Education UAE - Back to School Guide 2022

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE 2022

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR KIDS MENTALLY FOR SCHOOL

STAND A CHANCE TO WIN A YEAR’S WORTH OF SCHOOL FEES

WHY YOUR SCHOOL UNIFORM CAN MAKE YOUR CHILD SICK

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Foreword

THE AVERAGE STUDENT WHO DISCOVERED E = MC2 Finally, the seemingly endless summer break is over, and children in the UAE are headed back to school. For some, schooldays will be the best days of their lives - a time of learning and forging friendships during that deceptively short and comparatively happy-go-lucky period before the real challenges of adult life kick in - but for others, it will be more of a challenge.

If your child is in the latter camp, consider the story of one Albert Einstein.

Einstein, who was born in Germany in 1879, said in a biography

by Carl Seelig that his parents “worried because I started to talk comparatively late and they consulted a doctor about it.”

And if that wasn’t enough, the toddler had “droll thoughts,” according to a letter written by his grandparents.

Things hadn’t changed much for little Albert by the time he attended school at age six and a half, and his teachers didn’t think he was particularly talented. There are rumours going around that he failed maths. He didn’t. He did, however, fail the Zurich Polytechnic entrance exam when he first took it. He performed well on the maths test but poorly on the language, botany, and zoology tests. According to a 1984 New York Times article, Einstein’s exam essay was ‘full of errors’.

He enrolled in Munich’s Luitpold Gymnasium three years later, enjoying most subjects but favouring some more than others. At the age of 11, he began reading books on physics, and at the age of 13, after reading Kant’s ‘Critique of Pure Reason’, he declared him to be his favourite writer. Nobody was paying attention (including his teacher, who famously said that Einstein “would never get anywhere in life”), yet here was a future genius in the making.

Kids today are luckier than Einstein; they have better schools and better teachers, but even if they ‘feel’ average at school, they’re not. They may even be an Einstein - their time will come!

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Contents

Contents

THE FEATURES IN THIS ISSUE INCLUDE… BACK TO SCHOOL

EXCELLENCE IN SCHOOLS

6 From Superheroes to Bollywood Dancers – School’s Back!

40 Navigating the Start of a New Academic Year for SENDCos

DID YOU KNOW

EDTECH

10 New Code of Conduct for all teachers and school staff

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PARENTS CORNER 12 How to Prepare Your Kids Mentally for School

DID YOU KNOW 16 Why Your School Uniform Can Make Your Child Sick

NEW APPOINTMENT 22 A New Leader with a New Educational Paradigm

EXCELLENCE IN SCHOOLS REVIEWS 26 Fairgreen International School 28 Citizens School 30 The Arbor School 32 Brighton College Dubai 34 Universal American School 36 The English College Dubai 38 Deira International School

NIVIDA RTX Laptops

COMPETITION 48 Stand a Chance to Win a Year’s Worth of School Fees

HEALTH AND NUTRITION 50 Lunchbox Ideas from Waterfront Market

THE LOUNGE 52 Sassi Welcomes the Joy of Learning in the Most Fun Way

TRAVEL NEAR 54 Keep Cool at these FamilyFriendly Attractions in Dubai

EVENTS 58 Global Educational Supplies & Solutions (GESS DUBAI)

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6

Back to School  Left: Kephren Sherry, Head of Primary and some of the superheroes at the newly opened Citizens School

“We are really trying to make sure our pupils feel comfortable with their surroundings and just have a lot of fun on the first day”

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Tracy Moxley, Principal at Citizens School

FROM SUPERHEROES TO BOLLYWOOD DANCERS – SCHOOL’S BACK! WITH APPROXIMATELY ONE MILLION STUDENTS AND 65,000 TEACHERS, ADMINISTRATORS, AND STAFF MEMBERS IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS AROUND THE NATION WALKING THROUGH THE SCHOOL GATES, THE NEW ACADEMIC YEAR 2022–2023 HAS BEGUN.

F

lash mobs at The Indian High School, a treasure hunt at Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai, and a superhero day at Citizens School were just a few of the festivities that schools in Dubai hosted for students.

“Our first day of activities was fun.

We had all of our learners and our mentors dressed in superhero costumes, and getting in touch with their inner superpower,” explained Tracy Moxley, Principal at Citizens School. “It was an

opportunity for children to really dive into their own imagination and come up with their own superhero, or choose a superhero that they particularly identify with. We were really trying to make sure our pupils felt comfortable with their surroundings and just had a lot of fun on the first day.”

The first week was all about getting students accustomed to Citizens School, getting them involved in some project-based and play-based learning, and getting them to collaborate.

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Back to School

FLASH MOB Punit MK Vasu, Chief Executive of The Indian High Group of Schools, said: “All our 13,000-plus students rolled through the entry gates bright, happy, excited, and full of life.”

He said that the school’s administrators and staff waved welcome signs as they greeted and cheered the students.

Flash mob dancers, singers, and musicians performed, and there were writing walls and cameras set up to record the reactions of the students.

Students posed for photos with friends in photo booths and with ‘welcome back’ placards and props, while around 60 students participated in a flash mob to welcome back their returning classmates while dancing to well-known Bollywood songs.

TREASURE HUNT Approximately 700 students will attend Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai this year, up from 350 in 2021, according to Clare Turnbull, the school’s Principal, who commented: “This is the best time of the year. It is so exciting to welcome returning pupils and new pupils to the school. We spend a lot of time in the first week on relationships. It is all about making those new friends, re-engaging with our previous friends, and getting to know your teachers. Because if you get those strong emotional bonds from day one, the rest of the year comes easily.”

GOING FULL THROTTLE! Repton Al Barsha’s Principal, Gillian Hammond, revealed that the school used the previous week to teach both new and existing staff so they could go fully into the curriculum when the term began. “We really wanted to start full throttle and be ready.

“We are hugely excited to get our pupils back in school,” she said.

Since the school didn’t want to squander any curricular time, students started their first day by diving right into their timetables and academics.

HAPPY AND PREPARED Scott Carnochan, the Headmaster at Brighton College Al Ain, explained that on the first day back, up until about lunchtime, the focus was on pastoral care, so lessons did not start until the afternoon. “That was the structure of the first morning - making sure that the students were familiar with the new teachers and each other. It is important that they begin to forge those really important relationships with their teachers and their peers.”

A lot of pastoral activities were planned for the school to ensure that the new students (approximately 100) were happy, acclimatised, and prepared for the upcoming academic year.

On their first day back at Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai, a number of students participated in a big treasure hunt across the campus, solving puzzles and seeking out their new classrooms.

“This is the best time of the year.

It is so exciting to welcome returning pupils and new pupils to the school Clare Turnbull, Principal at Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai

“Welcoming our first intake of bright-eyed, enthusiastic, and motivated students was a morning to remember” John Bell, Principal of Bloom World Academy

Back to School

DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY On its first day, Bloom World Academy welcomed over 280 students from 53 nationalities through its doors.

Making waves in the UAE as the first IB curriculum school to offer a later start time and flexible school day to allow for student learning to be in balance with family life, the school’s first intake of students arrived at the Al Barsha South campus at the later start time of 9.00 am.

Over the course of the first week, Bloom World Academy hosted and ran a timetable of unique and exciting activities to help its first-ever cohort of students settle into the new school community.

And as part of the spiral curriculum that the school employs, older and younger students were encouraged to mix with each other and learn together.

Principal of Bloom World Academy, John Bell commented: “I, along with the incredible teaching team at Bloom World Academy, am so happy to be celebrating the official launch of the school so we can bring to life the progressive ideas, thinking, and ways of working that make us a school with a difference. Welcoming our first intake of bright-eyed, enthusiastic, and motivated students was a morning to remember.

The future is bright for our students and we can’t wait to see what they go on to achieve with us here at BWA.”

EXCITEMENT IN WELCOMING THE FIRST COHORT Ladybird Nursery Al Barsha has proudly welcomed its first cohort of early learners for the 2022-2023 academic year. With the highest early learner capacity of 220 students in the region, Ladybird Al Barsha has already attained 25% capacity on its opening day.

Little learners aged six months to three years lined the corridors and classrooms, meeting new teachers and participating in a host of interactive activities to kick-start the new school year.

Louisa McCormack, Principal of Ladybird Nursery Al Barsha said: “We are overwhelmed with excitement to welcome our first class of students to Ladybird Nursery Al Barsha, as they embark on the first part of their school careers. Our teachers have been working tirelessly to welcome our first cohort, with a range of fun activities, to ensure the little ones and their parents feel comfortable on their first day at nursery.”

“We are overwhelmed with excitement to welcome our first class of students to Ladybird Nursery Al Barsha” Louisa McCormack, Principal of Ladybird Nursery Al Barsha

 The Indian High Group of Schools

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Did You Know

MOE

NEW ‘CODE OF CONDUCT’ FOR ALL TEACHERS AND SCHOOL STAFF The Ministry of Education has announced a new 10-point ‘Code of Conduct’ on social media for all professionals in the education sector. The 10 criteria mainly emphasise and affirm commitment to UAE social norms and respect for Islam and Emirati culture. The code also urges support for tolerance and acceptance of differences in race, religion, and culture, as well as committing to safeguarding against bullying, neglect, invasion of privacy and violence.

According to a tweet from the UAE’s Minister of Education, Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, the paper is intended to serve as a roadmap for establishing an institutional culture based on the highest ethical standards in the country’s educational system. “We are proud of our educational professions and we are keen to consolidate the values of the UAE society according to the directives of the wise leadership,” he stated.

The code intends to inspire students to value the UAE’s path to prosperity and growth and to actively engage in national events and activities. In addition, it includes avoiding the spread of false news and rumours and refraining from committing any verbal or physical violence against students under all circumstances.

One of the most important principles of the Code of Conduct is to demonstrate positive behaviour in dealing with the parents and the community.

Employees in the general education sector are forbidden from verbal or physical misconduct toward their coworkers, the educational institution, or any of its staff members. Moreover, employees are prohibited from using, having, or being under the influence of any unauthorised substances, including tobacco, in the workplace.

In addition to refraining from spreading socially unacceptable behaviours and discussing gender identity, homosexuality or any other behaviour deemed unacceptable to the UAE’s society is banned.

The code also mandates that all employees in the industry wear acceptable, non-revealing apparel while honouring UAE customs and projecting a respectful image of employees in the educational sector.

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Parents Corner

How to Prepare your Kids Mentally for School

Parents Corner

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CHRISTINE CLINTON, CO-FOUNDER OF JUNIOR GENIUS GLOBAL AND CHAIR OF THE WELLNESS FOR CHILDREN INITIATIVE WITH THE GLOBAL WELLNESS INSTITUTE, BRINGS OVER 32 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TO THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS SECTOR. CHRISTINE HAS WORKED WITH MANY DOCTORS AND CLINICIANS THROUGH THE YEARS, WITH THE GLOBAL WELLNESS INSTITUTE ACKNOWLEDGING HER DEDICATION TO IMPROVING THE LIVES OF OTHERS BY PRESENTING HER WITH THE DEBRA SIMON AWARD FOR LEADER IN FURTHERING MENTAL WELLNESS AT THE GLOBAL WELLNESS SUMMIT IN 2021. HERE, CHRISTINE DISCUSSES HOW TO PREPARE YOUR YOUNG ONES MENTALLY FOR SCHOOL.

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oing back to school is a busy time for all families - often a rush after travelling or simply re-adjusting back into the thought of routine can feel stressful. Whilst it’s easy and natural to focus on the practicalities of buying uniforms and supplies, for example, it’s important for parents to consider how to mentally prepare their children for school.

Of course, this is now more vital than ever for children due to the unprecedented disruption of their educational life throughout the pandemic, plus ongoing restrictions, such as mask-wearing and more. It is perfectly natural for little ones to feel resilience and confusion, even

alongside excitement and hope.

Globally, we are seeing one in five children now experiencing and reporting mental health challenges.

At Junior Genius Global, we recognise the importance of wellness and wellbeing practices to support our children’s mental health when going back to school, and importantly, as a permanent fixture in the family home.

Parents can support their children during an unsettling time by implementing activities and routines that help them re-adjust back into routines and cope with the unfamiliar.

For us, these are rooted in the ‘6 Pillars of Wellness’ which are designed to help children to be healthy both physically and mentally.

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Parents Corner

Here are some tips and guidelines to help you prepare your children as they head back to the classroom.

THE 6 PILLARS OF WELLNESS AS DEFINED BY THE GLOBAL WELLNESS INSTITUTE INCLUDE:  Physical: Nourishing a healthy body through exercise, nutrition, and sleep.  Mental: Engaging the world through learning, problem-solving, and creativity.  Emotional: Being aware of, accepting, and expressing our feelings, and understanding the feelings of others.  Spiritual: Searching for meaning and a higher purpose in our lives.  Social: Connecting and engaging with others and our communities in meaningful ways.  Environmental: Fostering positive interrelationships between planetary health and human actions, choices, and wellbeing.

Incorporating nurturing and responsive experiences, rooted in these pillars is the key to supporting mental wellbeing. When a child has good mental health, it allows them to develop self-confidence, self-esteem, manage and understand their emotions and develop a healthy outlook on life, which in turn can support your child in school.

It is perfectly natural for little ones to feel resilience and confusion, even alongside excitement and hope

ESTABLISH A ROUTINE While summer is the perfect time to travel and reconnect with family and friends, the chances are most children will be out of their usual routine. Many children fear the unknown and a routine allows the day to be predictable for your child, making them feel safe and secure. Using planners and visual aids around the house is an easy way to remind your child what their day will look like. Remember to discuss the routine to help them to become independent and confident with what is happening throughout the day. Don’t forget to allow plenty of time for your children to get ready during the first few days or weeks back to school. This will lessen the likelihood of them feeling rushed and prevent unnecessary stress in the morning.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP As parents, we know that quality sleep is essential to our children’s success at school. With quality sleep, children have improved mood, attentiveness, and ability to focus. Sleep is also essential for forming and retaining memories, which is an important part of learning! To aid and support a healthy night’s sleep, keep evening activities calm and relaxed. Avoid overstimulating games, such as screen time, and evening snacks should be light and healthy. A bath or massage is the perfect way to prepare for sleep as well as story time.

Parents Corner

Many children fear the unknown and a routine allows the day to be predictable for your child, making them feel safe and secure

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DEVELOP A POSITIVE BELIEF SYSTEM By encouraging positive thinking, parents can help develop their child’s confidence, sense of self-worth, and resilience, which ultimately will mentally prepare them for school. Practicing gratitude is a great way to develop a child’s positive belief system. It has been found to reduce anxiety, and help children harness positive thinking which can increase motivation in learning. Before bedtime, why not ask your child to tell you something they are thankful for and watch how they will experience higher levels of optimism and enthusiasm.

By encouraging positive thinking, parents can help develop their child’s confidence, sense of self-worth, and resilience NAVIGATE EMOTIONS AND FEELINGS While many children are excited to return to school, some may be feeling worried or anxious. It’s important to identify these feelings and support your child in understanding how and why they feel a certain way.

As parents, we should not refer to a feeling as ‘bad’.

Allow your child to know that it is ok to experience negative emotions, but the power is in how we deal with this feeling. Meditation and breathwork are great tools to help calm little minds and reconnect the child’s mind, body, and breath. While your child focuses on their breath, they will calm their emotions and reduce stress allowing their body to relax. Use breathwork as part of a morning routine to mentally prepare your child for their day in school.

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Did You Know

Why Your School Uniform Can Make Your Child Sick WHAT DO SALMON, POPCORN BAGS, AND SCHOOL UNIFORMS ALL HAVE IN COMMON? SADLY, THERE IS A STRONG LIKELIHOOD THAT THEY ALL CONTAIN PFAS.

P

erfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl compounds, also known as PFAS, are a class of chemicals that have the ability to repel both water and oil. Manufacturers employ PFAS, also known as ‘forever chemicals’ due to their persistence in the environment., to create many common household products, such as clothing.

However, largely unbeknown to the public, PFAS can affect both the environment and the human body.

However, PFAs are just one of many toxic compounds that can be found in school uniforms. Matthew Benjamin, the CEO and Founder of Kapes, the company empowering the next generation to tell its sustainable story each time they put their school uniforms on, explained: “PFAs, along with, pesticides, insecticides, fertilisers, bleaches, azo dyes, and formaldehyde, are among the chemicals used in school uniforms that are

made from polyester, nylon and conventional cotton, during production of the raw material or as finishes to the final product. They are advertised as being ‘stain-resistant’, ‘shrinkage-free’, ‘non-iron’, ‘waterproof’, ‘fire-resistant’, and ‘easy-care’ with the promise that they will last longer and make life easier for parents.

But we hardly ever take into account the origin or impact of the purported miraculous new attribute, not only on the environment but on children that are forced to wear these products.”

The fact is that during the production process, tens of thousands of synthetic chemicals are added to fabrics.

Many are cancer and hormone-disrupting. Through prolonged exposure to small quantities absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin’s surface and through inhalation, they have the potential to result in lifelong health issues.

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Did You Know

Matthew Benjamin, founder and CEO of Kapes, a company empowering the next generation to tell its sustainable story each time they put their school uniforms on.

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Did You Know

THE UAE MUST TAKE THE LEAD There has been very little scientific investigation regarding UAE school uniforms. However, a recent test sample revealed that some school uniforms had higher than permitted amounts of cancercausing azo dyes (namely o-aminoazotoluene and 2-naphthylamine dye compounds).

Moreover, Dubai Municipality has announced in a recent memo requiring uniform suppliers to test for PH value, formalydehyde and heavy metals, which is a step in the right direction. It is now hoped that they will take this one stage further and test for harmful azo dyes, particularly due to their links to causing cancer.

“These hazardous dyes are downright dangerous and have been prohibited by governments all over the world because they represent such a major health risk,” Benjamin says. “Following the discovery of residues of azo dyes in only a small percentage of the products from a sample test, the Australian authorities recalled approximately 121,000 items from Target stores as long ago as 2014. This is not a new problem.

“The UAE, at the forefront of so many endeavours when it comes to health and sustainably, is also taking note, and my hope is that the children of this nation will become protected from these very real threats in the not too distant future.”

A CHEMICAL COCKTAIL As the effects of globalised manufacturing techniques on human and environmental health have been identified and acknowledged, the clothing industry has come under criticism. The focus of criticism has been on ‘fast fashion’, but the health hazards to particular subgroups, such as children via school uniforms, are frequently forgotten. However, numerous organisations and public interest groups are now pushing for increased public understanding of the impacts of the ‘chemical cocktail’ found in uniforms.

If exposed as a youngster, the chemicals employed in clothing production have the ability to harm a person for the rest of their life. School uniforms frequently receive more chemical treatment per kg of fabric than regular clothing does. To make matters worse, school uniforms are commonly treated with more chemicals per kilo than other clothing in order to provide added benefits.

PFAS can affect both the environment and the human body As an illustration, during the production of a standard school shirt, from fibre to finished garment, it may be exposed to 15,000 synthetic chemicals. Pesticides and insecticides will be applied to conventional cotton before the fabric is soaked in bleach, dye, and formaldehyde to make the fabric ‘crease-free’ or ‘stain-resistant’. Industrial chemicals are used in practically all of the procedures the raw cloth goes through before being shipped. A symptom of cheaply made clothing, particularly when the material is sourced from Asia, is that they can the contain toxic substances that are banned in more regulated parts of the world.

“It really is time for a concerted effort by everyone involved,” Benjamin says. “As a society, we tend to believe that we live in a more enlightened world than was the case even a few years ago, yet school uniforms soaked in harmful chemicals and produced in dreadful working conditions are still the norm. At Kapes, we have begun this vital journey in the UAE, partnering with The Arbor School and Fairgreen International School to provide ethically produced, sustainable school uniforms free from harmful chemicals.”

The uniforms are made entirely of premium sustainable materials that lessen the impact on the environment, such as organic cotton certified by the global organic textile standard (GOTS), and 100% recycled polyester, certified by REPREVE. “By helping children to have a stronger connection to the clothing they wear, the people who manufacture them, and the locations where the clothes are made, Kapes believes we can help children become more conscious consumers as they grow up. We can only hope that when these kids grow up, they’ll be more responsible shoppers and pass it on to the next generation,” Benjamin said.

 Ethical, sustainable, and impactful, Kapes' school uniforms

If exposed as a youngster, the chemicals employed in clothing production have the ability to harm a person for the rest of their life

Did You Know

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A recent test sample revealed that some school uniforms had higher than permitted amounts of cancercausing azo dyes TIME TO MAKE A STAND Hundreds of studies link the chemicals used in clothing, including school uniforms, to skin rashes and irritations, asthma, thyroid disruption, various cancers, elevated cholesterol levels, reduced kidney function, and even decreased immune response.

Being exposed to even tiny amounts over time can be harmful because the toxins stay in the body and there is currently no known way to remove them.

Studies have shown that children’s physiology and biochemistry make them, compared to adults, substantially more susceptible to the dangers of chemical exposure. This is due to their quick rate of cell division and proliferation, faster breathing, and larger body surface area to weight ratios.

Kapes’ sustainable school uniforms are made from organic cotton and recycled polyester and better for the skin of students.

From the fields where the organic cotton is grown, to the beaches where plastic bottles are collected, Kapes’ uniforms all have a sustainable start, and this ethos continues throughout the manufacturing process to the students who wear them.

It’s a sustainable story Kapes are proud to tell, and one that they are proud to share for the health of your students and the good of our environment.

Critical windows of development refer to the fundamental phases of a child’s development, which are marked by dynamic processes occurring at the cellular, molecular, and organ levels. Changes in the body make it more likely for substances to enter a child’s bloodstream, which increases the risk that harm (such as genetic abnormalities at the cellular level, for example) may persist into adulthood.

“We must place sustainability at the heart of everything we do in order to give children a brighter future. We must collectively build a strong connection between children, the planet, and the people on it. And we must protect our young people from processes and chemicals that can severely affect their health.

Unfortunately, many schools and parents have not been aware of the risks and hazards of modern school uniforms – that is now changing and the time has come to make a stand,” Benjamin concludes.

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New Appointment

Tracy Moxley, Founding Principal Citizens School

New Appointment

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A NEW LEADER WITH A NEW EDUCATIONAL PARADIGM

AT CITIZENS SCHOOL, LEARNING REVOLVES AROUND MUCH MORE THAN MEMORISING AND PERFORMANCE IN EXAMS; INSTEAD, IT ENTAILS DEEP CONCEPTUAL UNDERSTANDING AND A PERSONALISED EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY THAT SUPPORTS ONGOING GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT. INDEED, COMMITTED TO RESHAPING EDUCATION, THIS IS A SCHOOL WITH A GENUINELY DIFFERENT APPROACH, ENCOMPASSING NEW ATTITUDES AND STRATEGIES, DRIVEN BY A LEADERSHIP TEAM WITH ENORMOUS PASSION AND EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCE.

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ducation UAE caught up with Citizens School’s new Founding Principal, Tracy Moxley, a skilled education professional who has experience in leading British, American and international schools, to congratulate her on her new post and ask how the opportunity had arisen.

“Thank you for the good wishes! I feel very privileged to be a part of this amazing new school. I initially heard about Citizens on LinkedIn and then once I started reading about the vision and the mission of the school I knew that it was the challenge for me. The Citizens’ philosophy is pretty irresistible

to any educator interested in preparing students for the future and to do this effectively. The focus on digital literacy, global citizenship, sustainability and a growth mindset and wellbeing aligned with my own educational philosophy.

After Covid, it’s more important than ever to focus on the wellbeing of our children and community. Citizens puts children and their wellbeing at the centre, is fully inclusive, and employs new technologies and new pedagogies to enhance learning – who wouldn’t want to join Citizens School? Plus, the Citizens team is certainly a force to be reckoned with – so I think it took me about five seconds to say ‘Yes’.”

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New Appointment

COMMUNICATING THE VISION Tracy explains that a significant part of her educational experience has been focused on student wellbeing and student support, innovation and new technologies in education, and the training and development of educators.

“The Citizens philosophy read like my resume!” she says. “The aspects of education that excite and inspire me are focal parts of Citizens School and a huge emphasis is placed on the ‘re-imagining of education’ mantra. Can we do it better? I think we can. The development of a future-focused, personalised transformational curriculum, embedding a growth mindset into learning, and the development of attributes such as resilience, perseverance and grit are all so important in this embryonic postCovid world and will be for the future.”

With extensive experience in educational innovation, new pedagogies, teachers’ professional development and school improvement Tracy is committed to interdisciplinary, innovative global citizenship education and service learning. But what, we wondered, were the particular skills and abilities she would bring to Citizens?

“The same skills and abilities that we aspire to evoke in our students are those that I will endeavour to bring!”

Tracy responds, without missing a beat. “Attributes such as creative and critical thinking, skills of collaboration,

empathy and agility are all necessary for this role. I am a global citizen and I have travelled extensively, exploring different educational models around the world – in the US, Asia, Europe and Africa – and I have been involved in research on how these approaches and philosophies impact student learning, motivation and engagement.”

Tracy goes on to explain how communicating the school’s purpose and mission, and ensuring that each classroom reflects that mission, is vital, saying: “I have strong interpersonal skills and I am a ‘people-person’. What does this mean? I enjoy developing positive and purposeful relationships, as these are so important in ensuring that we realise our goal.

Consequently, I can communicate our mission to all our stakeholders.”

The enormous experience Tracy has in founding innovative schools and in instructional curriculum design is certainly relevant, as Citizens transforms what is currently the dominant educational ideology into its own unique curriculum and educational approach. An important aspect of this will be the correct use of data and analysis. “Data is important to me, as a tool to provide insights into what we are doing, how we are doing it and our results. It’s a tool to ensure that we are responsive to what is happening in all parts of the Citizens eco-system.”

NURTURING EDUCATED CITIZENS As a Principal, of course, good leadership is vital, although that isn’t necessarily about managing. It’s about having a vision and being able to inspire people.

It’s taking an idea or a concept and making it happen. Tracy’s approach to leadership is collaborative and creative.

“I would like to think of myself as a transformational leader that innovates, inspires and influences, driving positive performance across the whole school.

However, significantly, it is a team game at Citizens. There are a whole host of talented, knowledgeable and passionate leaders, mentors and staff who will make the difference and I’ve no doubt will create magic for all our children! As His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid highlights, “Determination, strategy and vision for the future are our real resources in the quest for excellence and success”.”

Citizens is undeniably a different type of school, and with differences, surprises can arise, so has Tracy been taken by surprise in any way since she arrived?

“Everything has surprised me!” she begins. “Simply, the overwhelming drive to change the current educational landscape and provide a unique offer that places the child at the centre, personalising the educational approach through the use of new technologies and enhanced student agency. Real inclusivity and a focus on wellbeing are central to ensuring optimal conditions for learning. I love this part of the philosophy at Citizens!”

It does appear that Citizens has a different ‘feel’ from other schools, with Tracy in no doubt of what teaching and learning will look like, and how she is going to communicate that vision. “It’s warm, inviting and purposeful. I absolutely love the Citizens School environment – it is a joy to behold that’s for sure!

“The physical environment impacts the way children learn and behave.

The Citizens architectural design has been created to enhance learning – it’s our ‘third teacher’. It offers our children the opportunity to collaborate, explore interests and experience learning together – outside of the usual classroom environment.

“At Citizens, we will re-imagine, review and redesign the traditional educational approach.

New Appointment

Our new landscape of learning must be visible in every classroom. For example, students will collaborate on global issues and concerns using systems thinking, designing possible solutions, prototyping, etc. – having ‘real agency’ in their learning. I want to see that buzz in every classroom as students are engaged and motivated in the work they are doing. I also want to see that the skills and competencies that are being developed are evident to everyone. Our desire to grow the next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators and global leaders is our North Star.”

Naturally, Tracy has several key goals she wishes to fulfil in her first year, including, but not limited to:  Providing a warm welcome to all founding Citizens’ families, children, mentors and staff, with the number one priority being to ensure all children are safe, happy and love coming to Citizens School.  To help the children find their passion and their purpose and provide the resources, tools and skills for success – in whatever they choose to do!  To ensure that the school community thrives in its inaugural year  To see the mission realised in every classroom EXTENSIVE GLOBAL EDUCATION EXPERIENCE As the Founding Principal, Tracy could not be better qualified. She has, for instance, been involved in research with the Harvard Graduate School of Education Project Zero in the implementation

of innovative pedagogy through teacher action research, exploring the creation of innovative communities within educational institutions. She has also been committed to student wellbeing and the correlation between wellbeing and academic performance.

Tracy is a published author on the IB Middle Years programme too, and was a co-founder of The Kindred Project; a unique NGO set up and led by students, supporting peers in developing schools in India, Morocco and Uganda. As a CIS inspector, she has also completed international accreditation visits at prestigious schools in Singapore, Moscow and Prague.

And if all that were not enough, she has a Master’s degree and Professional Diploma in International Education from the Institute of Education, University College London and an NPQEL in Educational Leadership.

That, though, is just the tip of the iceberg. We asked Tracy to conclude our chat by telling us a few things about herself that may surprise our readers. This can be a tricky question for some people, but not for Tracy. “I co-founded an NGO (Non-Government Organisation) in Spain, which was eventually led by school students.

The NGO built two small residential homes in Goa in India and worked with a number of community groups in Morocco, in Asni and Chefchaouen, supporting several educational projects there, including a student exchange programme where students stayed with Moroccan families, learning more about culture and family life.

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“In Africa, the NGO built a school in Uganda, on the shores of Lake Victoria, and our students and teachers visited the school two or three times a year, every year, teaching, building and adding to facilities, and generally serving the school. I believe that service learning is so important for children to participate in. One of the projects was providing solar-powered lights to Ugandan families so that the children could read in the evening without having to use candles.

“The schools in India, Morocco and Uganda became satellite schools of the NGO. Whilst in Goa, I also supported the opening of the very first international school modelling new pedagogy – again helping the school to transition from a very traditional style of teaching and learning to a more progressive one.

“During this time, I also sang in a Spanish band called Toma! I was singing alongside a tree surgeon, a drummer, three guitarists and all our own children. The band played in a number of small towns across southern Spain.

My favourite gig was in Gaucin, in the mountains of Andalusia in the province of Málaga, where the whole town, including the shepherd of eighty years of age, came to enjoy the free entertainment!”

It will be exciting to see how Citizens School evolves under Tracy’s leadership, and we look forward to following her in what is a very different and inspirational learning environment. Oh, and of course, we can’t wait for her first gig!

CITIZENS SCHOOL  +971 4 458 1063

VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

 +971 50 237 7273

26

Excellence in Schools Reviews

Fairgreen International School Fairgreen International School is a pioneering education community, with a mission to embrace and promote sustainability in all its forms. Developed to empower students with a forward-looking education, Fairgreen aims to inspire future generations to make a positive impact on the world as ambassadors of sustainable development.

Established:

Fairgreen’s challenging academic environment motivates students to be agents of change and helps them progress as solution-minded, critical thinkers. A wide-ranging programme of performing and fine arts, sports, and extracurricular activities complements our academic offering. This whole-child approach, with differentiated teaching and learning, promotes individual students’ development and wellbeing.

2018

School Type:

Through School

WHY CHOOSE FAIRGREEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL?

Curriculum:

IB

At Fairgreen International School in Dubai, our educators integrate both passion and talent to inspire our students.

Every day students are welcomed into a happy, diverse classroom; supporting academic achievement in everything they do.

From Pre-KG to Grade 12, Fairgreen students learn how to communicate, collaborate and create a community of

Fees from:

AED 40-50K Age range:

3-18

Inspection Rating:

Good

friends within and across the divisions of our school. From early childhood and elementary to Middle and High School, Fairgreen has a one-family feeling. Through an enriched student life, our students meet and make new friends from all over the world, and each learner is recognised as an individual.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR SCHOOL DIRECTOR

Location: The Sustainable City, Dubai

Contact us: +971 4 875 4999

Edward Pearce,

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School Director

Dear Parents, I would like to warmly welcome you to Fairgreen International School, an IB World School authorised to deliver the International Baccalaureate® Continuum of Education comprising the IB PYP, IB MYP, IBCP and IBDP* in Dubai, UAE. Located in The Sustainable City, Fairgreen reflects the ethos of its surrounding community and has sustainability as a core part of its DNA. As a parent myself, I understand how critical the decision is to choose the right school for your children, where the environment they are surrounded by is just as important as their academic journey. Under the Esol Education umbrella, at Fairgreen International School, there is an eco-system built on a progressive IB curriculum and a deep awareness of sustainable living from an early age. These two critical aspects co-exist in a collaborative environment for our community of educators, parents and children. I would welcome the opportunity to invite you to take a tour of our school and allow our team to show you around and answer your questions.

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OR CALL

+971 4 875 4999

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Excellence in Schools Reviews

Citizens School Citizens School is a visionary new school in Dubai, designed and developed by Al Zarooni Emirates Investments. At its core, Citizens focuses on each child’s unique requirements, empowering them with choices to explore themes, expand interests, and determine the routes that they want to go on to reach their full potential, without compromise.

Established:

Influenced by some of the world’s leading cognitive scientists and researchers on education, motivation and mindsets, Citizens’ custom-built curriculum is tailored for each child’s unique strengths and approach to learning, with the UK National Curriculum as its framework. The 43,000m2 school campus has capacity for 2,600 children between the ages of three and 18 and features almost 3,000m2 of open playing space. This includes a multi-purpose performing arts and activity hall, a six-lane swimming pool, and football and rugby pitches adhering to FIFA and World Rugby standards.

2022

School Type:

Through School Curriculum:

WHY CHOOSE CITIZENS SCHOOL?

British

Fees from:

The Citizens learning experience focuses on the whole growth of a learner and is built around each child’s unique requirements, giving them the choices to explore themes, expand interests and determine the routes that they want to go on to reach their full potential.

The Citizens campus, programme and approach has been thoughtfully curated to re-shape learning, enabling our

AED 40-50k Age range:

3-18

Inspection Rating:

Not Inspected Yet

students to thrive as citizens of the future, by focusing on wellbeing, imagination, and fun. As a school born out of Dubai and based in the heart of the city, Citizens School shares the spirit, energy, and optimism for what is possible today and tomorrow as we play our part in positioning Dubai as a global hub of learning excellence in a diversified knowledge economy.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRINCIPAL

Location: Al Safa Street, Dubai

Contact us: +971 4 602 4000 LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL 

Tracy Moxley, BSc. PGCE. MA. Dip.Ed. NPQEL

Founding Principal

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At Citizens, we are on a mission to find a better way, re-imagining the traditional, challenging the conventional.

On behalf of all staff at Citizens School, I am delighted to welcome you to the inaugural 2022-2023 school year. I know that this will be the first of many enjoyable and inspirational times ahead for the Citizens community. I am truly thrilled and honoured to be the Principal of Citizens School and feel very privileged to be working alongside the Citizens community.

After gaining my first teaching qualifications in London, I have since led international schools in Spain, Switzerland and in the Middle East. I have particular experience in educational innovation and cutting-edge pedagogy, removed from traditional educational practice with teachers as mentors and guides, coaching and facilitating skill development.

Today, I am extremely fortunate to lead this progressive school, not only providing a worldclass future-focused education but more importantly a school where students and all of their needs are at the centre of everything that we do.

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Lifetime offer on tuition fees when enrolling in the 2022-23 school year.

ADMISSIONS

OPEN

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30

Excellence in Schools Reviews

The Arbor School The Arbor School aims to foster a positive, caring and compassionate school environment, in which learners can shine in many different ways. Arbor students shall become innovative and capable leaders, with a strong set of ethical values, anchored by a deep sense of global environmental justice and sustainability.

Established:

The Arbor School is an international, ecological school, based on the British curriculum and offers places in Foundation Stage 1 through to Year 10. Ecoliteracy, sustainability and environmental justice are at the heart of the Arbor School curriculum, and is aimed at cultivating within students an ethos of ecological understanding and environmental mindfulness that drives innovative, creative problem solving for a more sustainable world.

2018

School Type:

Pre-school

WHY CHOOSE THE ARBOR SCHOOL?

Curriculum:

British

The Arbor School has a unique vision of what education could and should be – experiential, authentic and inspired by the natural beauty, human ingenuity and profound ecological and social challenges of the globe. We are a learning community uniquely committed to understanding and restoring the health of ecological and human communities as interconnected parts of a whole, committed to building a bespoke learning experience for each child; personal and personalised. At the Arbor School, we emphasise the integration of the concepts of eco-literacy, sustainability and

Fees from:

AED 30-40k Age range:

3-15

Inspection Rating:

Good

Location: Al Furjan, Jebel Ali, Dubai

global environmental justice into every aspect of school life, from curriculum and activities to staffing and facilities.

Through project-based, experiential and outdoor learning, our students will engage with their local environment in meaningful ways. In-house specialists work with teaching staff to ensure that our curricula and activities are always enriched with awareness of the environmental and broader ethical knowledge and values essential to the wellbeing of our students, and of the world they will inherit.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRINCIPAL

Contact us: +971 4 581 4100 LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL 

Brett Girven

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Principal

Arbor is a truly unique school here in the heart of the urgent, fast-paced, and sometimes feverish city of Dubai!

At Arbor, a transformational learning journey combines deep intellectual thought with engaging and meaningful experiences, and students completing their journey at the Arbor School will be well prepared to go forth into the world.

Sustainability is at the centre of each student’s journey, and they are encouraged to question relentlessly, see the bigger picture, and consider all opportunities to make an impact.

Arbor offers the British Curriculum GCSE and A-Level options, providing security and rigour to families as they consider future options for their child, whilst simultaneously enriching and challenging students with Arbor’s bespoke ‘Global Impact Certificate’.

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Excellence in Schools Reviews

Brighton College Dubai Part of the renowned Brighton College family of schools and sister to England’s ‘School of the Decade’ (The Sunday Times), Brighton College Dubai is a vibrant co-educational school for pupils aged from 3 to 18 years, set on a 20-acre state-of-the-art campus in the heart of Al Barsha. The College is known for upholding a record of exceptional academic results, which are achieved through a deep commitment to the individual strengths and interests of each child.

Established:

The last academic year was an exciting time for Brighton College Dubai, with notable accomplishments including winning ‘Best British School in Dubai’ in the LUXLife Private Education Awards, achieving ‘Outstanding’ GCSE results (according to the UAE inspection framework) and receiving the highest grading for a new school in their first KHDA inspection. The KHDA inspectorate were impressed with the ‘positive and caring ethos (that) exists throughout the school’ and praised the attitude and personal development of pupils, who they described as ‘respectful, friendly and supportive of the needs of others’.

2018

School Type:

Through School Curriculum:

WHY CHOOSE BRIGHTON COLLEGE DUBAI?

British

Fees from:

AED 50-80k Age range:

3-18

Inspection Rating:

Good (Highest Grade for 1st Inspection)

As Brighton College Dubai enters its fifth year it continues to thrive, with several important milestones ahead, including its first Year 13 cohort. The College will also benefit from numerous expansion projects over the summer, such as the opening of a brand-new play area for Early Years, an additional library for Senior School and swimming pool spectator seating.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR HEADMASTER

Location: Al Barsha 2 South, Dubai

Contact us: +971 4 387 1111 LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL  BOOK A SCHOOL VISIT



While the College grows, its vision remains constant: to develop curious and confident individuals who are ready to make a positive impact on the world, by emphasising and imparting three key values: a love of learning, innovation and kindness. This approach, paired with exceptional teaching and world-class facilities and resources, is what makes a Brighton College education truly special.

Simon Crane

As a Headmaster, I believe passionately in the importance of the individual. Every child at Brighton College Dubai is valued for his or her self and encouraged to grow in a community without stereotypes and where every achievement, however small, is noticed and valued.

Although the Brighton College family of schools are renowned for outstanding academic results, this is balanced with a wide range of co-curricular opportunities and dedication to pastoral support, allowing pupils to excel in their personal development and skill sets, not just exams.

If this ethos appeals to you, I invite you to visit the school and tour the facilities.

We would be delighted to welcome you.

Headmaster

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





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Excellence in Schools Reviews

ENROLL ENROLLNOW! NOW!

Limited Limited Seats Seats Available Available Tel:Tel: +971 +971 4 232 4 232 5222 5222 registar@uasdubai.ae registar@uasdubai.ae www.uasdubai.ae www.uasdubai.ae

AN ANAMERICAN AMERICANINTERNATIONAL INTERNATIONAL Universal American School SCHOOL SCHOOLWHERE WHERE STUDENTS STUDENTS Part of the renowned Al Futtaim Education Foundation family of schools, Universal American School is operatedBELONG asBELONG a not-for-profit co-educational school for students KNOW KNOW THEY THEY

A AWORD WORD FROM FROMOUR OUR DIRECTOR DIRECTOR

aged from 3 to 18 years, set on a 75,000m2 state-of-the-art campus in the heart of Al

high school school track. track.

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Our curriculum celebrates the diversity renowned IB Diploma, IB Diploma, an American an American high high a boutique-style a boutique-style school school with with a beautiful a beautiful renowned within our and learners with the skillsschool andschool attributes required tooptions become active citizens in our international track track with with options of AP of AP courses, courses, campus campus in community the in the heart heart of equips family-friendly of family-friendly community and beyond. nownow alsoalso thethe AP AP Capstone, Capstone, is one is one of of Festival Festival City, City, and and we we dare dare to go to go new new ways ways andand

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We We emphasize emphasize thethe importance importance in their own identity our students are ready to interrogate offering opportunities for all of our learners. These pathways offered with T&Cs of wellbeing of wellbeing andand purpose purpose through through making making new knowledge while being strong members and leaders of mixed with the depth and scale of our facilities and staffing Universal Universal American School is owned is owned andand operated operated by the by the Al Futtaim Alstudents Futtaim Education Education Foundation, real-world real-world connections connections andand relationship relationship teams andAmerican their widerSchool community. enables to be prepared toFoundation, excel in the next step in Age range: building. building.

ThisThis is highlighted is highlighted by our by our which which is created is created to support to support the the vision vision of the of the Government Government of Dubai of Dubai and and the the KHDA KHDA through through Universal American School combines the rigor of their learning journey. comprehensive comprehensive student support support services services as as not-for-profit 3-18 student not-for-profit schools. schools.

Our Our shared shared vision vision is to is make to make Universal Universal American American School School the the leading leading AERO standards with the breadth and creativity of the wellwell as through as through ourour business business partnerships partnerships American American international international school school in the in the region. region.

TheThe investment investment of time, of time, thought, thought, physical, physical, andand ourour commitment commitment to developing to developing Inspection Rating: andand financial financial resources, resources, in addition in addition to decades to decades of business of business acumen, acumen, provide provide Universal Universal internships internships and and experiential experiential learning learning KHDA Very Good A MESSAGE FROM DIRECTOR American American School School with with a solid aOUR solid foundation foundation for for success success andand unparalleled unparalleled access access to purposeful to purposeful opportunities opportunities withwith Al-Futtaim.

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OurOur focus focus is toisensure to ensure thatthat we we build build resilient, resilient, Location: Universal Universal American American School School is aiswonderful a wonderful place place to grow to grow andand learn, learn, providing providing ourour students students open-minded, open-minded, andand curious curious learners, learners, whowho Al Badia, Welcome toagents Universal School, an American community school for Dubai Festival City withwith opportunities opportunities to become to become active active agents ofAmerican their of their own own learning. learning.

WeWe give give ourour students students graduate graduate withwith a unique a unique combination combination of of Dubai Festival City where children and their education are at the heart of all we do. voice voice andand choice choice through through a number a number of extra-curricular of extra-curricular activities, activities, whether whether they they want want to to skills, skills, knowledge, knowledge, andand understanding understanding It is atry privilege to for be Director ofteams, Universal American School, leading an participate participate in our in our Fringe Fringe Festival, Festival, try outout for thethe the athletics athletics teams, debate debate politics politics with with ouralongside our making making them them ready ready for for their their nextnext steps steps outstanding team ofabout professionals.

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Model Model United United Nations Nations students, students, or learn or learn about ourour Emirati Emirati committee, getget involved involved withwith

OPERATING OPERATINGAS ASA ANOT-FOR-PROFIT NOT-FOR-PROFITSCHOOL SCHOOL

Contact us: Director Director +971 Mr. Mr. Kevin Kevin LoftLoft4 524

opportunities they require to do asUAS well they are able.toChildren andeveryone. young people are the student student government government or the or the National National Honor Honor Society.

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LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL CURRICULUM CURRICULUM

 AERO AERO US US Curriculum Curriculum PreK-12 PreK-12 IB Primary IB Primary Years Years Programme, Programme, IB Diploma IB Diploma BOOK A SCHOOL VISIT  Programme, Programme, Candidate Candidate School School for for thethe IB IB Middle Middle Years Years Programme Programme (MYP, (MYP, grades grades 6-8)6-8) REQUEST INFORMATION  Advanced Advanced Placement Placement (AP)(AP) andand AP AP Capstone Capstone Diploma Diploma Program Program VISIT OUR WEBSITE



READ INSPECTION REPORT



1100+ 1100+ STUDENTS STUDENTS Kevin Loft Director

AMERICAN AMERICAN CURRICULUM CURRICULUM WATCH SCHOOL VIDEO + International + International Baccalaureate Baccalaureate

RATED RATED

VERY VERY GOOD  GOOD BYBY KHDA KHDA

EMIRATI, TALENT TALENT ANDAND ACADEMIC ACADEMIC exceptional exceptional campus campus + Advance + Advance EMIRATI, Placement (AP) (AP) SCHOLARSHIPS SCHOLARSHIPS 75+ 75+ NATIONALITIES NATIONALITIESPlacement

MEMBERSHIPS MEMBERSHIPS & & ACCREDITATIONS ACCREDITATIONS

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35

For all your after school activity needs!

Available from prek to grade 6

LEAP LEAP Jr. is a teacher-led, fun & active, after school program for students in PreK and KG1.

SCHEDULE

LEAP Jr. is offered after school Monday to Thursday from 12:45 pm to 3:15 pm.

LEAP is a techer-led, personalized, after school program for students from PreK through Grade 6.

SCHEDULE

LEAP is offered after school Monday to Thursday.

You may pick up your child anytime until 6:00 pm.

FOR MORE INFO

36

Excellence in Schools Reviews

The English College Dubai At The English College, we are committed to providing the best value, high quality, British curriculum education in Dubai to all our students, whether they join us in FS1, in Year 12, or any year group between.

Established:

Our vision is to encourage students to always try their best and aspire to excellence. We strive to develop lifelong learners who flourish in all they do and embrace, with passion and confidence, their responsibility to support others and make a difference both locally and globally.

High-quality teaching and learning and the very best pastoral care and extra-curricular provision lie at the very heart of our school, complemented by a rigorous extracurricular programme specially designed to encompass participation in sports, technology, the arts, service learning, and cultural activities. standards.

1992

School Type:

Through School Curriculum:

British

WHY CHOOSE THE ENGLISH COLLEGE DUBAI?

Fees from:

AED 30-40K Age range:

3-18

Inspection Rating:

Good

Location: Opposite Oasis Mall, Al Safa 1, off Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai

Contact us: +971 4 394 3465

Established in 1992, we are very proud of our strong heritage, traditions and values and are constantly looking forward, seeking to innovate and improve at every age and stage for every one of our pupils.

We aren’t just another British curriculum school in Dubai – we are more than a school, we are a community, an experience and a way of life that nurtures excellence in every respect. Our community is culturally rich and diverse, welcoming students from a phenomenal range of backgrounds and over 70 nationalities. As a school we recognise and celebrate this.

Our DSIB-rated 'Outstanding' pastoral care ensures that your children are equipped, socially and emotionally, to achieve their potential and flourish in all that they do.

We recognise and value the importance of extra-curricular activities and we want our students to get the most out of their education. Each year, a varied and exciting range of activities run before school, at lunchtime and after school, with new activities appearing on a regular basis.

The programme goes hand-in-hand with our sports and PE provision, giving students the extra training or impetus they need to make squads and represent the school.

ECAs offer many benefits, including improved academic performance, further exploration of interests and passions, and opportunities to create broader perspectives and meet new people.

OUR PRINCIPAL Mark Ford brings with him over three decades of experience in education. He graduated in Mathematics from Nottingham, before completing his PGCE at York University. His career has seen him teaching in the UK, Kenya, France, Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates, at Abu Dhabi’s ADEK ‘Outstanding School’, The British School Al Khubairat, followed by a Principal position at Dubai’s ‘Outstanding’ Dubai British School until 2016. He then moved to Kuala Lumpur to head the prestigious, British Garden International School before joining The English College in August 2019.

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Excellence in Schools Reviews

Deira International School Part of the renowned Al Futtaim Education Foundation family of schools, Deira International School is operated as a not-for-profit co-educational school for students aged from 3 to 18 years, set on a 107,000m2 state-of-the-art campus in the heart of Al Badia, Dubai Festival City.

Established:

An initiative of the Al Futtaim family, the Al Futtaim Education Foundation (AFEF) was created to support the vision of the Government of Dubai and the KHDA. DIS is known for a record of exceptional IB and IGCSE academic results, which are achieved through offering the highest quality innovative teaching focusing on developing learner attributes to equip students for the future. In 2021, Deira International School was recognised as providing an 'Outstanding' education in its British Schools Overseas Inspection. The team recognised both the ambitions of the school for all students to become ‘confident, knowledgeable and intellectually open-minded global citizens’ and the way in which this is achieved. They praised both the complex curriculum offering and the consistently outstanding standards of teaching across the school. Beyond this, the team commended the school for its inclusive approach and the comprehensive opportunities which the school offers for all. As a result, students are ‘sensible, responsible citizens, who value their learning, friendships and relationships with staff’.

2005

School Type:

Through School Curriculum:

British/IB Fees from:

AED 40-82k

WHY CHOOSE DEIRA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL?

Age range:

3-18

Deira International School is an established school and is owned and managed by the Al Futtaim Education Foundation.

As a result of this the school enjoys exceptional, and rare, facilities across all age groups. However, the school continues to invest in the experience for students – most recently with the development of an IB Hub for our most senior students as well as the redesign of much of the spaces in the primary school. The school is committed to providing the very highest standards of education, which are accessible to all.

Inspection Rating:

KHDA Very Good BSO Outstanding in every category Location: Al Badia, Dubai Festival City

Within this context the school places great emphasis on ensuring students are future ready and able to thrive in whatever their future contexts and, as a result, places particular emphasis on digital technology. We were delighted that this was recognised in the award of an International School Award in 2021. This ambition, alongside our vision and determination to provide the very best experience for our students makes Deira International School a unique opportunity.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR DIRECTOR

Contact us: +971 4 232 5552

I am enormously proud of all Deira International School achieves every day. The school is lucky to enjoy the exceptional facilities which are unrivalled in Dubai. When combined with an exceptional and committed staff, our students thrive in an atmosphere of both challenge and support. It is this which enables them to achieve outstanding outcomes and to progress to elite universities around the world.

Deira International School is a community school which values not only individual students but also the support of our parents who we see as integral to students’ success. I would be delighted to welcome you to the school and to enable you to see what we do.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL  BOOK A SCHOOL VISIT



REQUEST INFORMATION



Simon O’Connor

Director

VISIT OUR WEBSITE



READ BSO INSPECTION REPORT



WATCH SCHOOL VIDEO



Excellence in Schools Reviews

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RATED ‘OUTSTANDING’ in all judgements

BSO Inspection: October 2021

andin BSO O•uintesvtery categogryS•chool

Students are sensible, responsible citizens, who value their learning, friendships and relationships with staff.

Find out more by visiting www.disdubai.ae or call us now to book a school tour +971 232 5552

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Excellence in Schools

Navigating the Start of a New Academic Year for SENDCos

By Catherine O’Farrell

OVER 700,000 STUDENTS WILL RETURNED TO SCHOOL IN THE UAE. WITH THE WORLD’S LARGEST PRIVATE SCHOOL MARKET (THE NATIONAL, 2021) OUR TEACHERS, PRINCIPALS, AND SENDCOS ARE SET FOR LARGE NUMBERS AND A FAST PACE AS THE ACADEMIC YEAR TAKES OFF FOR 2022-2023!

Excellence in Schools

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Excellence in Schools

Here are some tips for SENDCos to ensure that you are fully prepared and ready to hit the ground running as your school opens.

An experienced educational leader and consultant, Catherine O’Farrell is one of a Group Lead with Victoria International Schools and one of the founders of Incluzun.com, an organisation supporting people of determination in a holistic way across the MENA region. Catherine has been working in education and inclusion for almost 20 years and has degrees in Education, Psychology, and a master’s in Engineering. She is passionate about developing opportunities for children with individual needs and has been a Group Head for some of the region’s largest educational providers, as well as working with international and national committees from the Global Sustainability Network to the Ministry of Education here in the UAE to push for a more sustainable and inclusive world. Catherine is a regular media contributor and conference speaker.

REVIEW YOUR SCHOOL’S INCLUSION AND SAFEGUARDING POLICIES Review your school’s policies at least every two years. Ensure that you are fully up-to-date with new legislation and guidelines from your regulator.

It is always a good idea to include guidelines from the country with which your school’s curriculum is affiliated.

For example, Victoria International Schools of Sharjah (ISS) incorporate new guidelines from the Policy to Empower People of Determination here in the UAE, as well as guidelines from the NCCD Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability, which is a governing body for inclusive practice in Australia.

Ensuring your policies are reviewed and suitable to your specific setting ensures that your practice will reflect the most recent innovations and governmental guidelines for real-world practice in the school.

Some policies to note as a SENDCo are: Inclusion / Admissions / Safeguarding / Governance & Training.

REVIEW YOUR SCHOOL’S WEBSITE It is important that your website reflects what you actually do in the school. Remember, this is the first port of call for parents and it is the first impression that lasts. If your website is dated or has old information, parents will not have an accurate view of the school.

School policies should be available on the website. The School’s Vision Statement and/or objectives should include a commitment to providing inclusive education to Students of Determination. The school’s policies and procedures for the admission of Students of Determination along with links to legal documents and laws should be prominent. Messages and images should demonstrate and promote the inclusion of students.

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GET INTO CLASS As a SENDCo, the first weeks should be focused on getting into classrooms and meeting the teachers and students. Remember to be flexible and pragmatic - which I think are traits of every SENDCo the world over!

Set up SEND monitoring meetings with all class teachers, talk to the students, and do as many informal observations and class visits as you can.

Remember, a student on week one may look very different from a student on week three.

Give teachers and students time to settle in and find their feet. It is a good idea to refuse any SEND referrals for at least two weeks (except for complex cases) so that students can have a little time to get familiar with the school and the routines - this applies to teachers too!

CO-ORDINATE WITH THE ADMISSIONS TEAM As schools open we are welcoming sometimes thousands of students, some new, some returning. In order to ensure that you have a full understanding of each and every student’s needs, methods and tools for entry assessment should be in place; they should be age appropriate and reflect the student’s stage of development. This information can help you, as a SENDCo, and the teacher to plan for the student’s arrival, ensure that any risk assessments are in place (if appropriate) and make a smooth pathway for the student as they embark on their journey with their new class.

Don’t forget to update KHDA/SPEA/ADEK portals where necessary for any complex cases.

SET UP SEND MONITORING Fail to plan – plan to Fail SEND progress tracking is always a point of concern for SENDCos. If you set up your trackers and start progress monitoring from the first week you will set the ball rolling with positive momentum for your whole team.

These progress trackers will inform your audit of need and planning of provision, including staffing throughout the year.

FEATURE YOUR COMPANY IN OUR NEW SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY FOR EDUCATORS

Make your company accessible to 1,000’s of education buyers in the UAE, giving them access to view your latest products and services in our brand new SUPPLIERS directory.

CLICK HERE NOW TO LIST YOUR COMPANY

Excellence in Schools

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SET UP SEND PROVISION Begin to develop your Inclusion Register as soon as you can. Within the first few weeks try to ensure that all students have their barriers to learning identified. Ensure that emergency procedures and risk assessments are in place where necessary and start building your whole school, costed provision map supplemented by class provision maps which include baseline and outcome projections. Try to attend planning meetings and advise on curriculum mapping, differentiation, and modification.

to training and empower them through collaborative planning with the class teacher.

Make lists and RAG rate them in terms of what you can manage given the time you have.

PRESERVE THYSELF!!

With a million things to do at the start of a new academic year, it is not uncommon as a SENDCo to feel overwhelmed. The nature of the role is diverse, complex, and hugely challenging. We find ourselves being pulled from pillar to post as teachers struggle to understand their students’ needs and leaders want to see plans and IEPs as soon as the doors open!

Don’t forget to step back and breathe regularly. A SENDCo can find themselves running from end to end of campus regularly and often we forget to take breaks, eat or even go to the loo! Pause and take time for mental wellbeing regularly. If you burn out you can’t support your students or your teachers: remember the meme about the airplane - you’ve got to fix your own oxygen mask first!

SET UP YOUR IEPS Once you’ve allowed teachers and students (and yourself) time to get settled and familiar with everyone, get going on your IEPs.

BE MINDFUL OF HOW YOU SPEND YOUR TIME, IT IS PRECIOUS. It is useful to pause before you start every task in these first weeks and ask yourself: “Is this a valuable use of my time - what will the impact of this activity be?”

FINALLY, ENJOY Embrace your new students, revel in their summer stories and their enthusiasm. Steal from their abundant energy supplies and enjoy the new year full of opportunities and promise!

Remember to write SMART targets, include the parents in goal setting, and most importantly ensure that you have the student voice in your IEP. They should be child friendly and shared with parents, teachers, SEND teachers, and the student. You can share a child-friendly IEP with students from KG1 upward and use them as a reward chart - this can be hugely motivating for students. If your goals are truly SMART, the student should find success through all of their IEP activities, which fosters motivation while genuinely removing barriers to learning.

DON’T FORGET YOUR LSAS Make sure that your LSAs have police clearance, a job description, an MoU where necessary, and are monitored termly. Ensure that your LSAs have access

If the answers are not clear, put that activity to the side and action priorities.

It’s OK to say no. Don’t succumb to the pressures of teachers who are challenged by complex students, support where you can but be mindful of the ‘breaking in period’. Students can be just as overwhelmed by their new setting or class as adults and may express this with undesired behaviours for the first couple of weeks. Very often, more often than not, these behaviours diminish once everyone settles into their new routine.

INCLUZUN +971 50 876 8747

VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

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EdTech

Powerful, portable laptops that have long-lasting battery life are in greater demand, as consumers now expect more from their devices, opting to invest in laptops once every few years. Students, in particular, want flexibility when looking at devices to support their requirements for school.

A WELL-PRICED, MULTI-PURPOSE LAPTOP IS KEY – AND A MODEL EQUIPPED WITH RTX 30 SERIES GPUS IS IDEAL FOR STUDYING, CONTENT-CREATION, GAMING, AS WELL AS SUPPORTING COMPLEX PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS.

I

nvesting in an RTX laptop from the get-go means students don’t need to invest in multiple platforms for different purposes, as it will cater to all their computing needs over the upcoming academic year and beyond.

Students may find it tedious to manage various assignments, projects, and coursework across their subjects. However, with AI, regardless of how challenging or difficult their projects may be, students will be able to manage and finish them sooner.

How? NVIDIA AI Accelerated STEM applications support every student in completing their projects faster! The NVIDIA Broadcast APP enables students to attend online classes or collaborate with their classmates on projects more efficiently, and resourcefully. The platform is ideal for students who study remotely, as it can create a ‘studio’ anywhere, by removing background noise and echoes, improved camera and voice quality, access to a free green-screen feature, and much more.

WATCH VIDEO

EdTech

Moreover, a student in art, design, or any other creative field can benefit from an enhanced workflow with 75+ AI-accelerated creative apps including the number one app for photography, video editing, rendering and broadcasting. With NVIDIA Studio Drivers, the best performance and reliability is guaranteed when working on and across creative applications. Additionally, access to NVIDIA Exclusive free apps such as Omniverse for 3D artists allows them to connect and create virtual worlds, while NVIDIA Canvas turns simple brushstrokes into realistic landscape images with AI. With the ability to quickly work on original concepts with NVIDIA, students now have more time to visualize and create new ideas.

Today, a lot of students are also gamers, who game to unwind after a long day at school or university.

Laptops with RTX30 GPUs guarantee the ultimate gaming experience, offering the fastest frame rates per second (FPS) and unmatched image quality with NVIDIA DLSS. Moreover, NVIDIA Reflex provides the lowest latency, and gamers can enjoy cinematic and stellar visuals with Raytracing, ensuring the smoothest and most stable gaming experience with NVIDIA GameReady drivers. Additionally, students looking to switch from a console to a laptop can use their favorite controller too! RTX GPUs are not only the fastest, but they also stand out as the most

advanced GPUs in the world. This level of performance cannot be found on any other platform. Students will also save money because PC or laptop games are far more affordable than console games.

Students interested in pursuing careers as 3D artists, designers, photographers, picture and video editors, or even streamers, will find NVIDIA Studio laptops to be the perfect choice because they are built for creators, designed for performance, and ready to uplift the newest and most cutting-edge creative programs.

What’s more, with the NVIDIA Max-Q technology, students can enjoy quieter, cooler laptops, and longer battery life. GeForce laptops are also the world’s thinnest high-performance machines – several designs are less than 20mm thick and weigh less than 1.8kg, perfect and convenient for students on the go.

NVIDIA RTX laptops such as ASUS RTX 3050, MSI RTX 3060, Dell RTX 3060, ASUS RTX 3060 are increasingly versatile, and these highly developed machines feature the newest, fastest GPUs with AI, which are only found in laptops with RTX graphics cards. With state-of-the-art features and technological enhancements, RTX laptops are the perfect platform for students!

These advanced and future-proof RTX features are now available on RTX laptops starting at AED 2899.

LEARN MORE

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Competition

STAND A CHANCE TO WIN A YEAR'S WORTH OF SCHOOL FEES THE PAINTING WIZARD INVITES YOU TO THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS INTER-SCHOOL PAINTING COMPETITION FOR ALL STUDENTS ACROSS THE UAE. THIS HYBRID COMPETITION AIMS TO BRING BACK NORMALCY IN THE LIVES OF CHILDREN POSTCOVID. THE IDEA IS TO ENGAGE AND CREATE INTERACTION WITH OTHER STUDENTS, AND LEARN AND EXPLORE THEIR OWN CREATIVE SIDE. AND WHAT’S BEST IS THAT THERE IS A LOT TO WIN, ALONG WITH THE JOY OF PAINTING AND DISCOVERY.

Competition

Spread across three months, The Painting Wizard is split into different stages of competition to finally reveal the top four students/young artists from the UAE. The initial registration is completely online. The students will have to fill in a pre-set artwork with colours of their imagination and submit it to the website.

40 finalists will then undergo a FREE workshop by our esteemed jury and on the event finale. These 40 will battle it out with a LIVE painting competition followed by a gala dinner and awards ceremony to emerge winners.

E vent Ambassador MS. JUMANA KHAN

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CATEGORIES 1.

2.

3.

4.

Class Class Class Class

1–3 4-6 7&8 9 & 10

DATES TO REMEMBER: Submission Deadline 13th November 2022

WORKSHOP 20th November 2022 THE FINALE OF THE EVENT 2nd December 2022 WHAT CAN YOU WIN?  One winner from each category will win a full year’s school fees as a scholarship  FREE online coding courses  FREE training ART workshop  Gift Hampers and much more We thank all our partners – BrightChamps, Byju’s, The Paintbrush Community, Education UAE, NABD, Kidzapp and Khaleej Times - for all the support they have given to make this initiative a memorable one.

Hurry up and send in your entries to win amazing prizes.

Hurry up and send in your entries to win amazing prizes.

REGISTER NOW at: www.thepaintingwizard.com

THE PAINTING WIZARD

VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

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Health and Nutrition

LUNCHBOX IDEAS FROM WATERFRONT MARKET LONG LAZY SUMMER DAYS HAVE COME TO AN END AND THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR HAS STARTED. AS WE PREPARE OUR CHILDREN’S NEW UNIFORMS AND SCHOOL BAGS, WE ALSO NEED TO THINK ABOUT THEIR LUNCHBOXES.

Health and Nutrition

W

aterfront Market’s resident Chef Christos Lymperis has pulled together some great menu ideas to make lunchtimes more exciting as well as healthy, explaining, “Lunchboxes should always contain a snack, a main course and a healthy treat or fruit. It’s important to include a balanced diet, so don’t forget to include protein, carbohydrates, fibre and vitamins.

“It’s best to use a thermal bag as a lunchbox and ice packs to keep the food at its optimum temperature until mealtime and avoid meals that need to be reheated.”

For those parents looking to get an A* with their lunchboxes, Chef Christos suggests spending some time making meals more attractive. This can be done by making smiley faces using fresh and colourful vegetables or fruits as children love colours and it will make lunchtime a whole lot more interesting!

MONDAY Baked sweet potatoes with cream cheese, avocado chicken salad and rice pudding Great as a snack, sweet potatoes are full of fibre, minerals, vitamin B6 and carbs. Chicken and avocado salad will give your child protein, minerals, vitamins and omega-3 fats, whilst rice pudding is a great source of carbs, calcium, vitamin D and magnesium.

TUESDAY Baked salmon with steamed rice, veggies sticks (carrots, peppers, celery, cucumber, etc.) with yoghurt dip, banana mousse with cocoa Salmon is packed with omega-3 fats and vitamins, great for maintaining healthy bones, whilst veggie sticks are a source of calcium, vitamins and beta-carotene, which supports skin cells, healing wounds and healthy eyes. To top it off, bananas are rich in nutrients and support digestive health.

WEDNESDAY Mediterranean lentil salad, beef meatballs in red sauce, fruit salad Lentils are high in protein and fibre and low in fat; they are a healthy substitute for meat. Make your fruit salad stand out by creating a fun face in your child’s lunchbox – grapes for the eyes, a strawberry nose, and melon for the mouth!

THURSDAY Egg salad sandwich, air-fried veggie chips, yoghurt with honey Eggs are highly nutritious, supporting heart health and aiding healthy bones and teeth. Honey has antibacterial and antifungal properties; it heals wounds and may help suppress coughing in children.

VIEW CHEF CHRIS' RECIPES

FOR THE FULL RECIPES, MORE TIPS AND IDEAS, FOLLOW WATERFRONT MARKET’S SOCIAL MEDIA AND WEBSITE.

WATERFRONT MARKETS

FRIDAY Spinach rice, mini pizza bites, apple pie Spinach promotes healthy bones, blood and cell function and also contains lots of vitamin B. For healthy pizzas keep it simple with lots of veggies and use brown bread as a base.

VISIT WEBSITE EMAIL US

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The Lounge

SASSI WE LCOM ES TH E JOY OF LEAR N I NG I N TH E MOST FU N WAY ucational Choose from a range of books and ed toys selected specially by Sassi

erience your child will look SI transforms learning into an exp SAS fun! so n bee er nev has g l, Learnin r home or on vacation by the poo time read in the comfort of you mer sum ate ultim the For to. forward curious child while they explore Sassi are made to inspire your from ks boo iting exc and ant the vibr le having fun with interactive . Older children can also learn whi urs colo and ic, mus als, anim , shapes , and wooden toys, each paired illustrations paired with puzzles cal msi whi h wit e aliv e com t tha books and Why books that take their n and explore with the What, How lear vel, Tra ks. boo l iona cat edu with the globe. imagination to space and across

Pull and learn books These big cardboard books come with pull-out pieces where children can learn all about the alphabet with animal associations.

Edu-blocks

from

12m’s

fro m

2yrs

These educational blocks help children with hand-eye coordination and teach them the basics of geometry. They learn how to count while also learning about animals. Each set of Edu-blocks comes with a book.

The Lounge

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Travel, Learn, and explore This collection comes with giant puzzles of 200 pieces, and they are all about educational topics like animals, the human body, space, and the sea. Each collection comes with a book included teaches more about a specific subject in a fun way.

Steam puzzle These puzzles help children to develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination while learning a specific topic. They can gain knowledge about things like the alphabet, colours and shapes and numbers each puzzle comes with a book.

from

6yrs from

2yrs

My first library This set of small litt le books allows child ren to learn the alpha bet and numbers while highlighting vehicles in a fun way

What, how and why

Why The What, How, r ve co ok bo s atla h and topics like eart and n fu a in e ac sp They illustrated way. their each come with out the ab er st po n ow topic.

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All Sassi products are available at Pottery Barn Kids, Mumzworld, First Cry, Bumble Bee, Birds n Bees, Crate & Barrel, Bookworm

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Travel Near

KEEP COOL AT THESE FAMILY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS IN DUBAI Explore a host of fun attractions and destinations across Dubai, from swimming clubs to indoor ski slopes and ice rinks to underwater adventures that provide plenty of ways for families with children of all ages to chill out in the city.

ACTIVITIES TO GET THE ADRENALINE FLOWING Jump for joy and pay a visit to Bounce, the largest indoor trampoline park in Dubai. Comprised of wall-to-wall trampolines, airbags, and an adventure challenge course, Bounce is the world’s first freestyle terrain park, providing the ultimate indoor playground for those looking to get that adrenaline rush, with parkour courses and freestyle features. For junior jumpers, there’s a dedicated area with a purpose-built trampoline area and climbing boxes.

And there are some great limitedtime Special Offers on right now!

experience of skydiving - but without having to hurl themselves out of a plane. This indoor skydiving centre is the perfect place for either a first-time experience or to practice skydiving skills. iFly even offers an exclusive state-of-the-art VR experience for just AED 350, combining the thrill of a ‘real’ dive, with an indoor skydive.

For families passionate about sports and seeking to enjoy fun indoor physical activities, Dubai Sports World is the perfect destination for this summer. This safe and secure indoor venue boasts an array of sports and academic coaching

Blue Wave is a swimming club offering quality coaching and advanced tuition to ‘water babies’ of all ages. Tots, tweens, and teens can progress through five levels of swimming techniques, aptly named Starfish, Goldfish, Dolphin, Sharks, and Barracuda, whilst Blue Wave also offers adult swimming classes and female-only swimming sessions. With a 25-metre training pool, a 15 metres teaching pool for adults and kids, and the fun-inducing Splash Island water park, visitors will discover slide beams, waterfall buckets, a forest, and more. Kids swimming lessons available from just AED 450.

At iFly Dubai, children from three years of age can experience the sensation and

 Dubai Sports World

for all ages as well as a range of activities such as football, basketball, cricket, badminton, and a lot more besides.

Roll DBX is the home of roller disco in the UAE offering the ultimate old-school activity for parents to impress their kids with retro vibes and their skating skills. Located in Mina Rashid, the space welcomes roller-skaters of all ages and levels and guests can rent retro skates onsite and even take lessons where they can develop all the fundamental skills and learn some iconic dance moves on wheels. And there are admission and price points to suit everyone!  Ski Dubai

 Roll DXB

Travel Near

Ski Dubai has been named the world’s best indoor ski resort on several occasions, and for good reason. The slopes offer five different tracks, each of varying lengths and difficulty, which can be enjoyed independently, or by joining a session with the in-house Ski School, with coaching covering all levels and ages. In addition, the 4,500m2 Snow Park offers sledding, tobogganing, and zorb balling as well as rides including the Mountain Thriller, an adrenalinepumping adventure, carrying riders 150m at speeds of up to 40kph. Away from the slopes, there’s an Alpine-inspired lodge to enjoy hot chocolate before the little ones change into winter gear to meet the resident penguins for a memorable encounter. Check out the current offers and have fun in the snow!

FAMILY CHALLENGES AND INTERACTIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCES Ideal for competitive families, Brain Game is an interactive puzzle game hosted within an indoor urban maze. The course is challenging and tests brainpower, cognitive abilities, problem-solving skills, endurance, and strength. There are more than 20 challenges, so families can visit time and time again to test their resolve with these physical and mental puzzles.

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 Museum of Illusions

Take advantage of the latest offers and test your abilities!

Children will have the chance to gain real-world skills at KidZania Dubai, an indoor playground and a vast indoor educational theme park located in the Dubai Mall. Aimed at children aged 4-16, KidZania features realistic setups where kids can learn about more than 70 different professions and the real world in the interactive city. From hosting their own entertainment show, and

learning to create pizzas to developing money management skills whilst running their own shop, the opportunities for fun and education are endless.

Standard prices from just AED 80.

Head to Dubai’s array of incredible indoor destinations and attractions for a chilled-out summer

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Travel Near

LEGOLAND® Dubai, located at Dubai Parks & Resorts is ideal for families with children aged 2–12 years of age.

A central feature of LEGOLAND Dubai is MINILAND, an indoor air-conditioned attraction, with more than 20 million LEGO bricks creating this unique interactive area. Featuring iconic landmarks from across the Middle East, such as the world’s tallest LEGO model of the iconic Burj Khalifa, guests can even build their own city at a 10m long play table or take part in building challenges. This summer a child goes FREE with two paying guests, while there is a resident families offer (room, breakfast, park access, and more) for only AED 650, and much, much more!

ENGAGE IN ENRICHING EXPERIENCES Visitors of all ages can take in panoramic views of Dubai and learn about the history of the city from inside the world’s largest frame-shaped building, which stands a huge 150m tall and is more than 95m wide. Inside this incredible structure, the Dubai Frame offers an immersive journey through the city’s history, where families can learn about Dubai’s evolution from a small trading port to a global cosmopolitan city.

The Dubai Frame offers uninterrupted views from the indoor Sky Deck where visitors can view ‘Old Dubai’ to the north, including Dubai Creek and the historical Al Fahidi Neighbourhood, as well as ‘New Dubai’, lying in the south, including the iconic skyline featuring Burj Khalifa.

Visitors of all ages can take in panoramic views of Dubai and learn about the history of the city

 Dubai Frame

Things To Do in Dubai

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the skating academy at Dubai Ice Rink, families will find a variety of indoor experiences to enjoy this summer.

A one-of-a-kind experience awaits to take big kids and little kids on an unforgettable journey into the fascinating world of illusions at the Museum of Illusions at Al Seef. An educational and sensory experience, the museum is also home to an Anti-Gravity room, an Infinity Room, and even a Rotated Room, all guaranteed to trick the senses. Families can also head into the Vortex Tunnel, the first of its kind in the region, and navigate their way through a ‘rotating’ cylinder, a head-spinning adventure!

 The Green Planet

Pay a visit to The Green Planet, an incredible bio-dome that is home to a tropical rainforest housing more than 3,000 plants, birds, and animals. Young minds will be enthralled with an up-close and personal sloth encounter as the sleepy mammal roams free amongst the flora. Kids of all ages can meet friendly lemurs or explore the Australia Walkabout and if they are lucky they might even catch a glimpse of wallabies or the Australian Carpet Python. Other unusual experiences at The Green Planet include camping overnight in the rainforest, snorkeling with piranhas, or even being a zookeeper for the day.

Buy tickets online from AED 110.

A DAY OUT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Not only is The Dubai Mall the world’s largest shopping mall, but it is also home to a wide number of familyfriendly activities, offering an immersive experience to visitors of all ages and interests. With a host of international cafes and restaurants offering delicious cuisines from all over the globe, the largest indoor aquarium in the world, and an Olympic-sized ice rink, a day at The Dubai Mall is packed with attractions suitable for the whole family. Whether you want to head to a magical underwater world or hone your ice-skating skills by taking a class in

 The Dubai Mall, Aquarium

In partnership with:

15 – 17 November 2022 Dubai World Trade Centre Sheikh Saeed Halls

Shaping the future of education

The 15th edition of GESS Dubai returns in 2022, free to attend to anyone working in the field of education. The exhibition provides educators access to the products and solutions that meet the needs of the modern classroom and transform the way students learn. Alongside the exhibition runs an extensive conference programme and awards ceremony, making GESS Dubai the complete event for the education industry.

This year’s event runs under the theme “Shaping the future of education”, and our world-class conference will feature a range of renowned speakers and educationalists sharing their knowledge and passion in over 150, free of charge, CPD accredited talks and workshops. Our collaborative and innovative sessions will allow you to take home practical teaching methods, to use in your classroom immediately.

Inspiring Speakers Here are some of the confirmed speakers so far whose topics will inspire, energise and empower educators seeking new, innovative ways to take teaching and learning to the next level: Rob Houben, Educational Leader, Change-Maker and Change Creator

Gavin McCormack, Teacher Trainer, Children's Author, Philanthropist and School Principal

Russell Cailey, Executive Director, TGS Innovation and Training Centre, THINK Global School

Kristel Solomon-Saleem, Director of Student Support Services, The KAUST School

Dr. Inas Sobhy, Chief Intelligence Officer, Badr University

Dr Sarah Rogers, CEO, Quest Direct Professional Services

Nic Ponsford FRSA, Co-Founder & CEO, Global Equality Collective

Jonathan Newport, Managing Director (Learning & Development), Team Teach

Keep Up To Date With New Products And Innovation Meet hundreds of companies showcasing the latest educational products and solutions that teachers use to make them more effective in helping their students achieve better results. With numerous country pavilions including Germany, Korea, UK, Saudi Arabia and India, GESS Dubai is the trusted platform for suppliers of the entire spectrum of educational products and services.

A Conference To Engage And Inspire Alongside the exhibition runs our globally renowned, free to attend and CPD accredited conference featuring seminars, live case studies, workshops and panel discussions. Our conference streams provide educators and leaders alike the exposure to the latest trends, best practice as well as the latest tech in the pursuit of excellence in their classrooms.

GESS Talks Arena: Featuring an exciting range of talks from individual keynotes, to panel sessions and 1-2-1 interview style conversations. With inspirational keynotes and dynamic movers and shakers, these sessions are designed to inspire and engage to help you learn about the latest global education trends and to push your education agenda forwards.

Skills Development Training: These certified workshops are designed for those wanting to know more about stepping into leadership and acquiring useful skills and insights into the techniques and knowledge essential to aspiring leaders. Longer than our other conference sessions these are designed for educators wanting to dig deep, explore and skill up their toolset.

Leaders in Education Conference: Our new two day programme, exclusively for Principals and members of Leaders in Education, these sessions look at the challenges that leaders of schools and institutions face, the qualities required to make a good leader and the skills required to succeed in senior positions.

Bringing in high level international speakers and local experts to deliver two days of world-class education and professional development.

Future Transformation Zone: What does the future of education look like?

How can new and evolving technology be integrated within the classroom?

These sessions will explore the latest technological advances, trends and thinking and showcase the latest innovations in education. Covering all aspects of education and demonstrating best practice to improve and enhance teaching and learning. Hear from expert speakers and discover the latest trends.

Wellbeing Space: Hear inspiring wellbeing, SEN and Early Years talks that will outline the latest international research and techniques to help educators learn how to boost, motivate and inspire both themselves and their students to achieve the very best.

Global Learning: Find out about the latest innovations in education from global and regional perspectives. Find out about key International education issues, be empowered and ask the questions you've always wanted to. Experience these dynamic workshops first-hand and learn how to future proof your school.

Free registration is now open. Visit www.gessdubai.com or contact dmesmar@tarsus.com for more information.

REGISTER FOR FREE @GESSeducation

Regional Partners:

Knowledge Partner:

GESSDubai

Research Partner:

@gesseducation

Gold Sponsors:

Supported by:

GESS education

Silver Sponsor:

GESS Conference Sessions:

PARENTS FIND THE BEST SCHOOLS IN THE UAE

Our NEW directory provides a comprehensive review and virtual tour of each school in the UAE, allowing you to make the best decision for your child’s education.

Simply filter by your requirements and look through the quality providers listed.

FIND QUALITY SCHOOLS education-uae.com/category/directory

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