Leona McAuley

I am a highly experienced and motivated educator with over nine years of teaching experience in Early Years and Primary Education. Throughout my career, I have been committed to driving excellence in teaching and learning, leading curriculum initiatives, and mentoring staff to support improved student outcomes. I am passionate about inclusive education and adopt a child-centered, data-informed approach to ensure all learners thrive.

My experience includes managing school-wide projects, contributing to educational policy development, and building strong partnerships with parents and the wider school community. I am well-versed in implementing the UAE National Agenda parameters, ADEK inclusion policies, and integrating technology to enhance 21st-century learning. I am now seeking a leadership opportunity within a forward-thinking school where I can contribute meaningfully to whole-school improvement and holistic student development.

Vice Principal - Good Will Children Private School - al Shahama Abu Dhabi

(2026-01 - 2026-07)

• Provide strategic and operational leadership to support the effective day-to-day management of the school and the achievement of whole-school improvement priorities.
• Lead initiatives focused on raising standards in teaching and learning, curriculum development, student achievement, and staff performance.
• Support and monitor the implementation of curriculum frameworks and assessment practices to ensure high-quality educational provision across all phases.
• Coordinate professional development programmes, instructional coaching, and mentoring to strengthen teaching practice and promote continuous professional growth.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, middle leaders, parents, and external stakeholders to foster a positive, inclusive, and student-centred school culture.
• Oversee school operations, staff management, policy implementation, and compliance with ADEK requirements and educational standards.
• Contribute to strategic planning, inspection preparation, quality assurance processes, and the ongoing development of school improvement initiatives.
• Promote strong partnerships within the school community while ensuring a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment for all students.

KG2C Teacher - Abu Dhabi Grammar School (Canadian Curriculum) - UAE

(2019-01 - 2025-01)

• Plan and deliver engaging instruction in line with Canadian curriculum and ADEK standards.
• Implement data-informed assessments to monitor student growth and support early intervention.
• Foster strong parent partnerships through digital communication, workshops, and regular reporting.
• Support online and face-to-face learning environments, integrating technology for blended instruction.
• Contribute to staff development by mentoring new teachers and supporting internal CPD delivery.

Year 1 Teacher & English Curriculum Coordinator (KG–Y6) - Crescent International Private School - Abu Dhabi

(2017-01 - 2019-01)

• Led school-wide English curriculum alignment, ensuring vertical and horizontal consistency.
• Delivered professional training to staff on phonics (Ruth Miskin), assessment strategies, and planning.
• Created school documentation: assessment trackers, feedback templates, homework and reading policies.
• Coordinated school-wide events: Book Week, International Day, Innovation Week, National Identity Week.
• Played a key role in preparing documentation and leading initiatives for ADEK inspections.

FS2 Teacher & English Coordinator - Ajyal International School - MBZ City, Abu Dhabi

(2016-01 - 2017-01)

• Developed foundational literacy programs and supported EAL and SEN inclusion within FS settings.
• Coordinated English curriculum planning and assessments across FS and KS1.
• Organised parent workshops and communication strategies including newsletters, digital portfolios, and video updates.

Early Career Teaching Roles - Multiple Schools - UK

(2012-01 - 2016-12)

Including St. Elizabeth's Primary (Hamilton), St. Joseph's Nursery (Blantyre), St. Bridget's Nursery, St. Colman's Primary (Lisburn), Our Lady of Grace RC Primary (Manchester).

• Delivered effective classroom instruction across Nursery to Year 4.
• Developed outdoor learning environments and implemented eco-garden projects.
• Supported children's transition from early years into primary learning.

Senior Youth Leader - St. Aloysius High School Youth Center

(2015-01 - 2016-12)

• Led and coordinated a team of junior youth work assistants in planning and delivering engaging activities for children and teens that aline with the NI Youth Service Curriculum.
• Organized daily schedules including sports, arts and crafts, outdoor games, and team-building activities.
• Ensured the safety and well-being of all participants by adhering to child protection and safeguarding protocols.
• Promoted positive behaviour, inclusivity, and personal development among youth attendees.
• Acted as a mentor and role model, fostering a fun, respectful, and encouraging environment.
• Liaised with parents and community members to maintain high standards of communication and program delivery.

Private Nanny - Private - Belfast

(2013-01 - 2015-12)

Provided care for three children, including academic supervision and routine support.

Exam Invigilator - Methodist College - Belfast

(2014-01 - 2014-12)

Postgraduate Diploma in Education - Primary - University of Strathclyde (2016-01 - 2016-12)

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies - Early Childhood Studies - Stranmillis University College, Queen's University Belfast (2015-01 - 2015-12)