Outstanding Head of Inclusion: August 2024

Overview

Dove Green Private School (DGPS) takes immense pride in being a British community school, offering a distinctive educational experience in the heart of Dubai Investments Park, near the Expo 2020 site. Our British educational values emphasise respect, tolerance, inclusivity, and a commitment to academic excellence, fostering well-rounded, globally-minded individuals. We are committed to cultivating an environment that celebrates the rich traditions of British education while fostering a global perspective. Our school, currently in its 10th year of operation, has become an example of educational excellence, embodying the values of a happy, caring, and inclusive community school. We are dedicated to providing a forward-thinking, innovative education beyond conventional boundaries. As the first UK curriculum school in the area, DGPS has earned a reputation for being at the forefront of educational innovation, catering to the needs of Dubai's rapidly expanding and developing south side.

With our state-of-the-art secondary building nearing completion, DGPS is poised to provide an unparalleled learning experience. As a key member of our newly restructured team, your role will ensure that the British ethos permeates every aspect of our educational approach, creating an environment where students excel academically and develop a global mindset aligned with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Candidates must be committed to working with the local community and developing ways to engage with parents and forge effective partnerships with them. The successful candidate will be closely aligned with DGPS's core values and ethos while possessing a genuine understanding and appreciation of the region's values. Above all, we’re looking for an astute, driven, and down-to-earth educator committed to fostering a culture of successful collaboration and progressive learning through our vision of learning together and growing together.

Job Title: Head of Inclusion Position Overview:

The Head of Inclusion at Dove Green Private School (DGPS) will be a dynamic and strategic leader responsible for fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students. This individual will play a pivotal role in shaping and implementing policies, programs, and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the school community.

Key Responsibilities:

1.    Leadership and Strategy:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive inclusion strategy aligned with the school's mission and values.

• Provide visionary leadership to ensure the integration of inclusive practices into all aspects of school life.

• Lead and manage a team of SENCOs and LSAs

• Contribute to school inspections and writing SEF

2.    Policy Development:

• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to review and update inclusion policies, ensuring they reflect best practices and local, legal requirements.

• Develop and implement procedures that promote best practice within a culture of inclusion and address issues related to diversity and equity.

3.    Professional Development:

• Design and deliver training programs for staff to enhance cultural competence and understanding of diverse learning needs.

• Stay informed about current research and best practices in inclusion, adapting professional development opportunities accordingly.

4.    Student Support:

• Collaborate with teachers, counselors, and support staff to create a supportive learning environment for students with diverse needs.

• Implement and monitor individualized education plans (IEPs) and other support mechanisms e.g. 1:1 LSAs.

5.    Community Engagement:

• Cultivate relationships with parents, guardians, and community organisations to promote a sense of belonging and inclusion.

• Organise events and initiatives that celebrate diversity and foster a sense of community within the school.

6.    Data Analysis:

• Collect and analyse data on student outcomes, participation rates, and other relevant metrics to assess the effectiveness of inclusion initiatives.

• Use data-driven insights to inform decision-making and continuously improve inclusion practices.

7. Collaboration and Coordination:

• Work closely with the leadership team, teachers, and other staff to ensure a coordinated and cohesive approach to inclusion.

• Collaborate with external agencies and specialists to provide additional support when needed.

Qualifications:

• Masters degree in a related subject is desirable

• Degree in Education or Special Education with PGCE

• QTS (essential) with 2+ years’ experience as a class teacher

• 2+ years as an inclusion teacher/SENCO

• NASENCO or NPQ SENCO completed/applied for

• Middle leadership experience is desirable

• Extensive experience in the field of education, with a focus on inclusion and diversity.

• Strong understanding of relevant laws, regulations, and best practices related to inclusion in education.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and build effective relationships with diverse stakeholders.

• Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current on research and trends in inclusive education.

We Offer:

● A unique and inspiring work environment comprising of, state of the art resources and purpose-built facilities.

● A robust leadership structure which ensures all colleagues are well supported.

● A well-crafted Professional Learning Community which ensures constant growth for individuals and the school.

● An inclusive community that values and welcomes contributions of all stakeholders.

● 2 years renewable contract

● Competitive tax-free salary

● Visa and Emirates ID costs covered

● Medical Insurance

● Annual flight allowance

● Tuition Fee Concession for dependent children

Shortlisting / Interview Process:

Candidates who are short-listed will be asked to submit a document which provides responses to two set tasks. Following this, there will be an interview online or in person.

Dove Green Private School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced background checks and satisfactory references.

DGPS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

We are also mindful of our national development strategy and encourage UAE Nationals to apply to our company.

At DGPS, we relentlessly prioritise the safety and well-being of children. We maintain the highest standards in child protection practices and are committed to promoting their welfare. We expect our staff to share this commitment and actively hold them accountable. As part of our hiring process, successful applicants undergo various background checks, including references, qualifications, identification, and police checks, which may extend to overseas checks.