Teaching Assistant - Secondary SEN Department - Immediate Start

Arcadia; Dubai; On-site; AED 33,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Arcadia British School in the UAE seeks a dedicated Secondary SEN Learning Support Assistant to empower students with additional needs in an inclusive learning environment. You will support academic progress and emotional wellbeing within a vibrant expatriate community.

You will collaborate with teachers and the Inclusion team to implement IEPs, deliver 1:1 or small-group interventions, adapt materials, and monitor progress, helping students build independence and confidence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a school environment supporting students with SEN.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with students and staff.
• Experience working with SEN at Secondary level is preferred.
• Relevant qualifications or training in education, inclusion, or support work is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with teachers and Inclusion team to implement IEPs and targeted support.
• Provide one-to-one or small-group interventions to support academic progress and wellbeing.
• Adapt and differentiate learning materials under guidance to ensure curriculum access.
• Promote independence, resilience, and confidence using inclusive strategies.
• Support students inside and outside the classroom during lessons and transitions.
• Contribute to observation, monitoring, and recording of student progress and share feedback.
• Foster a safe, respectful learning environment where all students feel included.
• Collaborate with colleagues and attend training to develop SEN knowledge and practice.

Skills

SEN support

One-to-one tutoring

Interpersonal communication

IEP implementation

Differentiated instruction

Education

Education or SEN-related training

Job description

Job Overview

Arcadia British School is an exciting, forward-thinking international community built on a strong UAE vision where innovation and growth sit at the forefront of our mission. Our vibrant expatriate community fosters inclusivity and offers a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional enrichment, with a wide range of events and activities beyond the classroom. It is a wonderful place to develop your career while becoming part of a welcoming and dynamic school culture.

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Secondary SEN Learning Support Assistant to join our team. The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting students with additional learning needs, empowering them to reach their full potential in an inclusive and engaging learning environment.

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a school environment supporting students with special educational needs (SEN)
• Relevant qualifications or training in education, inclusion, or support work (desirable)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students and staff
• Experience working with students with SEN at Primary level (preferred)

Core Responsibilities

Please note that this is a broad overview of the main responsibilities; the full job description will include additional details.

• Work closely with classroom teachers and the Inclusion team to implement individualised education plans (IEPs) and targeted support strategies.
• Provide one-to-one or small-group interventions to support students’ academic progress, social development, and emotional wellbeing.
• Adapt and differentiate learning materials under teacher guidance to ensure curriculum access for students with diverse learning needs.
• Promote student independence, resilience, and confidence by using inclusive strategies and positive reinforcement techniques.
• Support students both inside and outside the classroom, including during lessons, transitions, and enrichment activities.
• Contribute to the observation, monitoring, and recording of student progress, sharing feedback with the Inclusion team and teaching staff.
• Foster a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment where all students feel valued and included.
• Collaborate with colleagues and attend relevant training to continuously develop your knowledge and practice in SEN support.

Arcadia Education 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 enhanced background checks according to our safer recruitment policy available on the school's website.