SENDCo., Primary School (August 2026)

The Arbor School is on the lookout for a dedicated and enthusiastic SENDCo (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator) to become part of our vibrant community. This is an exciting opportunity for a talented middle leader who is genuinely committed to inclusive education and believes that every child has the potential to thrive. The ideal candidate will possess a wealth of SEND experience and a robust understanding of research-based inclusive practices. Reporting to the Head of Inclusion, you will oversee a team of inclusion teachers and support staff, ensuring the delivery of high-quality educational provisions throughout the Primary School. You will manage the daily operations of the SEND department, design and modify curriculum pathways and targeted interventions tailored to a diverse array of learners, including those with autism, dyslexia, ADHD, and physical disabilities. Collaboration with class teachers, specialists, year group leaders, and department heads will be essential in embedding inclusive practices throughout the school. Effective communication with parents, facilitating professional learning opportunities, and engaging in action research focused on sustainable, skills-based development will be vital components of this role.

We hope to welcome a candidate in Term 3; however, for an outstanding individual, a start date in August 2026 may be considered.

Enough For All, For Ever

The Arbor School, established in 2018, embodies a unique vision of education that is experiential, authentic, and inspired by the natural beauty, human creativity, and significant ecological and social challenges of the Arabian Peninsula.

Our commitment to fostering a learning community that seeks to understand and restore the health of ecological and human systems as interdependent parts of a greater whole requires a blend of optimism, ambition, and humility. We hold a fundamental belief in the inherent goodness of people and their ability to act with empathy and compassion, reflecting the hope that is central to learning for a sustainable future. The resilience and determination required to confront challenges of global proportions are essential for discovering sustainable solutions and promoting the social changes necessary to scale these solutions. The realization that we are all learners—never masters—fuels our dedication to instilling a lifelong passion for learning.

Recognizing the interconnectedness of cognitive, emotional, and participatory domains and their influence on learning, we are embracing a holistic approach to education designed to equip learners to:

• Understand the interconnected principles of sustainability, individual and collective well-being, and environmental and social justice;

• Find purpose, meaning, and joy in their connections with the natural world and each other, and seek to appreciate diverse perspectives;

• Experience a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy through their actions both at home, in school, and in the broader community.

The Arbor Promise

Teachers at Arbor are part of a community that is inclusive, spirited, and engaged. They enjoy genuine relationships with their colleagues and positive interactions with school leadership, who prioritize their well-being. Arbor teachers embody resilience in the face of challenges, remain steady amid change, and demonstrate creativity and flexibility when addressing problems. They infuse their passions and interests into the school environment, understanding that this is an expectation. We are committed to meeting agreed-upon deadlines, communicating proactively with positive intent, and sharing a passion for delivering the highest quality education to our students.

Job Summary
As a member of the Middle Leadership Team, you will collaborate closely with the Head of Inclusion to enhance and lead SEND provision across the school. You will advocate for the learning and personal growth of students with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that high-quality, inclusive practices are consistently implemented throughout the Primary phase. In your role as SENDCo at the Arbor School, you will be instrumental in fostering a culture of belonging and achievement, aligned with our Strategic Intent, Mission Statement, and the Arbor Promise, ensuring every learner thrives within our values-oriented community.

Key Responsibilities

• Doing everything possible to safeguard and promote the well-being of students (in accordance with Arbor’s Safeguarding framework/policy/Code of Conduct).

• Actively promoting and embodying the Arbor vision, mission, and values.

• Ensuring compliance with the Arbor Staff Handbook and the Arbor Support Teacher: A Framework for Outstanding Support.

• Implementing school policies, procedures, and expected practices as identified by the Senior Leadership Team at the Arbor School.

• Maintaining a well-ordered, safe, and stimulating learning environment, setting an example to encourage high standards of display work in classrooms and communal areas, with a strong focus on celebrating achievements and showcasing specialist subject knowledge.

Required Candidate Profile

• Native-level proficiency in English.

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Needs Education/Inclusion or a related field, along with a PGCE in Education with QTS or an equivalent qualification.

• Additional qualifications, including the National Award for SEN Coordination, are preferred.

• A minimum of three years of experience in SEN or inclusion-focused roles within the UK or a reputable British school.

• A proven track record of outstanding teaching and learning, with the ability to foster a caring and nurturing classroom atmosphere.

Remuneration: A competitive, tax-free salary package will be offered in line with the School's policy and UAE labor law regulations.

Application: To apply for this role, please complete the application on TES and upload:

• An updated CV including a recent photograph.

• A letter of application, not exceeding two pages, outlining your educational philosophy and suitability for the Arbor School.

The Arbor School is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all students and expects all applicants to share this commitment. We maintain high standards of effective, safer recruitment practices with a focus on child protection. All appointments are subject to CV and qualification checks, interviews, identity verification, criminal record checks, and successful references.

All appointments are subject to the approval of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.