Elementary School Counselor - Jan 2026

Job overview

Dubai American Academy (DAA) is GEMS Education’s flagship American school, offering an exceptional world-class education from KG to Grade 12, complemented by the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. Rated Outstanding by the KHDA for consecutive years since 2011, DAA is recognized for its academic excellence, vibrant international community, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Elementary School Counselor to join our dedicated team from January 2026.

This is an exciting opportunity for a counselor who is passionate about education and is eager to contribute to the academic success of our students.

Job Purpose

Organize and provide academic, personal, social and emotional counseling for students.

Job Scope

Overall responsibility for designing and implementing a counseling program that meets the requirements of the school and student body and enables students to achieve success in all aspects of their life.

Key Responsibilities:

• Embrace and encourage the ethos and standards of excellence as defined in the GEMS Core Values.

• Establish procedures and time frames to provide students with academic, personal, social, emotional and psychological counseling.

• Managing the transition process for students

• Establish procedures for securing external assistance for students with personal problems and emotional needs.

• Work with the senior management team to develop experiences and activities which are
  2 beneficial for students’ holistic development, and which promote responsibility, leadership skills,
  cooperation and other personal and social skills.

• Maintain student records on progress, achievements, activities and interests, tracking student
  progress using all available data and evidence

• Establish proactive guidelines and procedures to deal with bullying.

• Establish and administer appropriate testing programs to evaluate student aptitude and achievement.

• Establish systems to notify parents promptly about problems in class, with school work or behavioral issues.

• Ensure the GEMS policies, procedures, and codes of conduct are followed at all times.

• Initiate effort and energy beyond the typical work day, where the tasks require additional commitment.

• Attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required.

• Perform other duties as requested by direct & dotted reporting line managers / supervisors.

Successful candidate will need:

• A Bachelor of Education degree, or an initial degree plus a relevant qualification such in psychology/counseling.

• At least one year’s school-based experience or previous experience working with schools and students in an counseling capacity.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and empathy.

• Able to build strong relationships with students and gain their trust.

• Understands the importance of confidentiality and discretion.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

• Ability to build strong relationships with students, parents and colleagues.

• A strong desire to continually improve their practice and deliver outstanding counseling experiences for their students.

• Available to start in January 2026.
  

Next Steps

• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding the next steps in the process.
  

• Interviews will then be held as soon as possible in January 2026, both in person and online. Please note, this is invitation only.
  

Join us in shaping the future of education at Dubai American Academy. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our students and empower them to become world-class and world-ready individuals.

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.