Higher Learning Support Assistant - Primary and Secondary - Sunmarke School

About us:

For over 40 years, Fortes Education has established itself as a premier education provider in the UAE, offering exceptional international schools and nurseries that have thrived and expanded. Our institutions deliver the most cutting-edge and character-focused education in the Middle East.

Our educational philosophy is grounded in Positive Education (PosEd). Through this approach, our schools encourage active participation in learning while celebrating students' character strengths and achievements. We promote the development of meaningful relationships and support children in finding purpose and fulfillment in their lives. Our aim is to nurture happy learners who evolve into innovative thinkers, confident young adults, and lifelong learners. Our students build resilience, adopt a growth mindset, and cultivate deep character strengths that empower them to thrive in a constantly changing world.

About Sunmarke School – Where Amazing Happens

Sunmarke School offers an inspiring, values-driven education that nurtures both the hearts and minds of students, enabling them to flourish and reach their aspirations. With our suite of signature programmes, Sunmarke stands out as a uniquely innovative institution that transforms young lives. This commitment was recognized when Sunmarke School received the prestigious ‘Most Innovative School’ award at the international Which School Advisor ceremony held in Dubai and London.

As an all-through school, Sunmarke provides a premium education through a diverse array of pathways, including the National Curriculum of England, GCSE/IGCSE, ‘A’ Levels, BTEC, and the IB Diploma Programmes. Our students consistently achieve remarkable results, earning awards for ‘best in world’, ‘best in Middle East’, and ‘best in country’ across various subjects. The latest outstanding IB outcomes position Sunmarke School among the top 3 schools in Dubai and 69th globally. Our unparalleled suite of Signature Programmes offers transformative learning experiences, such as Environmental and Sustainability Studies, where students engage in Forest School settings and utilize advanced hydroponic technology to explore the intersection of science and sustainability; a world-class STEAM centre 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 staff and students; exceptional performing arts opportunities featuring fully equipped black box and auditorium facilities, along with music and media suites; and a comprehensive sports programme supported by professional coaches, leading to Sunmarke being crowned overall champions at the BSME Games.

Since our third year of operation, Sunmarke School has received a ‘Very Good’ rating from the Dubai School Inspection Bureau (DSIB) and is consistently rated ‘Outstanding’ by British Schools Overseas (BSO).

We are excited to invite applications to join our all-through school and contribute significantly to our journey beyond “outstanding.” Sunmarke School, Dubai, is one of our flagship institutions, located in the prime area of Jumeirah Village Triangle.

About you:

We are looking for a dedicated and proactive Higher Learning Support Assistant (HLSA) to become part of our English Language Learning team in both Primary and Secondary, starting in August 2026.

The role includes providing support to English Language Learners (ELLs) in their GCSE and BTEC subjects. This position entails a blend of in-class assistance, focused study sessions, and close collaboration with subject teachers in both Primary and Secondary, as well as the ELL team.

The ideal candidate should possess a solid general knowledge of school subjects and ideally have specialized understanding of specific GCSE content. A thorough knowledge of GCSE and/or BTEC assessment frameworks and their expectations is essential.

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 inform directed study sessions.

- Design and conduct weekly targeted intervention sessions for students you assist during in-class support. These sessions should concentrate on addressing the challenges identified throughout the week, focusing on aspects like reinforcing writing structures for long-answer questions, reviewing technical vocabulary, and clarifying exam command words and response strategies.

- Cultivate a close working relationship with relevant subject teachers to ensure open and effective communication, thereby providing optimal support for the students you assist.

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

- Establish productive and positive relationships with students in your care. As relationships develop, pastoral elements will emerge, with students often seeking help in organizing their time, study strategies, or discussing their concerns and frustrations.

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

Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

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

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

- 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 in-depth understanding in specific areas.

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

- The ability to decompose complex content into manageable parts to help students grasp larger concepts is necessary.

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

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

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

Application Process:

If you possess the passion, energy, and dedication to enhance outcomes for young people, we invite you to apply. In return, you will be part of a dynamic organization that offers you a central role in our growth trajectory.

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

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

Safer Recruitment Statement

Fortes Education is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Our safer recruitment policies align with the recommendations from the International Task Force on Child Protection. At Sunmarke School, we uphold high standards for effective practices in child protection and are committed to safeguarding children's welfare.

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.