Inclusion Lead

About the School

Join a prestigious GEMS international school in the UAE that offers a high-quality international curriculum to a diverse student body. The school is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where every student can excel, supported by GEMS Education's extensive experience and dedication to student wellbeing and academic excellence.

Position Overview

We are in search of an experienced Inclusion Lead who can begin immediately or by January 2027 at the latest. This role entails providing both strategic and operational oversight to ensure students with special educational needs receive individualized support to fully access the curriculum and reach their potential.

The Inclusion Lead will collaborate closely with school leadership, teaching staff, specialists, families, and external experts to embed a comprehensive inclusion strategy throughout the school, overseeing systems for identification, intervention, provision, and monitoring.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct the strategic planning and integration of inclusive education school-wide.
• Maintain a uniform approach to recognizing and assisting students with additional needs.
• Lead the Inclusion team by setting clear expectations and guaranteeing top-quality support.
• Partner with senior leaders to embed inclusion into curriculum development, teaching methodologies, and broader school enhancement plans.
• Evaluate the success of inclusion programs using student progress data and other metrics.
• Ensure school policies adhere to GEMS standards and comply with UAE regulations regarding inclusion.
• Participate in self-assessment, improvement strategies, and inspection readiness in relation to inclusion.
• Manage the identification, assessment, and continuous monitoring of students requiring extra support.
• Develop, implement, and review tailored education plans, interventions, and support techniques.
• Assist educators in customizing learning experiences to eliminate obstacles to participation and achievement.
• Coordinate inclusive provisions and resource allocation across the school.
• Collaborate with counselors, pastoral care, ELL specialists, and other staff to provide comprehensive student assistance.
• Engage with external professionals and agencies as necessary.
• Offer coaching, guidance, and professional development focused on inclusive classroom practices for teachers and support staff.
• Foster positive communication with parents about their children's needs, support plans, and progress.
• Promote a school culture that values diversity and respects individual learning differences.
• Stay informed on new developments in inclusive education and disseminate best practices throughout the school.

Candidate Profile

• Possession of a recognized teaching qualification such as B.Ed, PGCE, or equivalent state teaching license.
• A bachelor’s degree aligned with UAE teacher accreditation criteria.
• Formal qualification or substantial ongoing training in SEND, Inclusion, Special Education, or a related field.
• At least three years of proven teaching experience, including significant involvement with students with additional learning needs.
• Previous leadership experience in Inclusion, SEND/SEN, or support programs within a school environment.
• Comprehensive knowledge of student identification, intervention, individualized education plans, and outcome tracking.
• Strong grasp of inclusive teaching practices and effective differentiation methods.
• Experience in leading teams and conducting professional training for staff.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders including students, families, educators, leadership, and outside professionals.
• A compassionate, solution-oriented, and student-focused mindset.
• International school or UAE experience is advantageous but not essential.

Benefits Package

• Competitive tax-free salary
• Fully furnished individual accommodation
• Annual flights home
• Comprehensive private health insurance
• Tuition benefits for one child
• Visa sponsorship and relocation support
• End of service gratuity
• Access to GEMS Rewards

Application Details

Interviews will take place on a rolling basis, either remotely or face-to-face. Early applications are encouraged due to the intention to appoint promptly, with a latest start date of January 2027. This is a unique chance to lead inclusive education in a well-respected international school and positively influence student learning, wellbeing, and achievement.