Head of Inclusion

Dubai Heights Academy is a warm and welcoming place to work. Located in the Al Barsha South area of Dubai, this is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious and inspirational Head of Inclusion.

The school opened in 2017. It offers an inclusive, exciting and outstanding education to an international community of students from FS1 to Year 11 (2024-2025) and will continue to grow organically to Year 13.

The campus is state-of-the-art with separate buildings for each phase as well as a 380 seat auditorium. There are three temperature controlled swimming pools, fully equipped science and computer labs, specialist rooms for art, DT, music, and drama, a library, two multipurpose sports halls, a full size football pitch, a variety of outdoor play areas, a coffee shop and a spacious canteen. The academic year 2024-2025 will see the opening of a brand new secondary building, significantly enhancing the current facilities.

Dubai Heights Academy has an opening for a dynamic Head of Inclusion.

Responsibilities:

This role is crucial in leading the smooth operation of the Inclusion department

• Lead and Manage the Inclusion Department: Oversee all aspects of the inclusion program, ensuring high standards of provision for students of determination.
• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance the support and progress of students with diverse learning needs.
• Program Development: Design and lead initiatives to engage young people who have struggled in mainstream education
• Quality Assurance: Ensure the delivery of high-quality extra-curricular and enrichment programs, promoting holistic development for all students.
• Team Leadership: Foster a collaborative and reflective culture within the inclusion team, promoting continuous professional development and best practices.
• Inspire and Motivate: Lead efforts to inspire the most disengaged and disadvantaged learners
• Standard Setting: Establish and maintain high standards across the department, guiding staff to support students in achieving their full potential.
• Pastoral Leadership: Provide oversight for pastoral care initiatives, supporting students with behavioural, social, and emotional needs.
• Assessment and Intervention: Oversee the use of standardised assessments and screening tools to identify learning barriers and coordinate effective interventions.
• Curriculum Innovation: Integrate alternative and augmentative curriculum frameworks (e.g., ASDAN, social skills programs, and alternative therapies) into the department’s offerings.
• Collaboration: Coordinate and lead Team Around the Child meetings, ensuring effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders.
• Technology Integration: Promote the use of learning technologies to support inclusive education practices, with a preference for familiarity with Clicker 7.
• Departmental Leadership: Provide visionary leadership and operational management for the inclusion department, driving continuous improvement and innovation in inclusive education.
• Performance Management: Implement and oversee performance management systems to evaluate and enhance the effectiveness of the inclusion team, setting clear goals and expectations, and providing regular feedback and support.

The successful applicant will be required to have the following: 

• A bachelor's or master's degree in education, special education, psychology, or a related field is required.
• At least 5 years experience of the National Curriculum for England.
• Knowledge and understanding of the Inclusion framework from KHDA.
• At least 3 years experience in an inclusion leadership position, preferably in an international school setting.
• Ability to manage Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and ensure compliance with KHDA regulations.
• Proficiency in coordinating with teachers, parents, and external agencies to support students of determination.
• Overseeing the implementation of inclusive practices and ensuring that all students have access to the appropriate curriculum.
• Providing professional development and training for staff on inclusive education strategies and best practices.
• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of inclusive education programs and making necessary adjustments to improve student outcomes.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with students, staff, and parents.
• Leadership skills to manage and support a team of educators and learning support assistants​.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organisational skills.
• Proven track record of delivering outstanding academic results.
• Experience in curriculum development and implementation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other members of the leadership team.

In return we can offer you: 

• A positive and innovative learning culture supported by students, staff, parents and governors.          
• A collaborative and supportive attitude amongst staff which promotes a sense of teamwork and unity.          
• A senior leadership team who is committed to promoting the best environment and outcomes for staff and students.

Our Compensation and Benefits package includes (where applicable): 

• Competitive tax-free salary.          
• Accommodation allowance.          
• Annual flight allowance.          
• Medical Insurance coverage.          
• Discounted tuition fees for up to two children.      
• End of service gratuity in line with UAE Labour Law.

Interviews will take place at Dubai Heights Academy or via Zoom, should a face to face interview not be possible. The closing date for applications is Friday 14th June 2024, however, interviews may take place ahead of this date so an early application is advantageous.

Whilst we thank all applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

The successful applicant will be required to participate in a short programme of induction.

Safeguarding Statement:

Dubai Heights Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and as such expects all its employees to share this commitment. All new staff will be subject to enhanced pre-employment clearance including identity checks, criminal background checks (from your home country/country of residence), qualification checks (attestation) and employment checks to include an exploration of any gaps in employment and at least two satisfactory professional references, which will be verified. Applicants may also be required to provide other applicable personal documents e.g. degree, marriage certificate etc. A full checklist will be provided to successful candidates.