Head of Inclusion

Key Job Accountabilities:

1. Implement and oversee inclusive learning policies and strategies, ensuring compliance with KHDA and GEMS Education regulations.
2. Lead the identification, assessment, and progress tracking of Students of Determination, ELL learners, and Gifted students, ensuring personalized support plans.
3. Develop and monitor Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), intervention programs, and accommodations across school phases.
4. Directly manage and deliver specialist support to SEND or ELL students.
5. Line Manage the Inclusion team and work closely with school leadership and the Director of Inclusion to maintain high-quality Inclusion standards and ensure continuous improvement.
6. Provide training, coaching, and professional development for teachers and support staff to embed best practices in inclusive teaching.
7. Collaborate with external specialists, parents, and community partners to enhance student support and ensure holistic development.
8. Oversee the Inclusion team ensuring effective case management and targeted student interventions.
9. Lead data-driven decision-making processes, monitoring student progress and the impact of Inclusion strategies on learning outcomes.
10. Support the Extra-Curricular Inclusion Program, ensuring access to enrichment opportunities for Students of Determination and Gifted learners.
11. Manage Inclusion resources and provide input into budget planning to ensure sustainable and impactful support services.

Person Specifications:

1. UK approved Inclusion qualification relevant to working with young people and children in a school environment, such as a Master's in Special Education Needs (SEN) or Inclusion and a relevant PGCE.
2. 4 years experience as an Inclusion leader in an international setting within a high-performing school.
3. Experience working in a through-school environment (age 3-18) is preferred.
4. A track record of improving Inclusion provision in a school setting.
5. Up to date knowledge of best practice in Inclusion and current policy in UAE, UK and globally.
6. Strong knowledge of KHDA Inclusion guidelines, UAE education policies, and best practices in inclusive education is preferred.
7. Experience in managing IEPs, interventions, and multi-tiered systems of support for diverse student needs.
8. Ability to lead, mentor, and develop a team of ELL teachers, SEN/Inclusion teachers, and counselors.
9. Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with parents, leadership teams, and external partners.
10. Strong data analysis and reporting skills to track student progress and measure Inclusion program effectiveness.
11. Familiarity with assistive technologies, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and evidence-based intervention strategies.
12. Commitment to research-driven, future-focused, and student-centered education, in line with GEMS School of Research and Innovation values.
13. A passion for inclusion and equity, ensuring all students can thrive in an academically challenging and supportive environment.
14. A growth mindset, whereby they are reflective and solution focused.
15. Make a positive contribution to our school community and culture through active engagement in our extra-curricular programme and community-based events.