Teacher Jobs - Dubai

We expect that you will have many questions about teaching jobs in Dubai. Here we will answer the following questions: 

• What types of jobs are there in Dubai for teachers?

• What qualifications do I need to teach in Dubai?

• And what types of schools are there in Dubai?

What types of schools are there in Dubai?

The main types of schools in Dubai are British, Indian and American curriculum Schools. According to the KHDA (the government authority responsible for the quality of private education in Dubai), on their measurement back 22/23 academic year: 36% of students are enrolled in UK curriculum schools, 26% in Indian curriculum schools, and 15% in American curriculum schools. It is most likely that you will be working in the British Curriculum, IB Curriculum or American Curriculum schools if you choose to take a position here. Here is a comparison table comparing these curricula: 

Aspect

IB Schools

British Curriculum Schools

American Curriculum Schools

Teaching Approach

- Inquiry-based, student-centered. - Encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and independence. - Teachers act as facilitators guiding students through interdisciplinary learning.

- Subject-focused, structured, and teacher-led. - Emphasizes mastering specific content in a traditional format. - Teachers are specialists in subjects, often following detailed lesson plans.

- Flexible and student-focused. - Emphasizes creativity and exploration alongside meeting standards. - Teachers balance broad teaching objectives with individual student needs.

Assessment

- Continuous assessment and project-based work. - Students complete unique elements like the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). - Teachers must be adept at designing formative assessments and guiding research projects.

- Summative assessment with a strong focus on end-of-year exams like GCSEs and A-Levels. - Teachers prepare students for standardized tests and ensure subject mastery.

- Combines continuous assessment with periodic standardized tests. - Students may take SATs, ACTs, or Advanced Placement (AP) exams. - Teachers often adapt assessments to individual learning needs.

Career Appeal (Teachers)

- Teachers gain globally recognized experience, valuable for future international roles. - Opportunities for professional growth through IB workshops and certifications. - Emphasis on innovative teaching methods enhances teaching portfolios.

- Familiar framework for teachers trained in the UK, offering straightforward transitions. - Experience aligns well with UK job opportunities, especially with GCSE/A-Level familiarity. - Stable, structured teaching environment.

- Broad teaching experience adaptable to diverse student needs. - Flexibility allows teachers to develop creative and innovative methods. - Valuable for teachers who enjoy interdisciplinary teaching or are seeking varied roles.

Career Appeal (Students)

- Prepares students for top universities globally with a focus on critical thinking and research skills. - IB graduates are often seen as well-rounded and academically prepared.

- Offers solid preparation for UK universities and others accepting A-Levels globally. - Students gain subject-specific expertise for specialized career paths.

- Broad educational experience, ideal for students pursuing universities in the US. - Encourages a balance of academics, creativity, and personal interests.

What qualifications do I need to teach in Dubai?

Teaching in Dubai’s schools typically requires a Bachelor’s degree in Education or a relevant subject, along with a recognised teaching qualification such as PGCE, QTS, or an equivalent qualification from Ireland (e.g., PME or qualifications recognised by the Teaching Council of Ireland). A minimum of 2 years’ teaching experience is often required, though some schools support NQTs or ECTs - so do not be disheartened if you feel you lack the experience. Teachers should be fluent in English and experienced in enquiry-based teaching approaches. British schools prioritise familiarity with the National Curriculum of England, GCSE, and A-Level preparation, while IB schools value experience with IB-specific programmes (PYP, MYP, DP) and project-based assessments. Irish-qualified teachers are highly regarded for their strong pedagogical foundation and ability to adapt to both curricula.

What types of jobs are there in Dubai for teachers?

Teachers from the UK and Ireland can find a wide range of teaching roles in Dubai, including classroom positions in Early Years (EYFS), Primary, and Secondary education. Primary teachers often teach core subjects such as English, Maths, and Science as well as other, non-core subjects. EYFS & Primary teachers have a pastoral role with their classes. It is typical for students to then go to specialist subject teachers for ICT, foreign languages, Arabic, P.E. and music. 

Secondary teachers specialise in specific subjects, delivering curricula like GCSEs, A-Levels, or the IB Middle Years and Diploma Programmes (MYP and DP). Specialist roles are also in demand, including Special Educational Needs (SEN) teachers, English as an Additional Language (EAL) instructors, and subject-specific educators in areas like Science, Mathematics, and ICT. Additionally, there are opportunities for teachers in physical education, arts, music, and modern foreign languages (MFL).

There are plenty of opportunities for progression in Dubai schools. Leadership and non-classroom roles include positions such as Heads of Department, Key Stage Coordinators, and Senior Leaders (e.g., Headteachers and Principals). IB schools also require IB Coordinators to oversee programme implementation. Middle leadership positions (

and KS Coordinators) tend to be held in conjunction with a classroom based position. The senior positions are non-classroom roles, though there are some members of SLT who opt to take on some teaching hours per week.