Head of Inclusion – August 2025

With a 65-year legacy of excellence and a global reputation as one of the largest and most awarded private education providers, GEMS Education integrates cutting-edge advancements through its extensive networks and high-level partnerships. Join the GEMS School of Research and Innovation, where significant investments in AI, robotics, and state-of-the-art facilities drive exceptional student outcomes in academics and well-being. As a leader in educational innovation, we offer a forward-thinking environment focused on personalised learning, holistic development, and the opportunity to shape the future of education.

At GEMS School of Research and Innovation, we provide a seamless educational journey from Pre-Prep + Prep to Sixth Form, enhanced by cutting-edge technology and a forward-thinking curriculum. In the Pre-Prep + Prep stages, we prioritise personalized learning through gamification and advanced technologies, alongside a strong emphasis on science, computing, reading, writing, and the arts. Our facilities include an innovation lab, specialist IT equipment, and programs in sports such as gymnastics, martial arts, basketball, and cricket. Emerging technologies like robotics, AI, machine learning, and VR/AR are integrated to enhance learning, including advanced Arabic provision.

In Secondary and Sixth Form, students benefit from tailored pathways with a wide range of GCSEs, A-levels in subjects like sciences, business, and fine arts, supported by university-linked lectures and industry placements. Advanced tools such as Web3/blockchain, drones, autonomous vehicles, and esports labs prepare students for future careers. Sixth Form further bridges school, university, and industry through global partnerships and cutting-edge technology, ensuring students excel academically while acquiring real-world skills.

The Head of Inclusion will lead and oversee SEND, Counseling, and ELL provision within the school, ensuring that Students of Determination, English Language Learners (ELL), and Gifted students receive high-quality support that aligns with the GEMS School of Research and Innovation’s vision for inclusive, research-driven, and future-focused education. Additionally they will manage a team of ELL teachers, SEN/Inclusion teachers, and counselors, developing inclusive teaching strategies, intervention programs, and policies that ensure equitable learning experiences. The role also involves staff development, compliance with KHDA regulations, and collaboration with leadership, parents, and external partners to foster a supportive and inclusive school environment.

Key Job Accountabilities:

• Implement and oversee inclusive learning policies and strategies, ensuring compliance with KHDA and GEMS Education regulations.
• Lead the identification, assessment, and progress tracking of Students of Determination, ELL learners, and Gifted students, ensuring personalized support plans.
• Develop and monitor Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), intervention programs, and accommodations across school phases.
• Directly manage and deliver specialist support to SEND or ELL students
• Line Manage the Inclusion team and work closely with school leadership and the Director of Inclusion to maintain high-quality Inclusion standards and ensure continuous improvement.
• Provide training, coaching, and professional development for teachers and support staff to embed best practices in inclusive teaching.
• Collaborate with external specialists, parents, and community partners to enhance student support and ensure holistic development.
• Oversee the Inclusion team ensuring effective case management and targeted student interventions.
• Lead data-driven decision-making processes, monitoring student progress and the impact of Inclusion strategies on learning outcomes.
• Support the Extra-Curricular Inclusion Program, ensuring access to enrichment opportunities for Students of Determination and Gifted learners.
• Manage Inclusion resources and provide input into budget planning to ensure sustainable and impactful support services.

Person Specifications:

• UK approved Inclusion qualification relevant to working with young people and children in a school environment, such as a Master’s in Special Education Needs (SEN) or Inclusion and a relevant PGCE
• 4 years’ experience as an Inclusion leader in an international setting within a high-performing school
• Experience working in a through-school environment (age 3-18) is preferred
• A track record of improving Inclusion provision in a school setting
• Up to date knowledge of best practice in Inclusion and current policy in UAE, UK and globally
• Strong knowledge of KHDA Inclusion guidelines, UAE education policies, and best practices in inclusive education is preferred
• Experience in managing IEPs, interventions, and multi-tiered systems of support for diverse student needs
• Ability to lead, mentor, and develop a team of ELL teachers, SEN/Inclusion teachers, and counselors.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with parents, leadership teams, and external partners
• Strong data analysis and reporting skills to track student progress and measure Inclusion program effectiveness
• Familiarity with assistive technologies, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and evidence-based intervention strategies
• Commitment to research-driven, future-focused, and student-centered education, in line with GEMS School of Research and Innovation values
• A passion for inclusion and equity, ensuring all students can thrive in an academically challenging and supportive environment
• A growth mindset, whereby they are reflective and solution focused
• Make a positive contribution to our school community and culture through active engagement in our extra-curricular programme and community-based events.

 All positions attract an excellent remuneration package including: Competitive tax-free salary, individual fully furnished accommodation, free schooling, private medical insurance, annual airfares to country of residence and end of Service Gratuity.

GEMS Teachers also have free access to our loyalty app GEMS rewards www.gemsrewards.com which provides significant savings on day-to-day life in the UAE. We offer thousands of discounts and 2 for 1 offers on everything from flights, hotels, restaurants and retail outlets, making your salary go further and enhancing the opportunity to save whilst working overseas.