Head of Inclusion (Maternity Cover)- Two Terms

Horizon English School is seeking an exceptional Head of Inclusion (Maternity Cover – 2 terms) to work closely with the Principal and Senior Leadership Team in fostering academic excellence, promoting a culture of wellbeing, and ensuring effective operations within our vibrant educational setting.

About Horizon English School Dubai:

Founded in 1989, Horizon English School (HES) is one of the longest-established British schools in Dubai. Situated in Jumeirah, our institution caters to an international community of approximately 1,300 students and around 200 staff members. We have consistently achieved outstanding ratings from the KHDA and BSO for several years and are accredited by BSME (British Schools in the Middle East).

This role presents a unique opportunity to join the senior leadership team. We are excited to connect with candidates who resonate with our core values:

• The importance of building trust with students and colleagues
• The belief that every child can thrive in a nurturing environment
• The commitment to ongoing personal growth
• The value of collaboration in achieving the highest standards

Apply via the WhatSchool platform.

About Cognita:

Cognita is a global leader in independent education, established in 2004 with a growing network of over 100 schools across 16 countries, including Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East, serving more than 85,000 students. While each school has its unique identity, we all share a common goal: to cultivate an environment where everyone can “Thrive in a rapidly evolving world.”

At Cognita, we understand that every student is unique. We celebrate their individual personalities and strengths, offering tailored academic, social, and emotional support to meet their diverse needs, regardless of their location. We safeguard their unique qualities while providing a wealth of knowledge, opportunities, and best practices, ensuring they receive a truly world-class education.

Role Overview:

In collaboration with the Principal, the Head of Inclusion will lead the strategic development of inclusive practices within the school. You will manage the daily operations of the Inclusion department and coordinate tailored support for individual Students of Determination, including those from inclusive groups.

You will provide professional guidance to colleagues both within and beyond the inclusion department, working closely with staff, parents, and external agencies.

Duties and responsibilities:

Leadership of strategy

• Contribute to and enhance a vision for inclusive practice that aligns with our aspirations for a thriving school, a progressive curriculum, and community service.
• Stay informed about UAE, UK, and international initiatives and policies that may impact the school’s strategy and practices.
• Act as an advocate for inclusive practices within the community, challenging prevailing norms to continuously improve our offerings.
• Balance the three elements of our school improvement model, creatively considering what is achievable for our community.

Leadership of culture

• Foster an inclusive culture within the school by addressing exclusive beliefs, language, and practices.
• Lead a team of inclusion specialists, modeling (and expecting from the team) behaviors that broaden our horizons.
• Work to reduce inconsistencies in inclusive practices within the school by establishing clear Horizon habits and assisting colleagues in embodying them.

Leadership of continuous improvement

• With support from senior leaders, identify key improvement priorities and systematically implement enhanced practices.
• Commit to your own leadership development.
• Provide a range of professional learning opportunities for both the inclusion team and the wider staff.