Deputy Head of Curriculum (Director of Teaching & Learning)

Purpose of RoleThe Deputy Head of Curriculum is responsible for leading and ensuring high-quality teaching, learning, and curriculum implementation across Grades PreK-9. The role ensures alignment with American education standards (AERO), IPC/IMYC frameworks, and Cognia expectations, while strategically preparing the school for future IB Diploma Programme (DP) implementation.Key Responsibilities Teaching & Learning (Core Focus)Lead the quality of teaching and learning across PreK-Grade 9Ensure consistent use of:Clear learning objectivesDifferentiation strategiesAssessment for Learning (AFL)Conduct:Classroom observations (ELEOT aligned)Learning walksWork scrutiny and Toddle reviewsDrive student engagement and academic rigor in all classrooms Curriculum Design & AlignmentEnsure full alignment of:AERO standards (American framework)IPC (Primary) & IMYC (Middle Years)Oversee curriculum development for Grade 9 expansionBegin alignment and planning toward IB Diploma Programme (DP) expectationsEnsure vertical and horizontal curriculum coherence across all gradesLead curriculum mapping and documentation Data & Student ProgressLead analysis of:MAP Growth dataInternal assessmentsIXL and other diagnostic toolsEnsure data is used to:Inform instructionDrive interventionsSupport differentiationMonitor and track:Student growth targetsStudents below benchmark Coaching & Teacher DevelopmentServe as the school's lead instructional coachLead:Weekly curriculum and data meetingsProfessional development sessionsPeer observation cyclesSupport teachers in:Effective lesson planning (Toddle)Assessment design and grading practicesClassroom management Quality Assurance & AccreditationLead preparation for:Cognia AccreditationEnsure consistent documentation and evidence collection:Lesson plansStudent workAssessment dataMonitor alignment between written, taught, and assessed curriculum Systems & AccountabilityEnsure:Weekly lesson plans submitted on timeGradebooks are accurate and updatedCurriculum pacing is followedDevelop systems for:Intervention trackingAssessment calendarsCurriculum documentation Strategic Growth & Future ReadinessLead academic planning for Grade 9 and beyondSupport the school's transition toward:IB Diploma Programme (DP)Ensure increasing rigor and alignment with international best practicesKey Success Indicators≥75% of students meet/exceed MAP growth targets≥80% of lessons demonstrate differentiation and AFLStrong curriculum alignment across all gradesMeasurable improvement in teaching qualitySuccessful progress toward Cognia accreditation and IB readinessReporting StructureReports to: Head of SchoolWorks closely with:Lead TeachersSubject SpecialistsSEN / Intervention teamIdeal Candidate ProfileStrong experience in American curriculum (AERO or equivalent)Experience with IPC / IMYC frameworks preferredFamiliarity with Cognia accreditation processesExperience in or exposure to IB Diploma Programme (DP)Proven success in:Instructional coachingCurriculum leadershipData-driven school improvementRole Expectations at GISSThis is a high-impact leadership role, requiring:Daily presence in classroomsActive coaching and feedback cyclesStrong accountability systemsClear focus on student growth and academic rigorRequirementsBachelor's degree in Education or a related field; Master's degree preferredA minimum of 5 years of experience in an educational setting, with at least 2 years in a leadership roleStrong understanding of curriculum development processes and educational best practicesExcellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholdersExperience in data analysis for informed decision-making in academic settingsProficiency in using educational technology and software to enhance administrative and instructional functionsCommitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all studentsThe safeguarding of our students is a priority. All appointments are conditional upon acceptable police checks (or equivalent) from the country of origin and from all countries in which you have worked, as well as appropriate references from your current and previous employers.