KS3 SENDCo (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator) at Safa Community School

POST: KS3 SENDCo (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator) at Safa Community School, Dubai

Safa Community School - a beacon of excellence. In 2024, we were honoured with the ‘Happiest School in the UAE’ title, a testament to our commitment towards student well-being. In addition, we were proud recipients of the ‘Value Add, Leaving No Child Behind Award’, reflecting our dedication to academic progress. This was further underscored by our 2024 GCSE VA score of +2.2. Our high staff retention rates and inclusion in the top 15 Schools in the UAE by the Schoolscompared.com survey are a source of pride for us all.

At Safa Community School, we are more than just a school-we are a community. With a parent body comprising Expats, including around 35% from the UK, we have fostered a reputation for being a friendly, warm, and community-oriented school. Our positive relationships among staff, parents, and students are a testament to our inclusive approach, making everyone feel welcomed and part of a larger family. This sense of belonging sets us apart and should make you feel at home in our school.

Safa Community School is not just another school but an award-winning all-through UK curriculum school, from FS1 to Year 13, with 2,570. Follow our school Instagram channel for a glimpse into our vibrant community showcasing student achievements, community events, and much more at safa_scs. Discover how we nurture talent, foster creativity, and build a thriving environment for every student.

Job Overview

We seek a passionate and skilled KS3 SENDCo to lead and manage the provision for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) across Key Stage 3. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with teachers, teaching assistants (TAs), learning support assistants (LSAs), and inclusion support staff to ensure all students with additional learning needs receive the appropriate support to reach their full potential. This role is key to shaping inclusive educational practices as students transition into secondary education and progress through KS3. Ensuring all support aligns with the Dubai Inclusive Education Framework, the SENDCo will promote an inclusive ethos and foster practices that uphold the Dubai government’s commitment to equity, access, and quality for all students, including those with SEND. Reporting to the Head of Secondary Inclusion.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the SEND provision for students in Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9), ensuring tailored interventions and support plans are developed to meet each student's individual needs.
• Focus on social-emotional and well-being support, creating an inclusive environment that fosters safety, confidence, and readiness to learn among all students.
• Develop, monitor, and evaluate Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for KS3 students with SEND, ensuring they are responsive to each student's evolving needs.
• Collaborate with teaching staff to differentiate learning and provide guidance on implementing inclusive classroom practices that benefit all learners.
• Conduct regular assessments to track student progress and make necessary adjustments to support strategies to enhance learning outcomes.
• Build strong relationships with students and families, promoting open communication and partnership to facilitate the best outcomes for each student.
• Engage with parents regularly, informing them about their child's progress and actively involving them in the educational process.
• Ensure compliance with SEND regulations and school policies, maintaining accurate records of interventions and outcomes to monitor effectiveness.
• Provide staff training and development on SEND best practices, focusing on strategies specifically tailored for working with KS3 students.
• Liaise with external agencies and professionals as needed to support the diverse needs of SEND students, facilitating additional resources and expertise.
• Support the transition of SEND students from Year 6 to Year 7, collaborating with the primary team to ensure continuity of support and a smooth transition experience.
• Advocate for the needs of SEND students within the school community, ensuring their voices are heard and represented in decision-making processes.

Key Requirements

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Special Educational Needs, or a related field.
• A recognised teaching qualification (e.g., PGCE, QTS, or equivalent).
• SENDCo qualification or a willingness to work towards one.
• A minimum of 3 years teaching experience focusing on Key Stage 3 students.
• Strong knowledge of SEND legislation, Dubai Inclusion Framework and relevant educational frameworks.
• Experience in supporting transitions from primary to secondary education, focusing on social-emotional support.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Experience in developing and monitoring IEPs and working with staff to ensure high-quality SEND support.

Application Process

Closing date for applications is Friday, 29th November 2024 at 10h00 UAE time.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to give a presentation during the interview as part of the application process. This will allow you to showcase your approach to SEND provision, your teaching philosophy, and your ability to implement inclusive strategies. Detailed information regarding the presentation topic and guidelines will be provided to candidates upon being invited to the interview.

The application process is: 

• All applications must be submitted on the TES Portal. Only applications submitted through the Portal will be considered.
• Only applications with experience in British Curriculum Schools will be considered.
• Submit an up to date, full resume / CV.   
• Submit a covering letter of no more than two A4 pages.   
• Provide at least three referees’ names, telephone numbers (with international dialling codes), and email addresses. One must be a current employer.   
• The closing date for all applications is Friday, 29th November 2024 at 10h00 UAE time.
• Applications will be assessed in order of receipt and interviews may occur at any stage after applications are received. We reserve the right to appoint before the closing date and therefore invite interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.   
• Once initial interviews are concluded, arrangements will be made individually with those candidates who will proceed to the second round of interviews.

Upon request, feedback will only be provided to candidates who progress to the interview stages.