Higher Learning Support Assistant - Primary and Secondary - Sunmarke School

About Sunmarke School – Where Amazing Happens

Sunmarke School provides an inspiring, values-centered education that nurtures both the hearts and minds of students, empowering them to prosper and achieve their goals. With our suite of signature programmes, Sunmarke distinguishes itself as a uniquely innovative institution that transforms the lives of young individuals. This commitment was honored when Sunmarke School received the distinguished ‘Most Innovative School’ award at the international Which School Advisor ceremony held in Dubai and London.

As a comprehensive school, Sunmarke offers a premium education through a variety of pathways, including the National Curriculum of England, GCSE/IGCSE, ‘A’ Levels, BTEC, and the IB Diploma Programmes. Our students consistently achieve extraordinary results, receiving accolades for ‘best in world’, ‘best in Middle East’, and ‘best in country’ across numerous subjects. The latest exceptional IB outcomes position Sunmarke School among the top 3 schools in Dubai and 69th globally. Our unmatched suite of Signature Programmes provides transformative learning experiences, including Environmental and Sustainability Studies, where students participate in Forest School activities and utilize advanced hydroponic technology to explore the intersection of science and sustainability; a state-of-the-art STEAM center and curriculum that encourages students to apply their learning to real-world challenges; Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) experiences and cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence applications for both staff and students; outstanding performing arts opportunities featuring fully equipped black box and auditorium facilities, as well as music and media suites; and a comprehensive sports programme led by professional coaches, resulting in Sunmarke being named overall champions at the BSME Games.

Since its third year of operation, Sunmarke School has been awarded a ‘Very Good’ rating by the Dubai School Inspection Bureau (DSIB) and consistently receives an ‘Outstanding’ rating from British Schools Overseas (BSO).

We are thrilled to invite applications to join our all-through school and make significant contributions to our journey beyond “outstanding.” Sunmarke School, Dubai, is one of our flagship institutions, ideally located in the vibrant Jumeirah Village Triangle.

About you:

We seek a committed and proactive Higher Learning Support Assistant (HLSA) to join our English Language Learning team in both Primary and Secondary, starting in August 2026.

This role involves supporting English Language Learners (ELLs) with their GCSE and BTEC subjects. Responsibilities will include providing in-class assistance, conducting focused study sessions, and collaborating closely with subject teachers in both Primary and Secondary as well as the ELL team.

The ideal candidate should have a strong general knowledge of school subjects, with a preferred specialized understanding of specific GCSE content. A comprehensive understanding of the GCSE and/or BTEC assessment frameworks and their expectations is vital.

Key Responsibilities:

- Attend selected GCSE and BTEC lessons to identify challenges faced by ELLs, support their learning during lessons, and gain insights into the subject teacher's expectations to guide directed study sessions.

- Design and implement weekly targeted intervention sessions for students you support during in-class assistance. These sessions should focus on addressing identified challenges, such as reinforcing writing structures for long-answer questions, reviewing technical vocabulary, and clarifying exam command words and response strategies.

- Build a strong working relationship with relevant subject teachers to ensure effective communication and optimal support for the students you assist.

- Maintain regular communication with the Head of ELL to ensure any necessary timetable adjustments or changes in provision are clearly communicated.

- Develop positive relationships with students in your care. As these relationships grow, pastoral elements will emerge, with students often seeking assistance in organizing their time, study strategies, or discussing their concerns and frustrations.

- Participate in staff meetings and professional development sessions as needed.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

- A minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in an international school environment is required.

- A bachelor’s degree is essential, with a CELTA, TESOL, or similar qualification being beneficial but not obligatory.

- Familiarity with the GCSE and/or BTEC assessment systems and expectations is necessary.

- General knowledge of secondary level subjects is required, with a preference for detailed understanding in specific areas.

- Experience working with children who face language barriers and those from diverse cultural backgrounds is essential.

- The ability to break down complex content into manageable components to help students understand larger concepts is necessary.

- Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with both students and colleagues are required.

- Team-oriented and adaptable to the changing needs of the department and the students you support.

- A solid understanding of child development and strategies to enhance children's learning and well-being.

Application Process:

If you have the passion, energy, and commitment to improve outcomes for young people, we encourage you to apply. In return, you will be part of a dynamic organization that places you at the center of our growth journey.

Candidates can complete our Online Application by visiting: https://careers.forteseducation.com/CurrentOpening.aspx

The deadline for applications is April 20, 2026. Please note that, due to the anticipated number of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. The school reserves the right to make suitable appointments before the official closing date, so we encourage early applications. The start date for this role will be August 2026.

Safer Recruitment Statement

Fortes Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Our recruitment policies adhere to the guidelines set forth by the International Task Force on Child Protection. At Sunmarke School, we uphold high standards for effective practices in child protection and are devoted to ensuring the well-being of children.

We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful applicants will undergo various background checks, including satisfactory references, proof of relevant qualifications, identification, and police checks, including those from overseas.