The Head of Inclusion provides strategic leadership, coordination, and oversight across all campuses within to ensure the effective implementation of inclusive education strategies for Special Educational Needs (SEN), Gifted & Talented (G&T) students, and Child Protection policies and procedures. This role ensures that all schools maintain high standards of inclusion and safeguarding, aligning with national and international educational regulations, safeguarding laws, and school policies.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
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Master’s Degree or higher in SEN, Gifted & Talented and Child Protection training from a recognized and accredited authorities.
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Minimum of 5 years of experience in SEN, G&T, or child protection programs.
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Knowledge of current SEN/G&T practices, safeguarding laws, and child protection regulations at the local and international levels.
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Experience in external authorization and accreditation processes (e.g., MOE, ADEK, KHDA, AdvancED, IBO, ECIS).
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Strong understanding of IB and AP programs.
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Excellent oral and written communication skills (IELTS 6.5 or higher).
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Proven experience in leading change and improvement in inclusive education and safeguarding policies.
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Experience in data-driven instruction practices to assess and inform SEN and G&T instruction.
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Proficient in cloud-based Microsoft Office 365 and other educational management systems.
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Experience in strategic planning, professional development, and coaching of teachers.
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Strong background in policy development related to SEN, G&T, and child protection.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
School-wide Leadership and Strategy:
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Lead the implementation of inclusion and child protection strategies across the cluster.
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Ensure that inclusive education practices align with the school’s strategic vision and goals.
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Provide oversight and direction in the development of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and Gifted & Talented Plans (ALPs).
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Supervise the implementation of child protection policies, ensuring adherence to safeguarding regulations and child welfare standards.
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Establish and maintain collaborative partnerships with external agencies (e.g., social services, child welfare organizations) to strengthen safeguarding measures.
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Ensure provision is sought for students that need support during exams
Curriculum Development and Instructional Support:
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Collaborate with Heads of Curriculum and IB Coordinators to modify and adapt instructional materials for SEN and G&T students.
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Ensure that teaching and assessment strategies are appropriately differentiated to meet the diverse learning needs of students.
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Lead data analysis meetings to drive evidence-based decisions for improving student outcomes.
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Ensure that the approved Curriculum and/or Ministry of Education Content Standards are effectively implemented for SEN and G&T students.
Child Protection and Safeguarding:
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Oversee and ensure compliance with child protection policies, including mandatory reporting, risk assessments, and staff training.
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Serve as the lead point of contact for child protection concerns, working with school leadership, counselors, and external agencies.
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Develop and implement safeguarding frameworks and intervention protocols across all cluster schools.
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Support early intervention programs to identify and assist at-risk students.
Professional Development and Staff Support:
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Design and deliver ongoing professional development for teachers, leaders, and staff on inclusive practices and child protection policies.
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Work collaboratively with principals and department heads to provide coaching and evaluation for teachers working with SEN, G&T, and at-risk students.
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Train staff on identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns, ensuring compliance with school and legal policies.
Compliance and Policy Development:
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Ensure that all schools adhere to national and international regulations related to SEN, G&T, and child protection.
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Lead the development and review of inclusion and safeguarding policies, ensuring alignment with best practices.
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Maintain confidential records related to child protection cases, student support plans, and SEN documentation.
Resource and Budget Management:
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Oversee the allocation of resources and budget management to support inclusive education and safeguarding initiatives.
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Ensure that all campuses have access to specialized materials, intervention programs, and safeguarding tools.
Monitoring and Evaluation:
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Regularly assess the effectiveness of inclusion and safeguarding programs, using data-driven evaluation methods.
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Adjust strategies based on student progress, teacher feedback, and emerging best practices.
REPORTING AND COLLABORATION:
Directly Reports to:
Director of Education
Works Collaboratively at the Campus Level with:
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Principals
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Heads of School
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IB Coordinators (PYP, MYP, DP)
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Grade/School Level Coordinators
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Inclusion Teachers/SENCO and Teacher Assistants
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School Counselors and Child Protection Officers
Works with the following Non-Campus Personnel:
Director General
Deputy Director General
Heads of Curriculum (American/IB and National Curriculum)
Head of Professional Development
Legal and Compliance Teams (for child protection policies)