Lead Early Childhood Educator

About The Ivy

The Ivy is a premium early childhood education house in Dubai, offering a bespoke curriculum aligned with the Massachusetts Early Learning Standards within a beautifully crafted, Reggio-inspired environment. We are committed to providing a nurturing, inquiry-based learning experience that fosters creativity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. We are backed and advised by child development experts from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

We are seeking an experienced Lead Early Childhood Educator for our Business Bay campus, opening this September. This is a unique opportunity for a passionate educator to shape the educational experiences of young learners from the very first day of a new school.

Step into a high-end, architecturally inspired environment designed to spark curiosity and joy. Our centre features stunning open-plan rooms bathed in natural light and premium natural play spaces, supported by a frequent rotation of world-class, age-appropriate resources. Operating hours are 7:30 am – 6:00 pm, with educator shifts scheduled within this window.

Key Responsibilities

• Curriculum Delivery: Deliver The Ivy's bespoke curriculum, aligned with the Massachusetts Early Learning Standards, through engaging, child-led, hands-on learning experiences within our Reggio-inspired environment.
• Assessment & Documentation: Observe, assess, and document children's progress against the Massachusetts framework, using these insights to personalize learning and share meaningful, beautifully presented updates with families.
• Classroom Leadership: Lead your classroom team to create a supportive, inclusive, and stimulating environment that encourages curiosity and exploration.
• Mentorship: Mentor and guide assistant teachers, fostering a culture of collaboration, professional growth, and high standards in teaching practice.
• Care: Provide attentive, warm care that supports each child's physical, emotional, and developmental needs throughout the day.
• Family Engagement: Build strong, trust-based relationships with families through regular communication about their child's development and meaningful opportunities for involvement.
• Collaboration: Work closely with colleagues and leadership to ensure alignment with The Ivy's educational philosophy and overall program excellence.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, or a related field (Master's degree a plus).
• CACHE Level 3 or equivalent early years qualification, attested and aligned with KHDA standards (Level 4/5 a plus).
• Minimum 2 years of experience in an early childhood setting, with proven leadership capability.
• Strong understanding of early education frameworks and inquiry-based pedagogies; experience with US frameworks is an advantage.
• Pediatric First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain before opening).
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Native-level English proficiency; Arabic or French is a significant plus.
• Valid UAE visa or eligibility to work in the UAE; police clearance and background checks required.
• Available to begin in August for onboarding and pre-opening training.

Lead Educator placements span our age groups from Nursery through KG2; classroom placement is discussed during the interview process based on your experience and strengths.

About You

• You're an experienced lead educator with a heart for high-quality care and inclusive leadership.
• You design thoughtful programming that empowers children as independent learners, nurturing curiosity, resilience, and self-awareness in every child.
• You inspire inquisitive young minds through meaningful interactions and intentional teaching — laying a strong foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
• You believe early childhood education is serious work — a true profession, grounded in science, deserving of the same rigour and respect as any other. You've chosen it deliberately, and it shows.
• You hold a high bar for how things look, sound, and feel, and you find joy in the details.

What We Offer

• Above-market compensation and visa sponsorship for eligible candidates.
• Professional growth and advancement: learn from our leadership and Harvard-affiliated advisors, with ongoing training and career development as we grow.
• An inspiring, beautifully designed work environment that nurtures creativity — for children and educators alike.
• Opportunity to earn additional pay teaching after-school or weekend enrichment programs (Art, Science, Languages).
• A supportive, collaborative culture that values innovation and excellence in education.

Safeguarding Commitment

The Ivy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references, background checks, and police clearance in line with KHDA requirements and our safeguarding policy.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We know the application process takes time and effort — thank you for yours.

‍