INCLUSION

At GEMS International School (GIS), we are committed to nurturing lifelong learners through meaningful educational experiences that promote compassion, resilience, and a deep understanding of one’s role in the community. Guided by our mission and aligned with Goal 4 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, we champion equitable, inclusive education that allows every child the opportunity to succeed.

A Culture of Inclusion

As an inclusive and diverse school, GIS welcomes students of all abilities and celebrates neurodiversity as an essential aspect of our community. We believe every child is unique, and we work collaboratively with students and families to support each learner’s strengths and address their challenges. Our inclusive practices are embedded across all classrooms, ensuring every student thrives in a supportive, respectful environment.

We also align with the vision and principles outlined by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) to improve learning for all students by removing barriers and fostering a sense of belonging.

Our Principles

We believe that:

• Every student has the right to high-quality instruction and support.

• Inclusive classrooms benefit all learners.

• Every teacher is responsible for the success of every student, including Students of Determination (SD), English Language Learners (ELL), and More and Exceptionally Able (MEA) students.

• Inclusive teaching practices enhance outcomes for everyone.

Our Commitment

We aim to ensure:

• Early and accurate identification of learning needs.

• Tailored support through inclusive teaching and, where needed, specialized intervention.

• Students have access to learning alongside their peers.

• Collaboration among families, teachers, and support staff.

• Ongoing professional development for staff to build inclusive expertise.

Identifying and Supporting Needs

Students who experience long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments are identified as Students of Determination. We use a mix of internal assessments and observations to identify barriers to learning. Students may be added to the Inclusion Support Register to ensure targeted and effective provision.

Some students may not yet have a formal diagnosis, but still receive temporary or ongoing support while their needs are assessed through our Response to Intervention (RTI) approach.

Levels of Support

GIS adopts a graduated approach to supporting learners, ensuring every student receives the right level of assistance.

Level 1 – Classroom Accommodations

• Access to high-quality teaching with minor accommodations.

• Student Profile developed in collaboration with families.

• No additional charges.

Level 2 – Targeted Support

• Access to small group sessions or short-term interventions.

• Shared classroom support, access to Inclusion Support Teachers.

• Individual Learning Plans (ILP) or Group Learning Plans (GLP).

• Student Profile developed with input from students and families.

• No additional charges.

Level 3 – Specialised Individualized Support

• Tailored programs including Learning Support Assistant (LSA) support.

• Individual Education Plan (IEP) outlining long-term and short-term goals.

• Full provision and cost details shared via an Individualized Service Agreement (ISA).

Student Support Plans

Each Student of Determination receives a personalized Student Support Plan, which may include:

• A Student Profile detailing strengths, challenges, and classroom strategies.

• A Group Learning Plan (GLP) for short-term group interventions.

• An Individual Learning Plan (ILP) for classroom-based support.

• An Individual Education Plan (IEP) for long-term, tailored support.

Progress is reviewed regularly to ensure strategies remain effective and goals are being met.

Transitioning Out of Support

We celebrate progress and independence. Students who meet their targets may transition out of specialized support and continue to be monitored to ensure ongoing success. If a student’s needs exceed what the school can provide, we work closely with families to find a more suitable learning environment.

Our Team Approach

At GIS, inclusive education is a shared responsibility. We take a Team Around the Child (TAC) approach, ensuring coordination and communication between all stakeholders.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Students and Families
  Students are actively involved in setting goals and advocating for their learning. Families are valued partners in identifying needs and shaping support plans.

• Teachers
  Classroom teachers lead learning and are responsible for all students' progress. In primary, homeroom teachers play a key role in TAC meetings. In secondary, a collaborative approach ensures all subject teachers are involved.

• Learning Support Assistants (LSAs)
  LSAs provide tailored support within the classroom to help students work toward independence. In certain cases, external LSAs may be considered through a formal agreement.

• Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs)
  HLTAs lead academic interventions in collaboration with departments, promoting inclusive practices across the school.

• Inclusion Teaching Assistants (ITAs)
  ITAs work primarily with Level 2 students, offering support and sharing inclusive strategies with classroom teachers.

• Inclusion Support Teachers (ISTs)
  ISTs are specialists who mentor teachers, model best practices, and deliver personalized interventions for students.

• Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCos)
  SENCos oversee inclusive teaching across the school, deploy support staff, and coordinate with families and external specialists.

• Head of Inclusion (Inclusion Champion)
  The Inclusion Champion leads the school’s inclusive ethos, ensures alignment across teams, supports staff development, and coordinates school-wide reviews and initiatives.

Join Our Inclusive Community

At GIS, we believe inclusion strengthens the whole community. Our approach ensures that all students feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Whether your child requires additional support or thrives in an inclusive setting, GIS provides an enriching environment where every learner can succeed.

For more information about our inclusive education program, please contact our Admissions or Inclusion Support team.