Head of Inclusion and Safeguarding

About The Job Head Of Inclusion And Safeguarding

The Charter Schools project is dedicated to public school students based in Al Ain, in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Operated and managed by private education providers, our Charter Schools offer an American-based curriculum from kindergarten through to cycle three, up to Grade 11, with more grades to be introduced as students progress in their educational journey.

This is your opportunity to be a part of a vibrant learning community that values diversity, professional development, and innovation. Our remuneration packages are competitive locally and internationally with an excellent salary and comprehensive benefits. We also encourage and support the pursuit of Continuing Professional Development where relevant and feasible.

The successful candidate will be required to set high standards of themselves and others and will conduct themselves with consummate integrity. In doing so, they will be supported by a highly effective team of senior and middle leaders and a staff, pupil, and parent body committed to the achievement of excellence.

The Position

The Head of Inclusion and Safeguarding will lead the strategic development, implementation, and oversight of inclusion, wellbeing, safeguarding, and child protection initiatives across Charter Schools. The role is responsible for ensuring that all Students of Determination (SOD), gifted and talented students, and other students with diverse needs receive high-quality education and support. In addition, the role involves training staff across the organization on best practices in inclusion, safeguarding, child protection, and wellbeing, with a keen understanding of UAE cultural sensitivity and regulatory requirements, including the UAE Inspection Framework.

Job Description

1. Leadership in Inclusion and Wellbeing:
   Develop and implement a comprehensive inclusion and well-being strategy that promotes equity, support, and access for all students, especially SOD and gifted students, across all educational settings.
2. Support for Students of Determination (SOD):
   Ensure the development and implementation of individualized education programs (IEPs) for SOD in line with UAE guidelines and best practices.
3. Gifted and Talented Students:
   Develop a system for the identification of gifted and talented students and ensure their needs are met through appropriate academic challenges, enrichment opportunities, and differentiated learning.
4. Safeguarding and Child Protection:
   Create and implement safeguarding and child protection policies aligned with UAE laws and international best practices, ensuring a safe and secure learning environment for all students.
5. UAE Cultural Sensitivity and Compliance:
   Ensure all inclusion, wellbeing, and safeguarding practices are aligned with UAE cultural norms, values, and traditions, fostering respect and understanding among staff and students.
6. Training and Professional Development:
   Lead the development and delivery of training programs for all educational and administrative staff on inclusion, wellbeing, safeguarding, child protection, and related best practices.
7. Monitoring and Evaluation:
   Use data to monitor the effectiveness of inclusion, wellbeing, and safeguarding practices, adjusting as necessary to ensure continuous improvement.

Qualifications, Experience and Competencies

• Masters degree in Special Education, Educational Psychology, Educational Leadership, or a related field; a PhD is highly desirable.
• Minimum 8-10 years of experience in educational leadership roles with a focus on inclusion, special education, safeguarding, or child protection.
• Proven experience working in the UAE or GCC region, with a strong understanding of the UAE's National Policy for Inclusive Education and UAE Inspection Framework.
• Expertise in designing and implementing safeguarding and child protection policies and training programs, preferably in the context of UAE legal requirements.
• Strong understanding of UAE culture, values, and traditions, with the ability to implement culturally appropriate inclusion and wellbeing practices.