Richard Slingers

 take this opportunity to apply for the Head Of Inclusion position at your institution.

Currently, I am serving as Head of Inclusion at the International Community School, Al Danah Campus, in Abu Dhabi., and, just last night I was awarded the "Pastoral Care and Inclusion Excellence" award for my work as coordinator.

My journey in education has been driven by a passion for creating inclusive environments where every student feels valued and supported. Over the past 31 years, I have held roles where I championed inclusive education, ensuring that diverse learners receive the tailored support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
At my current and previous schools, I spearheaded initiatives that promote inclusive practices, resulting in measurable improvements in student engagement and achievement. My approach involves collaborating with educators, families, and community stakeholders to develop comprehensive support plans that address the unique needs of each student.

I am excited about the opportunity to lead efforts in furthering these initiatives, applying my skills in curriculum adaptation, staff training, and policy development to ensure that every student receives an equitable education.

In my attached CV and Cover Letter, you will find detailed examples of my accomplishments and qualifications. I am confident that my blend of leadership experience and passion for inclusion aligns well with the requirements for the position at your institution.

I am eager to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the continued success of your institution. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you in person.
 

 International Community School: Al Danah Abu Dhabi, UAE
Inclusion Coordinator October 2023 - Present
● Serves on the Senior Leadership Team, reporting directly to the principal.
● Facilitates the implementation of the ADEK 2025 Inclusion Policy, with 80% compliance to date.
● Conducts Performance Reviews and Evaluations.
● Liaise with parents of Students of Determination through regular meetings and Coffee mornings.
● Manage all official documentation relating to students on the Inclusion register, e.g. IEPs, Student
Passports and Profiles.
● Shortlist and interview teachers trained and qualified to teach students with additional learning abilities.
● Observe teachers and support teachers who are on development plans.
● Writes and implements Improvement Plans, specifically aimed at developing and growing the school’s
Inclusion Department.
● Offers Professional Development sessions to enhance the standards of teaching and learning.
● Facilitates bi-weekly training sessions for all Learning Support Assistants.
● Collects attainment data and implements strategies to improve teaching.
● Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance student attainment.
● Liaises with parents and monitors the learning determination of students.
● Develop and implement a behavior management/ anti-bullying strategy, currently piloted in three
challenging classes, to be implemented across the school next year.

Abu Dhabi International (Pvt.) School Abu Dhabi, UAE
Special Needs Educator, Student Support Services Department August 2017 – June 2023
● Aided elementary and middle students with intellectual disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder
(ASD), Down Syndrome, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and students with other
special educational needs to develop coping skills and meet educational milestones.
● Designed and implemented modified curriculums for students ranging from grade 2 to grade 6 in
English and Mathematics.
● Managed students’ behavior while developing and implementing behavioral strategies to enhance
learning ability and fabricate a well-disciplined and interactive learning environment.
● Developed interactive Individualized Educational Plans (IEP) as a roadmap for individualized
learning.
● Periodically assessed students’ educational progress and performance to develop and implement
effective teaching plans to deliver high-quality special education instruction and learning support.
● Established professional relationships with students and parents while working together to achieve
academic success for each student.
● In-class (“push-in”) and “pull-out” support for students with learning challenges in mainstream classes.

Grade 4 Homeroom Teacher (American Common Core) August 2017 - June 2018
● Designed and implemented detailed teaching plans targeted at improvement for underperforming
students in collaboration with students, parents, administrative and leadership staff.
● Built innovative and interactive lesson plans for middle-school students in major subjects such as
English, Mathematics, Science and Humanities.
● Worked closely with colleagues to collaborate on creating different teaching approaches to improve
student learning.
● Periodically assessed students’ performance and academic progress per the American Common Core
curriculum guidelines.

Uptown International School Dubai, UAE
Grade 4 International Baccalaureate (IB) Teacher August 2013 - July 2017
● Enhanced student learning by implementing innovative educational approaches for optimal learning in
major subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, and more.
● Assembled and evaluated detailed lesson plans and course content according to the International
Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum guidelines.
● Observed and critically evaluated students’ academic progress and performance and utilized
individualized teaching approaches to facilitate optimal learning for students with varying academic
levels.
● Collaborated with colleagues and leaders to evaluate and improve teaching strategies using effective
research-based teaching programs.
● Contributed to extra-curricular programs and school activities such as conferences, assemblies and
social events.

Abu Dhabi Educational Council (ADEK) Abu Dhabi, UAE
Grade 4 Homeroom Teacher August 2011 – July 2013
● Designed and implemented detailed teaching plans targeted at improvement for underperforming
students in collaboration with parents, administrative and leadership staff.
● Built innovative and interactive lesson plans for grade 4 students in major subjects such as English,
Mathematics and Science.
● Worked closely with colleagues to collaborate on creating different teaching approaches to improve
student learning.
● Periodically assessed students’ performance and academic progress in line with requirements for an
Outcomes Based curriculum.

Emirates National School, Mohamed Bin Zayed Campus
Grade 4 International Baccalaureate (IB) Homeroom Teacher 2008-2011
● Enhanced student learning by implementing innovative educational approaches for optimal learning in
major subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, and more.
● Assembled and evaluated detailed lesson plans and course content following the International
Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum guidelines.
● Observed and critically evaluated students’ academic progress and performance and utilized
individualized teaching approaches to facilitate optimal learning for students with varying academic
levels.
● Collaborated with colleagues and leaders to evaluate and improve teaching strategies using effective
research-based teaching programs.

2023-2024 Diploma in Special Needs Education, National Academy, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (KHDA Approved)
● 2003-2004 Bachelor of Technology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa
● 1990-1992 Diploma in Education, Western Cape Education Department.