Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO)

British Orchard Nursery • Full-time • Dubai, United Arab Emirates • 3w ago

Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO)

📍 Location: Dubai & Abu Dhabi

The SENCO is a leadership role responsible for the strategic development and operational management of provision for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), as well as those who are Gifted and Talented (G&T) or have English as an Additional Language (EAL).

Key Responsibilities :

Strategic Leadership: Develop, monitor, and review the school’s SEN and inclusion policies and procedures. Oversee the day-to-day operation of the SEN department, managing budgets and resources effectively.
Identification and Assessment: Create and maintain a register of students with specific educational needs. Implement screening and diagnostic procedures to identify learning needs. Conduct individual student assessments as required.
Program Development and Coordination: Design and coordinate interventions for students. Support the development, implementation, and review of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) in collaboration with teachers and parents.
Teaching and Learning Support: Identify barriers to learning and share effective strategies with staff. Conduct lesson observations to support teacher development in differentiation. Coach and train Learning Assistants (LAs) to enhance their skills.
Data and Compliance: Track the progress and development of targeted students, collecting and analyzing data to measure the impact of interventions. Ensure examination accommodations (e.g., extra time) are in place for eligible students.
Collaboration and Communication: Lead meetings with the student support team. Act as a key link between the school, parents, and external agencies (e.g., educational psychologists, therapists). Prepare reports for school inspections (e.g., DSIB, SEF) and quarterly reviews .

Qualifications & Requirements :

Education: A Bachelor's degree and a recognized teaching certification are essential. A specialist qualification in SEN, such as the NASENCO award, is highly preferred.
Experience: Significant teaching experience, with at least 2-3 years of middle or senior leadership experience in a similar SEN setting.
Competencies: Expert knowledge of SEN, EAL, and G&T quality provision. Deep understanding of international accreditation and inspection frameworks (like KHDA/ADEK). Highly effective communication, relationship management, and decision-making skills.
Attributes: Empathetic listener, strategic thinker, collaborative team player, and solution-focused leader with integrity and intercultural awareness.