Skip to main content

Cliona McMenamin

Head of Careers and Teacher of Mathematics

Cliona McMenamin is a highly experienced careers and university guidance professional with over 20 years in education. Currently leading the careers programme at Dubai College, an academically selective secondary school in the UAE, she combines deep knowledge of career development theory with practical leadership experience across both the UK and international settings. Cliona began her career as a Mathematics teacher and has held a range of leadership roles, including Head of Sixth Form, where she supported hundreds of students through academic, personal, and post-18 decision-making. She holds an MA in Education and brings a strong foundation in curriculum design, student guidance, and school improvement. Her approach to careers education is rooted in educating the whole child, developing not just academic ability, but also the adaptability, resilience, and confidence needed to thrive in a fast-paced world. Through innovative events, strong community partnerships, and one-to-one guidance, she empowers students to explore opportunities, reflect on their strengths, and take ownership of their futures. As a Registered Career Development Professional (RCDP) with the Career Development Institute, as well as a British Council UK Certified Counsellor and Times Higher Education Certified Counsellor, Cliona is committed to professional excellence. She regularly shares insights through her LinkedIn newsletter, Pathways to Success, and leads with purpose, vision, and impact.

Cliona McMenamin's links

Recent articles from Cliona McMenamin

  1. New Article

    Supporting Neurodivergent Teens: A Fresh Approach to Career Guidance

    Head of Careers and Teacher of Mathematics, Cliona McMenamin delves into the importance of accessible, personalised career guidance for neurodivergent teens.

    • Continued Professional Development,
    • Teaching Theory, Practice & Implementation,
    • Wellbeing in Schools,
    • Work Skills & Global Citizenship
    Read article 5 minute read
    Cliona McMenamin

  2. Considering Career Choices: Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

    Cliona McMenamin reflects on how evolving work models—remote, hybrid, and on-site—impact career choices, flexibility, and work-life balance.

    • Continued Professional Development,
    • University Guidance & Careers Counselling,
    • Wellbeing in Schools,
    • Work Skills & Global Citizenship
    Read article 5 minute read
    Cliona McMenamin

  3. Setting Up a Comprehensive Careers Programme in Your School: Integrating the Gatsby Benchmarks

    Cliona McMenamin delves into building a comprehensive careers programme by integrating the Gatsby Benchmarks, emphasising leadership support, curriculum integration, and dedicated student guidance to enhance career readiness and student outcomes.

    • Alumni Engagement,
    • Continued Professional Development,
    • Curriculum & Assessment,
    • Leadership Coaching,
    • Research in Education,
    • Safeguarding,
    • School Culture & Community Engagement,
    • School Leadership,
    • Teaching Theory, Practice & Implementation,
    • University Guidance & Careers Counselling,
    • Wellbeing in Schools,
    • Work Skills & Global Citizenship
    Read article 8 minute read
    Cliona McMenamin

  4. The Role of Work Experience in Career Discovery: A Guide for Students and Counsellors

    Cliona McMenamin focuses on the true purpose of work experience, highlighting its role in skill development, career discovery, and the importance of career counsellors guiding students in their self-exploration.

    • Continued Professional Development,
    • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice,
    • Leadership Coaching,
    • Safeguarding,
    • School Culture & Community Engagement,
    • School Leadership,
    • Teaching Theory, Practice & Implementation,
    • Wellbeing in Schools,
    • Work Skills & Global Citizenship
    Read article 5 minute read
    Cliona McMenamin

  5. The Vital Role of Career Guidance in Schools

    In this article, Head of Careers and Teacher of Mathematics, Cliona McMenamin, outlines the importance of effective career guidance for a student's sense of purpose and overall well-being.

    • Curriculum & Assessment,
    • University Guidance & Careers Counselling,
    • Wellbeing in Schools,
    • Work Skills & Global Citizenship
    Read article 3 minute read
    Cliona McMenamin

Cliona McMenamin's recent questions

No questions to display.