“Inclusion is an ongoing process that celebrates diversity and involves the identification and minimising of barriers to learning and participation that might be experienced by any students, irrespective of age, ability, gender, disability, race, ethnicity, language and social background, and the maximising of resources to reduce these barriers. Dubai aims, “To protect the rights of people with disabilities in the emirate of Dubai”. Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework (2017)

Durham School Dubai strives to deliver high-quality education that meets international standards. Our goal is to achieve excellence through effective management, exceptional teaching, and comprehensive training, benefiting our students as well as the wider communities of Dubai and the UAE.

We are dedicated to addressing the diverse needs of all pupils and ensuring their progress. We embrace learning diversity and have designed our curriculum to cater to all learners, including those with disabilities, special educational needs, varied cultural backgrounds, and those for whom English is an additional language.

In alignment with the requirements of KHDA’s Dubai Inclusive Education Framework (2017) and Implementing Inclusive Education: A Guide for Schools (2019), Durham School is committed to providing inclusive education that addresses the diverse needs of Dubai’s population. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are recognized as “Students of Determination,” reflecting their strength of character, perseverance, and courage.

“A need which occurs when a student identified with an impairment requires the school to make specific modifications or provide specific supports to prevent, remove or reduce any potential disability from occurring and to ensure that the student can access education on an equitable basis and within a common learning environment with same- aged peers.”

Durham School is dedicated to offering a broad and balanced curriculum grounded in effective whole-school policies and active involvement from the entire school community. All teachers are responsible and accountable for the learning and progress of every pupil in their class, including those with special educational needs. The school’s SENDCo, in collaboration with the Assistant Head responsible for Pastoral Care, parents, and teachers, ensures that the best possible support is planned and provided for all the pupils.

The purpose of this Inclusion Policy is to provide practical guidance for teachers, parents and staff on the provision of effective learning support to pupils experiencing special educational needs and disabilities, as well as to fulfil our obligations as per the KHDA and Durham School Dubai expectations.