EAL Teacher

Job Description

Job details

Salary: To be confirmed

Contract type: Full-time and permanent

Reporting to: Head of Primary

Responsible for: EAL Teacher

Position Overview

The EAL Teacher supports students for whom English is an additional language, enabling them to access the British National Curriculum effectively and make strong academic and language progress. The role contributes directly to the school’s inclusive education provision and aligns with expectations outlined in the UAE School Inspection Framework, ensuring students are supported academically, socially, and linguistically.

Key Responsibilities

1. Teaching & Learning

• Plan and deliver high-quality EAL instruction that supports students’ acquisition of English in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
• Provide targeted EAL support through in-class support, small-group teaching, and withdrawal sessions where appropriate.
• Work collaboratively with class and subject teachers to embed language development strategies across the curriculum.
• Differentiate learning materials and teaching approaches to ensure EAL learners can fully access the British National Curriculum.
• Support students’ social and cultural integration within the school community.
• Promote high expectations for achievement and independence among EAL learners.

2. Assessment, Monitoring & Progress

• Assess students’ English language proficiency using appropriate EAL assessment tools and frameworks.
• Identify language support needs and track progress over time.
• Develop, implement, and review Individual Language Support Plans (ILSPs) or equivalent documentation.
• Maintain accurate records of interventions, progress, and outcomes for inspection and internal review.
• Use assessment data to inform teaching strategies and demonstrate measurable impact, as required by UAE inspection frameworks.

3. Collaboration & Whole School Practice

• Work closely with the EAL Coordinator / SENCO / Inclusion Team to support inclusive practice across the school.
• Advise and support teaching staff on effective EAL strategies, scaffolding techniques, and languagerich classroom environments.
• Contribute to professional development by sharing best practice in EAL and inclusive teaching.
• Liaise with external professionals where required to support student language development.

4. Parent & Community Engagement

• Communicate effectively with parents regarding students’ language development and progress.
• Provide guidance to parents on how to support English language learning at home.
• Participate in parent meetings, reviews, and reporting processes as required.

5. Inclusion, Wellbeing & Safeguarding

• Promote a positive, inclusive learning environment where linguistic and cultural diversity is valued.
• Support students’ emotional wellbeing and confidence as they develop English language proficiency.
• Ensure all practice complies with the school’s safeguarding, child protection, and wellbeing policies.
• Actively contribute to the school’s inclusive education vision in line with UAE policies.

Inspection & Quality Assurance Expectations

In line with the UAE School Inspection Framework, the EAL Teacher will:

• Provide clear evidence of progress for EAL learners through data, work samples, and intervention records.
• Demonstrate effective strategies that enable EAL students to achieve in line with their peers.
• Contribute to positive inspection judgements related to:
  • Teaching and learning
  • Inclusion and support
  • Student achievement and wellbeing
• Engage in reflective practice and continuous improvement to enhance EAL provision.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, English, Linguistics, or a related field.
• Recognised teaching qualification (e.g. PGCE, QTS, or equivalent).
• Experience teaching EAL students, preferably within a British curriculum setting.
• Strong understanding of differentiation, scaffolding, and inclusive teaching strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Desirable

• TESOL / TEFL / CELTA or equivalent EAL-specific qualification.
• Experience working in an international or UAE school setting.
• Familiarity with KHDA/ADEK/ SPEA inspection expectations and inclusive education policies.

Personal Attributes

• Student-centred and culturally sensitive
• Collaborative and reflective practitioner
• Organised with strong planning and record-keeping skills
• Committed to inclusion, equity, and continuous professional development

Please note that this is illustrative of the general nature and level of responsibility of the role. It is not a comprehensive list of all tasks that the teacher will carry out. The postholder may be required to do other duties appropriate to the level of the role, as directed by the headteacher or line manager.