BIS
ABU DHABI
BIS Abu Dhabi Term 2 Principal's Welcome
Term 2 at BIS Abu Dhabi has been a wonderful reflection of the strength of our community, how we come together, support one another, and create the conditions in which every student can thrive. Throughout the term, I have seen students engage with curiosity and purpose, embracing experiences that help them grow academically, personally, and socially.
Across the school, students participated in rich and varied learning opportunities. Year 2 brought colour and creativity to their Carnival Day; Year 4 deepened their global understanding through their “Taste of China” experience; and Year 8 demonstrated inventive thinking through their Passive Amplifier project in science. Trips, workshops, and community events, from the Year 12 Geography field trip to Ramadan assemblies and an unforgettable Community Day, have enriched daily learning with greater depth, connection, and meaningful engagement.
Wellbeing has remained a defining thread of our school culture, and I am incredibly proud that BIS Abu Dhabi received the MENA Award for Student Wellbeing this year. This recognition reflects what we live every day. Wellbeing is embedded in everything we do as a school, shaping how we support, guide, and connect with our students. It aligns closely with our commitment to redefine our students’ success for a changing world. When students feel safe, valued, and confident,
they are better equipped to take intellectual risks, explore new ideas, and achieve at the highest level. Academic achievement and wellbeing are not separate; they flourish together.
This term also brought wonderful moments in sport and the arts, with students representing BIS Abu Dhabi at the BSME and NAE Middle East Games, showcasing creativity at the Senior Music Recital and Primary Open Mic, and embracing opportunities across our Sports Days. These experiences continue to enrich our students’ school journey in meaningful ways.
As the term concluded during a period of regional uncertainty, I want to express my appreciation for the resilience and togetherness shown across our community. In moments of challenge, the strength of our connections becomes even more evident, and this term has highlighted that profoundly.
Thank you to our students, families, and staff for contributing to a term defined by learning, care, and community. I look forward to the many opportunities ahead in the coming months.
Alan Cocker Principal
UKMT
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Investing in Teachers, Enriching Student Learning
Inside our whole school approach to professional growth
In many schools, professional learning happens in short bursts: a training day here, a workshop there. Our approach is different. Teacher development is woven into school life so that adult learning continually strengthens student learning.
When teachers grow, classrooms change. Lessons become more thoughtful, questioning becomes deeper, and students think more independently. That is why professional learning is designed not as an occasional event, but as an ongoing part of teaching itself.
Structures That Sustain Learning
Regular Professional Learning Mondays (PLM) give staff protected time to learn together. Teachers engage in workshops, collaborative planning, and professional discussions linked to our teaching and learning priorities.
Because these sessions connect closely to practice, the impact is immediate: teachers often try new ideas the next day, refining lessons so students experience clearer explanations, stronger questioning, and more engaging learning.
Coaching conversations also play a key role. These supportive discussions allow teachers to reflect on their practice, explore new approaches, and think through challenges. One teacher shared:
“The weekly coaching conversations help me refine my practice in real time. It’s made a huge difference to how I design and adapt learning for my students.” - Mark Green, Year 3 teacher
Evidence-Informed and Globally Connected
Our professional learning draws on leading educational research, including the Great Teaching Toolkit and Harvard Project Zero thinking routines, with teachers applying these approaches directly in classrooms.
For example, Year 5 used thinking routines to help students explain their reasoning when solving problems. Instead of giving an answer, students described how they reached their conclusions, strengthening understanding and confidence.
Teachers also benefit from being part of the Nord Anglia Education global network. Through Nord Anglia University courses and leadership programmes, educators connect worldwide, sharing ideas and bringing new insights into classrooms.
Autonomy, Collaboration, and Collective Growth
Alongside whole‑school learning, teachers choose from a broad menu aligned to their interests and career goals. Collaboration is central to our culture: teachers observe one another’s lessons, plan together, and share ideas across phases and subjects. Distributed leadership strengthens expertise across teams and supports colleagues in developing their practice.
Extending Impact Beyond School Walls
The annual Abu Dhabi Teacher Conference, designed by teachers for teachers, provides professional learning across the emirate. With world‑class speakers and local practitioners, including many of our own teachers who share their expertise, it reflects our commitment to collaboration and professional growth beyond our campus.
Learning as a Way of Life
When professional learning is continuous, collaborative, and connected to practice, the impact is powerful. Teachers become more reflective and confident, innovation spreads, and students benefit from lessons that are carefully designed and regularly refined.
By investing in teachers, we invest in students, ensuring learning continues to evolve and improve every day.
Trips with Purpose: How Experiences Strengthen Student Wellbeing
Experiences that build confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging
Some of the most meaningful learning happens far beyond classroom walls. Whether students are exploring Abu Dhabi on the Year 1 Big Bus Tour, discovering heritage at Qasr Al Watan, investigating coastal environments in Ras Al Khaimah, or travelling overseas with Nord Anglia schools, these experiences play a powerful role in supporting student wellbeing.
When students learn in new places, they grow in confidence and independence. They navigate challenges together, strengthen friendships, and feel a greater sense of belonging within their year group. These moments help students understand themselves better: how they respond to unfamiliar situations, what sparks their curiosity, and what they are capable of achieving.
Local trips connect students to the UAE and deepen pride in community, culture, and heritage. Visits to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Cultural Foundation, Yas Creative Hub, and sustainability sites around the country offer an authentic sense of place and identity. Students see the nation they live in through fresh eyes, developing appreciation and connection that directly supports emotional wellbeing.
Overseas opportunities provide something equally special. Travelling together, experiencing different cultures, and stepping outside familiar routines help students develop resilience, curiosity, and openmindedness. These shared experiences create memories that last, and many students return with renewed confidence and a broader perspective on the world.
“Going on trips helped me realise I can do more than I thought. Trying new things with my friends made me feel more confident.” - Year 6 student
Across Primary and Secondary, these experiences share one purpose: helping young people feel connected, supported, and ready to grow. By offering opportunities that bring learning to life, we nurture students who are not only successful academically, but also grounded, confident, and emotionally well.
Because learning beyond the classroom is not simply enrichment, it is an essential part of helping every student flourish.
We are proud to share that BIS Abu Dhabi won the 2026 MENA Award for Student Wellbeing! Wellbeing is at the centre of daily life in our school. It is present in every lesson, conversation, and interaction.
The judges praised our You Said, We Did approach, the many opportunities we offer students to discover their strengths, and the way our community works together to ensure every child feels supported and valued. This recognition reinforces a belief we see every day: when students feel safe, understood, and connected, they are better able to engage in learning, grow in confidence, and succeed academically.
Year 2 Carnival Day
At the start of Term 2, Year 2 transformed into a vibrant sea of colour and rainforest animals, and the children welcomed their families to join them for Carnival Day, celebrating Term 1’s learning.
The event began with an incredible musical performance by the children, setting the tone for an exciting and joyful celebration. Families were then invited into the classrooms to explore the amazing work Year 2 had been doing throughout the term. The children proudly shared their impressive Non Chronological Reports about their chosen rainforest animals, showcasing their knowledge and hard work. Afterwards, parents and children worked together crafting mosaic clay tiles.
The day was a fantastic blend of learning, creativity, and family involvement, bringing the rainforest theme to life in a truly memorable way.
Inspiring Guest Speaker Sessions
This term, our students enjoyed two exciting guest speaker sessions.
Representatives from the University of Waterloo, Canada, delivered a dynamic math workshop for select Year 11 and 12 students. Professor Jeff Anderson, from the University’s Centre for Education in Maths and Computing (CEMC), led an interactive session with challenging Maths problems, while Ms. Dhriti Guliani shared insights into undergraduate opportunities within the world’s largest Maths and Computing Faculty.
Professor Hamad Karki from Khalifa University engaged Year 12 and 13 students in a session on engineering pathways and real world applications, including the RoboCup Olympics.Students actively participated in the discussion and Q&A, gaining valuable insight into engineering study and careers.
The sessions provided our students with inspiring experiences, encouraging them to explore future study and career opportunities in Mathematics and Engineering.
Year 6 Heart Dissection Experience
Our Year 6 students took part in a hands‑on heart dissection as part of their transition programme, exploring real heart anatomy in the Secondary science department. Students identified key structures linked to circulation and engaged in thoughtful scientific discussion, bringing learning to life through curiosity and careful observation. Whether they approached the activity with excitement or a little initial caution, the practical experience made science truly memorable and may well spark a lasting curiosity as they begin their Secondary journey!
IGCSE & BTEC Level 2 Options Evening
This term, we hosted our IGCSE and BTEC Level 2 Options Evening for current and prospective Year 9 students and their parents. This event marked the beginning of an important process where students explore and decide on their future educational and career pathways.
The evening began with a presentation by Mr. Grant and Mr. Latif, outlining the students' four year journey through the IGCSEs, and BTEC or IB Diploma pathway. The presentation covered key details including compulsory and optional subjects, the support available for students and families, and the timeline for the options process.
Families then toured our interactive subject stations upstairs. They had the opportunity to review current student work, explore the curriculum, attend a BTEC workshop, and engage with teachers and current students to learn more about course content and potential career pathways. We hope this event gave our Year 9 students the guidance they need to make well‑informed subject choices.
IMG Academy Mindset Coaching
We welcomed specialists from IMG Academy for two days of leadership and mindset workshops as part of the Nord Anglia Education × IMG collaboration. Students, staff, and parents explored confidence, resilience, communication, and wellbeing, building high performance habits for success in school and beyond. This visit marks the beginning of an exciting partnership, with many opportunities planned for our students to further access IMG programmes, workshops, and support in the future.
Year 7 Subject Fair
This term, our fantastic Year 7 students welcomed Year 6 for their introduction to Secondary, hosting a vibrant Subject Fair that gave them a glimpse into the exciting learning opportunities awaiting them next year.
From exploring different subjects to asking questions and hearing first hand experiences, it was wonderful to see curiosity, confidence and enthusiasm growing. A brilliant example of student leadership and a fantastic first step on our Year 6 students’ Secondary journey!
Breakfast with the Principal & Head of Primary
We were delighted to celebrate the incredible achievements of our Primary students during our Celebration Assemblies last term. Students with exceptional BISAD Diploma submissions, along with the winners of the BISAD Values and Attitude to Learning Award, received a Golden Ticket to enjoy Breakfast with the Principal and Head of Primary. They enjoyed a healthy meal, chose a prize, and had a lovely chat with Mr. Cocker and Mr. Dibdin, who congratulated each of them on their achievements.
Year 8 Passive Amplifier DT Project
In Year 8 Design & Technology, students have been busy designing and manufacturing their own passive phone amplifiers, devices that increase sound volume entirely without electricity. Through this hands‑on project, students deepened their understanding of material properties while developing a wide range of practical skills, including laser cutting, vacuum forming, plastic bending, and traditional woodworking.
A key element of the project was its focus on sustainability. Because passive amplifiers operate without power or batteries, students explored how thoughtful design can reduce energy consumption and contribute to more environmentally responsible living. This emphasis aligns with the UAE Vision 2031, which encourages innovation, creativity, and sustainable solutions for future generations.
The project not only strengthened technical skills, but also inspired students to think critically about how design can shape a greener, more efficient future.
A Taste of China for Year 4
Our Year 4 students enjoyed a vibrant and enriching celebration of Chinese New Year, supported by families in our school community who generously contributed to making the day truly special.
The festivities began with a unique fine‑dining experience where students explored traditional flavours, table etiquette, and the cultural significance of sharing food. This was followed by an elegant tea ceremony, offering a moment of calm reflection and highlighting the values of respect, patience, and mindfulness.
Throughout the day, students immersed themselves in hands‑on creative activities. They designed and crafted shadow puppets before bringing them to life through imaginative storytelling, learning how art and narrative intertwine in Chinese traditions. Movement and teamwork took centre stage in lively scarf dances, Tianzi activities, and a spirited chopstick competition that filled the room with excitement and plenty of laughter.
The celebration provided students with lasting insights into Chinese culture and traditions, deepening their global understanding and making the day both joyful and educational.
Celebrating Student Excellence
SWIMMING ACHIEVEMENTS
Aleksei, Year 9
EXCEPTIONAL CAMBRIDGE IGCSE RESULTS
Aanya, Year 12
ACHIEVEMENTS IN DIVING AND COMMITMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENT
Haneen, Year 7
BRILLIANT HOSTS ON COMMUNITY DAY
Danny and Maria, Year 5
ACHIEVEMENTS IN BISAD DIPLOMA
Selim, Year 6
ACHIEVEMENT IN THE GLOBAL PROBLEM SOLVING EXPERIMENT
Ahaan, Year 7
2ND PLACE GULF MUSICIAN IDOL COMPETITION
Urja, Year 6
ACHIEVEMENT IN THE TRI YAS SPRINT TRIATHLON, 1ST IN HIS AGE CATEGORY
Cian, Year 11
DofE Achievements Across All Levels
This year marks a significant milestone for The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award at BIS Abu Dhabi, as we proudly celebrated our first ever cohort of students completing the Award at Gold level. Seven exceptional students, Abigail, Alex, Christina, Estelle, Lam, Haya, and Leyla, were honoured at a ceremony hosted at the British Embassy in Dubai, where they received their Gold Awards from Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh.
Their achievement represents years of dedication, resilience, and service, and this inaugural Gold cohort has paved the way for future participants while creating a lasting legacy at BIS Abu Dhabi.
Building on this momentum, our Bronze and Silver participants completed their qualifying journeys this term, developing navigation, teamwork and outdoor survival skills in real expedition conditions. Meanwhile, our second Gold cohort undertook their Practice Journey, pushing themselves further in preparation for their final Adventurous Journey later this year.
It has been an inspiring year of growth, personal development, and achievement across all levels of the Award, and we congratulate all of our students for their outstanding commitment.
Minds Matter Mental Health Expo
This year’s Mental Health Exhibition, Minds Matter, has grown from a simple awareness event into a powerful platform for student voice, reflection, and meaningful dialogue. With approximately 250 students participating, the exhibition showcased empathy, courage, and a strong commitment to wellbeing across our school community.
In Primary (Years 5 and 6), students explored topics such as cyberbullying, ADHD, growth versus fixed mindset, social media use and screen time, healthy eating, sleep, and exercise, communicating these complex ideas with clarity and compassion.
In Secondary, the focus deepened to include topics such as body image, bullying and cyberbullying, substance misuse, vaping, PTSD, autism, grief and loss, self‑care, anxiety and grounding techniques, eating disorders, personality disorders, and the link between sport, sleep and mental health. Presentations reflected careful research and a mature understanding of the challenges young people face today.
Beyond the displays, the student work continued to spark conversations that reduce stigma, build empathy, and encourage help‑seeking behaviours, strengthening a culture where wellbeing is visible, valued and supported at our school. We are proud of our students for leading these important conversations and for helping shape a community where mental health is understood and championed.
Nursery Petting Zoo
This term, our Nursery students have been learning all about the amazing world of animals. To enrich their learning, we welcomed a Petting Zoo to school, complete with a wonderful collection of creatures for the children to meet. Our young learners were thrilled to hold, touch and feed a variety of animals, including snakes, iguanas, parrots, a goat, rabbits, ducks, tortoises and more. Back in the classroom, the discussion continued as the children discussed the unique textures of skin, feathers and fur, and the differences between all the animals. It was a memorable, sensory rich experience that brought their animal learning to life.
Year 11 Geography Trip
This term, our Year 11 Geography students embarked on an enriching two day field trip to Ras Al Khaimah, bringing classroom learning to life.
They conducted rivers fieldwork in the wadi, collecting primary data, applying fieldwork techniques, and deepening their understanding of river processes. The trip continued with coastal studies at Al Hamriyah Beach and Al Raffi Mangroves, where students explored contrasting coastal processes, ecosystems, and human impact.
Students described the experience as both challenging and rewarding, gaining confidence in applying real world geographical skills while enjoying the stunning natural landscapes of the UAE.
Year 7 Al Ain Adventure
Year 7 enjoyed a truly memorable trip to Al Ain, packed with adventure and excitement! From bodyboarding and rafting to ducking and swimming, our students approached every activity with energy, enthusiasm, and plenty of unforgettable “OGGY OGGY OGGY!” moments.
For many students, it was their first experience of being away from home independently, helping them build resilience, confidence, and independence. Friendships also strengthened as students bonded through shared challenges, teamwork, and laughter.
We are incredibly proud of Year 7 for representing our school with respect, positivity, and support.
Wings of Wonder Challenge
A selection of our Engineering Society students joined the BIS Abu Dhabi Wings team and took part in the final stages of the Wings of Wonder Challenge hosted by Etihad Engineering. This fantastic opportunity allowed students to engage with real‑world engineering, innovation, and industry professionals, gaining insight into the processes behind aircraft design and testing.
Throughout the competition, the team demonstrated excellent teamwork, problem‑solving, and technical understanding as they moved from initial concepts through to the final flight execution. Although they did not secure a podium finish, the experience, confidence, and learning gained made the event a remarkable success.
Year 8 & Year 13 Qasr Al Watan Trip
Our ‘UAE Leaders’ from Year 8 and Year 13 enjoyed an inspiring educational visit to Qasr Al Watan. Their day included a guided tour of the palace’s remarkable architecture and construction journey, along with visits to the Arabic calligraphy and creative writing exhibitions. Students also explored the Qasr Al Watan Library, deepening their understanding of the UAE’s heritage and strengthening their connection to national identity.
The visit supported their learning by encouraging them to be curious in exploring the palace’s history, critical in analysing its cultural and architectural significance, and creative as they engaged with calligraphy and expressive writing.
This enriching experience enhanced their cultural awareness and reinforced the skills that will continue to shape their journey as informed, reflective young leaders.
Year 6 trip to Circuit X
Our Year 6 students enjoyed an unforgettable adventure at Circuit X on Hudayriat Island this term. They showed incredible bravery and teamwork during their action packed day, taking on high ropes and team building challenges with enthusiasm and determination.
The fun continued back at school with an evening BBQ and an exciting team challenge, where students earned keys by completing tasks ranging from basketball hoop shooting to crossing “shark infested waters” using hula hoops.
Our students were wonderfully behaved and threw themselves into every activity with such a positive attitude. The Tear 6 teachers could not be prouder!
German Language & Cultural Experience
42 German language students from Years 10 to 13 attended the Day of the German Language at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi. The programme included interactive language and cultural workshops, German food tasting, and a German film screening. Students were also warmly welcomed by the Austrian Ambassador and enjoyed a waltz performance by students from the German School.
The experience offered valuable opportunities for students to deepen their language skills, broaden their cultural awareness, and represent BIS Abu Dhabi with pride.
Year 12 Geography Field Trip to Bur Dubai
Our Year 12 Geography Group 1 students stepped back in time on their field trip to Bur Dubai, exploring the traditional souks and historic waterfront. As part of their Internal Assessment on shopping habits, they gathered primary data using questionnaires, sampling techniques, and land‑use mapping. Crossing the Creek on the iconic abra boats, students experienced the UAE’s cultural heritage while collecting the information they need for their 2,500‑word assessments. The trip offered valuable real‑world insight into urban land use and retail patterns, bringing their classroom learning to life.
UKMT Intermediate Maths Challenge
Nearly 130 students from Years 9, 10, and 11 took part in the UKMT Intermediate Challenge at the end of January, applying their mathematical skills to a range of creative problem‑solving questions. We’re proud to share that 62% of participants earned certificates, an outstanding achievement. Among these, 32 received Bronze, 25 earned Silver, and 23 achieved Gold.
Congratulations to our top scorers: Asher (Year 9), Sanghyun (Year 10), Raheel (Year 11).
A special commendation goes to Sanghyun (Year 10), Raheel (Year 11) and Adithya (Year 11), who have been invited to the prestigious follow‑on Olympiad rounds. We are incredibly proud of all students who took part in this year’s challenge!
Manchester City Healthy Schools Programme
Students from FS2 to Year 4 took part in a three‑week series of specialist sessions that combined classroom learning with active skill development.
In the classroom, students explored what makes a healthy lifestyle, looking at nutrition, hydration, sleep, and the importance of regular exercise. In the practical sessions, they developed agility, coordination, and a range of football skills through engaging games and activities, with a clear focus on ball handling and control.
These sessions formed part of a structured school's programme led by qualified coaches, designed to develop fundamental skills while encouraging students to stay active and make healthy choices.
Year 12 Biology & ESS Field Trip
Year 12 Biology and ESS students joined Ecoventure for a field trip exploring two contrasting UAE ecosystems.
At Cameron’s Reef in Fujairah, they investigated marine life on the rocky shore, followed by two days studying mangrove habitats. Students measured biodiversity, compared abiotic factors to assess urbanisation and pollution, and used fieldwork techniques such as interrupted systematic sampling and the break‑in‑slope method.
The trip strengthened their understanding of ecology, conservation, and environmental stewardship while deepening their appreciation of the UAE’s natural heritage in line with the UAE National Identity Framework and Vision 2031.
Teach Rex Inspires Curiosity & Creativity
Year 3 had an exciting day at school when Teach Rex came to visit. The children were captivated by Jam, a life sized T‑Rex, who helped bring their learning to life. The workshop reinforced their understanding of fossils, teaching them the science behind how fossils are formed and how our knowledge of dinosaurs has evolved thanks to paleontologists’ discoveries. They also explored how animals are classified based on their diet, deepening their understanding of the animal kingdom.
The children used similes, expanded noun phrases, and adverbs to describe Jam, strengthening the writing skills they had been practising in class. Additionally, they had great fun integrating ICT into their learning through a green screen activity, adding a digital twist to their creative work.
Falcon Journal of Emerging Scholars
The British International School Abu Dhabi was proud to host the launch of the Falcon Journal for Emerging Scholars, a new platform empowering Secondary students across the UAE to publish their academic research.
The journal invites students from any discipline to submit original work for review, giving young thinkers a space to share ideas, build academic confidence, and strengthen their future profiles.
The launch featured masterclasses in academic writing and research delivered by Dr. Lindsay McDowell, Dr. Nadia Rajab, and Dr. Asmaa Abu Obaid, offering students valuable insight into the publication process.
To learn more or explore submission guidelines, visit fjesjournal.com. Thank you to our speakers and staff for supporting this inspiring initiative.
Model United Nations (MUN) Trip
This term, our students had the opportunity to take part in the MUN conference hosted by The British School Al Khubairat, where two of our delegates, Omer and Vihaan (Y10), represented BIS Abu Dhabi with remarkable maturity, confidence, and engagement.
Both students participated actively in the debates, demonstrating strong analytical skills and thoughtful contributions throughout the sessions.
We would also like to extend our warmest congratulations to Vihaan for receiving the Best Delegate award, a well‑deserved recognition of his leadership, preparation, and outstanding performance during the conference.
We are extremely proud of how both students embodied the values of our school during this event.
Year 7-13 Awards Breakfast Celebration
The Secondary School was delighted to welcome Forms 7F, 8H, 9D, 10D, 11C, 12E and 13B together for a special Awards Breakfast, celebrating their outstanding achievements and positive contributions as form communities.
Each of these forms was selected for this celebration because they earned the most Brilliance Cards in their year group, a recognition of their hard work, teamwork, positive attitudes, and genuine support for one another throughout the term. Their collective commitment to excellence and their positive influence within their year groups truly set them apart.
As part of the school’s ongoing commitment to healthy eating, students enjoyed a colourful selection of fresh fruit platters, a healthy and energising start to the day. They also had time to socialise, connect, and celebrate their collective success in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. Well done to all students involved.
Embracing Ramadan Traditions & Acts of Giving
As we prepared for Ramadan, our students led special assemblies celebrating Haq Al Laila and the traditions of the holy month, including a student‑led play that brought these customs to life.
During Ramadan, our community embraced the spirit of giving through the 30‑Day Ramadan Service Challenge, the Waqf donation campaign “Erth Zayed Al Khairi,” and the clothing drive “Kiswat Eidna” in collaboration with the Red Crescent.
Together, these initiatives reflected our shared values of compassion, generosity, and unity.
Community Primary Parent Digital Strategy Forum
We held our first Primary Parent Forum this term. The session focused on our Digital Strategy and provided a wonderful opportunity to gather parent voice as we work to create a clear and purposeful approach to digital learning. The feedback gathered will now be carefully reviewed and used to inform manageable, meaningful actions in partnership with our digital strategy team.
Thank you to all parents who attended, and we look forward to continuing this collaboration as we develop a shared Digital Charter to support our children both in school and at home.
Parent Out & About Art and Breakfast
In January, our Parent Community Group Committee hosted a delightful Parent Out & About Art and Breakfast morning. Parents came together to enjoy a relaxed start to the day, sharing a lovely breakfast while taking in a beautiful view that created the perfect setting for creativity.
The atmosphere was warm, friendly and filled with wonderful energy as parents crafted their own art pieces and connected with one another in a welcoming environment. It was a meaningful and uplifting community moment that highlighted the value of bringing parents together for shared experiences and celebrated the strong, supportive spirit of the BIS Abu Dhabi community.
Al-Isra and Al-Mi‘raj Parent Lecture
Our Arabic‑speaking parents came together this term for a special Al‑Isra and Al‑Mi‘raj lecture led by Dr. Abdulraheem, offering a meaningful opportunity for reflection and shared learning. The session explored the timeless values that were highlighted through this important event, such as finding strength during moments of challenge, showing compassion to others, and appreciating the message of unity and respect that connects people across different cultures and beliefs.
It was a truly inspiring evening, bringing our community together to reflect on themes of resilience, kindness and hope, values we encourage our students to embrace every day.
Family Fun Run & Community BBQ
To kick off Term 2, our BIS Abu Dhabi community came together for the Family Fun Run & Community BBQ, an afternoon of laughter, activity, and connection. The event proudly reflected our commitment to the UAE’s Year of the Family 2026, celebrating shared experiences and strong family bonds.
Families enjoyed the Fun Run, while older students and keen runners took on the 5 km Sport Fanatics Challenge. Every participant received a certificate, with the 5K Winner’s Trophy going to Adam (Year 8) and the Best Fancy Dress Award to the Fogel Family, who turned themselves into the Hungry Caterpillar!
After the races, families and staff relaxed over a delicious community BBQ, making it a wonderful afternoon full of warmth, energy, and belonging.
Community Parent Healthy Eating Workshop
We were delighted to welcome parents to a Parent Coffee Morning and Healthy Eating Workshop this term.
After a warm welcome and update by the Parent Community Group Committee, Principal Mr. Alan Cocker introduced our updated School Food and Nutrition Policy and explained how it is being implemented across the school. The session continued with an engaging and practical workshop led by our caterer ADNH's Dr. Samar Issa, who shared expert advice on creating healthy, balanced lunchboxes for children. Parents were invited to compose lunchboxes on site, making the session interactive and hands‑on.
Thank you to all the parents who joined us, it was a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and share ideas.
EYFS Women in Our Lives
Our EYFS children enjoyed a truly lovely morning this term, celebrating the wonderful women in their lives. Mums, grannies, sisters, aunties, and nannies joined us in school for a special time filled with smiles, creativity, and togetherness. The children made beautiful cards and thoughtful gifts, shared a memorable video, and enjoyed playing and crafting in the classroom alongside their loved ones.
It was a joyful morning full of laughter, connection, and precious memories. We are incredibly grateful to all the amazing women who play such an important role in our children’s lives. Thank you for being part of our school community and for the love, care, and support you give each day.
Community Day
On Thursday, 5th February, we came together to celebrate Community Day. Thank you to all our families for joining us, and a special thank you to the parents who organised and hosted the amazing country stalls. The cultural displays, delicious treats, fun activities, and joyful performances truly showcased the spirit of our community.
Our Get Ready for Ramadan Souq was also a great success, offering families a lovely opportunity to prepare for the upcoming holy month. Meanwhile, the football pitches were full of energy, adding even more excitement to the afternoon.
We are grateful to everyone who participated, contributed, and celebrated with us. Events like this beautifully reflect what it means to be part of the BIS Abu Dhabi family.
The Arts Senior Music Recital
This term, our Senior Music Recital was a truly uplifting celebration of music‑making and artistic expression. Students from Years 10–12 presented a beautifully varied and engaging programme, showcasing an impressive breadth of musical styles, technical skill, and instrumental talent.
Performances included everything from expressive piano, vocal, violin, and saxophone solos to collaborative ensemble items, including a delicate duet and energetic band performances of well‑known favourites that had the audience thoroughly captivated. Each performance reflected the dedication, creativity, and musical maturity of our young musicians.
A heartfelt thank you goes to all the students who took to the stage, the staff who supported and nurtured their preparation, and the families and friends who joined us. Your presence and encouragement helped make this recital a memorable and inspiring occasion for our whole community.
Voices of BIS Abu Dhabi Performance
In February, our Year 3–6 students from the Voices of BIS Abu Dhabi Choir travelled to Dubai for the Voices of Harmony Choir Festival, hosted by Nord Anglia International School Dubai. They performed on stage and received feedback from two visiting choral specialists.
The students then joined other choirs to rehearse and sing Stand by Me and Just One Small Voice, and they also took part in a variety of choral workshops. It was an enriching and memorable celebration of choral music for all involved.
Primary Open Mic Showcase
Our Primary musicians took to the stage for a fantastic Open Mic showcase in the auditorium, performing to an enthusiastic audience from across the wider primary community. The event highlighted the children’s confidence, creativity, and growing love of music as they shared songs, instrumental pieces, and memorable moments with their peers.
Primary Open Mic is designed to be a welcoming and supportive space where pupils can explore music and performance at their own pace. Whether they are complete beginners, experienced musicians, or simply enjoy the experience of listening, every child is encouraged to take part. They can sing, play an instrument, or just come along to appreciate the talents of others, helping to build a positive, inclusive musical culture.
These events continue to strengthen our community, giving children the chance to grow in confidence while celebrating the joy of music together.
BSME Games
We're immensely proud to celebrate our students’ incredible success as overall champions of the BSME U11 Games in February, a competition we were honoured to host on our own campus. Welcoming 14 visiting schools, the event brought a vibrant sense of excitement, connection, and friendly competition to our community, creating an unforgettable weekend of sport for everyone involved.
Throughout the Games, our athletes embodied these values, competing with heart, supporting one another, and demonstrating exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship. Their hard work and spirit were reflected in a standout set of results, including:
1st – Boys Basketball
2nd – Girls Netball
4th – Boys Football
5th – Girls Football
1st – Boys Athletics
1st – Girls Athletics
1st – Swimming
A heartfelt thank you goes to our student sports leaders, our dedicated BIS Abu Dhabi staff, and our wonderful parents and wider community. Your commitment, encouragement, and teamwork helped create a memorable experience for all.
Team Falcon had a fantastic U13 BSME Games, competing alongside 12 schools from across the Middle East. Our team of 27 students represented BIS Abu Dhabi brilliantly across football, athletics, netball and volleyball.
With a strong 5th place overall and standout results including 2nd in Boys Football, 3rd in Boys Volleyball, and 6th in Girls Netball, our students performed with focus, determination and great school spirit.
Thank you to Hartland International School Dubai, North London Collegiate School Dubai BSME British Schools in the Middle East for hosting and organising a superb competition.
Congratulations to all students involved!
Nord Anglia Middle East Games
In January, our BIS Abu Dhabi student athletes proudly represented the school at the Nord Anglia Education (NAE) Middle East Games, hosted by Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai.
Competing across football, basketball, swimming and multiple athletics events, our teams demonstrated outstanding determination, sportsmanship and skill. Their hard work paid off with an impressive haul of over 30 medals, showcasing both individual excellence and strong team spirit.
Results Highlights:
1st in U13 Girls Football
2nd in U15 Boys Basketball
2nd in U15 Girls Football
3rd in U15 Girls Basketball
3rd in U13 Boys Football and Basketball
Multiple medals in Athletics and Swimming
We are incredibly proud of all our athletes for their energy, resilience and commitment. Congratulations to all!
Secondary & Primary Sports Days!
From our youngest learners in EYFS all the way to our Year 12 athletes, students showcased skill, enthusiasm and incredible team spirit during a fantastic series of Sports Days.
In Early Years and Years 1–2, children confidently demonstrated their growing movement skills through running, jumping, throwing and fun team challenges. Their events were filled with joy, encouragement and an unforgettable parent race that brought everyone together.
Our students in Years 3–6 shone in a variety of track and field activities, from sprints and jumps to throws and exciting relays. Their determination and house spirit could be felt in every event.
At our Secondary Sports Day, Year 7–9 impressed in athletics, tug of war and fitness challenges, while Year 10–12 showcased their skills in football, volleyball, netball and table tennis. Throughout the day, students embodied our core values of Kindness, Honesty and Respect.
Across all phases, participation was outstanding, community spirit was strong, and we couldn’t be prouder of the sportsmanship and achievements of every student!
BIS Abu Dhabi Graduate Paul Usieto Class of 2021
What made BIS Abu Dhabi special for you?
The multi-cultural environment was truly unique. Being surrounded by students and staff from all over the world taught me adaptability and open-mindedness. It wasn't just about academics, it was about learning to collaborate with people from different backgrounds, a skill that is essential in my current engineering career.
Who was your favourite teacher, and why?
It is hard to choose just one, as every teacher played a key role in my development. However, I would like to highlight Ms. Butler (Maths) and Mr. Déposé (MFL). Mrs. Butler helped build the strong mathematical foundation that is now central to my engineering studies. Mr. Déposé fostered my appreciation for languages and communication, which has been incredibly useful in my international experiences and my ability to work in diverse teams.
Which school activity or trip inspired you the most?
The volunteering trip to Arusha, Tanzania, in December 2017 was a defining moment for me. We helped a local primary school improve their facilities and set up a permaculture system to help them become self-sufficient. It showed me how hands-on work and knowledge can have a tangible, positive impact on a community.
What is the most important lesson you learned at BIS Abu Dhabi?
Resilience and time management. Balancing the rigorous IB Diploma Programme workload with extracurriculars taught me how to stay organised and focused under pressure, skills I use daily in the tech industry.
What ambitions did BIS Abu Dhabi inspire in you?
The school inspired me to use technology for general interest projects. The Maths, Physics and Computer Science IB options grounded my desire to become an engineer, specifically to solve complex problems that can help organisations and people be more secure and efficient.
Which university & degree did you choose, and why?
I chose to pursue a Master’s in Engineering (Diplôme d'Ingénieur) specialising in Computer Science at CY Tech in France. I wanted a programme that combined strong theoretical foundations in math and physics with practical IT skills. I recently completed a semester abroad at the University of Ljubljana to specialise further in Cryptography and Information System Security.
How did the IB help your experience at university?
The IB prepared me well for the intensity of the 'Classes Préparatoires' in France. The analytical skills gained in IB Maths and Physics, combined with the ability to work in English, gave me a significant advantage, especially when collaborating on international projects or reading technical documentation.
What has been your proudest moment since graduating?
Professionally, I am proud of my internship at Thales Middle East in Dubai, where I performed security audits and developed dashboards for vulnerability reporting. It was a full-circle moment to return to the UAE as a professional. More recently, leading a Data Battle team to build an AI chatbot for exam training was also a great technical achievement.
What are you doing now?
I am currently in my final year at CY Tech, specialising in Cybersecurity. I am completing this year as a workstudy student (en alternance) at Motherson, working as a System Administrator and Cybersecurity Specialist. In this role, I manage infrastructure and ensure the security of our information systems.
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