A Culture of Belonging
Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) supports UAE schools to achieve true, sustainable inclusive practice. Through its trusted framework for whole-school development and the International Inclusive School Award journey, IQM provides direction, consistency and confidence. With established UAE support hubs, IQM ensures inclusion and wellbeing remain at the heart of education across the Middle East.
Who is IQM?
For more than 20 years, IQM has guided schools along their inclusive education journey, using its recognised evaluative framework to help them review practice, strengthen teacher development, and embed whole-school inclusion. Through targeted training, policy support and on-the-ground expertise, IQM empowers UAE school leaders to achieve their ambitious goals for inclusive education.
With established roots in the UK, Ireland and the UAE, IQM is trusted by over 6,500 schools across 20 countries as a global authority in inclusion. Its motto, Supporting Inclusive Practices, Increasing Life Chances, aligns with the UAE Vision 2030 goal to create supportive and accessible learning environments for all students. This shared commitment is reflected in the IQM International Inclusive School Award, which recognises schools that embed inclusion, wellbeing and belonging throughout school life. Those achieving Centre of Excellence status continue their journey through IQM’s collaborative Cluster Groups, connecting with the wider IQM family of schools to share best practice, insight and innovation across the region.
“Inclusion is not an initiative. It is a culture of belonging lived every day. The UAE has shown that inclusion isn’t just possible, it’s powerful. Schools here are proving that when belonging thrives, excellence follows.” – IQM CEO, Joe McCan
IQM’s CEO, Joe McCann, is a familiar face to school leaders across the UAE. Working alongside the established UAE-based IQM assessors and support team, Joe plays an active role in helping schools strengthen their inclusive practice. His expertise and encouragement make him a trusted guide for schools on their journey toward lasting inclusion.
Often seen at education conferences across the Emirates, Joe shares insight on building a culture of belonging and empowering teachers to lead inclusive change. His continued involvement reflects IQM’s deep and growing commitment to the UAE, not just as an accreditation provider, but as a genuine partner in creating schools where every student, teacher and family feels part of the IQM family of schools.
Regional Commitment to Inclusion
Inclusive education is central to the UAE Vision 2030 commitment to create supportive and accessible learning environments for all students. The benefits extend beyond academics, building stronger connections between learners, families and schools while nurturing a sense of belonging and wellbeing that lasts far beyond the classroom.
Students
Inclusive classrooms empower every learner, including Students of Determination, to feel seen, supported and valued. When wellbeing and belonging guide daily practice, students gain confidence, celebrate their individuality and develop the skills to thrive in a diverse world.
Families
For families, inclusion brings reassurance and trust. Parents feel heard and understood not only by inclusion teams, but by the entire school community. Collaborative planning and open communication ensure that families are partners in their child’s growth and achievement.
Schools
Across the UAE, schools are shaping inclusive environments in sustainable and forward-thinking ways, supported by the expertise of IQM and the International Inclusive School Award journey. Through ongoing development and collaboration, schools are meeting diverse needs, promoting positive attitudes to inclusion and strengthening early support for families.
By investing in their teachers and building confident leadership, schools are not only retaining top talent but securing long-term direction for inclusive education. These collective efforts reflect the UAE Vision 2030 goal of a quality education for every learner and a future where inclusion, belonging and wellbeing remain the heart of school life.
Celebrating Inclusive Excellence
“When a school embraces inclusion, the ripple reaches far beyond its gates – to families, communities, and the wider education system. IQM helps to make inclusive practice the foundation of excellence.” – IQM CEO, Joe McCan
The recent IQM International Awards Ceremony honoured schools from the UAE and neighbouring countries for their exceptional commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and belonging. Each award reflected the teamwork, professional growth and determination needed to build environments where every student can thrive.
For educators and leaders, the moment was more than recognition, it was a celebration of shared purpose. Members of the IQM family of schools stood together, united by a belief that inclusion strengthens not only their schools, but their communities. Through collaboration and collective effort, they are redefining what inclusive education looks like across the Middle East.
Interested in learning more about IQM in the UAE?
For more information, visit the website below.