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Job Description

BRIGHTON COLLEGE
INTERNATIONAL
Join us:

Head of Sixth Form
Brighton College Abu Dhabi
FROM AUGUST 2024 OR JANUARY 2025
CLOSING DATE: 10AM ON MONDAY 13 MAY 2024

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Brighton College, with its partner in the UAE, Bloom Education, is seeking an
inspirational, charismatic and ambitious Head of Sixth Form.

This is an exciting opportunity for a proven senior leader to shape the ongoing
development of this school and work as part of a talented and experienced team of Heads
of School across the family of Brighton College schools. The successful candidate will
combine a track record of highly successful leadership experience, developed in the UK or
internationally, with the cultural awareness and global perspective to inspire the entire
College community and manage diverse stakeholder relationships.

We are looking to appoint a Head of Sixth Form with the energy and vision to lead this
world-class academic institution, distinctive in its own right but with the Brighton College
DNA running right through it. First class communication skills with the gravitas to act as a
visible leader and ambassador are crucial, as is the commercial drive to build upon the
school’s success.

Brighton College Abu Dhabi is one of three Brighton College schools in the UAE; the Heads
of Sixth Form work closely together, and also with Brighton College’s partner in the UAE,
Bloom Holdings and its education division, Bloom Education. Brighton and Bloom have
enjoyed a strong and fruitful partnership for more than a decade.

This opportunity represents a career-defining, professional challenge for an educational
leader who shares our aim of developing well-educated, respectful and intellectually
curious young men and women ready to take a full, active and positive role in the world.

2 3

About Brighton Academic results place Brighton international architects. These Curiosity, Confidence and everyone and anyone and are College UK in the top 10 schools in include the Music School and Kindness unfailingly great company. This England with pupils gaining Sarah Abraham Recital Hall, the confidence – the right sort of
access to some of the world’s top Yeoh Building teaching complex, We promote curiosity and a love confidence – arises from their being
universities – there are currently and the School of Science and of learning from the earliest age encouraged to participate in lessons

College 226 former pupils studying at Sport. when pupils join us at 3, right and co-curricular activities such as Oxford and Cambridge. In 2023, through to our leavers at 18, drama, music, sport and debating, in 94% of GCSE grades were 9-7, In addition to the ‘School of the which is one of the reasons they which they learn to cooperate and
whilst 97% of A-level grades were Decade’ award in 2020, Brighton do so well in examinations and show each other mutual respect and
A*, A or B. College has achieved numerous go on to some of the top kindness. We always stress the

other recent accolades: UK universities around the world. importance of kindness, and we
Brighton College - awarded the title of 'School of the World-class facilities enable us to Independent School of the Year encourage pupils actively to seek
Decade' by the Sunday Times - is consistently share a huge variety of (Sunday Times); Most Forward Academic interest on its own is opportunities to demonstrate their
recognised as the UK's leading co-educational opportunities with pupils and Looking School in Britain (The not enough though, and results, commitment to this vital quality.

independent school. The College is renowned for its allow for innovative and exciting Week); Top School in Britain for excellent as they are, do not tell approaches to teaching and STEM Subjects (The Week); Head you much about the richness of a
inspirational teaching and innovative education, whilst learning. The school site in Master of the Year (Tatler). The Brighton education. Meeting our
placing curiosity, confidence and kindness at the heart Kemptown has seen the addition College’s last full ISI inspection in pupils does; all visitors comment
of its approach to education. of stunning new facilities, 2022 awarded the top grade in on their confidence and

sustainably designed by leading every category. politeness as they engage with

4 5


About Brighton College Brighton is a happy place, with a Director of Schools. A team of talented teachers, pupil collaboration, shared warm, inclusive and respectful colleagues provides support across webinars and guest speakers across community in which our staff are operations, curriculum, admissions, the group. Alumni from every school
delightful and positive, and our pupils marketing and innovation. are part of the Brighton College
are intellectually curious and Connect network, with several

International (BCI) charming. BCI has put in place the The Heads in our family of schools thousand members. structure, resources and team to receive support from and regular ensure that this character – what we communication with the BCI team, With each Brighton College
describe as our DNA – prevails in our whilst being given the autonomy to International school embracing the
international schools in Abu Dhabi, Al lead their schools and ensure their educational values, distinctive
Ain, Bangkok, Dubai, London, school works most effectively in its character and high standards of
Singapore and Vietnam. local context. Brighton College UK, the Brighton

Brighton College was one of the first UK The Brighton College International (BCI) group DNA is evident throughout the
independent schools to take its distinctive now has schools in Abu Dhabi (established 2011), Brighton College’s Head Master, Beyond the formal structures of the exceptional family of schools.
approach to education to markets beyond the Al Ain (2013), Bangkok (2016), Dubai (2018) and Richard Cairns, is actively engaged in group and the quality assurance visits
UK. From the outset of this international Singapore (2020). The family of schools is the work of the international schools, by Brighton College UK, there are
development in 2011, when Brighton College Abu continuing to grow, with Brighton College and the team is led by Graeme Owton numerous instances of collaboration

Dhabi opened, our driving ambition has been to Vietnam opening in Hanoi in August 2023, and as the Chief Executive, with Nicola within our family of schools. These Collins as the Deputy CEO and include professional development for
ensure each new addition to our family of schools Brighton College Prep Kensington opening in
is recognisably a Brighton College school. London in September 2023.

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EMIRATI CULTURE SUNSHINE SKYLINE DESERT SAFARIS FORMULA 1

Learn about the rich legacy of Expect sunny blue skies throughout Marvel at the constantly changing Take a break from the city and go Experience the twists and turns of the
knowledge and tradition that has the year in Abu Dhabi. With panoramic view of the city’s skyline. off-road in the desert with camel Formula 1 finale at the Abu Dhabi
shaped the UAE’s journey by visiting pleasantly warm weather from With some of the tallest and most rides and sandboarding followed by Grand Prix. The Yas Marina Circuit is
the Presidential palace, Qasr Al November to May, the opportunities stunning architectural wonders of the a BBQ under the stars. For the more one of the most technologically-
Watan and the Sheikh Zayed Grand to enjoy the great outdoors are modern world, this sight is certainly adventurous, dune-bashing and advanced tracks in the world and a
Mosque, just two of the many extensive. In the summer months, unique. The first circular skyscraper off-road desert driving are other living, breathing part of life in Abu
cultural landmarks in Abu Dhabi. with high temperatures, residents and the first building reaching over options to enjoy in the Arabian Dhabi. You can even cycle on the

enjoy summer shopping sales (and 300m were both built in this gem of a desert. track during the week!
excellent air-con). city.

1 2 3 4 5 10 reasons
to live in
Abu
Dhabi

6 7 8 9 10
BEAUTIFUL BEACHES INTERNATIONAL DINING MALLS AND SOUKS TRAVEL TAX-FREE INCOME AND A

STABLE CURRENCY
Unwind at the weekend with a day at Explore the plentiful food offering in Shop until your heart is content in the Use the home of Etihad Airways to
the beach club or retreat to the Abu Dhabi, catering for all tastes. brilliant blend of souks and malls. schedule your next adventure. Abu Benefit from the UAE Dirham being
ocean for swimming and From indulgent fine dining such as 99 Whether you’re looking for Dhabi is the perfect hub for travel seen as among the world’s most
watersports. Abu Dhabi’s location on Sushi Bar, Hakkasan and Talea traditional Arabian coffee and and is seen as a gateway to much of stable currencies in terms of
the Arabian Gulf ensures the most which all received their first Michelin perfumes, gold jewellery or camel Asia, Europe and Africa. exchange rate stability. Tax-free
beautiful stretches of sand and star in 2022, to delicious cheap eats. milk soaps and chocolates, salaries, available for all inhabitants
scenery. With dozens of beaches to Seasoned residents will point you everything can be found in Abu of the UAE, makes Abu Dhabi one of
choose from, you’ll never be far away towards Hamdan Street for top Dhabi’s famous souks. Meanwhile, the best locations to build a future.
from the golden sands. Arabic specialities such as falafel Yas Mall is spread across 2.5 million

and shawarma. square feet and has over 400
brands, a 20-screen cinema and a
family entertainment zone.

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BRIGHTON COLLEGE ABU DHABI
ABOUT THE SCHOOL

Brighton College Abu Dhabi strives to turn out well-educated, respectful and intellectually Pastoral Care
curious, confident and kind young men and women, who are ready to step forward in life
taking a full, active and positive role in the UAE and the wider world. A culture of kindness is integral to Brighton College Abu Dhabi. Along with achieving

outstanding academic results, our pupils leave the College as well-rounded and confident

Academic Life young adults.

Our pastoral system ensures that everyone feels supported in academic and personal
Having opened in September 2011 on a purpose-built site with world-class facilities, the school matters. Pupils are allocated to one of the College Houses, and each year group has a tutor
caters for over 1,800 pupils aged 3 to 18 seeking a progressive British education with a global who is responsible for the day-to-day organisation of pupils and who helps guide and monitor
outlook, underpinned by the aims and ethos of Brighton College UK. pastoral progress.

Brighton College Abu Dhabi is regarded as a leading school in the region. Brighton College Abu Our pupils play an active role in deciding themes and topics to ensure the Personal Social
Dhabi has produced standout A-level and GCSE results year on year, enabling pupils to Health and Economic Education (PSHEE) curriculum is bespoke, relevant and supportive.
proceed to the best universities in the UK, the USA and around the world. The 2023 Schools
Index recognised Brighton College Abu Dhabi as one of the top 3 schools in Abu Dhabi. Individuality is celebrated and, above all else, Brighton College Abu Dhabi is well known for its
Additionally, compiled in partnership with Carfax Education Group, Brighton College Abu warm and positive atmosphere allowing all pupils to thrive.
Dhabi was named as one of the ‘Top 15 schools in the Middle East’ and ‘Top 100 Schools in the
World’, with our focus on ‘preparing pupils to be curious, confident and kind’.

Preparatory School

The Prep School follows the English National Curriculum which is enhanced and modified to
reflect our location and the international mix of pupils who attend the school. Pupils in the Prep
School are taught by talented and enthusiastic class teachers, with a significant emphasis on
English and Mathematics development. Specialist teachers work with the children across
specific subject areas, such as PE, Computing, Science, Music and Modern Foreign Languages.

With a broad and varied curriculum, the Prep School develops participation and independence
in learners. Each pupil is encouraged to develop their own talents to the full, laying the
foundations for a successful transition to the Senior School and beyond.

Senior School

Pupils move into the Senior School in Year 7 and begin their secondary education with a focus
on preparation for GCSE courses. The curriculum they follow is academically rigorous and
designed specifically for pupils learning in an international community whilst maintaining a
strong local context.

At the end of Year 11, pupils sit their GCSE examinations and begin the transition into the Sixth
Form. In Year 12, most pupils concentrate on four subjects and further deepen their skills and
understanding in preparation for university study. A-level examinations are then taken in three
or four subjects at the end of Year 13.

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LIFE BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
The Arts

Artistic endeavour encourages the pupil body to be curious, courageous and original and, in doing
so, enlivens and complements the academic life of the College. Opportunities exist for visual arts,
music, drama and dance – all of which have outstanding reputations in nurturing the creativity,
passion and individuality of each pupil.

Brighton College Abu Dhabi was named ‘Best School in the UAE for Theatre, Dance and
Performing Arts’ in the Top Schools Awards 2021, a celebration of our pupils' creativity and
confidence.

Sport

Sport forms an integral part of a pupil’s life at Brighton College. Our ‘sport for all’ ethos allows
pupils to experience, enjoy and succeed in a wide variety of sporting activities. Brighton College
Abu Dhabi benefits from the partnership with Zayed Sports City and the outstanding array of
top-class sports facilities it has to offer. Strong partnerships exist between the three Brighton
Colleges in the UAE with joint sports events and access to the state-of-the-art facilities across
campuses.

Our main team sports are football, netball, cricket, athletics, swimming, touch rugby, volleyball,
basketball and badminton and there are regular opportunities to participate in competitive
matches. Additionally, pupils take part in a range of other sporting activities such as gymnastics,
dance, table-tennis and many more.

Activities

The co-curricular activities on offer beyond timetabled lessons reflect the diverse skills, interests
and enthusiasms of our community. Pupils throughout the College can pursue passions and
interests with over 150 different activities on offer. From book clubs to junk modelling, choirs to
Model United Nations, each individual is able to try something new and broaden their horizon and
develop new skills.

Social Responsibility

Social responsibility and community service is an essential element of the Brighton College DNA.
We believe that everyone can be an activist, and we encourage all our pupils and staff to get
involved with community and global initiatives.

Campus and Facilities

Brighton College Abu Dhabi sits on an eight-acre campus, which has been designed to maximise
the use of every available space and offers state-of-the-art facilities including:

  • Large classrooms and a range of specialist teaching and learning spaces.
  • Outstanding sporting facilities.
  • Spacious purpose-built playgrounds and outdoor learning environments.
  • An impressive Creative and Performing Arts wing, housing a 500+ seat theatre, large dance

studio, drama studio and teaching spaces, music classrooms, instrumental practice rooms, a
recording studio, art studios, photography dark room and a cutting-edge design centre.

12 13

BC Abu Dhabi Head of Sixth Form Analysing external exam data for A level in line
with best practice at Brighton College UK and
around the globe, in order to guide curriculum

About provision, enrichment and support and to produce detailed exam reports at the start of each academic year, and contribute updates
to Board of Governor’s reports.

the role Working with the Deputy Head Academic to ensure that a rigorous process for regular assessment, recording and reporting is in
place for Year 12 and 13 pupils, so that data is
used to inform teaching and learning
strategies and implement effective

Key Responsibilities intervention approaches to improve pupil
progress and achievement.

Leadership/Management
Maintaining oversight and Broader Senior Leadership Team/Operational

management of the Supporting the Deputy Head Academic with
university application process the development of Sixth Form academic
for Year 13 pupils and recent curriculum documentation such as: options
leavers, working with the booklets, careers information and pupil
University, Careers and handbooks.
Futures Counsellor. This will Supporting the Deputy Head Pastoral with the
include working with Heads delivery of inspirational, thought-provoking
of Department to manage and celebratory weekly assemblies.
the provision of additional Contributing to the whole-school culture of
support for applicants to pastoral care and safeguarding.
further education Meeting with parents as and whenever
establishments such as necessary
Oxford and Cambridge, Ivy Ensuring the Brighton College values are fully
League and other world- embedded into the College community.
class institutions. dedicated study areas, ordinating the work of the Head Co-Curricular to Qualification (EPQ) Contributing to the collection and

  • Working with the Head of and around the College. Sixth Form Tutors including oversee Sixth Form co- Coordinator in the dissemination of all information relating to the
Biology/Science to oversee Advising SLT on relevant offering timely and high curricular, enrichment and promotion, effective College for the purposes of marketing and
the preparation of applicants developments and quality CPD in matters social activities. This delivery and development communication.
for Medicine, Veterinary and opportunities for Sixth relating to university should include suitable of the EPQ. Maintaining and enhancing the quality of the
Dentistry courses. Form pupils. entrance, and the Advanced extension programmes College’s operational effectiveness and

Organising Options at 18 Maintaining oversight of Diploma. within the academic Assessment and Tracking contributing to the effective performance of
information evenings, and compliance in Assisting the Director of curriculum and co- Establishing a culture of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT).
working with other Section Equivalency for Sixth Form Admissions with Sixth Form curriculum through subject high academic standards Contributing to the strategic planning of the
Heads on Options at 16 pupils. recruitment, especially societies and activities throughout the Sixth whole College in order to implement the
information evenings and Co-ordinating the Sixth through meeting prospective such as debating, and Form, and working with College vision.
advising Year 11, 12 and 13 Form calendar. families and interviewing include meaningful the Deputy Head Any other reasonable management request.
pupils and parents on GCSE Co-ordinating and candidates, overseeing the preparation for life Beyond Academic to ensure
and A-level (and BTEC) monitoring Sixth Form assessment of applicants, Brighton. accountability of staff for
subject choices/ trips. and organising Sixth Form Overseeing opportunities A level results.
combinations. Assisting Housemasters/ Open Events. for pupil leadership Ensuring that realistic yet

Working with the Deputy Housemistresses in the Organising the induction amongst Year 12 and 13 challenging targets are
Head Academic on the pastoral care of the Sixth programme for all new Sixth pupils, such as a pupil set for every pupil in the
organisation of Year 12 and Form, and, working with Form pupils. council. Sixth Form and that
13 Parents’ Evenings. the PHSME Coordinator, Assisting the Director of Liaising with the Heads of progress is monitored

  • Promoting the value of helping to implement the Marketing with Sixth Form Section (and particularly throughout the year.
curiosity and scholarship so PSHME programme for marketing/advertising. staff i/c Year 10 and 11)
that Sixth Formers take Sixth Formers. Liaising with the Careers, over the continuum of
opportunities to enter and Leading, implementing Universities and Futures academic and pastoral
excel in academic and developing the Counsellor and team, to provision for year groups
competitions. Brighton College develop a comprehensive as they progress through
  • Maintaining in the Sixth Form Advanced Diploma. careers programme rich in the school.
high standards of behaviour Leading Year Tutors’ opportunity. Line managing the
in their Common Room and meetings and co- Working with the Assistant Extended Project

14 15

QPEuRaSliOficNa StiPoEnC SIkFiIllCs AaTnIdO N
TKhe rnoleo of Hweadl oef Sidxth gForme of Brighton College Abu Dhabi requires an inspirational leader with
the vision, presence and communication skills to build upon and further enhance the outstanding
provision for Sixth Form pupils.

Candidates will require stamina and energy, the interpersonal skills to command the respect of a
wide range of stakeholders from different cultural backgrounds, and the intellect, sensitivity and
humility to engage broadly with a team of staff who are all key stakeholders in creating a culture of
academic aspiration and curiosity amongst the pupils.

Candidates will be required to show a clear commitment to Brighton College’s mission, values and
educational philosophy.

Experience
BA (Honours) degree in a relevant subject area and a PGCE is a requirement, and higher degrees

desirable.
  • A proven track record of highly successful school leadership experience at departmental level or

equivalent, and an understanding, not necessarily through direct experience, of the challenges
and opportunities of the modern day international school.

  • Proven experience of leading, developing and motivating high-calibre, diverse teams with a
strong commitment to the continued professional development of all colleagues.
  • Strong academic and intellectual credentials to command the respect of staff, pupils, parents
and the wider community.
Qualifications, Skills and Knowledge
An Honours degree or equivalent and a PGCE.
  • A record of continual professional development.
  • An ability to demonstrate an excellent record as a teacher and middle or senior leader, with

evidence of providing support and guidance to staff in all matters associated with specific
responsibilities.

  • First-class communication skills with a demonstrable ability to act as an effective and compelling
ambassador for the College.
  • A demonstrable appetite for educational innovation and a broad knowledge of the rapidly
changing sector internationally.
  • Knowledge of strategies to raise standards of attainment for a different groups of learners.
  • High levels of emotional intelligence and the cultural sensitivity and global perspective to relate
well to people at all levels and from a diversity of backgrounds.
  • Excellent organisational and administrative skills.
  • IT competence.
  • Proven ability to monitor and evaluate teams and individuals.
  • Ability to think strategically and to contribute to the development of the College.
  • Persistence: seeing tasks through from beginning to end.

Personal Attributes
A highly visible leader with the charisma, energy and ambition to inspire and motivate the

different constituencies which make up the College community.
  • An empathetic relationship-builder with a sophisticated understanding of how to work

effectively with multiple stakeholders, build strong teams, delegate effectively and bring out the
best in colleagues.

  • Demonstrable commercial acumen.
  • Sensitivity towards different cultures.
  • Sound judgement, high levels of self-awareness, resilience and stamina, and a strong sense of
personal and professional integrity.
  • A genuine commitment to the Brighton College values, ethos and educational philosophy.

The Application Process

The closing date for applications is 10am Monday 13th May 2024.

Preliminary interviews will commence before the applications deadline and Brighton College reserves the
right to appoint a candidate prior to the closing date. Early applications are therefore encouraged.

You should submit:
  • A completed application form (available on website)
  • A copy of your Curriculum Vitae/Resumé (maximum 3 sides)
  • A covering letter addressed to Dr Jennifer Walters, Head of Senior School, Brighton College Abu Dhabi.

This letter should explain your reasons for applying, the relevance of your experience, and how you
relate your personal educational philosophy to your understanding of the school and the role. Letters of
application that are largely generic are discouraged and may lead to your application not being
considered.

Further information can be requested from Ms Triyasha Govender (PA) via

Only applications containing all three documents listed above will be accepted.

Applications should be made electronically through TES.

Please apply at www.tes.com via the Apply Now link accompanying the announcement of the position.
Please follow the instructions provided to complete and submit your application documents.

Remuneration Safeguarding and equal opportunities

The salary for this role will be per All Brighton Colleges Abu Dhabi The College is committed to ensuring
annum depending upon skills and is committed to safeguarding that the recruitment and selection of
experience. and promoting the welfare of staff is conducted in a manner that is

children and young people and systematic, efficient and effective, and
expect all staff and volunteers to which promotes equality of opportunity.

Benefits share this commitment. Any offer
of employment will be subject to

An attractive tax-free salary that the successful completion of
reflects the seniority of the role pre-employment checks,
and the profile and ambitions of including an enhanced police
the school. In addition, the check, the receipt of satisfactory
package of benefits will include references, the College’s pre-
an accommodation allowance, employment medical
fee remission and private medical questionnaire, relevant original
insurance. ID documentation and

examination certificates.

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