JOB DETAILS:

About the Role

The Head of Student Support Services provides leadership in academic support, special education, gifted programming, social-emotional well-being, and school safety compliance. This role includes direct student engagement, teacher training, and the coordination of the development of Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) and Individual Growth Plans (IGPs).

As the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), the Head of SSS will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring the school’s child protection policies, procedures, and training, ensuring compliance with Ugandan child protection laws and international safeguarding best practices.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Program Development

• Oversee and lead the Student Support Services Team (SSST) to provide intervention and support.
• Develop and implement inclusive education programs for students with diverse learning needs.
• Train staff on differentiated instruction, behaviour management, and intervention strategies.
• Ensure compliance with Ugandan education laws, child protection acts, and international education standards.
• Collaborate with principals, external professionals, and parents to support students effectively.
• Advocate for students with needs, ensuring easy access to the education we offer and advocating for gifted students, ensuring they receive appropriate academic challenges.

Student Support & Intervention

• Coordinate the development and monitor the implementation of and monitor IEPs, IGPs, and IBPs to support student growth.
• Provide academic, social-emotional, and behavioural interventions.
• Coordinate the after-school tutoring program and the summer school program.
• Ensure that students receive the appropriate classroom and exam accommodations.
• Guide teachers in using data-driven instruction and assessment strategies.
• Coordinate with the counselling team to support students’ mental health and emotional well-being.
• Ensure smooth transition planning for students moving between grade levels or educational settings.
• Manage student referrals and plan support accordingly.

Safeguarding & Child Protection

• Serve as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), ensuring that all child protection policies and procedures are implemented and followed.
• Lead safeguarding training for all staff, ensuring awareness of school policies and reporting protocols.
• Act as the main point of contact for child protection concerns, liaising with local authorities, external agencies, and international safeguarding organizations.
• Maintain confidential and accurate records of safeguarding incidents and interventions.
• Develop a culture of safeguarding within the school, ensuring all staff, students, and parents understand their role in child protection.
• Ensure safe recruitment practices are followed in hiring staff and volunteers.
• Stay updated on international best practices in safeguarding and child protection policies.

Training & Collaboration

• Train teachers in best practices for inclusive education and student support.
• Provide professional development in literacy, behavioral strategies, and student accommodations and modification.
• Work with external specialists for student evaluations and interventions.
• Maintain strong communication with parents, ensuring they are partners in their child’s learning journey.

• Administration & Compliance
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and intervention plans.
• Manage the Student Support budget and allocate resources effectively.
• Assist in the recruitment, training, and evaluation of Student Support staff and managing the hiring of Personal Assistants for one-on-one support.

What We’re Looking For

Essential Qualifications

• A personal commitment to Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, in alignment with Heritage International School’s Statement of Faith.
• Master’s degree in education, educational administration, special education, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years of experience in student support services, special education, or inclusive education.
• Leadership experience in program development, intervention planning, and team management.
• Strong knowledge of curriculum development, assessment strategies, and learning differentiation.
• Experience in an international school setting or cross-cultural education is preferred.
• Proficiency in using technology for student support, record-keeping, and communication.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with teachers, parents, and leadership.
• Experience or training in safeguarding, child protection, and safe recruitment practices.
• Prior international travel or experience working in diverse cultural settings is an asset.

Why Join Heritage International School?

• Faith-based community where faith is integrated into education.
• Diverse and inclusive environment with students from over 25 nationalities.
• Professional growth through ongoing training, mentorship, and leadership development.
• Beautiful campus in Uganda with a vibrant community and rich culture.