Head of Inclusion

GEMS Metropole Al Waha is seeking an experienced, passionate and strategic Head of Inclusion to lead and develop a fully inclusive learning environment across the school. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring outstanding provision for students of determination, gifted and talented learners, and students requiring pastoral or therapeutic support.

The successful candidate will drive high standards of teaching, learning, wellbeing and achievement in line with GEMS Education policies, the KHDA Inclusive Education Framework, UAE Federal Law, and the school’s TLAG/BLAG strategic priorities.

You will champion inclusion at every level of school life, ensuring that every student is supported to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

Key Relationships

You will work collaboratively with:
Teaching staff, Heads of Year, Heads of Department, Learning Support Assistants, School Counsellors, Safeguarding Lead (DSL), Senior Leadership Team, HR and Administration teams, parents and carers, external agencies and therapists, the GEMS Corporate Inclusion Team, and KHDA representatives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership of Inclusion

• Lead and manage the Inclusion Department in line with GEMS and KHDA requirements.
• Develop, implement and review the school Inclusion Policy.
• Embed inclusion within the School Development Plan and TLAG/BLAG priorities.
• Maintain accurate SEND / Students of Determination registers in line with KHDA guidance.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of inclusion provision using data and outcomes.
• Coordinate external agencies, therapists and specialist services.
• Ensure compliance with UAE Federal Law and inspection frameworks.

Teaching, Learning and Student Progress

• Champion inclusive teaching and high-quality adaptive practice across the school.
• Support staff in planning effectively for diverse learning needs.
• Oversee the development and review of IEPs, IPPs and wellbeing plans.
• Ensure robust tracking of student progress and timely interventions.
• Lead termly review meetings with parents, students and staff.
• Promote high expectations for all learners in behaviour, engagement and achievement.

Leadership and Management of Staff

• Line manage the Deputy Head of Inclusion, Learning Support Assistants, FLOURISH teachers and Inclusion staff.
• Identify and deliver targeted professional learning and development aligned to GEMS frameworks.
• Conduct staff appraisals and performance management processes.
• Support recruitment, induction and deployment of support staff.
• Ensure HR compliance for LSA contracts and documentation.
• Build a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.

Safeguarding, Wellbeing and Compliance

• Work closely with the Designated Safeguarding Lead to ensure full safeguarding compliance.
• Oversee provision for students with medical or health needs.
• Promote wellbeing, belonging and inclusion as central to TLAG/BLAG priorities.

Resource Management

• Advise senior leadership on staffing, timetabling and resource allocation.
• Ensure effective deployment of assistive technologies and learning resources.
• Continuously review provision to meet evolving student needs.

Parent and Community Engagement

• Lead parent workshops, training sessions and engagement events.
• Maintain clear, consistent communication with parents regarding support, progress and provision.

Person Specification

• Proven leadership experience within inclusion/SEND in an international or UK curriculum setting
• Strong understanding of UAE KHDA Inclusive Education Framework
• Track record of improving outcomes for diverse learners
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to lead change and develop inclusive school culture
• Commitment to safeguarding, wellbeing and student success

Why Join GEMS Metropole Al Waha?

This is an opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping an outstanding inclusive provision within a forward-thinking GEMS school community, supported by a strong network of leaders and a commitment to excellence in education.

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.