Founding Principal - GEMS Adrak Global School, Barka

About the role

GEMS School Management (GSM) is looking for an exceptional, entrepreneurial school leader to become the Founding Principal of GEMS Adrak Global School, a new British curriculum school opening in September 2027 in Barka, Oman. The school is built on a partnership between GSM and Adrak Developers LLC and will serve Omani and international families in the Hai Al Naseem master-planned community. The Principal works closely with Robert Tarn CBE, CEO of GSM, and David Irish, Global Director of Education.

Key responsibilities

• Establish the vision, values and culture of the school and lead all pre-opening planning and operational readiness
• Shape the staffing structure and recruit a high-calibre team
• Develop a School Development Plan from inception
• Create a culture of academic excellence and continuous improvement
• Build partnerships with parents, community stakeholders and regulatory authorities
• Drive enrolment growth and establish the school's reputation
• Embed safeguarding, wellbeing and inclusion, and lead the school through opening and growth
• Position the school for future accreditation and international recognition

Required profile

• Significant senior leadership experience in high-performing international schools
• Strong understanding of British curriculum education
• Experience leading diverse, multicultural staff teams
• Excellent strategic, operational and financial management capability
• Proven ability to engage parents and external stakeholders
• Strong commitment to safeguarding and student wellbeing
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills

Desirable

• Previous founding school or school start-up experience
• Experience in the Middle East or international education sector
• Experience leading through accreditation, inspection or quality assurance
• Experience driving enrolment growth and market positioning

The school will serve students from FS1 to Year 13, with capacity growing in phases towards about 1,690 students. Successful candidates undergo safeguarding checks, including identity, qualification, reference and criminal record verification.