Assistant Head of Whole School Inclusion and Wellbeing - August 2024

Jumeira Baccalaureate School is seeking an experienced Assistant Head of Whole School Inclusion and Wellbeing to Join our Team from August 2024

Jumeira Baccalaureate School

Jumeira Baccalaureate School (JBS) is seeking a highly qualified, passionate, and experienced Assistant Head of Whole School: Inclusion and Wellbeing to continue leading our mission to create a truly inclusive learning environment for all the students in our care. This key leadership role requires a deep understanding of wellbeing and inclusive education practices, strong communication skills, and expertise in navigating the regulatory framework for Students of Determination (SEND) and Wellbeing within the context of the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing wellbeing and inclusive practices across all aspects of school life and ensuring that every student receives the support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Building on the outstanding inclusive and very good wellbeing practice that has already been developed and put in place by our highly skilled and experienced team, this is an exciting opportunity for a suitable candidate to take the lead on our school’s journey to an overall rating of “Outstanding” in the inspection framework.

Taaleem

We are part of the Taaleem group of schools. Taaleem is the second largest provider of education in the region and a group that has an absolute focus on education. As a Taaleem teacher, you will join one of the largest, most respected education providers in the United Arab Emirates. Taaleem (which means ‘education’ in Arabic) was established in 2004 and now has over 9,000 students attending our ten international schools and pre-schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Taaleem is also one of the Middle East’s leading IB workshop providers for PYP, MYP, DP and CP. Taaleem is committed to inspiring students and helping them to identify and develop their passions and talents.

Our Curriculum

From Grades 1-12, the IB programme provides students with a world-class, inquiry-based learning experience that is linked to real life examples, enabling young people to be prepared for a future that is constantly changing. We also offer senior students an alternative practical option into the workplace or university through studying the IB Career Related Programme (IBCP).

Key responsibilities:

• Lead and advocate for the development and implementation of wellbeing and inclusive education policies and practices across the school, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements and best practices. This includes supporting leads for SEND, ELL, Counselling as well as supporting the Head of Specialist Provision who is responsible for our Inspire / Aspire alternative provision.
• Provide leadership and guidance to staff in the implementation of wellbeing and inclusive teaching and learning practices.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between teachers, support staff, and external agencies to ensure the holistic well-being and academic success of all students.
• Create and maintain a register of all students with specific educational needs requiring support, including those that have assessment access arrangements.
• Effective management of budget and prioritization.
• Tracking the progress and development of targeted students in conjunction with class/subject teachers and team leaders.
• Support and monitor the development and review IEPs as appropriate.
• Stay abreast of developments in the field of wellbeing and inclusive education, continuously updating knowledge and skills to enhance the school's provision for all students (inclusive of students of determination).
• Foster a culture of wellbeing, inclusion and diversity within the school community, promoting understanding, acceptance, and respect for all individuals.
• Work closely with parents and caregivers to ensure effective communication and partnership in supporting students who receive support from the Inclusion Team.
• Work closely with the regulatory authorities and outside agencies to ensure best quality of delivery for all children.
• Prepare reports as required to meet particular circumstances, i.e. DSIB, SEF, requirements, quarterly reports etc.
• Work closely with the admissions team.
• Develop opportunities across Taaleem for professional sharing and development.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, Special Education, Psychology, or related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent teaching certification such as B.Ed./PGCE/PGDE or equivalent.
• A Masters in SEN or the National Award for SENCO is required to ensure compliancy with local regulations.
• A minimum of three years’ experience in a school leadership position
• Certificate in Psychometric Testing, Assessment and Access Arrangements (preferred but not essential).
• Strong understanding of the regulatory framework for Wellbeing and Students of Determination in Dubai, including DSIB inspection requirements.
• Extensive experience working in a leadership capacity within a SEN role, preferably (although not exclusively) within an IB curriculum school setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Proven track record of implementing wellbeing and inclusive education practices and supporting the needs of students with diverse learning needs.
• Exceptional communication skills
• Be committed to the JBS Values which can be found on our website. 

What we offer

We are committed to developing our staff and run regular high quality professional development workshops to ensure our teachers are equipped to provide students with an outstanding educational experience.

Taaleem offers a tax-free salary and medical insurance some additional benefits that may be included are Housing allowance, Flight Allowances, Child places housing allowance and an annual flight allowance along with corporate discounts for many service providers in Dubai.

Application Process

Interested applicants should click apply, complete the application in full and upload a copy of your CV with the application.

Early applications are strongly encouraged and the school reserves the right to make an appointment ahead of the advertised closing date should an exceptional candidate be identified.

"Taaleem is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. At Taaleem, we hold ourselves to a high standard of effective practices in relation to child protection, and we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We expect all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to various background checks including receipt of references, proof of relevant qualifications, identification, and police checks, including overseas checks."