Head of Inclusion - SEND Leadership
Posted date [2026-05-06]
(ID: 44939)
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GEMS Education is one of the largest and most respected private K-12 education providers in the world, with deep roots in the UAE since 1959. A trusted name in international education, GEMS operates over 47 schools across the Middle East and North Africa, offering a diverse range of British, American, IB, and Indian curricula to more than 115,000 students. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation in teaching, and world-class learning environments, GEMS Education empowers students from all backgrounds to achieve their full potential. Its inclusive and purpose-driven culture supports passionate educators in delivering impactful, future-focused education. Whether you’re an experienced teacher, school leader, or education professional, GEMS Education offers dynamic career growth, continuous professional development, and the chance to be part of a legacy that’s transforming lives through learning.... |
Job Snapshot
Role: Head of Inclusion
Location: Dubai, UAE
Industry: Education Management
Function: Special Education
Experience: Inclusion leadership experience required
Job Type: Full-time
Position Overview
Head of Inclusion in Dubai, UAE is a senior Education Management opportunity for an experienced SEND and inclusion leader who can strengthen inclusive provision, support Students of Determination, and guide evidence-informed practice across a high-performing British curriculum school. This role is ideal for a qualified educator with SENCO or recognised inclusion credentials, strong leadership ability, and a proven record of improving outcomes for learners with additional needs.
Job Details
Country: UAE
City: Dubai
Industry: Education Management
Function: Special Education
Salary: 16000-26000
Estimated salary range based on similar jobs in the job city; please confirm the final offer with the employer.
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: Any
Job Type: Full-time
Role Context
The Head of Inclusion will lead secondary inclusion provision, ensuring students with additional learning needs receive well-planned, measurable, and effective support. The role combines strategic leadership, team management, student progress monitoring, parent engagement, inspection readiness, and compliance with KHDA expectations and the Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and develop inclusive education provision across the Secondary phase in line with school priorities and regulatory requirements.
* Ensure inclusion practice aligns with KHDA expectations and the Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework.
* Oversee identification, assessment, and ongoing support for Students of Determination using a graduated and needs-led approach.
* Monitor student progress, intervention impact, and learning outcomes through accurate data analysis.
* Lead the development and quality assurance of Individualised Education Plans, Behaviour Support Plans, and provision maps.
* Support teachers in applying inclusive classroom strategies, reasonable adjustments, and differentiated learning approaches.
* Coordinate specialist support services, including therapists, external agencies, learning support staff, and relevant professionals.
* Manage examination access arrangements and ensure compliance with awarding body requirements.
* Build constructive relationships with parents, carers, and external specialists to support student achievement and wellbeing.
* Line manage the Inclusion team, ensuring staff are well deployed, supported, and developed.
* Contribute to school improvement planning and promote a fully inclusive culture across the school community.
* Support senior leaders with inspection preparation, inclusion documentation, and professional development delivery.
* Promote evidence-informed inclusive practice shaped by cognitive science, student needs, and measurable learning impact.
* Uphold safeguarding expectations, confidentiality, professional conduct, and student welfare standards at all times.
Ideal Profile
* B.Ed, PGCE, PGDE, or equivalent recognised teaching qualification.
* Recognised SEND, Inclusion, or SENCO qualification.
* Experience supporting Students of Determination in a British curriculum school.
* Proven background in leading or managing an Inclusion team.
* Strong understanding of inclusive education frameworks, intervention planning, and student support systems.
* Demonstrated success in improving outcomes for students with additional needs.
* Knowledge of KHDA requirements, Dubai inclusion expectations, and school inspection standards.
* Confident leadership style with the ability to guide teachers, support staff, parents, and external professionals.
* Excellent interpersonal, organisational, communication, and reporting skills.
* Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, wellbeing, and high-quality student support.
* UK-enhanced DBS, police clearance, or equivalent background check required for appointment.
Skills Set
* SEND leadership
* Inclusion strategy
* Special education provision
* Students of Determination support
* SENCO practice
* Individualised Education Plans
* Behaviour Support Plans
* Provision mapping
* Intervention tracking
* KHDA compliance
* Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework
* Examination access arrangements
* Data-led student support
* Teacher coaching
* Parent communication
* External agency coordination
* Safeguarding awareness
* Team management
Why Join Us
* Lead inclusion within a respected Dubai school known for strong academic outcomes and inclusive education standards.
* Contribute to a high-performing British curriculum environment with strong inspection ratings and professional expectations.
* Shape meaningful support systems that improve access, progress, wellbeing, and confidence for Students of Determination.
* Work with a leadership team committed to evidence-informed practice, cognitive science, and continuous school improvement.
* Access professional learning opportunities that support leadership growth and long-term career development.
About the Company
GEMS Education is a leading private education provider in the UAE, operating a wide network of schools across Dubai and the wider region. The group is known for strong academic standards, inclusive learning environments, safeguarding commitment, and professional development pathways that help educators and students achieve meaningful progress.
