Deputy SENDCo/Deputy Head of Inclusion - August 2026

Overview

Due to the continued success of GEMS Metropole Al-Waha, Dubai, we are seeking to appoint a Deputy SENDCo/Deputy Head of Inclusion for August 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced leader to take the next step in their career within a world-class international school and a globally renowned education company.

Join us at GEMS Metropole Al-Waha, where sustainability is at the heart of education. Our state-of-the-art campus in Dubai showcases eco-friendly initiatives, providing educators with the ideal platform to inspire students and embed sustainable values across learning. At GEMS, teaching is not just a job, it's a career. Our teachers benefit from free access to leading CPD programmes and can grow with the company on a global scale. With most of our school leaders progressing from within the GEMS network, our teachers are uniquely positioned to explore leadership opportunities worldwide as GEMS continues to expand.

As well as being a great place to work, Dubai is a vibrant, cosmopolitan, and rapidly developing city where the sun shines all year round. Teachers here enjoy an exciting lifestyle, with endless opportunities for leisure, adventure, and travel across the region and beyond. We will be British Schools Overseas (BSO) accredited by the end of this academic year, enabling us to offer NQT, ECF, QTS, and iPGCE programmes to our teachers through the TES Institute. GEMS Metropole Al-Waha is truly unique, offering every staff member the opportunity to make a lasting impact. In line with our school vision, you will have the opportunity to lead, nurture, and succeed in a sustainable and inclusive community.

We are now looking for an outstanding, innovative leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as Deputy SENDCo/Deputy Head of Inclusion. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving continued excellence across the school.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the SENDCo to implement and monitor individualised education plans (IEPs).
• Provide support and training to teaching staff on inclusive practices.
• Build strong relationships with students and their families, ensuring their needs are met.
• Engage in ongoing professional development and contribute to a culture of high performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor Degree in Special Education / OR Bachelor Degree in Education with a Teaching Diploma in Special Education.
• Experience working with students with diverse needs and knowledge of inclusive practices.
• Strong understanding of current legislation and best practices in inclusion.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with staff, students, and families.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills, with the ability to lead initiatives that promote inclusive practices.
• A creative and enthusiastic approach to problem-solving and teaching.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and a growth mindset.
• Ability to analyse student data and make informed decisions to support student progress.

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.