12 - 16th January 2026
Welcome
Enrichment Week will take place next term, from Monday January 12th – Friday January 16th for all students in Years 7-9.
During this week, Year 10 are on work experience and Year 11 sit their Mock examinations. The normal school timetable is collapsed and students in Years 7-9 are offered a range of alternative learning experiences and activities outside of the usual curriculum
Information on the selections available are being shared with you now to enable you to financially plan the year ahead in conjunction with the residential trip options. No decisions or selections will be requested at this point.
Some of the residential trip information letters will start to be shared with relevant students either before the summer break or after, depending on when the trip takes place
Selections for Enrichment Week will be open at the end of September, and this information will be shared with you again at the start of next term. Any payments for enrichment week will be requested from the end of September onwards.
The activities offered in Enrichment Week aim to help our students’ self-confidence, develop leadership skills, instill self-motivation, overcome fears and help them succeed in society They are also a fantastic way to increase a students’ sense of belonging, creating an inclusive spirit and helping build life-long learning.
In the booklet, you will find details of all the activities being offered. These include short residential and non-residential opportunities The week is divided into two Students will make one option from Monday – Wednesday and a second option for Thursday. Friday will be a JESS House Day with competitions and activities.
Some activities may be limited to certain year groups, some are invite only due to the focus of the activity, while others are open to all three year groups Some activities have a maximum number of students. These details are included in the booklet along with any costs and equipment needed by the students.
We have tried to keep the cost of the activities as low as possible. Please read this booklet together with your child, and examine the details of the activity carefully This will help ensure your child selects an option that is appropriate for their interests and that their Enrichment Week is enjoyable and successful
Year 7 Residential Khorfakkan
Students will be staying for 2 nights at the Oceanic Hotel, Khorfakkan Monday 13thWednesday 15th January. The students are split into 8 groups and will complete different activities each day on a rotation basis.
The activities include: Snorkelling, Beach Games, Raft Building and Rafting, Hiking and Wilderness and survival skills
Activity: Year 7 Residential
Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
Cost: Approximately 1800AED
Year 8 Residential Al Ain
The Al Ain Adventure residential will take place from Monday 12th January – Wednesday 14th January.
Students will be taking part in a whole host of activities and will have the opportunity to work as a team and cement relationships with their peers and tutors.
They will have the opportunity to overcome fears by testing themselves in unfamiliar situations while having fun at the same time Accommodation is provided by Green Mubazzarah Chalets. Chalet style blocks that accommodate 6 people each. This is a short 5 min walk to Wadi Adventure grounds.
Activities will include:
Rock Climbing
White Water Rafting
White Water Kayaking
Body Boarding
Adventure Island Obstacle Course
Pool Games
Activity
Year 8 Residential
Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
Cost: Approximately 2150AED
Year 9 Residential Desert Reserve
The Sandsherpa will be hosting Year 9 for 2 nights and 3 days in the pristine desert reserve, gifted to the organisation by the government of Dubai. There students will experience the Bedouin lifestyle of the forefathers of the UAE.
Accommodation will be in Bedouin tents, and students will undertake activities like cooking on open fires, a Falconry experience, desert survival, nighttime star navigation and a sunrise trek. There will be a visit to a bespoke Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve center, where students will look in detail at the history and life of the Dubai desert All this, as well as time to relax and spend time with your friends away from civilization and technology.
Activity
Year 9 Residential
Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
Cost: Approximately 1800AED
PADI Qualification
Jebel Ali Resorts - Chloe Blue Scuba Diving Club
Students will be off site at JA resort Jebel Ali to complete their PADI scuba diving qualification The course takes 6 hours per day for 4 days.
Dive In, Dive Deep, Dive Responsibly
As the resort states, every dive is not just an adventure; it's a call to action Students will discover the delicate balance of life below the surface and learn why we must protect it. The hope of the qualification is to inspire confidence, love, and a sense of responsibility for the underwater world.
the resort are confident that students will go on a journey to explore, appreciate, and safeguard the treasures beneath the waves. Together, we'll be the change our oceans deserve Are you ready to dive with purpose?
Days: Monday - Thursday
Cost: Approximately 2000 AED
Maximum number: 10
Multisport
Get ready for three epic days of non-stop sports and adventure across Dubai! Each day, we’ll head to a different activity spot where you can dive into padel, swimming, horse riding, water sports, high ropes, climbing, and more
If you're looking to challenge yourself, this is your chance to try new things and get moving!
Days: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
Cost: Approximately 300 AED
Maximum number: Unlimited
Robotics JESS, Ranches
Focus: Computer-Aided Design (CAD), CNC Manufacturing, Teamwork, and Engineering
Students will work in teams to design, manufacture, and race their own miniature F1 cars using Computer Aided Design, CNC routing, and 3D printing. The experience mirrors the realworld F1 in Schools competition, with a strong emphasis on CAD, digital manufacturing, and engineering thinking
Day 1: Design & Identity
· Introduction to F1 in Schools principles
CAD Workshop: Students learn Fusion 360 and begin designing their car chassis.
Team Branding: Develop a team name, logo, and basic portfolio.
Day 2: Manufacture & Assembly
Track Testing: Cars are tested and refined.
Race Day: Timed runs on the F1 track.
Team Presentations: Each team presents their design process and branding.
Days: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
Cost: FREE
Maximum number: 24
Sewing and Crafting JESS, Ranches
Sewing
Students learn to sew at the beginning of the week and then complete a set number of pads/bags for the Period Empowerment Project. We finish the week by students creating their own item - a bag/scarf/skirt etc
Days: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
Cost: Approximately 100AED
Maximum number: 30
Mindful crafting
Imagine transforming everyday materials into extraordinary creations, all while expressing your unique style and having loads of fun! Whether you're knitting a bear or a gift bag, designing your own tote bags to carry your essentials, or crafting intricate dream catchers to capture your sweetest dreams, the possibilities are endless.
Dive into the world of diamond art for a bit of sparkle, design personalised masks to add flair to your outfits, or unleash your creativity with woolly hats that showcase your favourite colours Crafting not only lets you make one-of-a-kind treasures but also gives you the chance to share your masterpieces with friends. So, grab your tools and let your imagination soar it's time to start crafting
Days: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
Cost: Approximately 100AED
Maximum number: 30
Dragon’s Den JESS, Ranches
Dragon’s Den & Chocolate Factory Tour
Day 1: Students will be introduced to the concept of Dragon’s Den and the different aspects of creating and making a new good or service. Teams will learn about finance, operations and marketing requirements to create a successful product.
Day 2: Teams work together to create their good or service and prepare a presentation for the panel of judges – our own JESS Dragons. A winning team will be picked and prizes will be presented culminating in a pizza party for all teams in the afternoon.
Day 3: Farm to Bar Chocolate Factory Tour
Students will get to see operations in a real life setting with a visit to Co Chocolat Factory. Here, students will learn about :
History and nutritional benefits of cacao.
Overview of how chocolates are made from the cacao seeds.
Tastings of various forms of cacao and chocolates – 100% cacao, hot chocolate, gianduja spreads and chocolate bars.
Moulding and packaging of two Chocolate Bars in a flavour and toppings of your choice
Tasting of fresh cacao fruit
Days: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
Cost: Approximately 230 AED
Maximum number: 24
Teamlab
Abu Dhabi
Step Into a World of Magic and Imagination!
Team Lab in Abu Dhabi isn’t your typical art exhibit it’s a mind-blowing adventure where you become part of the art! Walk through glowing forests, touch light that moves with you, and explore wild, colorful worlds that change every time you visit. It’s all about the awesome connection between nature, technology, and YOU
Ready to explore, play, and be amazed? Come join the experience that everyone’s talking about!
https://www teamlababudhabi com
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 100 AED
Maximum number: Unlimited
6 New Life Skills
JESS, Ranches
Master 6 Essential Life Skills in Just One Day!
Ready to tackle real-world challenges and level up your independence? Join us for a hands-on learning experience where you’ll gain six practical life skills that will set you up for success!
Change a bike tire no more waiting for help
Sew a button fix that favorite shirt in minutes
Cook the perfect omelette because instant noodles aren’t the only option
Plus, three more must-have skills to make life easier!
Whether you're looking to impress your friends, help out at home, or just learn something useful, this is your chance to gain practical skills that you'll use forever.
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 25 AED
Maximum number: 25
Gift of Light
JESS, Ranches
At Turnaround, we believe future leaders aren’t just born they’re built We usually work with corporate clients, but as JESS parents, we’re proud to offer this inspiring enrichment experience that blends creativity, collaboration and compassion at no cost for participation. All we ask is a small contribution to cover the cost of the light! A small gift. A global impact. A big learning moment.
PHOTOSHOOT
Your child will spend the day stepping into the shoes of a creative team, designing and producing their own short film through our Photoshoot program. Along the way, they’ll develop key leadership skills like clear communication, idea generation, group decisionmaking, and staying aligned under pressure
SOLAR BUDDY
To finish, we’ll invite them to give back.
As part of our commitment to community, students will build and donate a Solar Buddy light bringing safe, sustainable lighting to a child experiencing energy poverty.
WHAT THEY’LL LEARN
How to plan and execute as a team
How to generate and build on creative ideas
How to handle conflict and make group decisions
How to communicate clearly and listen deeply
How to keep a team aligned and motivated
WHAT’S THE COST?
The only cost is AED 350 which covers the cost of the Solar Buddy light (this price is set by Solar Buddy). You can get more information from https://www.solarbuddy.org/ and if you want to check out who Turnaround are, visit https://teambuilding ae/
Please feel free to join us at the end of the day to see the lights and watch the movies! Spaces will be limited, so do book early!
Gift of Light JESS, Ranches
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 350 AED
Maximum number: 25
Cooking Skills with Ben’s Farmhouse - JESS, Ranches
Step into the kitchen and unleash your inner chef!
Join us for ‘Cooking Skills Day’, where you'll get hands-on experience in a fully functioning professional kitchen with Ben’s Farmhouse our trusted school provider. Dive into the world of culinary arts as you rotate through three exciting departments: cold dishes, hot dishes, and pastry Master essential cooking skills and put your creativity to the test by crafting your very own dish!
The ultimate reward? The winning dish will earn a coveted spot on the menu at Benny Macks, Ben’s Farmhouse restaurant, for two weeks! Plus, the talented creator will enjoy a complimentary meal for four at the restaurant
Don’t miss this chance to cook, compete, and create something truly delicious let’s turn up the heat!
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 50 AED
Maximum number: 25
The Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi
This trip will provide students with an enriching cultural and educational experience The visit to Sheikh Zayed Mosque will offer insights into Islamic architecture, art, and cultural heritage. Students will have the opportunity to explore the mosque's stunning design, learn about its historical significance, and understand its role in the community.
The stop at Last Exit will allow students to enjoy a variety of food options and relax in a unique setting. The cost of the food will be in addition to the 50AED. Students will be expected to bring this on the day This activity aims to enhance students' understanding of Islamic culture and promote appreciation for diverse traditions.
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 50 AED
Maximum number: 30
Learning in the Wild
Dubai Safari Park
Embark on an unforgettable adventure at Dubai Safari Park with the Learning in the Wild program! Step beyond the classroom and into the heart of nature, where education comes alive
Students will be transported to the safari park for an up-close encounter with fascinating wildlife, discovering different habitats and conservation efforts firsthand From majestic lions to playful primates, the experience offers a thrilling way to connect with the natural world while gaining valuable insights into animal behaviors and ecosystems
Get ready for a journey that blends excitement with education because at Dubai Safari Park, the wild is your classroom!
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 150AED
Maximum number: 40
Dance Performance JESS, Ranches
Step into a day packed with energy, creativity, and pure dance magic! Start the morning with a warm Welcome Breakfast, where you’ll fuel up and connect with fellow dancers. Then, get moving with a dynamic Warm-up and Dance Technique class to sharpen your skills
Take it up a notch with an electrifying Street Dance Masterclass, where you’ll learn the freshest moves and grooves Get creative in the Choreography session, where you’ll build and express your unique dance style. Finally, kick back, relax, and enjoy a Dance Cinema experience watch a musical with a popcorn treat in hand!
Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just starting out, this is your chance to train, create, and be inspired Don't miss out let's dance!
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 100 AED
Maximum number: Unlimited
Hike at Wadi Shawka
Adventure Awaits at Wadi Shawka!
Ready to explore the wild side of the UAE? Join us for an epic day of hiking and orienteering in the stunning landscapes of Wadi Shawka! You’ll learn how to navigate using maps and teamwork while discovering the beauty of nature up close.
This isn’t just a hike it’s a real adventure and the perfect prep for the International Award in Year 10 So grab your gear, step outside the classroom, and take on a challenge you won’t forget!
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 50 AED
Maximum number: 30
Desert Conservation
Adventure awaits with Sandsherpa
Itinerary:
09:00 – Arrival at DDCR and transfer into Sand Sherpa Land Rover 101, 6x6 Pinzgauer, and other vehicles for an educational wilderness safari.
11:00 – Tour of the DDCR Visitor Centre, incorporating activities that will inspire learning of Dubai’s natural and original environment, followed by a quiz and Shemagh tying activity.
13:00 – Lunch (students to bring their own packed lunch)
14:00 – Falconry display and interaction
15:00 – Departure
https://www.sandsherpa.com/? srsltid=AfmBOorre2nlsXb0vRhWUAcynX782kb0W8K9VLrtnY4uZSiFMn0032Zj
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 250 AED
Maximum number: 40
Motiongate Dubai Parks
and Resorts
Get ready for a day of non-stop thrills and movie magic at Motiongate Dubai the ultimate theme park experience! Step into the worlds of your favorite films, ride epic roller coasters, and team up with friends for unforgettable fun From Hollywood-style action to animated adventures, every moment is packed with excitement.
This is your chance to learn through laughter, teamwork, and pure adrenaline Don’t miss out on the most exciting school day of the year!
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 200 AED
Maximum number: 150
Ju Jitsu
Studio 100 BJJ, Motorcity
Step into the world of martial arts and fitness with an action-packed day designed to challenge and inspire! Start your journey at Studio100 BJJ, where expert coaches will guide you through a fun and dynamic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu trial session no experience needed!
Then, head back to school for a strength and conditioning workout that will boost your power, agility, and confidence Whether you're into sports or just want to try something new, this is your chance to train hard, learn new skills, and feel unstoppable!
Day: Thursday
Cost: Approximately 150 AED
Maximum number: 30
Ranches
Chess Challenge JESS,
Think Fast Play Smart Rule the Board!
Ready to outsmart your friends in the ultimate battle of brains? Join us for a fun and competitive chess challenge, where you'll learn clever new moves and strategies to level up your game. Whether you're a total beginner or a future grandmaster, this session is all about thinking ahead, making bold moves, and having a blast while doing it
Let the games begin who will be crowned the JESS chess champ?
Day: Thursday
Cost: FREE
Maximum number: 16
Maths Challenge
JESS, Ranches
Think maths is just numbers on a page? Think again! Join us for an exciting Maths Challenge Day, where you’ll team up with friends to tackle mind-bending puzzles, logic games, and realworld challenges that will test your creativity, problem-solving, and brainpower
It’s fast-paced, fun, and full of surprises and it’s your chance to show what you’ve got beyond the classroom Whether you're a Maths whiz or just love a good challenge, this is your time to shine, compete, and maybe even win some prizes!
Day: Thursday
Cost: FREE
Maximum number: Unlimited
Multisport Challenge
JESS, Ranches
Join us at JESS for a relaxed and fun Multisports Day, where you’ll get the chance to try out a variety of sports that aren’t part of your regular Games lessons. Activities may include volleyball, yoga, badminton, and more perfect for discovering something new or just enjoying a different way to stay active.
Whether you're looking to learn a new skill or simply have fun with friends, this is a great opportunity to get moving and try something different.
Day: Thursday
Cost: FREE
Maximum number: Unlimited
Creative Arts
JESS, Ranches
Get ready for a fun-filled Creative Art Day!
This exciting day will be packed with hands-on activities where you’ll get to build imaginative models, splash into vibrant painting sessions, and explore a wide range of art materials from textured papers to mixed media and more. Whether you're sculpting a fantasy creature or experimenting with color and form, you'll have the chance to express your creativity and create truly original masterpieces.
It’s a day to play, invent, and let your artistic side shine!
Day: Thursday
Cost: FREE
Maximum number: Unlimited
Drama JESS, Ranches
The Drama department are excited to offer a fun filled day of Theatre The morning sessions will be dedicated to a rehearsal for our two Key Stage Three productions: A Walk Through the West End and Shakespeare Retold
In the afternoon, there will be Drama games, improvisation and an online theatre viewing. The only thing you need to bring is yourselves and lots of energy Join us for an active, exciting day of performance!
Students will only be able to take part if they are already involved with one of the two productions.
Day: Thursday
Cost: FREE
Maximum number: Invite Only
Rugby & Netball Training JESS, Ranches
Selected students will be training in preparation for the upcoming DASSA rugby and netball season.
Students will be informed in September if they are selected.
Day: Thursday
Cost: FREE
Maximum number: Invite only
JESS House Day JESS, Ranches
The Ultimate House Challenge Is On!
Get ready for an epic Friday as Enrichment Week ends with a bang! It’s time for the Whole House Challenge a wild mix of Taskmaster-style games, Krypton Factor brainbusters, and It’s a Knockout chaos.
You’ll team up with your House and rotate through a series of fun, fast-paced challenges that test your brains, brawn, creativity, and teamwork From physical showdowns to musical madness and dramatic twists, every task is a chance to score points and outsmart the competition.
Only one House will lift the House Challenge Cup… but every student plays a part in the battle for glory Are you ready to bring it home?
No sign up needed.
Day:
Friday January 16th will be the first JESS House Day
Cost: FREE
Maximum number: Everyone
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