Head of Inclusion; Primary

Due to expansion, we are currently recruiting for Primary Head of Inclusion for an August 2026 start.

The Head of Inclusion provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of inclusive practice across the primary school (EYFS–Year
6). This leader is dynamic, staff- and student-centred, and visionary, ensuring that every student is enabled to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. The Head of Inclusion (Primary) must be able to work collaboratively with the Head of Inclusion (Secondary) to ensure a shared vision and inclusive ethos that permeates all areas of the school.

The Head of Inclusion champions the school’s commitment to equity, access, and excellence in line with UK SEND Code of Practice and UAE statutory requirements.

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 16 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.

At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever they’re starting from. We protect what’s special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger; ensuring they get an education that’s, quite literally, world class.

Since 2008, Horizon International School has become a dynamic, inclusive community offering a world‑class education based on the National Curriculum of England, from Early Years through to GCSE and A Levels.

Rated "Outstanding" in all categories by British School Oversees (BSO), "Very Good" by KHDA, and recognised as a Platinum "Best School to Work," Horizon combines academic excellence with a nurturing, empowering environment. We strive to inspire and challenge every member of our community—students and educators alike—to foster a love of learning and prepare them to embrace the diverse challenges of tomorrow.

With over 1,500 students representing 92 nationalities, we celebrate diversity and value growth, creating a supportive and stimulating environment for all learners.

Explore our website and social media to experience the vibrant, engaging culture that defines Horizon International School.

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• Develop and articulate a whole-school vision for inclusion that aligns with the school’s mission and values.
• Lead the implementation of inclusive policies and practices across the primary school.
• Monitor, evaluate, and improve provision to ensure outstanding outcomes for students of determination, those with SEND, EAL learners, and students requiring pastoral support.
• Advise the Principal and ELT on emerging trends, research, inspection frameworks (KHDA, BSO, Ofsted benchmarks), and international best practice in inclusive education.

• Oversee the identification, assessment, and tracking of students with additional needs, ensuring personalised support and interventions.
• Maintain accurate inclusion registers.
• Ensure robust systems and processes for Individual Education Plans (IEPs), provision mapping, and student progress reviews.
• Collaborate with teaching staff to ensure Quality First Teaching and scaffolded provision in every classroom.

• Lead, inspire, and manage the Inclusion Team, fostering collaboration, professional growth, and high expectations.
• Provide CPD for teaching and support staff on inclusion, scaffolding, classroom strategies, and safeguarding.
• Act as a coach and mentor to colleagues, modelling inclusive practice.
• Build strong partnerships with parents, ensuring they are active partners in their child’s education.

• Ensure compliance with UAE laws, KHDA guidelines, and BSO standards relating to inclusion and safeguarding.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records in…