Absolutely Education Emirates Issue 8, 2018

E D U C AT I ON E M I R AT E S

EDUCATION I S S U E 8 . 2 01 8

TEACH HAPPY

IS SUE 8 . 2018

Dr Abdulla Al Karam on wellbeing in education

AFTER HOURS

Which extracurricular activities to choose

Back to

Emirates

Lunch

IDEAS Nutrition advice from the experts

NEXT STEPS The questions to ask before university

ZE ST.LONDON

SCHOOL

WHAT’S ON THE AGENDA FOR THE 2018/19 ACADEMIC YEAR

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Your pathway to a degree London Brunel International College (LBIC) is part of the global Navitas Group, an internationally recognised education provider with the knowledge and resources of staff in more than 120 colleges and campuses worldwide.

• Brunel is ranked 24th in the Top 200 universities for international students • Brunel is ranked among UK’s top 50 and London’s top 10 universities • Accommodation facilities ranked 3rd best in London • Brunel Language Centre ranked 2nd university language centre in London and 3rd in the UK • Business School accredited by AACSB placing it among the top 5% of Business Schools worldwide • 2nd in London for Engineering

Contact us now Brunel University London Russell Building, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, United Kingdom T: 01895 265540 • E: info@lbic.brunel.ac.uk W: www.brunel.ac.uk/lbic Apply: www.lbic.navitas.com/apply

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CONTE N ISSUE 8 • 2018

upfront

12 NEWS What’s going on in UAE schools

16 ON THE COVER Greenfield Community School’s focus

18 SCHOOL SUPPLIES The best of the back-to-school buys

23 STUDENT WELLBEING We meet Dr Abdulla Al Karam of the KHDA

29 TIPPING POINT How education fuels the Fourth Industrial Revolution

s c h o o l’ s i n

34 BACK IN THE GAME Ladybird Nursery’s founder on new routines

36 MONTESSORI MAGIC We meet the owner of Stepping Stones Academy

41 GROWTH BENEFITS What’s in store at Hartland International School

42 GLOBALLY MINDED The advantages of an international education

76 44 RIGHT CLICK Six reasons why virtual schooling works

47 SOLID FUELS Nutrition tips for young athletes

48 IN THE BAG How to jazz up your kid’s lunch

h i g h e r e d u c at i o n

54 THE BIG QUESTIONS An expert on choosing your university

58 HOME SWEET HOME Why student accommodation is so important

98 80 MOOCS

60 APPLY YOURSELF Tackling the big one – the personal statement

63 IN THE LEAD

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The programme for budding female leaders

65 PAST TIMES Why an MA in Cultural Heritage is worth it

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NTS

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GROUP EDITOR UA E

Katy Gillett 

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF UK

Amanda Constance 

A DV ERTISING M A NAGER

Leah Day 

A RT DIR ECTOR

Phil Couzens 

SENIOR DESIGNER

Pawel Kuba 

MID-W EIGHT DESIGNER

Rebecca Noonan  DESIGNER

Catherine Perkins  FINA NCE DIR ECTOR

Alexandra Hvid 

PA TO THE DIR ECTOR S

Eva Lehoczky  DIR ECTOR S

Greg Hughes, Alexandra Hunter  PUBL ISHING DIR ECTOR

Sherif Shaltout

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s c h o o l’ s o u t

68 IT’S ALL EXTRA

@AB SOLUTELY_MAGS ‘AB SOLUTELY MAGAZINES’

Our resident expert on top extracurricular activities

72 GETTING REAL The programme that teaches us how to “unplug”

76 WORK OF ART We explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s new exhibition

80 KNOWING NEPAL Supporting children with autism

l a s t wo r d

82 ORKUN GEDIK The co-founder of a website for sourcing courses

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F RO NT COV E R Greenfield Community School gcschool.ae

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• E D U C AT I O N E M I R AT E S •

CON T R IBU TOR S

Fiona McKenzie

Director, Gabbitas Education Middle East

Fiona McKenzie has more than 30 years’ experience in independent education across the UAE, UK and Australia.

In this issue, she talks about how to navigate your way through exam results day (page 34). Also, as a mum-offour, she shares plenty of advice on page 66 on how to keep the kids’ minds active this summer.

Bobbi Hartshorne

Global Head of Student Wellbeing, GSA

Bobbi Hartshorne backs up what Dr Abdulla Al Karam of the KHDA says about why wellbeing is so important in education.

She is the Global Head of Student Wellbeing at GSA, a company that essentially created the student accommodation sector. She tells us why where students live during university can have a drastic effect on their mental health (page 58).

Dr Mike Robinson

Professor of Cultural Heritage; Director, Ironbridge International Institute for Cultural Heritage, University of Birmingham

As part of the Cultural Heritage team at the University Birmingham, Dr Mike Robinson is best-placed to explain why a degree in this field can be so rewarding.

He writes about why it is important for us to preserve our traditions – and how a career in managing this can be an interesting choice (page 65).

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We l c o m e

From the

EDITOR

N

ot many of us can argue that when we feel happy we are more productive. Having a sense of wellbeing allows us to thrive. So, if it works for us, it also makes sense that it would benefit our children, too. And what better time to teach them how to be happy than from the moment they start school?

In 2016 Dubai designated the country’s first Minister of State for Happiness. In the last academic year the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) launched the firstever Dubai Student Wellbeing Census. Now schools across the country are embedding wellbeing into their curriculums, as they recognise the advantages of nurturing happy, healthy students who are then more willing and able to reach their full potential.

In this new academic year, schools are jumping on-board. Fiona Cottam, the Principal of Hartland International School, tells us in her editorial on page 41 how central to the school’s curriculum is deeper enquiry-based learning, and both the subjects of Critical Thinking and Wellbeing will now be timetabled lessons.

Moving on through Higher Education, a sense of wellbeing is no less important. Bobbi Hartshorne, GSA’s Global Head of Student Wellbeing, explains on page 58 how the quality of student accommodation at university can have a major impact on mental health.

But it does not begin and end with our education facilities. What happens before and after school also makes a difference to a child’s wellbeing. That is why extracurricular activities are also recommended, in order to allow students to explore their passions, and discover new places

“SCHOOLS RECOGNISE THE ADVANTAGES OF NURTURING HAPPY STUDENTS WHO ARE WILLING TO REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL” “If you’re happy, you’re going to wake up, go to school and thrive,” says Dr Abdulla Karam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of the KHDA, in our interview with him from page 22. “You’re going to be better in life,” he adds. And he is right, of course. It is so simple and basic and fundamental to our existence that is a wonder that we did not integrate this years ago. Children spend more hours than not at school during the week, so it seems fair they should actually enjoy it – and get a sense of joy from the majority of their days.

and people outside of the school gates. Fiona McKenzie, Director of Gabbitas Education Middle East, tells us more about this from page 68.

As the new school year marches on, we need to remember to look at our kids’ education with a fresh perspective. It is as Dr Abdulla Al Karam says: “We need to ask ourselves new questions so we find new answers”. Curiosity, creativity and wellbeing are key.

Kat y Gillett GROUP EDITOR

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Up Front SCHOOL NEWS P. 12 MUST-HAVE SUPPLIES P. 18 ALDAR ACADEMIES’ CEO P. 29

DR ABDULLA KARAM; THE KHDA

TH E K H DA

On page 22, we speak to Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), about how he plans to focus on wellbeing in education this year.

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In Outer Space

M OV I N G U P The University of Birmingham has moved up in the 2019 QS World Rankings, as one of the strongest research-intensive institutions in the world. It is 79th globally, moving up five places from 2018.

Meanwhile, the University of Birmingham Dubai announced a package of exclusive “fullyfunded” scholarships – each worth up to AED300,000.

Amir Abdou, deputy head boy and sixth former at Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), is one of 20 students in the UAE to be selected by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, as part of the Zero Gravity Competition, to visit Florida in the USA to experience Lunar and Zero Gravity, as well as carry out experiments on-board an aircraft. “I want to be able to look at quantum physics and discover the different mysteries of the universe,” explained Amir. “Entering and winning this Zero Gravity Competition brings these dreams even closer.”

NEW ROLE Cass Business School has announced Professor Steve Thomas as its new Associate Dean, MBA Programmes. He has taught at Cass since 2006 and currently teaches core introductory finance for the EMBA, Modular EMBA, and Dubai EMBA programmes, together with the Derivatives and Hedging elective for the Full Time MBA, and Investment Strategy for the Dubai EMBA at the Dubai Centre.

Fresh Opportunities

THE YEAR O F Z AY E D

The English curriculum Riverston School Dubai has opened its doors in Nad Al Sheba, looking to attract parents who are searching for a smaller school for their children. It will accommodate up to 300 students, with specialist teachers and class sizes of up to 16 through Foundation Stage 2 to Year 6. It will operate as a branch campus of Riverston School London.

To mark the Year of Zayed, One&Only Royal Mirage has launched an exhibition of archived photographs showing key moments in the life of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late founder of the UAE. It offers a fascinating glimpse into his leadership – from environmental conservation to forming Dubai’s development plan – until the end of the year.

TIME FOR AN UPGRADE Horizon English School has announced plans for an upgrade to its existing learning, creative and sporting facilities at its Safabased campus. Renovations will be completed by September 2019.

Mr. Raza Khan, CEO of Al Najah Education, says: “Our investment... is testament to our continued confidence in the Dubai education market.”

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” E L E A N O R R O O S E V E LT

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UPFRON T / NEWS Top Story

The Right Results Al Bateen Academy celebrated a third consecutive year of rising International Baccalaureate Diploma results. Ananya Sini Achan (pictured) recorded the school’s highest individual point score to date, with a score of 44 out of 45.

REAL GEMS Middlesex University Dubai has announced a partnership with GEMS Education, which provides scholarships and grants for students graduating from their high schools within the GEMS Global Network as of 23 September 2018. It will see a minimum of 150 scholarships being awarded to students and employees each year. Dr Cedwyn Fernandes, Director and Pro Vice-Chancellor of Middlesex University Dubai, said: “Through this collaboration we hope to place quality UK education within the reach of every student graduating from the GEMS Global Network, opening up windows to endless potentials and possibilities.”

V I R T UA L EXPERIENCE KidZania has introduced three new virtual experiences for children to explore real-world professions. The popular kids edutainment attraction in The Dubai Mall offers young visitors the opportunity to perform the roles of a surgeon, firefighter and secret agent. It claims to help foster critical thinking, teamwork, problem solving ability, memory, planning skills, and hand-eye coordination.

Nex t - ge n e r a t i o n Wr i t i n g Ta l e n t Entries are now open for the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature’s creative writing competitions for students across the UAE. The inspiration for 2019 entries is “Other Worlds” and the deadline for submissions is 7 November 2018. Register online at emirateslitfest.com.

“Education is the key to unlocking the world, a passport to freedom” OPRAH WINFREY

SOMETHING THEY SAID

“Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child and one teacher can change the world” M A L A L A YO U S A F Z A I

2018

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UPFRON T / NEWS

L aw i n Pr a c t i s e

ST E P F O R WA R D The UAE’s Ministry of Education and Alef Education, the UAEbased education technology company, have signed an agreement to implement Alef’s education system in 10 Abu Dhabi public schools. It brings together a blend of the latest technology and pedagogical approaches geared towards today’s learners.

Middlesex University Dubai and DIFC Academy of Law (AOL) have announced they will now be offering a first-of-its-kind certificate course in Common Law and DIFC Courts Practice. Both institutions aim to prepare Emirati advocates and other civil law-trained lawyers to practice before the DIFC Courts. Starting September 2018, the 28-week course is being held both at DIFC’s Academy of Law campus and Middlesex University Dubai training facilities. Entry requirements for the course include personal interviews and IELTS level of 5.5 or the equivalent.

S AV I N G WA T E R Colgate-Palmolive Company has partnered with Surge Middle East – a global non-profit for water, sanitation, and hygiene projects – to raise awareness about water conservation among schoolchildren in the UAE as part of its “Save Water” campaign.

URBAN FA R M I N G

S ch o o l Opening

TOP R E S U LT S

Dunecrest American School has opened its campus near Al Barari in Dubailand. Director Bill Delbrugge says: “Students will thrive in the stimulating creative environment where they feel confident, relaxed and happy to learn. A focus on problem solving will engage students with real-world applications, encouraging critical thinking and lifelong learning.”

Al Yasmina Academy in Abu Dhabi celebrated a year of high A-Level results. Amber Harding (pictured), who plans on studying biomedicine at Maastricht University, was the academy’s highest achiever, with two A* and two A grades. “I was lucky to have teachers around me who were so willing to put in the extra hours to help,” she says. “But this also took hours and hours of independent study.”

Agriculture Box is an integrated organic urban farming system that is now being used by 27 schools in the UAE. It allows students to connect with nature and their environment, plus understand the different relationships between the cultivation process, the nutrient level and taste of the vegetables produced. agriculturebox.com

HIGH AC H I E V E R S Brighton College Abu Dhabi reports 95% of its students achieved A* to C grades in last year’s A-Levels, with 42% achieving A*s or As. Edward Garemo (pictured) particularly excelled, with eight A* now to his name.

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UPFRON T / NEWS

On the Cover Fostering a love of reading among its primary students is just one important focus on the agenda at Greenfield Community School this year FIONA REDDING

R

eading is a fundamental skill that has the ability to change people’s lives for the better.

Being able to read with understanding empowers students, creates confidence and develops independence. The 2016 UAE Reading Law, with its aim of consolidating reading in society, and the National Agenda Action Plan’s literacy focus on the explicit teaching of reading comprehension strategies, have both highlighted the importance of reading in today’s world.

In my new role as the Primary Years Programme Teacher Librarian at Greenfield Community School (GCS), my mission – which I have chosen to accept – is to put reading at the heart of all we do in the library. We started the term with treasure hunts around the library to spark our KG to Grade 5 students’ interest, enabling them to gain an understanding of how the library works and helping them to become independent learners. The challenges ranged from navigating the Dewey Decimal System to finding the book the Very Hungry Caterpillar was trying to eat.

“Being able to make sense of what they read allows a child to engage meaningfully with every part of the curriculum”

IMAGES I consider reading Greenfield Community to be the cornerstone School students feature on the cover of this of our skills-based IB issue of Absolutely curriculum at GCS. Education Emirates Being able to make sense of what they read allows a child to engage meaningfully with every part of the curriculum. With young children, reading is taught through engaging stories. Focusing on the story characters and what might happen in the story also leads to rich listening and

speaking engagements where children can express their thoughts and ideas in a supportive environment. Older students also engage in problem solving, conflict resolution and gain empathy for others through the exploration of age-appropriate fiction and information texts. Research skills will also be a key part of our learning journey this year, teaching students where to find information, how to decide what is relevant to their needs, how to record it accurately and use it appropriately.

Whatever bright future our students will experience – working in fields we can only imagine now – the ability to read with understanding will continue to be an essential skill and a vital asset.

FIONA REDDING Primary Years Programme Librarian Greenfield Community School 2018 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | 17

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Back to SCHOOL

PRETTY IN PINK

This pink-gold backpack from Kipling has caught our eye. It has adjustable straps and plenty of handy pocket space, plus an ergonomic design that will keep our kids’ spines safe. AED749; jashanmalhome.com

DISNEY PRINCESS

Marks & Spencer’s colourful range of new school lunchboxes includes this super, shiny one with Princess Ariel on the front. It features Thinsulate Technology, which keeps food fresh and cool, and there is a wipe-clean lining, too. AED100; marksandspencer.com/ae

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Iconic childhood characters inspired the back-to-school collection from Max Fashion. Spot the whole gang – from Mickey and Minnie to Hello Kitty – on the colourful, cute line of clothing, accessories and backpacks. Prices vary; maxfashion.com

SUPER-PENS

This is no ordinary pen. In fact, the whole of Cross’ latest collecition is “super”, as they take inspiration from the worlds of Marvel and Star Wars.

This one in particular is Spider-Man themed. AED730; jashanmalhome.com

Fun and functional items for fashionable schoolkids

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STAR STUDDED

NEW KICKS

ECCO, the Danish footwear manufacturer, does not miss a trick at this time of year. Its new selection of kids’ school shoes are strong, sturdy and stylish. AED529; global.ecco.com/en-ae

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UPFRON T / SHOPPING

TOP GRADE

Editor’s pick

Pottery Barn Kids’ back-to-school collection is out. Backpacks, lunchboxes and water bottles come adorned with the likes of Elsa from Frozen, characters from the Avengers, and even Star Wars themes. It’s all academic, of course. Prices vary; potterybarnkids.me

WHEELY GOOD

A satchel with four wheels has got to be a winner. The Delsey 4W also has foampadded compartments that lets little ones carry a laptop, tablet, folders and books safely. AED399; jashanmalhome.com

TAKE NOTE

Chic, sophisticated and on-trend stationery pieces and gift items are what Alice Scott does best. We simply adore this beautifully bound B5 notebook with the tropical print in monochrome. It has 160 lined pages, so that will last a while, too. AED95; ae.namshi.com

MA X FASH ION BACK TO SCHOOL COLLECTION

GLITTER GALS

Little girls will love this glittery leakproof water bottle that is so on-trend. The sparkles move around when you shake the bottle. But, do not worry, it is completely BPA-, PVC- and phthalate-free. AED69; fivelittleducksme.com

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CLASS HEROES

We love the latest looks from Sfera, the successful Spanish clothing brand.

They are perfect for after-school activities and winter days (when the weather cools down, of course.); sfera.com/ae

SAVE THE PLANET

Got a budding environmentalist in the family? Then he or she will love this eco-friendly canvas tote from Save the Ocean. It is plenty durable and zero waste was created in the making of it.

AED51.45; sprii.com

COOL CATS

Okiedog has all sorts of fun, critterinspired backpacks available in its Wild Pack collection. We’re quite partial to the fierce yet friendly-looking tiger. Pick it up for a bargain at Sprii. AED57.75; sprii.com MA X FASH ION BACK TO SCHOOL COLLECTION

TRIED AND TESTED

After no less than 60 lab tests (that included flexing leathers half a million times), Clarks was ready to release its Back to School collection. The 12 new styles (six for girls, six for boys) were tried and tested by real schoolkids.

From AED275; clarks.ae

MAY THE FORCE BE WITH THEM Mini Star Wars fans (do they exist?) will love this Stormtrooper gel ink pen from the new Cross collection of superhero-inspired pens. AED175; jashanmalhome.com

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UPFRON T / SHOPPING

MA X FASH ION BACK TO SCHOOL COLLECTION

WHAT’S FOR LUNCH?

Pastel tones and our friendly little elephant character on this Done by Deer lunch box will appeal to the younger tots in the school set. You will be glad to know it is dishwasher safe, too. AED52.50 sprii.com

Editor’s pick PURE GENIUS

The London-born brand, Happy Jackson, creates products that are bright, uplifting and full of positive messages to get you through the day.

We love it all. AED52.50; sprii.com

SHARK ATTACK

Nigel the Shark makes an appearance on this cute Beatrix New York lunchbag.

It is durable and easy-to-clean. It can also double us as a travel toiletry bag.

Win-win. AED119.70; sprii.com

LIGHT WEIGHT

Weighing in at just 1.3kg, the Swift 1 laptop by Acer is perfect for students.

They can just slip it in their backpack and forget it is even there (until class time, that is). From AED1,259; uae.sharafdg.com

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ABOVE Dr Abdulla Al Karam goes to a Dubai school every week to interact with the teachers and students, and experience it first-hand

THE CASE FOR

WELLBEING Absolutely Education talks to Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of the KHDA, about why his top priority is to ensure our children are happy K AT Y G I L L E T T

22 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | 2018

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UPFRON T / K HDA

F

or someone with such a lofty position, Dr Abdulla Al Karam, the Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), sure is downto-earth. We meet him at the KHDA’s fantastic offices, where birds fly overhead as you pass through the colourful lobby and every hour a buzzer reminds you to get up and have a walk around. Happiness and wellbeing are inherently embedded into the working culture; and it is all the better for it. Every person you meet – Dr Abdulla included – is friendly, welcoming and – most importantly – quite obviously happy. It is that ethos that he and his team are now looking to pass on to Dubai’s schools; that our children’s wellbeing should be a priority if we are going to make sure they grow up to be successful, thriving adults. Dr Abdulla tells us more about how he plans to achieve that…

Some parents believe academics are most important when it comes to school.

What would you say to such a parent about your focus on wellbeing?

You’re right, but things are changing.

I think the parents of today are not the parents of 10 or 20 years ago, in the sense that this generation right now has seen through the years the change that’s taking place. They’ve seen the consequences of not focusing on wellbeing, and focusing, like you said, only on academic achievement.

I think they’ve seen that and now you see an awakening in some parents in light of reports they read, because they see it first-hand. When they focus on their own wellbeing as a parent they feel the difference. The tide is changing.

What also helps here is the place – the UAE and Dubai – is very focused. We have officials who are working on wellbeing and happiness, and government-initiated activities and events. Four or five years ago, when we started talking about happiness and wellbeing, it was difficult. We changed

what they do with it. But the first thing we did was to get the schools together to read the data and, in these workshops, every school said the same thing – we need to work together.

We are going to activate our engagement using the appreciative inquiry approach to things, and to have the schools learn from each other. That’s the value of having such a diverse education system – there’s so much learning here and you don’t have to go across the globe to get it.

How important do you think it is for the parents to be involved with this, too?

Extremely important. I think engagement is not easy, but it’s very rewarding. Given the fact that we are engaging with parents from 180 different nationalities, here you’re crossing all boundaries – social, economic, religious, even nutrition, food and values in life. When we ask what education means to them we get different answers. But when we start asking what happiness means to you, you

“IF YOU’RE HAPPY, YOU’RE GOING TO WAKE UP, GO TO SCHOOL AND THRIVE” Last year you launched the first-ever Dubai Student Wellbeing Census, which asked nearly 65,000 students across 168 of the city’s schools how they think and feel about their own wellbeing. What do you think was the most important result you gathered from this?

We’ve done a wellbeing census for students, but the first thing I realised when I saw the results was that it was not a wellbeing census for students. It was a wellbeing census for children, because the top three things that came out of it have nothing to do with the schools. It was more to do with eating and sleeping well, and having positive relationships.

I think the point there for me is the school is one stop – an important stop – in the day of a child. It takes what happens before and after, too; it takes everybody to contribute to the wellbeing of a child.

the offices upside down and some people back then would say: “Okay, fine, it’s important, but let’s get down to business”.

This is business for me!

Are all the schools on-board with your vision for making wellbeing a focus?

One thing I always say is we are so fortunate in Dubai to have schools from different countries with different backgrounds. Whenever we do something we see success but it’s different in each area.

I think all schools are serious about it, but they will implement it differently, and it depends on the society they are serving.

The first thing that showed me the commitment of the schools to the census is the level of participation. It was optional, but we had 92% participation. Now we have more responsibility on us because of what we’re going to do with the data we have gathered. We’ve said it is up to the schools

more or less get the same answer. It has brought more commonality.

Please tell us more about Rahhal, the new platform that allows students to study at a mainstream school and parttime elsewhere in the community. Many people have said this could be disruptive to the current education system. How do you envision that progressing?

The lesson we learned from Uber, Airbnb and Netflix is that with disruption, generally, governments are always playing catch-up. I think this is why the Government of Dubai made a conscious decision to say: “No, instead of waiting for disruption to come let’s welcome disruption”. That’s how, in the field of education, Rahhal came about.

Rahhal is about a platform that says “yes” more than “no”. And a lot of it has to do with breaking those systems we all grew up with; for instance, we have to go to one school; 2018 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | 23

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people in Dubai are not from here. Most you have to finish when you’re 18; you have of them are here because of a choice they to go to college. In the future, will school be made. Whether they wanted to thrive, they full time? Maybe not. Will my teacher teach wanted to have a better life, newer life, a me a subject or coach me on a topic in life? different life – whatever their reasons were.

Who says I only have to learn 180 days a This is a place where they have choices that year when my fun learning in the summer they don’t perhaps have where they came could be recognised, too? from. So Rahhal is adding to the choices so Rahhal is a platform for those who that people enjoy staying in Dubai. want something different. At the same In the first launch phase of Rahhal one time, it is a platform to engage parents as of the parents said if this was not going to active participants in the learning of their happen he was going to leave. It’s a reason children, rather than just outsourcing it. It for him to stay and it is also a reason for is a platform that says “yes”, to recognise people to come. So Dubai is a place for their kids’ different abilities and interests, choice, but it is also a place where parents and that understands some parents want and other active participants in to be more active than others. Most society take responsibility and importantly, it’s about Dubai. accountability for those choices Dubai always gives people LEFT (BOTH) they make. choices. Around 90% of the The KHDA has Rahhal will disrupt, but that’s designed the Hatta Wellbeing Campus, which fine because we welcome that teaches mindfulness disruption. I also think it will and sustainability disrupt other systems across the globe, because whatever happens here does not stay here.

Do you think it will take a long time to properly roll out?

Any disruption takes a while. If we think about Rahhal, [very few] will pick it up. As a system, disruption only starts to appeal to a minority who want things to be different.

As it grows, then others will gain confidence in it, and before you know it, it progresses.

Disruption does take time, especially in social services like education and health, but it’s going to happen. So either you wait and play catch-up, or you bring it forward and live the future now. Why tomorrow?

What will the KHDA be focusing most on in the new school year?

During our 10-year journey at the KHDA we’ve done a few things, but we focus on them and try our best to do them very well.

We focus on data, academic inspection, fees, making sure there is more to offer and more new schools. There have been 65 new schools in the last six years. We’re looking to welcome about 13 schools this year.

We can show in the last 10 years there has been study, progress and growth, both quantitative and qualitative.

The numbers of schools is higher, there are more seats, there are no more waiting lists, prices are stabilising for most of the schools.

We are in a stage right now where that is moving

by itself. We also realise that growth there will not be as much as it was before. So the question is: how do you ignite that? How do you push that so there’s more? This is why we started talking about wellbeing and we’ve seen it firsthand because we’ve tried it on ourselves for the last four years. There is a soul to this place.

So why is wellbeing important to you?

We grew up on the conventional wisdom that working hard and being successful leads to happiness. That was right for certain generations at certain times when life was not as fortunate and giving as right now. Now there is abundance, there is so much happening and this generation has a lot of things at their disposal.

Today happiness is the starting point, not the destination. If you’re happy you’re going to wake up, go to school and thrive.

You’re going to be better in life. Even to our generation, what matters to us now is not the grades, it’s not the college we went to or the jobs we got, it’s our wellbeing. So why not do this right at the beginning?

Places around the world have not looked into wellbeing before now because there was no science. That’s why you get these

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LEFT Dr Abdulla Al Karam regularly reads to students RIGHT The colourful KHDA offices promote wellbeing

high drop-out rates; depression. The key solution, if there is a magical solution, is this. It is actually not so magical, it is so simple and basic and we all grow up knowing it.

It’s as you said, we always thought of it as the destination; as something we’re working towards…

Yes, life is about being happy, not about what I’m doing. Not about what I want to do – it’s what I want to be. That is the fundamental difference. What I want to do, in no time, will be done by a robot. What a robot cannot do is empathy, responsibility, accountability, originality, creativity. These things are so simple and basic, and you

don’t need a textbook or exam - if anything you need to remove that.

Kids are born happy; we just need to ensure we don’t get in the way [laughs].

Children, when they see something, they always ask: “why not?”. Adults drop the “not”. What happened to why not? This is the key to innovation and creativity, and we need to ask ourselves new questions so we find new answers.

So what’s next?

The success we’ve seen with the wellbeing census has encouraged us to look into doing something for teachers, principals and parents. But the census is one element; it gives us a feeling of where

we are. The second side of the coin is what we are going to do about it. So the second component is also going to be fundamental for us. This is where we use our authority to convene people, not to tell people.

When we started talking about wellbeing we kept saying it was an option. But I realised I’m wrong. It’s not an option – it’s a right. I think once we shift to that we will begin to see things we have not seen before.

This will be our focus this year and we’re very fortunate as every year we have new things and initiatives coming, as you know.

Yes. Sometimes we can’t keep up!

Change is the routine. We are so lucky with everything we’ve got here. I think it is getting people talking. You’ll see a lot of wellbeing, but also a lot of active participation, which I see happening in Dubai also. The government is engaging society in a different way than it used to before, and a lot of it is centred on being happy and active, and our wellbeing.

Are there any schools that are doing a great job of championing wellbeing?

There are. There are schools that started way back and there are schools that have

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ABOVE Employees get plenty of exercise at the KHDA RIGHT great leadership who wanted Schoolkids get excited it or want it now. Those are to meet Dr Abdulla the ones who will lead us in that direction. The others are catching up and learning. We rely on those who had a head start and have gone through the learning of what to do and what not to do.

That’s why we say whatever we do is going to be done in appreciative inquiry.

It’s going to be done by the system, to the system, not by the authority. The authority is there to convene, give data, and bring people together. I don’t think schools need convincing about it; they just needed to know where we are.

So, as much as you don’t want to change because you like what you have, I encourage parents to start looking at the new schools.

Is there anything important parents Not necessarily for the change, but perhaps should know about this year? by looking you can go back and say: “I I think parents today have far greater want that also”. The biggest advantage and choices at their disposal than they had in opportunity Dubai has for parents is the the years before. Maybe too many. As much wide spectrum of choices we have. We work as people are happy where they are, I highly day in and day out to provide choices. encourage them to look at the new choices that are coming. The choices are not only about the availability of seats, locations, Often, people don’t have as many curriculum and price point; you need to choices back in their home countries. look deep at the offering. The new schools I have friends here from different provide more, as they have to compete. They European countries and I assume their kids cannot compete with a regular product; are in a school that represents their home. they have to have a unique offering. A lot of Often that’s not the case. them are boutique and specialised. Every Kids, when they mix and play with other school stands for something. kids from different nationalities, not only

do they learn better but they also tend to be happier. If you take a class of 20 kids and you assume everyone is of a different nationality you see the happiness level is so high. If you take a class of 20 and all of them are from the UK [for example] they tend not to be. The psychology behind it is the following: when we are all the same nationality you tend to talk about the same negative thing. So I guess if you have 20 British kids in a classroom they’re going to talk about how bad the weather is [laughs].

However, if you aren’t from the same place then you’re more likely to say something positive about where you come from.

Even though this diversity is challenging, because you have to take the time to notice and observe the others, it’s so rewarding because the learning only happens when there are differences.

How many more schools are expected to open?

There is no exact number, but there has been steady growth of around 10 schools per year. There are a couple of factors: one is people tend to stay longer in Dubai. And, actually, when students leave Dubai to go to university abroad, they come back. So the tendency for people to stay longer and come back is very high, which will encourage more schools.

Then there is also the growth you see, with Expo 2020 around the corner. Dubai is taking its place among the cosmopolitan cities of the world on the global map. This growth will not be more of the same; it will be finding more opportunities and experiences of learning. That’s where I think Rahhal will help the schools. And I do feel a lot of the schools coming now are trying to offer more experiential learning, because this is the future.

Having this growth take place is great for parents and teachers. New schools will want to attract you more, and existing schools will work harder to retain you. It’s a winning formula. Competition only breeds quality.

“WHAT HAPPENED TO ASKING: WHY NOT? THIS IS THE KEY TO INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY” 2018 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | 27

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IMAGE Students at Aldar Academies’ Al Yasmina Academy enjoy interactive learning

H TIPPING POINT

Aldar Academies’ CEO explains how education is fuelling the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and teaching methods are evolving rapidly N I L AY Ö Z R A L

umanity has reached a tipping point for technology and how it influences our interaction with the world around us. We have entered a period known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, but unlike those that came before it, this latest revolution emerged gradually. It arrived quietly on the backs of rapidly advancing technologies like quantum computing, robotics, genome engineering, and many others. Yet its impact on our entire world will be monumental.

Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum in Geneva, defines the Fourth Industrial Revolution as “a fusion of technologies that is blurring the lines between the physical, digital, and biological spheres”. As a result, our ability to solve humanity’s greatest challenges and improve the lives of every living human is multiplying at a phenomenal speed. The breadth of change that will inevitably occur is also vast, and both the public and private sector will share an equally pivotal role in enabling the positive change to flourish.

Education providers have one of the most important responsibilities of all.

We are the ones who must prepare the current and next generations to thrive, so they can realise the potential offered by the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Just as industries are transforming under the influence of new technologies, education must evolve away from the archaic method of textbook-based knowledge transfer and 2018 | E D U C AT I O N E M I R AT E S | 29

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“Our ability to solve humanity’s greatest challenges is multiplying at a phenomenal speed” measurement via examinations to a more relevant approach. As Aldar Academies’ own future-focused teaching methods show, this evolution is already well underway.

REPLICATING THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL WORLD

 Given the pace of change seen across industries, education providers must lay the foundations for tomorrow’s innovations, today. Alongside teaching the necessary theoretical knowledge, this means shaping students with the most effective method of solving problems. Collaboration between human and machine will be fundamental, because the ABOVE Fourth Industrial Revolution is & BELOW Al Muna Academy not about robots taking jobs. is an Aldar Academies Yes, technology is expected primary school to take five million jobs by in Abu Dhabi 2020, but, at the same time, it Project Based Learning will elevate the role of human (PBL) is one example. Working knowledge to a more sophisticated in groups, PBL allows students level. Humans will be responsible for to apply theoretical knowledge programming and overseeing these robots, to solve real-world challenges, yet these while also taking on a variety of jobs that challenges stretch across multiple subjects. have not been invented yet.

By removing the silos of individual subjects Education providers like Aldar Academies and instead focusing on a specific challenge, have already evolved their teaching methods students are more concerned with how their to replicate this environment for students skills and theory can be applied, rather than in preparation for the new ways of working. proving such expertise exists within them.

Outside the classroom, educational events such as the First LEGO League Junior Robotics Competition hone these skills further. Six Aldar Academies teams returned triumphant from the UAE leg of this year’s competition, but the experience will be far more valuable than any awards. Combining creativity, teamwork, critical thinking, and presentation skills, the competition mimicked the type of environment students will enter as tomorrow’s bioengineers and robotic programmers.

and critical thinking are among the most valuable of these intellectual skills, but how is education changing to nurture such abilities?

Aldar Academies, like others, has evolved the classroom to put students in charge of learning, through what is known as flipped learning. Here, theory is studied independently at home through online platforms before being applied in-class. In essence, homework becomes classwork, with the teacher acting as a guiding hand rather than a dictator of knowledge. Flipped learning, when combined with PBL, enables students to lead the discovery of new and better ideas, to critique these ideas in groups, and to apply them to problem solving. This is exactly what will be required once their careers begin and our students – now graduates – will find their knowledge augmented by an array of advanced technologies.

With the dawn of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, we have reached a moment in civilisation where human capabilities are set to change dramatically. Education is the bedrock of these capabilities and, as education providers, we cannot stand still. Our methods must keep pace with the developments in industry and society, so that human knowledge can keep up with the unprecedented speed of technological progress.

TEACHING A WAY OF THINKING

 With the value of human knowledge rising to a new level of sophistication, as I have already explained, students will thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution when they master the practical application of theory. Doing so requires a toolkit of intellectual skills that guides them to the most effective decisions, in pursuit of the challenge they need to solve. Creativity

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GLOBAL CITIZENS

ALDAR ACADEMIES

Living and learning in the UAE has many benefits for students, says the CEO of Aldar Academies. She shares just a few reasons why on page 42.

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FRESH START

An education expert shares her top tips on getting those little ones excited about being back at school after a long, leisurely summer M O N I C A VA L R A N I

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hildren spend most of the academic year looking forward to blissful summer holidays, where they can take on new activities, travel, indulge in new cuisines and, most importantly, sleep in. It is no surprise therefore that the end of summer is met with a little disdain. The idea of going back to school tends to be associated with the end of good times, but as long as it is made clear that this is not the case, children will find it easy to start the new term on a positive note.

Getting readjusted to following a schedule may be challenging.

But with the help of a supportive learning environment provided by schools and nurseries, as well as parents – who have most certainly been swept off their feet keeping the kids entertained over the two-month-long break – going “back to school” can be as much of a breeze as the past summer has been.

The readjustment to the timings of a school routine is vital, as during holidays bedtimes tend to be ignored and children enjoy a slow start to the day. Morning classes such as art and swimming serve as

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“Plan at least two exciting outings with the little ones per month”

both an exciting end to summer, as well as an aid to getting children into the habit of waking up and going to bed early. Such activities have the added benefit of being extended into the school term, bringing with them that lively summer feeling.

You can also plan at least two exciting outings with the little ones per month, to further extend the feeling of being on summer vacation.

In this case, when the term starts, children can eagerly anticipate such activities to be done over a weekend.

Another great way to boost enthusiasm levels is to treat kids to new and “fun” school supplies, as a means to get them excited to use their new stationery, bags and books.

Learning supplies such as magnetic pin boards can also be picked up, to help children stay organised throughout the upcoming term.

Many children attempt to fit in as many exciting activities as possible before the start of the school term, which can tire them out and leave them feeling as though they are not doing enough with their remaining free time. This can be avoided if parents plan a fun activity for the final

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ALL IMAGES Ladybird Nursery in Dubai offers children a colourful and friendly environment in which to feel happy and healthy

weekend before school starts, such as a family road trip or a barbecue for the kids and their friends, ending the summer on a high note. Spending some time looking back at photos and “momentos” from the holiday is also a good idea, as children can reminisce on a summer truly well spent.

Finally, getting children involved in some of the back-to-school preparations – from unpacking suitcases to getting uniforms and lunches ready – is a great way to get them back into the school mindset.

A light-hearted afternoon spent chatting through all the stories they plan on sharing with their friends when they return to school will be sure to chase away any end-of-summer blues.

M O N I C A VA L R A N I CEO Ladybird Nursery 2018

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Stepping

UP

Absolutely Education talks to Rana Mani, the founder of a new purpose-built Montessori nursery in Dubai by Stepping Stones Academy K AT Y G I L L E T T

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t was a desire to tap back into the traditional values of education that spurred Rana Mani to start Stepping Stones Academy in Abu Dhabi back in 1997. After spending some time working in the sector, she felt that purely academic pursuits were rapidly being replaced with corporate structures, so she launched her own preschool and nursery, where she could realise her own vision of childcentric schooling.

Over the past two decades, Mani has built six branches of the school across the UAE, and the first Dubai facility opened this term, welcoming kids aged up to four. The 33,000-square-foot “happy space” in Barsha South 1 introduces a revised Montessori teaching system to the city, where the focus is on a child’s personal, emotional and psychological development. Just as its doors swing open, we spoke with its founder to learn more about the nursery’s ethos and why she believes it will be a success in Dubai…

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OPPOSITE PAGE Rana Mani, founder of Stepping Stones Academy THIS PAGE The nursery offers a form of the Montessori method

“I firmly believe we have created a nursery that the discerning parents of Dubai cannot fault” What makes Stepping Stones any different to other nurseries in Dubai?

The Stepping Stones version of a revised Montessori teaching system – in which the overall growth of a child’s personal, emotional and psychological development is paramount – has been created by me and refined over the past two decades.

The Modern Montessori approach is designed to keep today’s children motivated and challenged. With revolutionary equipment and toys, the method aids in the development of children’s sensory functions, numerical skills, literacy abilities and knowledge of the world, providing them with the right tools to become well-rounded and independent young minds.

The nursery in Dubai is a testament to this philosophy, where the attention to detail is incomparable. The branch is truly one-of-a-kind; it is purpose-built with large classrooms and bespoke facilities such as a wading pool, arts and crafts centre, farmers’ market, parents’ lounge and yoga studio.

that the discerning parents of Dubai cannot fault. From the exemplary facilities to the experienced staff, the convenient location to the cost-effectiveness, we guarantee an A-plus start to their little one’s lifelong learning and are ready to make our mark in Dubai as we have done in Abu Dhabi.

Why have you chosen to open your Dubai branch now?

Buoyed by our success in Abu Dhabi, and having recently moved to Dubai, I noticed that while there are many good nurseries in the city, there was nothing like Stepping Stones that truly exemplified the modern Montessori philosophy. Today, I firmly believe we have created a nursery

What led you into the education sector in the first place?

My journey into the educational sector has crossed several milestones following my work at the American Community School in Abu Dhabi. After spending six years volunteering at the school and observing the educational landscape and development, I identified an area that I believed called for 2018

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address. While passionate educators with teaching backgrounds were dwindling in numbers, investors and financial experts were gaining more ground, gradually but visibly turning the academic field into a more corporate one.

I was concerned that the traditional, hands-on approach, which supported and encouraged the personal, emotional and psychological development of children, was converting into an impersonal and generalised experience. It was no longer centred on the children’s interests and abilities, but rather on the information the teachers needed to transfer to them. The general lack of parental interest in proper education also only served to further turn academia into a commercial venture.

With a deep desire to reaffirm some of the old values while understanding the demands of a modern hitech era, I launched my own RIGHT preschool and nurseries Classrooms here where I could turn this are colourful vision of education into a BELOW reality. Stepping Stones’ Play time classroom even at this first students enrolled in is important early stage.

1997 in Abu Dhabi. Over the The Stepping Stones past 20 years, the child-centric programme is, therefore, system and priorities have guided filtered through the collective us, leading us to establish six very participation of teachers, parents successful branches across the UAE. and the first-time early years foundation children who attend.

What is your education philosophy when it comes to early years education?

Why did you choose the Montessori The co-opting of parents in their child’s Method? What is it about the approach progress is of vital importance when it that inspires you? comes to early years education. Here in In today’s world, with gadgets and Dubai, and across the world today, parents gizmos taking precedence over chores seem to use nursery as a day-care option and outdoor activity, there has been a or as a crèche instead of a place of learning, massive impact on the interpersonal and not realising how integral they are to the intrapersonal abilities of children. process and their child’s success in the

I chose to incorporate my version of the Montessori system into the Stepping Stones curriculum because I truly feel it is the one that encourages children to step out, both physically into the great outdoors and also out of their comfort zone, and try out as many different activities as they can. The method keeps children safe and stimulated, helping them form opinions and organically choose a learning path based on their interests. It also helps enhance their practical life experience and broaden their horizons along the way.

The modern Montessori programme designed by Stepping Stones builds upon the traditional Montessori approach, providing children with practical experience to learn and develop seven key characteristics: prolonged concentration, attachment to reality, independence, love of work, love of order, joy and respect.

What are you most excited about with this new opening in Dubai?

I am excited to welcome our new students and introduce them to a new way of life. Not to mention the prospect of one day achieving here in Dubai what we have been able to do in Abu Dhabi – to build a community of strong, independent young men and women who are ready to take on the world with all its challenges and opportunities.

What are your future plans for Stepping Stones?

The future is looking bright. We hope to open a second location in Dubai soon.

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GROWTH BENEFITS

The Principal of Hartland International School tells us all about what’s new at the facility in this academic year F I O N A C O T TA M

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nother academic year dawns, and as we start our fourth year of operation at Hartland International School the new term inevitably brings fresh and exciting opportunities.

Over the summer, we have been busy in further developing our school facilities, all of which will enrich the curriculum and the learning experiences of students. Our new Recording Studio and Music Technology suites will certainly enable greater creativity and technical exploration of this core curriculum area and I am excited A B OV E to see how the students use these Students have access to top exceptional resources to build on equipment their skills and interests.

Other building projects also include the installation of a Our Secondary capacity has also modern and fully equipped professional expanded further as we open a new suite gym. While the students will obviously of rooms on the top floor of the school, benefit from the new topics that the PE complete with a new library and open Department can now deliver, I imagine learning spaces. Our “Open Thinking Lab” there will also be many staff and parents will be a key feature of the school and is who will make best use of the new facility coupled with curriculum adaptation that to improve their own fitness levels. will develop the skills agenda. This will complement the Hartland Way Passport, which I am really excited about relaunching.

The concept of this has had a strategic facelift and has been rolled out across the whole of the Primary phase from September. Central to this curriculum innovation is the focus on developing core attributes that will pave the way for deeper enquiry-based learning and the subjects of Critical Thinking and Wellbeing will be timetabled lessons.

“We not only have capacity to deliver, but also to grow and develop along the journey”

On top of all that, this year sees the introduction of Italian as a language option, extending Modern Languages options to five in our Secondary School.

There is so much going on – as would be expected in an evolving school – but with a wonderful, expanded team of teachers and Middle Leaders joining us we will not only have capacity to deliver, we will also have the capacity to grow and develop along the journey.

We look forward to our Council of British International Schools review of Hartland in November and all systems are go to ensure that this is a rewarding and professionally developing opportunity for our school teams. So, 2018-19 is another jam-packed year filled with promise, and I look forward to it getting underway in earnest.

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International PERSPECTIVE Learning in the UAE has many benefits, and one of the biggest is growing as a global citizen, says the CEO of Aldar Academies...

N I L AY O Z R A L

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s a resident of the UAE, you will likely have heard the term “global citizen”.

We at Aldar Academies talk about it often, because as a leading community of private international schools in a city as cosmopolitan as Abu Dhabi, we nurture our students to be global citizens every day. And that is a good thing.

Before we look at why, however, we must ask: what exactly is a global citizen? The World Economic Forum defines global citizenship as “the idea of embracing an international perspective and lifestyle”.

Expanding on this, we believe it is about making conscious decisions to contribute positively to the globalised world we all live in. Here is why that is good for your child – today and into their future...

INSTILLING P OSITIVE VALUES E ARLY IN LIFE Everyone knows that our formative years play a big part in shaping the person we become. Therefore, as our students grow up and are educated in a country that encourages global citizenship, they are instilled with positive values of tolerance, respect and equality from an earlier age – preparing them for our diverse and globalised world.

The UAE’s leadership led from the front in this regard with its moral education initiative, which aims to promote tolerance and an understanding of the country’s core values via the school curricula. As a multicultural, home-grown education provider, Aldar Academies instinctively supports this goal with every school day. A student cohort of more than 100 nationalities means our pupils are exposed to different cultures, heritage, and religions, as they interact with and learn from their peers. What’s more, we place a

strong emphasis on bilingualism, because learning a new language offers access to a new culture. Arabic is taught to all Aldar Academies students, who also have the opportunity to learn French and Spanish.

The curricula itself also has an important role to play. For UAE schools, it typically has an “international dimension”, which means that in lessons such as History, Geography or English Literature, the content can be tailored for a local or international context.

This helps students understand and value the diversity of the topic, and therefore the peers they study with.

SET TING THE M UP FOR SUCCESS Driven by their early values of respect and tolerance, students of this region are on the right path towards success, as the ability to work with others – regardless of their background – is fundamental to their academic and professional futures. This collaborative mindset is reinforced when

“UNIVERSITIES WANT THEIR STUDENTS TO BE RESPECTFUL, CULTURALLY SENSITIVE, WORLDLY, AND MORALLY STRONG INDIVIDUALS; TRAITS OF A GLOBAL CITIZEN” 42

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ALL IMAGES Aldar Academies’ schools are made up of students from more than 100 nationalities

education providers offer pupils the chance to join leadership programmes, school councils, and student-led environmental groups, which involve watching, learning and sharing among a multicultural crowd.

Schools that teach the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) – like Al Bateen Academy – place these characteristics at their core, as the learning pathway is specifically designed to cultivate an international mindset in students. And, because of their growing relevance, certain principles of the IBDP are now also applied to the English National Curriculum and American Massachusetts State Curriculum.

When the study of these pathways ends and the time to apply for a university place or job arrives, global citizens have an obvious advantage, because the acceptance criteria for both looks beyond pure academic ability. Universities and employers

want their students and employees to be respectful, culturally sensitive, worldly, and morally strong individuals. These are all traits of a global citizen.

SHAPING THE FUTURE IN A P OSITIVE WAY Ultimately, when a student is nurtured to be a global citizen, the benefits can be felt throughout their professional and personal lives, and by the entire community around them. Students who grow up to be globally aware, with empathy, understanding and respect for others are well-equipped to help shape a peaceful, prosperous society built on economic stability.

N I L AY OZR A L CEO Aldar Academies 2018

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R IGHT CLICK

The rise in tech offers more flexible learning opportunities for all. Here are just six reasons why virtual schools are gaining popularity today…

S A K I L . M I LT O N

A

s technology advances, everything around us has the potential to change. Sitting in a classroom and listening to a lecture may not have the same effect today than it did decades ago. Nowadays, technology gives us more opportunities to learn in new and creative ways. Improved technological literacy and easy access to the internet has enabled educators to establish virtual schools as partial solutions to the problems of curriculum equity, changing demographics, shortages in specific teaching disciplines, and the need to be cost-effective. This is why virtual schooling is now on the rise, as it allows students to access quality education, world-class learning materials and globally certified teachers, all from the comfort of their own homes. In fact, recent studies have indicated that by 2019 at least 50% of all classes will be delivered online.

Saki L. Milton, the US Schools Portfolio Manager from Pearson Middle East, gives us six reasons why that might be…

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1 A HIGHER LEVEL OF CONVENIENCE AND FLEXIBILITY FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS

Students who are part of a virtual school do not have to worry about waking up at specific times to go to specific destinations.

In other words, students who study online have far more flexibility over those who are a part of traditional school systems.

Athletes, for example, spend a large part of their day training, making it extremely difficult to accommodate education and sport as part of their daily priorities.

Similarly, if a child has a special medical condition or other needs, parents may find that virtual schooling is an excellent way to provide high-quality education while shaping a unique lifestyle that supports the child’s needs and development. The flexible schedule and convenience also makes it possible for parents to be more involved in the education process.

2 EDUCATION IS MORE AFFORDABLE IN AN ONLINE PLATFORM

The costs of producing education material are much lower when everything about a lesson, test and homework is entirely digital. As a result, families who enrol in virtual schools can afford to take more classes and be a part of an education system that is easier on their budget.

3 VIRTUAL SCHOOLING CAN BE TAILORED TO FIT INDIVIDUAL ACADEMIC NEEDS

In some schools, students are given an individualised education plan based on an assessment at the beginning of their online study. The assessment identifies the students’ areas of strength, and areas where extra support is required.

Similarly, virtual schools allow students who are struggling to overcome learning difficulties flexibility to learn at their own pace. For high school students hoping to be accepted at specific universities, virtual schooling provides learners with an opportunity to choose courses that will help equip them with real-world skills.

Qualifications from the International Connections Academy (iNaCA), for example, are accepted at Juilliard, Yale and Stanford universities, to name a few.

4 UNINTERRUPTED LEARNING FOR FAMILIES LIVING IN REMOTE LOCATIONS AND THOSE WHO RELOCATE OFTEN

Virtual schools are extremely useful for families living in remote areas, such as mountains or deserts, or where natural conditions such as extreme rain make school access an issue. Similarly, for families who relocate often, virtual schools ensure uninterrupted learning. The UAE is a good example of this. If a family relocates to the UAE in between a school year, it may not always be possible to find a place in a school of the family’s choice. In such a scenario, virtual schooling is ideal.

5 MAKING TIME FOR HOBBIES AND PASSIONS

“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” is a proverb we are all familiar with.

Many traditional education systems leave little room to focus on the pursuit of dreams and passions. Virtual schooling, however, permits students to follow a passion that may otherwise not fit into the traditional school system. For many families, being able to explore and develop additional interests and hobbies is as critical as good-quality education.

“Virtual schools ensure uninterrupted learning and allow students flexibility to learn at their own pace” 6 ACCESS TO WORLDCLASS EDUCATION

Virtual schooling provides students with access to certified teachers and online school materials, as well as a global curriculum. The virtual schooling system also allows students to communicate at ease with their teachers and other faculty members via online tools to get guidance and help when needed. Best of all, it allows students to build a global network of friends via a virtual classroom.

S A K I L . M I LTO N US Schools Portfolio Manager Pearson Middle East 2018 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | 45

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Solid Fuels As the kids rejoin their sports teams, a Harley Street nutritionist has some tips on supporting young athletes with the right food SARAH GREEN

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utrition plays a pivotal role in your child’s development and good food choices help make sure they have enough energy to run and jump, as well as being key investments you can make for their health. One of the most successful ways to teach children to make healthy choices is for your family to eat well and build healthy relationships with food; children will mimic adult likes and dislikes, as well as pick up some startling ideas about “being on a diet” if a family member is restricting their food intake.

Children have relatively high energy requirements for their size and when they are very active, healthy, balanced meals and snacks become even more important. It is easy to think carbohydrates are the best way to fuel high energy demands and there is an acceptance that it is okay for kids to eat junk foods; they will work it off. This can feel especially true at competitive events, where sugary snacks and blue sports drinks are the norm for a 30-second swim or a fighting infections and injuries, may need more essential nutrients from whole foods.

To produce energy we need nutrients: a balance of protein (dairy products/meat/fish/eggs/beans/chicken); starchy carbohydrates (root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, sweet potatoes and whole grains); essential fatty acids from foods like olives, olive oil, avocados, coconut, oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel and trout), nuts and seeds, as well as a rainbow of vegetables and fruits. Treat the “Five a Day” quota as a minimum and try to stick with unprocessed versions. For example, a whole fresh apple is better for your child than the packaged dried or juiced version. A 250ml glass of apple juice has very limited nutritional value and contains around six teaspoons of sugar (similar to cola).

Before sporting events try a sweet potato with tuna, sweetcorn and spinach, beans on A B OV E

Sugary foods steal energy. They throw off blood sugar balance, leading to tiredness and energy dips three-minute gymnastic routine, but energy is about more than calories. It is about blood sugar balance and higher nutrient demands. Sugary foods steal energy. They throw off blood sugar balance, leading to tiredness, energy dips, loss of concentration and ultimately a bigger waistline, which in itself can lead to poor health long term. Plus sugary snacks and drinks fill them up so they have no appetite for healthy, nourishing foods. Children who seem to be constantly

A healthy young pupil on sports day

wholegrain toast with cheese, cereal with yoghurt, nuts and seeds and berries, carrots with nut or seed butter, hummus, cheese and apple slices or cottage cheese with pineapple or pomegranate.

To recover quickly you still need balanced nutrients.

Good options could be a homemade berry and yoghurt smoothie, blended with a handful of spinach and a dash of olive oil or some avocado. These good fats help us absorb the smoothie colours, which have their own beneficial effect in the body.

Chocolate milk provides a balance of protein and carbohydrate in an easily digestible form, and has been shown to be effective form of hydration.

Good hydration is essential for physical and mental function yet most children don’t drink enough water. Sugary drinks and juices are an additional source of calories we can all do without and their low-calorie equivalents can be just as detrimental to long-term health. Encourage children to drink plain water – flat or fizzy – and, if necessary, jazz it up with a few berries, lemon, or a splash of 100% pomegranate juice.

In essence, a more active child can be a healthier child, but at a time when learning, growth and repair are also key, it is important to ensure your child is properly nourished to flourish in their sporting endeavours and every aspect of growth and learning.

SARAH GREEN The Vice Chair and a Director of The British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine; sarahgreennutrition.com

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A BOX OF

TRICKS

On lunchbox duty as the kids head back to school? Then you will need this advice from two foodie experts on what nutrition-packed goodies to send them off with...

K AT Y G I L L E T T

s the kids head back to nursery and school, many of us will be back on lunchbox duty, packing up the sandwiches, fruit, crisps – whatever’s your bag – day after day. To make sure you are feeding them the good stuff, we have spoken to two experts about what is healthy, tasty and easy. It is time to break through the monotony and get a bit more creative…

HALIMA JUMANI

T

his super mum-of-three is also the director of Kibsons, the Dubai-based grocery delivery service. Here, she shares her best advice on how to approach the dreaded lunchbox…

START AS YOU MEAN TO GO ON  Have a chat with your child to find out what they do and do not want to see in their lunchboxes. Then,

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SCHOOL’S IN / NUTR ITION

as the year progresses, get them more involved in how their lunches are made – whether it is picking ingredients during the weekly grocery shop or lending a hand making sandwiches; these little steps give them a sense of ownership over the lunches.

IF IT AIN’T BROKE , DON’T FIX IT  This rings true for lunchboxes.

There is still space to introduce new ideas. Take one traditional element of the box and change the flavour to try and expand your child’s palate.

If they come home from school and report that the newcomer was a great success, then perfect. If it did not go down well, that is fine – by not making drastic changes, your little one was still able to enjoy some familiar favourites.

AVOID SOGGY SANDWICHES  There is little worse for a child (beyond homework) than opening their lunchbox to find their sandwich has turned soggy. The solution lies in construction – the trick is to protect the bread from the fillings that have high water content (think tomatoes and cucumbers). Surround those ingredients with meat, cheese or lettuce, and the sandwich will stay in tip-top condition until lunchtime.

BRITISH NUTRITION FOUNDATION

H

ailing from the UK, this 50-year-old institution exists to deliver authoritative, evidencebased information on food and nutrition for a healthy lifestyle. Its experts have compiled this list of great advice on how to pack in all the nutrients your kids need.

BUILD THE BASE WITH STARCHY FOODS  The main part of the lunchbox should include starchy foods such as rice, pasta, bread, couscous, wraps, pitta, potatoes or chapatti. Choosing wholegrain varieties (wholemeal bread, brown pasta and skin-on potatoes) will provide more fibre and

“Take one traditional element and change the flavour to expand your child’s palate” ABOVE Change just one element of the lunchbox each day

BELOW Avoid making sandwiches soggy with clever layering

DOUBLE UP AT DINNER  If pasta, pulses and grains or a tray of roasted vegetables are on the menu, increase the quantities you cook so that some leftovers can be used for the next day’s lunchbox. It saves time, effort and makes for a deliciously easy lunch.

DO NOT OVERTHINK IT  Do not feel like the lunchbox always has to be a perfect display of planning, excitement and flavour.

Remember children think about their lunch a lot less than parents do. Make it nutritious, try to make it delicious, but do not feel obliged to perform cartwheels every day. Leave that to the little ones. kibsons.com 2018 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | 49

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17/09/2018 12:40

BOOK AND BRUNCH IN BELGRAVIA

Visit Lowndes Bar & Kitchen and experience Book and Brunch Sundays. Choose from delicious brunch dishes including an exclusive children’s menu available throughout March.

Guests will also receive a side of literature courtesy of the monthly changing book specially selected from local store, Belgravia Books.

Childrens book and brunch from £12.50 and adults from £30.00 with the option of bottomless bubbles for an additional £15.00. To book your table call 020 7858 7223 or visit lowndesdining.co.uk.

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SCHOOL’S IN / NUTR ITION

“If you can squeeze more fruit and vegetables into the lunchbox, then do!”

LEFT & RIGHT Remember, kids think about lunch less than you

BOTTOM Get quality ingredients from Kibsons

a wider range of nutrients. Many children are getting well below the recommended intake of fibre, which is important not only for digestive health but for helping to keep them healthy in later life. Wholegrains also tend to have a lower glycemic index; they release their energy more slowly – perfect for fuelling children for a busy afternoon at school.

FRUIT AND VEG – JUST EAT MORE!  Adults and children alike should be aiming for at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. Why? So our bodies can get enough essential

vitamins and minerals – such as folate, vitamin C and potassium – which are crucial for healthy development. Lunchtime is a great opportunity to pack in these allimportant nutrients and, as well as providing fruit and vegetable sticks as a snack option, you should include as many vegetables as possible in the main dish of the lunchbox. Add mushrooms, peas or tomatoes into a pasta dish; or peppers, sweetcorn or shredded carrot into a wrap; and always include some salad in sandwiches. If you think you can squeeze more fruit and vegetables into the lunchbox, then do!

PLENTY OF PROTEIN FOR GROWING CHILDREN

A WATERFALL OF DRINKS

 Protein is essential for growth, maintenance and repair of the body – something children are experiencing continuously as they grow up. Therefore a source of protein should be eaten at every lunchtime. Include a variety of foods such as: beans, lentils, pulses, fish, eggs and meat. Use these as sandwich fillings, in couscous, or in a pasta or rice salad.

 Always pack a drink! Younger children may be more likely to get dehydrated than adults as they have a higher proportion of body water, and are also less heat tolerant. Therefore, encouraging children to drink fluids regularly is important. Water and milk should be lunchbox staples and you could also give your child fruit juice or a smoothie. However, due to the high sugar content, the latter should be limited to a combined total of 150ml a day and can be diluted with water to make them go further.

Top Tip: Try and include (sustainable) fish (especially oily types like salmon) once or twice a week. You could try canned salmon or tuna mixed with a pasta or rice salad or as a sandwich filling.

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www.jess.sch.ae

#FutureReady

+971 4 3619019

CONNECT

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admissions@jess.sch.ae

/J E S S D U B A I

06/06/2018 17/01/2018 12:21 08:45

Higher

Education

KING’S COLLEGE, CAMBRIDGE, UK; SHUTTERSTOCK

STUDENT ACCOMMODATION P . 58 THE PERSONAL STATEMENT P . 60

B I G Q U E S TI O N S

Choosing what degree to study and which university to go to are two of the most important decisions of a teenager’s life.

That is why Fiona McKenzie, Director of Gabbitas Education Middle East, has made it easier for us, from page 54.

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THE BIG QUESTIONS This is what students need to ask themselves before making any decisions about what to study at university – and where to study it…

FIONA MCKENZIE

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HIGHER EDUC ATION / CHOICES

F

amilies in the UAE are uniquely placed to take a 360-degree view of where to study at university. If you want to study Marine Biology then why wouldn’t you look at studying in Florida? If you are keen to pursue a career in robotics, then Canada has some great options. Australia has some of the best mining and geology programmes, and business schools such as Bocconi in Italy rank globally with other famous names. But once you have picked a country the choice does not end there.

For example, in the UK there are over 37,000 undergraduate courses on offer at more than 370 universities. The choice can be overwhelming for a student trying to navigate their way to Higher Education.

That is why the education consultants over at Gabbitas Education have shared their top tips on how to make these key decisions…

WHAT TO STUDY

T

ABOVE King’s College, Cambridge, UK

here are generally BELOW two schools of how to create a coherent Harvard University, thought on choosing argument. These attributes Massachusetts, US a degree: one is to will be inherent on any good follow your passion and degree course. the other to take a more vocational Alternatively, there is an route. While studying a degree without argument to say that picking a an obvious employment goal in mind can degree with obvious employment is a safer seem risky – particularly to parents – route. For the student who knows that they the value of a good degree from a good want a career in accountancy or law, for university can transcend the obvious links. example, then doing something related is an An Art History student with a First from a obvious choice, particularly if the degree also top university is just as capable of landing allows exemptions from future professional a prestigious job at Goldman Sachs as qualifications. If Medicine or Dentistry is the someone with a degree in Finance. For end game then a degree in this field will be a many employers it is about intellectual pre-requisite. The same goes for Engineering ability and transferrable skills, such as the or Computer Science. But, again, just ability to communicate, research skills, because you have a degree in this field does how to critically analyse information and not automatically mean this is the path you will always follow; all of these degrees require a high level of intellectual ability and commitment that will be in demand in other employment sectors too.

Many students approaching their university application genuinely do not know what they want to study next. They know that having a university degree will bring huge benefits in the longer term, opening doors for future employment and conferring economic advantages over their lifetime, but that understanding does not always help when you are trying to select your degree path. This is where seeking some professional advice can be helpful, and taking a Student Profiling Assessment can help to highlight particular strengths and interests, and identify suitable degree programmes to maximise these.

Questions to ask yourself What subjects are you good at?

• What qualifications are you studying for?

• What are you capable of achieving in your final grades?

• What do you do outside of school?

• Do you have a passion in a particular area?

• Do you need to study a particular subject to achieve your end goal?

The most important thing is to spend time doing your research – courses vary from university to university, so make sure the courses you select reflect what you want to get out of your degree. Medical students, for example, all graduate with the same degree, but the courses are taught in different ways – some universities prefer a more traditional lecture-based approach whereas others will give you patient contact in the first semester.

Which is going to be a better fit for an aspiring student?

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Questions to ask yourself

HIGHER EDUC ATION / CHOICES

How is the course structured?

• How many contact hours will there be?

• How is the course assessed?

• How is the course taught?

• Is there a study abroad year or an option to spend a year in industry?

WHERE TO STUDY

Y

ou may have identified the area you want to study but then comes the big dilemma – where to study. Many families start their research by looking at university league tables, and this can be a useful guide but it ABOVE comes with some major caveats.

Bocconi University, Firstly, there are so many Milan, Italy rankings – and pretty much all BELOW of them place universities in a Columbia University different order. It is important or is it taking into account of New York, US to understand what criteria they the quality of teaching that are using to create their tables. Is the students are actually it based on student satisfaction? The receiving? It is also key to number of graduates in employment? Is bear in mind that just because a it weighted towards universities that are university is near the top of the table does known for their strong research capability not mean it is the best one for the subject you are planning to study.

Make sure the university offers the degree you are really after – does it give you all the options you might find at an alternative institution? It is also important to ensure you will achieve the necessary grades to secure a place on their course.

Work out where the universities are located. If possible, arrange to visit; discovering your top-choice university is half an hour from the nearest town will be a problem if this only becomes apparent on day one! Think about whether a campus university that has everything within easy reach is a better fit than the bright lights of a university that is integrated into a city.

The size of a university can also be important. Attending a large, prestigious university may be a lifelong goal but being in a lecture theatre with 500 other students with minimal contact time with the “headline” professors may ultimately be quite unsatisfactory. Instead, enrolling in a smaller campus could give you more opportunities for contact time, to access the facilities and to make friends more easily.

Another aspect to consider is the cost of living. Living in a big city can be significantly more expensive than other lesser-known destinations. On the plus side, it can be easier to find part-time work to help offset the additional costs.

“Taking a Student Profiling Assessment can help to highlight particular strengths and interests”

Questions to ask yourself What accommodation is offered and is it guaranteed for first-year students?

• Do you want to attend a campus or city university?

• What does the university offer in addition to the academics – sports, societies, careers services, etc.?

• What will the cost of living be?

• What academic reputation does your chosen university have?

• Does it offer the course you want?

The vast majority of students end up being extremely happy at university and go onto become successful and satisfied with their choices. Doing your research and seeking professional guidance before making your decisions will ensure that you, too, can make a confident choice of what and where to study.

FIONA MCKENZIE Director Gabbitas Education Middle East; gabbitas.ae 2018 | E D U C AT I O N E M I R AT E S | 57

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Home Sweet

HOME

The Global Head of Student Wellbeing at GSA outlines the importance of student accommodation and its direct link to our children’s wellbeing BOBBI HARTSHORNE

S

tudent accommodation is widely recognised as playing a significant role in the health and wellbeing of students. Students who are unhappy with their accommodation display higher levels of depression, and housing difficulties are a known trigger of mental distress, while the pastoral role of accommodation (both university and privately provided) is known to be important in establishing protective social connections for students.

Accommodation can give early warning signs to other student services, and staff can play an important role in supporting early interventions and as “first responders”.

For example, at some universities, security

It is in the accommodation where pupils are able to cultivate a sense of community

staff are now routinely trained in mental health first aid. It is in the dorms and communal areas where pupils are also able to cultivate a sense of community and it provides opportunities for student unions (or equivalents) to develop skills and knowledge to combat known stressors.

There is evidence to suggest that the wellbeing challenge is higher in “off-campus” accommodation, typically private-sector student accommodation. One study cited living on campus as having a protective effect against poor mental health.

Though the evidence is not conclusive, it is suggested that this may be linked to the ability to more easily establish social networks and access university services.

GSA has recently launched a wellbeing pilot in the UK that has countered this and shown very promising results, bringing aspects traditionally delivered on campus into off-campus accommodation. Uninest

Student Residences, Dubailand will be implementing this from this coming academic year.

Unlike some of the more traditional markets, the UAE is eager to explore and look to new and innovative ideas from both the universities and the government to address the issues of student wellbeing. As a comparatively fresh sector, there is an opportunity to develop an approach using all the knowledge and experience that can be gathered from around the world to truly create an impactful outcome that will ensure success for both the students

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HIGHER EDUC ATION / ACCOMMODATION

12 TIPS FOR A BOOST Bobbi Hartshorne offers the below recommendations for boosting student wellbeing to education facilities...

ALL IMAGES Studies show students are happier when living on campus

and the future growth of universities here.

Our recommendation is that we begin not by thinking about what each organisation needs to be doing individually, but instead taking a collective approach from the beginning to share resources and ideas.

*This analysis is based on an 18-month research campaign, which analysed over 10,000 pages of evidence from more than 280 studies, reports and articles, from the UK to Australia, and addresses the challenges and opportunities of university student wellbeing.

BOBBI HARTSHORNE

1

Improve health literacy using apps and online resources as well as face-to-face

2

ollaborate between universities C and service providers to deliver cross-functional services

3

Use peer-based approaches to support positive communities, and cultures that promote wellbeing

4

Normalise mental health and wellbeing issues and provide easy-to-access routes to referral

5

I nvest in health and wellbeing “triage” to ensure appropriate support and resources are used effectively

6

evelop a stronger focus on D protective factors, such as coping strategies and promoting social and community networks, particularly for at-risk groups

7

ollaborate across the sector to C ensure that a range of accommodation is available at different price points to reduce financial stress, while ensuring there is provision of the “community” approach throughout

8

Design environments to promote healthier lifestyles, including access to local amenities and green space

9

ommunal spaces are particularly C important, especially smaller ones that support social interaction such as cooking and eating together

10

Implement outreach to groups less likely to actively engage with services or seek support

11

Use behavioural and attitudinal, as well as socio-economic, data to promote better understanding of student diversity through segmentations, personas, etc.

12

Make existing services easier to engage with for students with physical, logistical, cultural or linguistic barriers

Global Head of Student Wellbeing GSA – Global Student Accommodation

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APPLY YOURSELF

Our resident higher education expert shares her top tips on what makes a successful application to a UK university FIONA MCKENZIE

A

pplying to university is both one of the most exciting and daunting tasks in a teenager’s life.

Exciting because freedom beckons; the stories of being a student are about to become their stories and – finally – they get to study something they are passionately interested in. But therein lies the daunting part – do they have something they are passionately interested in? And how can they express this well enough in their university application? These are my ten top points 60

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you need to consider before applying to a UK university...

YOUR MOTIVES

It is good to be clear about the motives and the reasons for wanting to study a particular course at university. Is it to get a better job?

Is it because you need to follow a particular career path or to nurture a passion for a subject?

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Make sure you check out the different entry requirements for university courses. What grades are they looking for and do they require a particular subject combination?

Ideally this needs to be established a couple of years in advance. Also look out for any additional requirements, such as work experience or additional exams like LNAT for some Law degrees; or BMAT or UKCAT for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary; or a Design course that may require a portfolio of work to be submitted.

As an international student you may have to take IELTS, too. Be sure to do this in plenty of time so there are no hold-ups when you accept your place.

PREDICTED GRADES

University places in the UK system are offered before the exams are taken, so offers

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HIGHER EDUC ATION / A PPLIC ATIONS

are based on the grades predicted by the school. This means that the work put in during Year 12 will influence the student’s predictions and therefore the universities that they will be able to apply to.

REFERENCES

Each application has to be accompanied by a teacher reference. It is important to know who will be coordinating this reference and make an appointment to see them so they can be sure to have all the necessary information to write the most relevant reference for each student.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

One of the most important elements of the university application in the UK is the personal statement. This is the only opportunity for the student to write about themselves and why they want to study this particular course. BUT, it has to be done in 4,000 characters, including spaces, plus the same statement goes to all of the university choices. So, no waffle, no long rambling stories and avoid repeating the same phrase again and again. “I’m passionate” is a common one! And make sure it sounds like you – now is not the time to introduce words you have never used before.

SHOW DON’T TELL!

In your personal statement, reflect on the experiences you have had studying or with work experience and in your extracurricular activities, and use this to illustrate the qualities you have acquired. Don’t just list them. Have you learnt about perseverance and commitment? Or compassion and

patience? What skills have you acquired by being part of a team?

SWAYING THE ADMISSIONS TUTOR

Think about what the admissions tutor reading the application is going to be looking for. What is going to make a good student for their course? Is it academic potential, intellectual curiosity, ability to work in a team, communication skills? Think about how you meet these expectations and demonstrate this in your statement.

TIME

Leave plenty of time to write the personal statement – on average it will take up to six or seven drafts before it feels right. Do not worry about getting it right the first time and remember the first sentence is always the hardest – so start with the second and come back to the opening later on. But budget your time well.

ADVICE

It is normal to want to ask for advice and second opinions and, of course, external support can be absolutely invaluable. But choose who you ask for advice from carefully – it can be very confusing when you get countless different opinions. Make sure you ask experts, such as careers advisors rather than well-meaning friends.

THE BOTTOM LINE

The bottom line is this: the university application needs to demonstrate why a student wants to study a particular course at university, and what they will bring to the table in terms of qualifications, skills, knowledge and experience in order to succeed on this degree. If you have done your research then you will be able to happily match these criteria!

CHECK YOUR WORK

Check, check and check again – there is no excuse for sloppy writing, grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. All of these need to be ironed out before you upload your statement.

FIONA MCKENZIE Director Gabbitas Education Middle East

“DO NOT WORRY ABOUT GETTING IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME AND REMEMBER THE FIRST SENTENCE IS ALWAYS THE HARDEST” 2018

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SSAT Education is a respected Education Consultancy working with schools across the Middle East SSAT is entrusted by both private and government schools in the Middle East to provide quality, pedagogically trained educators from around the world. SSAT Middle East is a British Company, with their recruitment department located in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. The United Arab Emirates is a safe, thriving and rapidly growing 21st Century Country.

GET IN TOUCH Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates PO Box 15703 Tel: +971 03 7640331 | Fax: +971 03 7640339 Web: www.ssat.me

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08/02/2017 15:46

HIGHER EDUC ATION / BUSINESS

In the Lead This is how Cass Business School is addressing the imbalance of women in leadership positions across the world D R CA N A N KO CA B A S O G LU - H I L L M E R

“The purpose of our programme is to inspire, equip and connect women throughout their career” throughout their career – from undergraduate to postgraduate and as alumni. Our programme inspires by fostering ambition through events with stimulating speakers. It equips by helping women develop skills, competence and resilience, either through workshops or by offering financial support to study at Cass.

Finally, we connect women via networks, groups and communities supporting each other. All of these things encourage women to develop leadership skills and give them

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE

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any women aspire to leadership roles at work but are unsure how to apply for them.

We know that it is important to aim high and have a successful and fulfilling career, but how can we learn, develop and nurture the skills that will get us to where we want to go?

These questions have been given a great deal of consideration at Cass Business School. Last year, our Dean, Professor Marianne Lewis, decided that she wanted to establish a flagship initiative to develop women’s leadership skills at Cass. The Global Women’s Leadership Programme was launched at both our London and Dubai campuses and I was appointed as Director shortly afterwards.

The purpose of our programme is to inspire, equip and connect women

ABOVE Cass Dubai Executive MBA classes are in DIFC

the confidence to apply for those roles or lead within their current role.

The issues surrounding women, work and leadership are complex. In the UAE, outstanding progress has been made in empowering women in the workforce across various sectors. Greater access to education and a strong shift in societal attitudes towards working women are among the factors that have led to a rise in women in employment.

According to the 2018 UAE Human Development Report, the number of Emirati working women has increased from 1,000 in 1975 to about 135,000 in 2015.

Despite these important moves in the UAE, the number of women on boards in the UK has only increased slightly (from 11% to 28% from 2007 to 2017, according to a 2017 Cranfield School of Management report). Women are still falling behind in leadership positions. Earlier this year, Women in Business, a 2018 report by Grant Thornton, found just 22% of women held senior leadership positions.

It is this imbalance that our programme seeks to address. We need to see a dramatic increase in the number of women in leadership. We need gender balance to ensure that our institutions reflect society as a whole and encourage a breadth of perspectives and original thinking.

I believe it is only by leading by example and encouraging and supporting women’s leadership programmes that business schools can support the progression of the female leaders of tomorrow.

DR CANAN KO C A B A S O G LU - H I L L M E R Director of the Cass Global Women’s Leadership Programme Cass Business School 2018 | E D U C AT I O N E M I R AT E S | 63

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17/09/2018 12:56

All children can achieve

An award winning independent SpLDs specialist school VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE www.moatschool.org.uk

@Moatschool

@TheMoatSchool THEMOAT.indd 1

Or email office@moatschool.org.uk for tour dates 0207 7610 9018

17/09/2018 10:56

HIGHER EDUC ATION / WOR LD HER ITAGE

Protecting the Past A Professor of Cultural Heritage explains why it is important for us to preserve our traditions – and how a career in managing this can be very satisfying PROFESSOR MIKE ROBINSON PHD

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he past fascinates us all. Whether it is world culture or our own local traditions and familiar buildings, we are surrounded by heritage.

As tourists, we visit heritage sites, museums and galleries and enjoy local food, festivals and crafts. Heritage is about the things from the past that we value today and wish to see protected and preserved into the future.

Furthermore, it is always being produced.

The old buildings and monuments that we currently classify as “heritage” were once brand new, after all.

But heritage sites, by definition, are always getting older and thus they require careful management. For over 30 years, the Ironbridge International Institute for Cultural Heritage at the University of Birmingham in the UK has specialised

“We prepare our students to work at the senior levels of the heritage sector” in the management of heritage and the research and education that informs the management process. Across the world you will find alumni of the Institute working in the heritage sector, in cultural ministries, museums and with heritage conservation bodies.

The Ironbridge International Institute is unique in being a long-lasting partnership with the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust – Europe’s largest independent museum and managers of the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List as the birthplace for the industrial revolution. Through our

ABOVE Petra, Jordan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

MA programmes in International Heritage Management and World Heritage Studies and through our PhD programme in Cultural Heritage, we prepare our students to work at the senior levels of the heritage sector.

The MA programme involves leading experts from the heritage sector, study trips, and allows the students to engage with many different forms, including intangible heritage such as festivals. The programme is also available through distance learning and so engages with students already working in the heritage sector who are seeking a recognised qualification.

Managing heritage is not only about the technicalities of conservation, but involves knowing about marketing, finance, interpretation and visitor management.

We need to take a truly international and interdisciplinary view on heritage to understand different approaches and how different cultures value their heritage.

The world of heritage is rapidly changing and facing tremendous challenges, as well as significant opportunities. Some heritage cities and sites are over-run by tourists while others would love to have more visitors. In some places heritage is under threat by war or just neglect.

A vital part of the management of heritage involves finding suitable and sustainable uses for heritage and for finding funds for its preservation. If protected in the right way, and managed correctly, heritage can make significant contributions to local and national economies, as well as improving the life and social wellbeing of the communities that live with the legacies of the past.

DR MIKE ROBINSON Professor of Cultural Heritage; Director, Ironbridge International Institute for Cultural Heritage University of Birmingham 2018 | E D U C AT I O N E M I R AT E S | 65

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17/09/2018 12:57

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18/09/2018 09:23

School’s Out HOW TO GO TECH-FREE P. 72 LOUVRE ABU DHABI P. 76 THE LAST WORD P. 82

CITY FOOTBALL CLUB, DUBAI

THE EXTRAS

Extracurricular activities, like playing football or vlogging, are very useful when shaping well-rounded students. Some more so than others. Find out which to choose on page 68.

2018

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It’s all about the EXTRAS Our resident education expert explains why it is so important to encourage your kids to take up some extracurricular activities this term…

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17/09/2018 14:13

SCHOOL’S OUT / ACTI V ITIES

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he beginning of September is an exciting time and a new start in so many ways. One decision for students, however, which needs to be made quickly is selecting their extracurricular activities for the first term, and perusing the choices for later on. It can be quite overwhelming with so many options available, so it is important to highlight why ECAs are relevant and how certain types of activities can truly impact your child’s skill set through the school years and beyond.

BENEFITS

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he benefits of extracurricular activities are exponential. First of all, students get the chance to build their skills and interests in an environment without the pressures of a formal classroom setting. While they have to try trigonometry LEFT out of necessity in Maths, they Join Dubai’s ICC Academy can attempt calligraphy out RIGHT of interest and at their own Kids at City Football Club pace. Plus, ECAs offer a great BELOW opportunity to enhance skills boundaries and excel at an Vlogging is a great skill that are not on offer through the activity or skill. There is only school curriculum. so much time in the school day Another advantage is that and there are so many tangents students get to know people outside of where educators pique their their friend groups and classes. They students’ interests, and extracurricular may be working with students younger activities are a great place for them to or older than themselves or simply with follow through on these. Whether it be some students they would not normally technologically, academically, or physically come into contact with. It is a great based, extracurricular activities can opportunity to find similarities with others hone your child’s interests and lead and build new friendships. them to success above and beyond In addition, extracurricular activities the set curriculum. can challenge your child to push their own It is worth bearing in mind that the ultimate goal of these activities is not to take up more of your child’s day, but to help them become more of a well-rounded student. Moreover, the skills they acquire and the experiences they have can help to give your child a competitive edge when it comes to school and university applications.

CHOICES

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hen looking over the options for extracurriculars it is important to consider your child’s strengths and areas for improvement, so the activity has the maximum impact on their progress and accomplishments. Bear in mind your child’s interests and dreams, and also consider areas where perhaps they have not really pushed themselves. It is also important to consider the future value of the skill sets they will acquire – although mandala colouring is very relaxing and soothing after a hectic school day, it is not perhaps as useful as graphic novel creation or vlogging.

“Mandala colouring is very relaxing, but it is not perhaps as useful as graphic novel creation or vlogging” These are our top choices for building transferrable skills:

MODEL UNITED NATIONS (MUN)

 If your child is an academic, loves history, debating, researching and writing, and is looking for a way to develop these skills, MUN is for them. This club usually starts in senior school, although some schools offer a MiniMUN for Year 6 upwards.

After learning the basics of how the United Nations works, each student or small group is given a country to research; they have to create a country report and then practise defending that country on a wide range of issues that come up in the United Nations. This can be anything from looking at green energy and natural resources to human rights issues. MUN culminates in a conference where teams represent their country, going up against 2018 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | 69

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17/09/2018 14:14

WE FIND THE SCHOOL THAT FITS

www.gabbitas.ae NURSERY & SCHOOL SEARCH UNIVERSITY, HIGHER EDUCATION & CAREERS ADVICE STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES & GUARDIANSHIP +971 445 16933 | admin@gabbitas.ae Gabbitas Educational Consultants is registered in England No. 2920466. Part of The Prospects Group.

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SCHOOL’S OUT / ACTI V ITIES

LEFT Podcasting is a good use of kids’ time RIGHT & BELOW It is never too early to try robotics club

“Vlogging allows students to work on skills such as lighting, sound, content creation and speaking confidence” students from other schools both locally and internationally to defend their chosen nation. The greatest benefits from MUN are definitely the vocabulary building, research skills, succinct report writing, and public speaking.

VLOGGING AND PODCASTING

 Five years ago most parents would never have heard these two words, but now traditional blogging is so yesterday! Vlogging, on the other hand,

is hugely popular on social media. There are many benefits for students learning this art, as they work on skills such as lighting, sound, video editing, content creation and speaking confidence, all of which are valuable transferable skills.

Moreover, it can help a child find a topic they are passionate about and research it in order to create a series of vlogs on that subject. Podcasting is similar and needs technical skills such as broadcasting, sound, and content creation, and allows a student to focus on almost any topic of interest. It gives a keen student a chance to flex their creative writing skills and to have a forum to talk about their passion, whether that is archaeology or cooking, their favourite author or their latest travels.

SPORTS

 Some children are just naturally gifted in sports and others need to work harder in order to accomplish those abilities, but the benefits of sports are clear: teamwork, respect, social interaction skills, leadership, and dexterity. Extracurricular sports offer a chance to play a game they may not be able to do during school or to “play out” their passion if they did not make the team.

In addition, these extracurricular activities often offer something different, such as boxing or ballet, fencing or golf. It is a great opportunity to let your child try something new and find out if it is a good fit for them.

LEADERSHIP/VOLUNTEERING

 If the regular comment at parent-teacher conferences is that your child needs to participate more or raise their hand or be part of the discussion, then seeking ECAs that offer leadership skills is a great opportunity for them to come out of their shell in a non-threatening environment

and to build their confidence. Volunteering programmes often mean they will be part of a mentorship programme with younger students or go to local businesses to see how they could be of service. These situations can help students to learn how to write proposals, to speak to new people, as well as take the initiative in certain situations.

The leadership prowess they acquire will then spill over into the classroom and life outside of school, too.

ROBOTICS

 Robotics and coding clubs are a great addition to any student’s skill set. These areas help to build integral STEM skills needed for the future and can lead to particular career paths. ECAs give students more time to utilise maths, coding, social interaction and competition capabilities through robotics activities, all in a fun environment.

Although the list might be long and time may be short, extracurricular activities are worth the effort. The skills they build to enhance a child’s expertise, ingenuity and versatility to prepare them for their future, near and far, are priceless and can ignite a passion and set them apart in the long-run both inside and outside the school gates.

FIONA MCKENZIE Director Gabbitas Education Middle East 2018 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | 71

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17/09/2018 14:14

LET’S GET REAL

The Abu Dhabi-based founder of a programme that guides us through tech-free living tells us why we need to monitor our kids’ screentime now more than ever…

ANISA ISMAIL

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17/09/2018 14:15

SCHOOL’S OUT / OPINION

LEFT Children no longer experience “real” play time RIGHT Anisa Ismail leads courses on going tech-free

“Our childhoods were creative, spontaneous and fun, but the world is so different now”

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creative, carefree childhood is slowly being taken from children who now spend more time on electronic devices than actually playing in the real world.

Take a look at the picture on the left. What stands out most to you?

My response would be: a carefree young girl, the sand and the beach.

My eyes are drawn to that, but something got in my way – the iPad! It is also in this girl’s way; in the way of an opportunity for her to freely play on a beach. But, sadly, this scene is very common. Children now spend so much time using technology that “real” play time remains forgotten.

The long-term effects of consistent and excessive use of electronic devices on young children are well documented.

It can include sleep issues, a high risk of obesity and other

physical impairments, including vision problems, and even poor relationships and communication skills. Many paediatricians and child psychologists have warned that young children are at high risk of developing addictive traits from a young age because of the excessive use of these devices. Yet, for us to say “children need to do what we used to do when we were younger” is no longer sufficient.

While we can all agree our childhoods were creative, spontaneous and fun, we also know that the world is so different now. This is where my company, KidzUnplugged, comes in. We promote awareness of creating opportunities for young children to play, and teach families how to be technology-free in today’s modern, tech-driven world. I chose to start this initiative to answer one question: “What do we do if we take away their electronic devices?”

So how do we do this? We offer workshops for children, as well as parents, nannies and teachers. The “UNPLUGGED” Zone workshop opens up conversations on the constant use of technology but it also offers everyday solutions – simple, cost effective and entertaining solutions that keep your child busy but still progressive. We offer clear breakdowns, comprising of minute-to-minute hacks, as well as more in-depth and progressive solutions and ideas, all concerned with creating the right environment for each individual child.

Most importantly, we have chosen to focus on programmes and workshops that provide a balance for a young child’s mental, emotional and physical development and wellbeing. This is imperative for children who are exposed to far more than their brains can handle each and every day.

The aim of KidzUnplugged is to create a balance in a child’s life that allows them to be more connected to the real world, rather than consistently stuck in the cyber-sphere. The rate of our use of technology is continuing to increase and with that our level of human connection decreases. And that cornerstone of our existence can never be underrated.

ANISA ISMAIL Company Founder KidzUnplugged; kidzunpluggedmena.com 2018 | E D U C AT I O N E M I R AT E S | 73

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17/09/2018 14:19

Play LEARN THROUGH

Dr Sam Wass and LEGO® Juniors share advice on how productive play can benefit little ones D R S A M WA S S

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17/09/2018 14:20

SCHOOL’S OUT / E A R LY Y E A R S

1. PLAY WITH THEM

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laying with our children is, for many parents, a great pleasure.

But it’s also important to remember how much children learn from these interactions. Adults naturally concentrate better, give up less easily, and are better at planning actions, and children can learn these skills from adults, just by doing things together.

2. LET THEM LEAD

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esearch suggests that children learn best in situations in which they are motivated – and the best way to ensure that is to let them choose the activity and then follow it with them to help them explore, and to get the most out of their own idea.

3. LEARN TO PLAY FOLLOWER-LEADER

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earn the knack of playing followerleader. You’ll naturally be faster than your child, and better at planning in advance. But when you are playing with your child be careful not to charge ahead and finish the task yourself, leaving them demotivated. Try to follow their attention, and support them – so if they pick up a piece of a puzzle, support that by saying “I wonder where that goes”. That way they will stay interested for much longer.

4. SMALL STEPS

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hen starting school, some of the key skills that children are learning are basic self-sufficiency skills – being able to tie your own shoelaces, put your own coat on, peel your own fruit.

These require what we call “fine motor skills” – the ability to do fine, precise movements with your hands. Playing with

small items (such as LEGO Juniors) can be a great way to learn these skills, so don’t put the pieces in yourself; let them do it.

5. LET THEM MAKE MISTAKES

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or example, if they’re building something with LEGO and put a piece in the wrong place it’s tempting to step in straight away and correct it. But children will learn far more if you let them make the mistake – and then, later on, go back and figure out for themselves what they’ve done wrong, and correct it.

6. HELP THEM VISUALISE

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ne skill that children find particularly hard at this age is mental rotation. So seeing a picture of something they are going to make, and then translating that into what the model looks like in real life, is much harder for a child than an adult. You can help them by making sure the picture is propped up, clearly visible, and at the same angle as the model.

7. FINISH THE TASK

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ne of the key skills that is particularly challenging for children is to complete things. It helps if they know the size of the task and roughly how long it’s going to take before they start. It can help with motivation

if, when they finish the task, they have something to play with – so bear that in mind when choosing what to play.

8. TEAMWORK

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ost four-year-olds tend to be very much in their own world and one of the big skills they are going to be learning over their first year at school is getting to know other children. Teamwork is something that all young children find challenging, so don’t worry if they find it hard to start with.

9. KEEP IT SIMPLE

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imple tasks can be a good way to encourage young children to play together. Something easy, like a painting that they have to do together on a single sheet of paper, can be a great way to encourage cooperation.

10. BE PATIENT

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or many four-year-olds, sharing toys can be something they find easy to do when they are in a good mood, but impossible otherwise. Rather than telling them off for not sharing, it can be more helpful to help them to understand their own bad mood, by saying: “I know that you’re upset, or angry, but…” Understanding their own emotions is something that almost all young children find challenging, so supporting them in learning about this is particularly crucial.

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17/09/2018 14:21

ONE MOMENT IN TIME

The newest exhibit at the Louvre Abu Dhabi explores how artists in both Japan and France created incredible work by learning from each other K AT Y G I L L E T T

M Paul Sérusier (1864–1927) Women at the Spring c.1899 Musée d’Orsay, Paris © Musée d’Orsay, Dist. RMNGrand Palais / Patrice Schmidt

useums are a great place for families to spend some time learning together. And nowhere in the UAE is better for this than the fabulous Louvre Abu Dhabi, where art and artefacts from ancient times to present day reside under incredible architecture designed by the renowned French architect Jean Nouvel.

This season there is another reason to visit – the museum’s brand-new exhibition, Japanese Connections: The Birth of Modern Décor, which displays 19th and 20th-century paintings, prints and folding screens that highlight the artistic and cultural conversation between Japan and France. The exhibit underlines the important influence of ukiyo-e – a style of Japanese woodblock print and painting – and Les Nabis – a famous group of PostImpressionist French painters – on modern decorative arts.

Isabelle Cahn, general curator at Musée d’Orsay and curator of this exhibition, explains: “By bringing this exceptional selection of works together, Japanese Connections traces the fundamental contribution of Japanese aesthetics to the development of decorative principles of modern painting in France at the end of the

19th century,” she explains. “Presented for the first time in an exhibition, this dialogue between East and West celebrates creativity and cross-cultural inspiration between the ukiyo-e artists and the Nabis painters through a coloured, vibrant and refined expression.”

Japanese Connections is divided into four sections and showcases 41 artworks and 15 documents by 12 artists from both France and Japan. This includes 10 prints and three screens from Japan, and 24 paintings and three screens from France. The influence of ukiyo-e aesthetic principles is the central focus, and the sections illustrate how they represented the world in two-dimensions Maurice Denis (1870 – 1943) Sunlight on the Terrace, 1890 Musée d’Orsay, Paris © Musée d’Orsay, Dist. RMN-Grand Palais / Patrice Schmidt

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17/09/2018 14:27

SCHOOL'S OUT / A RT

Utagawa Hiroshige (1797–1858) Fuji from Yoshiwara (14th station), from the series Fifty-Three Stations of the Tōkaidō 1833–34 Paris, Musée National des Arts Asiatiques – Guimet © RMN-Grand Palais (MNAAG, Paris) / Harry Bréjat

ALL IMAGES Find 19 th and 20 th-century paintings, prints and screens from France and Japan in the latest exhibition at the Louvre Abu Dhabi

without perspective; narratives that show the passing of time; the use of folding panels in storytelling; and how symbolism was used to explore intellectual, dreamlike and spiritual ideas.

On top of that, a schedule of public programming complements the exhibit, with curatorial talks and a Big in Japan festival – taking place on 26 and 27 October – featuring DJs, spoken word poetry, screenings of Studio Ghibli anime films and Japanese cooking classes.

Meanwhile, the Manga Lab in the museum’s forum offers a creative space for teenagers and young adults to discover more contemporary Japanese culture, from virtual reality experiences to retro arcade gaming and workshops on manga and graphic art.

More than anything, this exhibition aims to celebrate cultural connections, dialogue and international exchange, all of which are imperative to the museum’s

Édouard Vuillard (1868–1940) Public Gardens, 1894 The Conversation; The Nannies; The Red Parasol; Young Girls Playing; The Question, 1894 Paris, Musée d’Orsay © RMN-Grand Palais (Musee d’Orsay) / Jean Schormans

“This dialogue between East and West celebrates creativity and cross-cultural inspiration”

curatorial ethos. It is as Manuel Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, says: “Japanese Connections will shine a light on one significant moment of exchange and inspiration; these moments open our eyes to the interconnected history of human societies, nurturing shared understanding.”

It is never too early for our children to start learning about these kinds of moments.

Japanese Connections: The Birth of Modern Décor runs until 24 November, 2018; louvreabudhabi.ae 2018 | E D U C AT I O N E M I R AT E S | 77

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17/09/2018 14:28

Let’s Boogie

We meet the team behind StepUp Academy, a growing group of studios in Dubai that teaches our kids how to dance – and have fun K AT Y G I L L E T T

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t is that time again, when our kids pick new extracurricular activities for the year. From music lessons to robotics club and sports sessions, there is a lot for them to choose from in the UAE. But, it has to be said, squeezing in an extra fitness class somehow throughout the week is never a bad choice to help set them up to be a successful, fit and mentally healthy adult. With that in mind, we chat to Vicky Lovering-Parker, the manager of StepUp Academy, a performing enrichment centre in Dubai that has been around since 2011. It offers dance classes – including jazz and hip-hop, cheerleading and tap – across the city to both kids and adults. Here, she tells us more about their plans for the new term...

What was the biggest highlight for the StepUp Academy team last term?

A major highlight for us this year was taking part again in Disneyland Paris’ IFDPA Competition. StepUp is the only UAE-based dance academy to have taken part in the international competition for the last two years in a row and in 2018 we came home with six trophies.

We are already planning our next performances at Disneyland Paris and I’m thrilled to say that in 2019 we’ll be going to Disney in Florida, too!

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SCHOOL'S OUT / DA NCE

“Dance teaches us to work hard to achieve results and progress in the world” What are you looking forward to in the new academic year?

We’re really excited about this academic year as we have lots of expansion plans.

We have acquired an additional studio in Motor City and are doing some renovation work to one of our existing studios. We’re also going to be providing classes at more outside locations in key residential areas across Dubai. Our team of qualified dance teachers is growing to meet our expansion plans and continue to deliver our quality lessons and programmes.

Over the next year, we will be growing our Kinderdance (American franchise) programme. StepUp Academy is the only licensed provider in the UAE to teach this, and it offers six ALL IMAGES programmes specially designed Dance classes at StepUp for children 15 months to 12 Academy take place in studios across Dubai, and years of age, including Kinder students are encouraged Dance with Me, KinderTots, to take part in global competitions KinderGym, KinderDance and Kids Yoga.

Why should a parent think about enrolling their child?

StepUp is a friendly dance and performing arts academy with a real sense of community. As well as training students to the highest standards so that they can sit annual examinations, we also make sure they’re having fun in the process and enjoy

coming to StepUp. We offer a high level of professionalism through fully qualified teachers.

What is the general teaching style?

Our most popular classes currently tend to be ballet, street jazz and gymnastics/Acro.

What opportunities are there at the academy for younger children?

Our Kinder programmes are geared towards young children from 15 months old and we also offer baby and beginners ballet for two-and-a-half to four-year-olds; street jazz and hip-hop for three-plus years; gymnastics (four-plus years) and rhythmic gymnastics (three-plus years); and karate (four-plus years). RAD ballet and kids yoga both start from age five.

What classes are popular among boys?

Sessions popular with boys include hip-hop, street dance, KinderGym, karate and ballet.

Why is learning a performing art so important for children from an early age?

All our classes help increase an individual’s self-confidence and social skills,

“I’m thrilled to say that in 2019 we’ll be going to Disney in Florida, too!” develop an individual’s coordination and flexibility, and improve gross motor skills and rhythm. Over and above, it’s a great way to have fun and make new friends.

Additionally, it teaches the child about working as a team, teaches discipline and the need to work hard in order to achieve results and progress in the world.

How do you encourage shy students to come out of their shell?

All our teachers have a great deal of experience in working with children, helping them to settle and enjoy their classes at StepUp. Some take longer than others, but we offer a caring, nurturing and very positive environment suitable for all children. stepup.ae 2018 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | 79

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KNOWING NEPAL One former Dubai resident tells us why she has embarked on a yearlong campaign to raise awareness of a school for children with autism in Nepal S A N N A KO N T I N E N

Photography R O B G A R R A T T

E

arlier this year new data revealed that one in 59 American children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This would have been a startling statistic to read at any time, but in a curious twist of fate, the fresh figures – which represent a huge leap from the previous tally of one in 82 – were announced on April 26. The day after I launched a fundraising campaign to help build a specialist school for children with autism in Nepal, marking the third anniversary of the tragic “Gorkha earthquake”, a natural catastrophe that killed nearly 9,000 people and decimated homes, infrastructure and entire villages across the povertystricken South Asian country.

“I knew at once that I wanted to help, but I was not immediately sure how I could”

I have rarely felt the gulf in global fortunes so acutely or affectingly. While it is widely believed the autism prevalence rates reported by America’s Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) would be replicated universally, it is practically impossible for any such scientific conclusions to be made. Because across much of the world there is both very little public awareness and a skeletal official recognition of ASD, and just a tiny fraction of the resources required to educate, care for, study – or analyse the frequency of – children with autism. This is a fact I have painfully learnt first-hand.

I have worked with autistic children and teenagers for two ALL IMAGES decades across three continents Forty-five children with – more than half of that time autism spectrum disorder live at the Special was spent in the UAE – but School for Disabled and nothing could have prepared me Rehabilitation Centre in Nepal million, it is just a drop in for the month I spent working the ocean, but for these voluntarily at the Special School few dozen young lives, it is for Disabled and Rehabilitation a lifeline.

Centre (SSDRC), one of just a handful I first learnt about SSDRC of specialist services in Nepal. Operating three years ago, shortly after the tragic out of a couple of shanty structures on the earthquake of April 2015. Watching the outskirts of the capital, Kathmandu – and images of death and destruction from relying primarily on donations, with no my apartment in Dubai Marina struck a continuous state funding – SSDRC offers a particularly poignant chord; I’d returned warm home to some 45 children, several of from Nepal just a few weeks earlier, whom are orphans, abandoned to the street following an eye-opening holiday where I because of their challenging behaviours was consistently surprised by the warmth and limited prospects. In a country of 30

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SCHOOL'S XX OUT X X //XAUTISM XXXXX

IN A CO UNTRY OF 3 0 MILLIO N, IT IS JU ST A DRO P IN THE O CEAN , BU T FOR THESE FEW D OZ EN YOUNG LIVES , IT IS A LIF ELINE

and resilience of the Nepalese people – 40% of whom scrape by on less than US$2 a day. I knew at once that I wanted to help, but I was not immediately sure how.

Slowly I realised the one valuable skill I could offer was my professional expertise as an applied behaviour analysis (ABA) therapist. Even if I touched the lives of just a few children – and, more pressingly, shared my knowledge with the overworked and undertrained staff – I might make a lasting difference. The weeks I spent at SSDRC in the summer of 2017 were among the most rewarding – and challenging – of my life, and when I then learned of plans to relocate the school to its first purpose-built home, I began plotting what became this yearlong awareness-raising campaign.

If you have a moment, please do take a look at rwgarratt.wixsite.com/autismschool-nepal.

And if you have another spare moment, stop and consider the statistic that opened this piece. Whatever you do and wherever you call home, when it comes to autism, there is almost certainly both a deep need and a chronic lack of awareness – and it will not get any better by not talking about it.

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Orkun Gedik We meet the co-founder and COO of skilldeer.com, a platform that allows us to find all sorts of classes and courses in the UAE

What made you set up skilldeer.com in the first place?

We know from our own experience how much of a hassle it can be to find a suitable class or instructor. This problem was apparent when we lived abroad and struggled to find an Arabic language course and tennis coach. We are certain most people can relate, so we wanted to ease the process for everyone to discover, compare and enroll in any sort of class or activity in their community and make it seamless.

What kind of skills are people most looking to develop these days?

During the summer months we saw a trend for adults towards indoor, hobby and do-it-yourself (DIY) activities, such as painting, dressmaking, cooking or swimming. For kids, arts, technology and sports classes and camps were most popular. From September onwards, when the weather starts to change, we see an increased demand for outdoor activities such as watersports and photography, as well as more educational programmes like language and career courses.

From a career perspective, what kind of classes would you recommend?

Generally, there are two types of customers: the first type is looking for a more radical change in their career path, while the second one wants to advance their knowledge and skills within their field of expertise. Whether they are students, young professionals or industry experts.

For those intending to start a new career, we recommend taking full certification programmes. When it comes to advancing an existing career, customers should consider courses that either help them get more practical training (e.g. communication skills for fresh graduates) or develop new skills in their existing field (e.g. digital marketing for marketing professionals).

What do you wish there was more of here in the UAE? That’s a very good question. The UAE is already quite rich in terms of variety

their new schedules on short notice rather than planning in advance and giving customers enough time to enroll on their course. Second, sometimes the course descriptions and outlines don’t reflect the actual quality.

One of the reasons for these gaps is that until skilldeer came along, most of these service providers were not selling their classes and experiences online but rather corresponding with customers the traditional way via phone calls, emails and visits. However, our team is working closely with all our partners and together we are closing these gaps.

A B OV E Orkun Gedik with co-founder Philipp Tachas

of classes and learning activities and there are many hidden gems.

However, if we have to pick one thing we would wish for, it would be the availability of more unique classes as we see in the USA or Europe. For example: soap making, graffiti, cheese tasting or glassblowing. Rest assured when they do get here you will see them first on skilldeer.com.

What gaps are there in this market that you have noticed so far?

We see two market gaps at the moment: First, institutes and educators are creating

“There is an increased demand for language and career courses from September”

In your opinion, how can signing up for an extracurricular course, like the ones on skilldeer, benefit students?

Extracurricular activities are indeed becoming increasingly important since they shape a person’s character and help them develop soft skills such as discipline, leadership, team play, persistence and communication – just to name a few. Many people believe that students should only be engaged in extracurricular activities within their field of study but we believe in the opposite. Students should broaden their horizons and attend courses and activities beyond their academic scope. Be it excelling in a particular sport, attending acting classes to improve public speaking or learning a new language – any of these activities will benefit a student in their future career and personal life.

What future plans do you have for skilldeer.com?

We want to continue the strong growth we have achieved over the last year by reaching out to more customers and giving them the confidence to use our platform, so they can experience the convenience coupled with our unique portfolio and best price guarantee.

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