SEN Educational Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Established in 1949, UNRWA's mission is to provide assistance and protection for Palestine refugees in the Middle East. The agency operates in five areas: Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. UNRWA employs approximately 30,000 staff members, primarily in education, health, and social services, and aims to promote the rights and well-being of Palestine refugees through various programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The SEN Educational Specialist position is focused on providing specialized support to students with special educational needs (SEN) within the educational framework of UNRWA. The role involves working closely with school principals, teachers, and support teams to assess and identify students facing various challenges, including social, emotional, behavioral, and learning difficulties. The specialist will guide the development of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and ensure that educational accommodations are in place to enhance the learning experiences of these students. The position also requires active participation in the implementation of UNRWA's Inclusive Education Policy, contributing to training sessions, and collaborating with various stakeholders to promote inclusive education practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The SEN Educational Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: providing direct assistance to school staff in assessing and identifying students with special needs; facilitating the referral process for students requiring additional support; contributing to the implementation of inclusive education policies; participating in training sessions for educators; developing materials for awareness sessions on disability and inclusive education; supporting the delivery of training for education support staff; providing direct learning support to students; designing and developing educational plans based on assessed needs; preparing monthly visit plans for schools; assessing teachers' needs for professional development; coordinating with various educational and health professionals; disseminating best practices in SEN education; collecting and tracking data on SEN students; and preparing reports on student progress. The role may also involve additional duties as assigned by the Education Programme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in special education or a related field recognized by UNRWA, along with a higher diploma in special education or educational psychology. A minimum of three years of experience in special education mainstreaming, as well as psychosocial or counseling experience in an educational context, preferably at the school level, is required. The role demands a strong understanding of inclusive education practices and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders in the educational environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree from a recognized institution in special education or a related field, complemented by a higher diploma in special education or educational psychology. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of special educational needs and implementing effective strategies to support students.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in special education, particularly in mainstreaming practices. Experience in psychosocial support or counseling within an educational context is also essential, with a preference for candidates who have worked directly in school settings. This experience will enable the specialist to effectively address the diverse needs of students with special educational needs.

Languages:
Candidates must have an excellent command of both written and spoken English and Arabic. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication with students, parents, and educational staff, as well as for the development of educational materials and reports.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for a duration of 10.5 months, with a total remuneration of USD 15,876 for the contract period. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Additionally, the organization does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.