Head of Inclusion and Safeguarding

About The Job: Head Of Inclusion And Safeguarding

The Charter Schools project is dedicated to public school students based in Al Ain, in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Operated and managed by private education providers, our Charter Schools offer an American-based curriculum from kindergarten through to cycle three, up to Grade 11, with more grades to be introduced as students progress in their educational journey.

This is your opportunity to be a part of a vibrant learning community that values diversity, professional development, and innovation. Our remuneration packages are competitive locally and internationally, offering an excellent salary and comprehensive benefits. We also support the pursuit of Continuing Professional Development where relevant and feasible.

The successful candidate will be expected to set high standards and conduct themselves with integrity. They will be supported by a highly effective team of senior and middle leaders, staff, pupils, and parents committed to excellence.

The Position

The Head of Inclusion and Safeguarding will lead the strategic development, implementation, and oversight of inclusion, wellbeing, safeguarding, and child protection initiatives across Charter Schools.

This role ensures all Students of Determination (SOD), gifted and talented students, and others with diverse needs receive high-quality education and support. It involves staff training on best practices in inclusion, safeguarding, child protection, and wellbeing, with a keen understanding of UAE cultural sensitivities and regulatory requirements, including the UAE Inspection Framework.

Job Description

1. Leadership in Inclusion and Wellbeing:
   • Develop and implement a comprehensive inclusion and wellbeing strategy promoting equity and access for all students, especially SOD and gifted students.
   • Design, update, and ensure implementation of inclusive policies aligned with UAE policies and legislation.
   • Lead initiatives to promote student wellbeing, emotional development, and mental health, ensuring holistic support.
2. Support for Students of Determination (SOD):
   • Ensure development and implementation of individualized education programs (IEPs) for SOD in line with UAE guidelines.
   • Oversee targeted intervention programs addressing specific needs of SOD.
   • Collaborate with school leaders, teachers, and parents to embed inclusive practices.
3. Gifted and Talented Students:
   • Develop systems for identifying gifted and talented students and support their academic and creative development.
   • Lead creation of enrichment programs providing enhanced learning experiences.
   • Monitor progress and ensure individual learning plans are followed.
4. Safeguarding and Child Protection:
   • Create and implement safeguarding policies aligned with UAE laws and best practices.
   • Lead staff training on safeguarding and child protection legal frameworks.
   • Manage safeguarding incidents and coordinate with authorities.
5. UAE Cultural Sensitivity and Compliance:
   • Ensure practices respect UAE cultural norms and traditions.
   • Prepare for inspections and meet all regulatory requirements.
   • Build relationships with stakeholders and authorities to align initiatives with national priorities.
6. Training and Professional Development:
   • Develop and deliver training for staff on inclusion, safeguarding, and best practices.
   • Train teachers on inclusive instructional methods and classroom adaptations.
   • Promote continuous professional development in inclusion and safeguarding.
7. Monitoring and Evaluation:
   • Utilize data to assess and improve inclusion, wellbeing, and safeguarding practices.
   • Evaluate policies and training impact using KPIs.
   • Ensure compliance with laws, frameworks, and policies.
8. Qualifications, Experience, and Competencies:
   • Masters in Special Education, Educational Psychology, Leadership, or related; PhD preferred.
   • 8-10 years in educational leadership with focus on inclusion or safeguarding.
   • Experience in UAE or GCC, familiar with UAE policies and inspection frameworks.
   • Expertise in safeguarding policies and legal requirements.
   • Strong understanding of UAE culture and values.