e.g., BEd, PGCE).
Doctoral or Master’s degree in Education Leadership or related leadership field.
USA Administrative certification.
5+ Teaching experience in an American Curriculum school.
3+ leadership years in an American curriculum school.
Proven leadership experience in education with a strong track record in school management.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to foster positive relationships with all school stakeholders, especially parents.
Strong financial management and resource allocation skills.
Experience in strategic planning, risk management, and school improvement initiatives.
Ability to lead and motivate teams, driving toward educational excellence and operational efficiency.
Deep understanding of the UAE education landscape, regulatory compliance, and accreditation standards.
Our Commitment
Please note that Teach Away provides information on behalf of schools and cannot accept liability for information provided or policies schools may adopt. Be sure to verify all details that apply to you, and check for the latest visa and work permit requirements. For any questions regarding job postings, please contact the school directly.
Teach Away believes in diversity and inclusivity, and that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and be considered fairly and equally for employment. We ensure all schools we work with adhere to our pledge to promote inclusivity and diversity in education and recruitment practices.
About Ignite School
Street No. 414 Al Warqa'a 3 - الورقاء - الورقاء الثالثة - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Ignite School offers an American curriculum education from pre-K to Grade 12, leading to a High School Diploma for Emirati and expatriate students in Dubai. Our curriculum is aligned with American learning standards and KHDA expectations, providing students with a strong academic foundation in a student-centered, future-focused learning environment.
Since opening in September 2018, Ignite School has continued to grow significantly. As of the 2025–2026 academic year, the school has approximately 1,900 students enrolled, with ongoing expansion planned to support more than 2,000 students in the coming years.
Ignite School is a NEASC-accredited school that combines academic excellence with a culturally responsive environment that values Emirati culture, Arabic language, and Islamic values. Our vision is for all young people to experience that learning has lasting value beyond their life at school.
Our mission is to know the needs of every student and collaboratively create a sustainable 21st-century learning environment that fosters leadership, social cohesion, creativity, responsibility, and ambition providing a catalyst for abilities of lasting relevant to emerge.
Learning at Ignite is a student-centered and engaging process that empowers students to become responsible and respectful global citizens, while preserving Emirati and global cultural values. Ignite students are encouraged to become future leaders and lifelong learners who are resilient, creative, inquisitive, and collaborative contributors to their communities.
With experienced US Licensed educators, advanced facilities, Advanced Placement courses, diverse electives, and more than 62 after-school clubs, students are encouraged to discover their strengths and prepare for university and future success. Ignite provides opportunities across academics, STEM, arts, sports, leadership, and community service through programs such as NHS, NJHS, Student Council, and volunteering initiatives.
Students at Ignite consistently excel in local and international competitions, reflecting the school’s commitment to developing confident, well-rounded learners who are ready to make a positive impact in the world.
Our core values are Collaboration, Respect, Responsibility, Creativity, and Leadership.
Join the Ignite School community in Dubai and be part of a growing school where educators have the opportunity to shape school culture, promote best teaching practices, and contribute to a dynamic and ambitious learning community in the UAE.
More All Subjects Teacher Jobs