Where Learning and Life Come Together
THE RESILIENCE ISSUE 2026
HOW UAE SCHOOL LEADERS ARE GUIDING THEIR COMMUNITIES THROUGH UNCERTAINTY
ISOBEL ABULHOUL, EMIRATES LITERATURE FOUNDATION, WINS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
AN INSIDE LOOK AT ASH MOUNT SCHOOL’S FAMILY FIRST APPROACH TO EDUCATION
HOPE, RESILIENCE AND POSITIVITY ARE PART OF THE UAE’S DNA, GUIDING THE NATION THROUGH EVERY CHALLENGE.
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Editors Foreword 5
EDITOR'S FOREWORD
TEAM
T here comes a time when we cannot control what happens to us. This has been one of them. Examinations postponed. Spring break reshaped beyond recognition. Families navigating uncertainty from their living rooms, schools holding everything together when the ground beneath all of us felt, for the first time in a long time, a little less certain. And yet, here we are. For many of us, Dubai is not simply a place we have lived, it is the place where we have truly become ourselves. Where we built careers, raised children and found community in the most unlikely of places. Some of us arrived with nothing more than a suitcase and hope. What we found was a city that welcomed us and, in time, made us feel we genuinely belonged. That is not something many cities in the world can honestly claim. The UAE was built on a vision most people could not quite see at the time. A desert transformed by determination, foresight and an unshakeable belief that what does not yet exist can still be made real. Resilience is not something we learned here, it is something this country has always modelled for us. And right now, looking across our education community, it is everywhere. School leaders checking in on staff late at night. Teachers recording messages of reassurance. Parents finding the right words, even when the right words feel impossible. This is a community that does not fall apart under pressure. It draws together. The UAE’s leadership has, once again, demonstrated
Laura Wojciechowski CEO
Rachael Wilding
Education Lead Gemmalyn Cruz Ocampo Client Success Executive Essam Morsy Arabic Content & Regional Growth Lead TJ
Wazeer Consultant
Calum Muff International Sales Supervisor Jane Elizabeth Wellness Officer
Alexandria Ramage Brand and Client Specialist Victoria Koukabi Communications Executive
why so many of us trust this country with our families and our futures. Clear communication, decisive action and an unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of its people - these are not coincidences. They are the result of a leadership culture that has always placed its community at the centre of every decision and we thank them for everything they are doing to ensure our safety.
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Warm Regards, Editor, Education UAE Magazine
Uniting Africa Through Education
SUMMER ISSUE 2025
SUMMER ISSUE 2025
NEW YEAR 2026
THE STORY THAT CAME FULL CIRCLE BY NICK MAGNUS, CEO BRAEBURN SCHOOL
GEMS EDUCATION AND INFINITY ESTABLISH NEW SCHOOL IN ZANZIBAR
FOUNDATIONAL LEARNING AT THE HEART OF EAST AFRICA'S SCHOOL GROWTH
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT ASIA’S MOST INFLUENTIAL SCHOOLS
INNOVATION IN ACTION AI, EDTECH AND THE FUTURE CLASSROOM
LEADERSHIP MATTERS PRINCIPALS SHAPING EDUCATION IN ASIA
ESTARS LAUNCHES ONLINE CPD COURSE IN ESPORTS FOR EDUCATORS
NEW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS COMING TO SAUDI IN 2026–2027
BACK TO SCHOOL, THE SMART WAY FLEXIBLE ONLINE LEARNING WITH MINERVA
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Copyright © 2026 Quantum Media FZ LLE. All content in the Education UAE website, digital and print magazine, is the intellectual property of Quantum Media FZ LLE and may not be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form without prior written permission.
6 Contents
8 When Everything Feels Uncertain How to Support your Child through Disruption, Distance learning & Change
40 THE POWER OF FAMILY SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS IN EARLY LEARNING
THE BRIGHTON COLLEGE DUBAI APPROACH TO EDUCATION 104
HERIOT-WATT IS PREPARING STUDENTS FOR AN AI-FIRST FUTURE 166
Contents 7
OTHER FEATURES IN THIS ISSUE INCLUDE...
46 Edsidera and The UAE’s Year of The Family
34 New British and IB Schools Opening in Dubai in 2026
76 Data-Driven Wellbeing at Dunecrest American School
82 At Bloom World Family Partnership Shapes Everyday Learning
90 Junior Lego® Builder, School Challenge Edition
96 Where Every Student Has Someone in their Corner
138 The English College Dubai Opens Purpose Built Steam Centre
126 Driving the Future of Stem in the UAE with Greenpower Middle East
116 Parent Partner Initiatives at North Point Schools
148 The 5 Non-Negotiables of Effective Inclusive Practice With IQM
208 Mentorship Vs Tutoring with Tutor Hive
215 From our Family to Yours with Zaks Uniforms
8 Standing Together
When Everything Feels Uncertain How to support your child through disruption, distance learning & change
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10 Standing Together
W hen routines shift, and questions grow, calm, connection and consistency matter most. Schools across the UAE have extended distance learning well beyond spring break. CBSE board exams have been rescheduled. Routines have dissolved overnight. For children and the parents holding it all together, this is a lot.
Here’s how to help them not just cope but become more resilient as they go through this challenging period in their lives. Simple things matter: familiar routines, favourite meals, tidy spaces, and family connection points. The home environment should feel like a safe, predictable space where children can reset emotionally.
RECOGNISING THE SIGNS IN YOUR CHILD “Right now, it’s not about having all the answers, it’s about being there for my child and helping them feel safe.” PARENT, ABU DHABI
Withdrawal Going quiet, avoiding family time, or losing interest in favourite activities
Irritability Short fuse, arguments over small things, often a sign of suppressed anxiety
Sleep changes Trouble falling asleep, waking at night, or sleeping much more than usual
School anxiety
Resistance to online lessons, panic around exams, or difficulty concentrating
A small bedtime story made to help explain the recent alerts, sounds, and night sky to little ones; gently, simply, and without fear Sometimes reassurance matters more than detail.
If it helps, feel free to share. @busy_mind_club
FULL PDF DOWNLOAD AVAILABLE HERE
Standing Together 11
What you can do Ten tips for anxious times 01 CREATE A SENSE OF ROUTINE Uncertainty thrives in formless days. Create a gentle, predictable structure, with wake-up times, learning blocks, meals, and downtime at consistent hours. Visual schedules on a whiteboard or the fridge work especially well for younger children who need to see the shape of
06 REDUCE EXAM PRESSURE For CBSE students, especially, postponed exams create prolonged dread. Remind them: extra time is extra preparation. Shift the focus from the deadline to daily progress - one chapter, one practice paper, one small win at a time. Help them create a simple, realistic revision plan so the situation feels manageable rather than overwhelming. 07 TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF You cannot pour from an empty vessel. Your regulated nervous system is the greatest gift you can give your child. Build in 20 minutes daily that belongs entirely to you. This isn’t selfish; it’s a great parenting strategy. Children take emotional cues from adults, so even small moments of calm, pause, or reset in your day can have a powerful ripple effect across the whole family. 08 PROTECT THEM FROM OVEREXPOSURE TO THE NEWS Children do not need constant updates. Be mindful of the news playing in the background or conversations they may overhear. Give them the information they need but protect them from overload. Reassurance comes from stability, not repetition of uncertainty. 09 FOCUS ON CONNECTION OVER PERFECTION This is not the time for perfect routines or perfect learning outcomes. Sitting together, talking, laughing, and being present matters more than getting everything “right.” Connection is what builds resilience. 10 STAY CONNECTED TO SCHOOL COMMUNITIES Encourage children to stay in touch with classmates and teachers where possible. Even short virtual interactions can help maintain a sense of normality and belonging during periods of disruption. For more parent guides, school insights and expert voices, visit www.education-uae.com
the day. Where possible, create small rituals children can rely on, such as a shared breakfast, a daily walk, or a consistent wind-down routine in the evening. 02 TALK OPENLY, WITH STEADY VOICES Children fill silence with fear. Acknowledge what has changed. School for now is at home, exams have moved, using calm, age-appropriate language. “Things are different right now, and it’s okay to feel strange about that” goes further than false reassurances. Ask children questions about how they are feeling. When children feel listened to and supported, even difficult conversations can strengthen trust and understanding within the family. It is also okay to say “I don’t know”; honesty builds far more security than trying to have perfect answers. 03 LET THEM TAKE OWNERSHIP Action gives you control, and control creates calm. Let children take ownership of something small, helping you re-decorate or re-organise their room, choosing a family activity, ordering the weekly online shop, or cooking one meal a week. Competence builds confidence when the wider world feels out of control. 04 CREATE HEALTHY SCREEN BOUNDARIES Distance learning means screens are tools, not treats. Create visual or physical boundaries between school screen time and recreational screen time - different chairs, have a shutdown ritual, or a 30-minute break between sessions where children completely switch off. Keep mobile phones away during online school time. Encourage them to step outside, stretch, or do something creative to help the brain switch modes. 05 PRIORITISE DAILY MOVEMENT Early morning outdoor time, building-lobby circuits, yoga videos, or even a dancing competition in the living room. Physical movement is non-negotiable for regulating mood and sleep in children of all ages. Even short bursts of movement throughout the day can significantly reduce stress levels and improve focus during learning sessions.
12 Standing Together
STANDING TOGETHER HOW THE UAE’S LEADERS AND EDUCATORS ARE SHOWING THE WORLD WHAT RESILIENCE LOOKS LIKE
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14 Standing Together
“It is difficult not to feel empathy for educational leaders, but equally a sense of pride in witnessing leaders and school communities come together to demonstrate resilience and innovation, ensuring continuity of education in all circumstances.”
– Rachael Wilding Education Lead, Quantum Media
Standing Together 15
Rachael Wilding Education Lead, Quantum Media
It is a privilege to call the United Arab Emirates my home. After nearly three decades living and working here, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand what the word United truly means. It is more than a name; it reflects a spirit that runs through the country’s communities, institutions, and daily life. Within the education sector, that sense of unity goes even deeper. The UAE’s education community is defined by resilience, grit, and a quiet determination to continue providing world-class learning opportunities for children, whatever the circumstances. School leaders, teachers, support staff, and education providers share a collective responsibility that always places students and families at the heart of every decision. The years of COVID and the safe return to schools demonstrated this strength in remarkable ways. Across the UAE and around the world, educators adapted at speed, supported one another, and worked collaboratively with education resource providers and organisations to ensure that learning continued. It was a period that revealed the profession’s true character, one grounded in care, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to young people and the staff in their settings. The current regional situation represents another chapter in the evolving story of the UAE. Time and again, the country has shown its ability to respond with calm, purpose, and unity. Once again, the education community is rising to the moment, maintaining standards, protecting stability for students and families, and showing empathy and understanding for the many different circumstances faced across our diverse school communities. When things do not go to plan, schools often become safe havens for conversation, places where people can ask questions, share concerns, or simply take a moment to breathe. In times like these, educational leadership shifts slightly in focus. While the day-to-day responsibility of maintaining learning continues, leaders also step into a wider role of compassionate support for parents, teachers, and students. There is rarely a perfect answer to every challenge, but careful planning, thoughtful communication, and preparing for multiple possibilities become essential. Never has having a supportive team been more important, with the true character of a workplace becoming ever more visible in moments like these. In this extended feature, we hear from leaders across many areas of the education world, individuals who continue to guide their communities with professionalism, compassion, and a shared belief in the transformative power of education and the resilience within us all. At Education UAE, we are keen to shine a spotlight on the leadership within the education community as they navigate this chapter. This week, we have seen that education remains online for the time being, and while disruption can bring a range of challenges and differing opinions, one thing continues to stand out clearly: the resilience of our education community.
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”The UAE continues to show the strength of its community in moments like this. We are fortunate to live in a country where leaders act with courage and care, always placing the well-being of the community at the centre of their decisions. Our role in return is to pull together, support one another, and trust the leadership that supports us. And that is exactly what we continue to see across the UAE, communities responding with resilience, cooperation, and kindness. It is this sense of unity and shared responsibility that reminds many of us why we are proud to call the UAE home.”
– Abigail Fishbourne Principal, Ash Mount School, Dubai
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Abigail Fishbourne Principal, Ash Mount School, Dubai
Small gestures also matter. We recently arranged for cakes to be delivered to staff as a simple way of saying thank you and reminding everyone that they are appreciated. We have also accelerated the launch of our new digital wellbeing platform. Originally planned for later in Term 3, we decided to introduce it at the start of the term so families could access wellbeing resources, guidance and support sooner. For us, wellbeing is not a single initiative but an ongoing commitment. It is about staying connected, supporting one another and making sure every member of the community feels valued and cared for. One of the most important things for parents to remember is that children of different ages understand and process information in different ways. Younger children may only need simple reassurance and basic explanations, while older children may be hearing information from friends, the internet or social media and may need a little more context. Before starting a difficult conversation, it can help parents to take a moment to calm themselves first. Children are very sensitive to adult emotions, and when parents approach conversations in a calm and steady way, it helps children feel safe and supported. It is also important for parents to try to guide the conversation rather than letting children’s understanding be shaped by outside information. This is particularly relevant for older children who may already be seeing things online or on social media. Creating space for open conversation at home helps ensure children are getting balanced and reassuring information. A helpful approach is to lead with questions rather than long explanations. Ask children what they have heard, what they think and how they feel. Give them time to talk, listen carefully and reassure them. One simple but powerful technique is to repeat back part of what your child has said and then pause. Often, that pause encourages them to continue speaking and share more of their thoughts. At Ash Mount, we believe wellbeing sits at the heart of a strong school community. During this time, we have focused on keeping our connections with staff and families strong, even when we are not always together in person. Regular digital communication has been an important part of this. We have increased our online meetings with staff and families so that people feel informed, supported and able to ask questions. Maintaining those open lines of communication helps everyone feel part of the same community, even at a distance.
Above all, the goal is to keep communication open. When children feel listened to and supported, even difficult conversations can strengthen trust and understanding within the family.
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“We are safe, secure, and resilient. The UAE is strong, and it has proven time and again during global disasters and the pandemic. Let’s stand united and pray for peace to prevail in the region.”
– Arogya Reddy Peddire Principal, Ambassador School, Sharjah
“My positive message to the UAE is that the UAE has never been so prosperous since Covid-19, and that’s in no small part due to its extraordinary resilience and strong leadership.” – Ben Rothwell Principal, Victory Heights Primary School, City of Arabia, Dubai
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Arogya Reddy Peddire Principal, Ambassador School, Sharjah
When having conversations about what is happening with children, Parents should explain the causes, reasons, implications, and impacts of the issue after paying attentive listening to their children rather than just dismissing the concern. We have been supporting our community through regular online services, including counselling sessions for the CBSE Board Examinations students. Assisting parents who need help. Staff wellbeing sessions through communication tree channels across different phases. It has been important to prioritise communication. Sharing news and updates from official websites, news agencies, embassies, and regulatory bodies.
Ben Rothwell Principal, Victory Heights Primary School, City of Arabia, Dubai
Recognising too that staff were carrying their own fears, we supported them, giving them a safe space to talk, as well as assigning members of the leadership team to check in regularly with our colleagues. We are also quite clear to protect staff’s holiday, recognising the ability to work remotely should the situation develop, as it has now done. We developed an in-house app (which we then shared with the wider community) called Whereabouts, which let us track both staff and students’ locations, allowing us to tailor our support accordingly. In week 1, we had daily Zoom connections with all students, and as the principal, I sent regular updates to the community. We also held two live online assemblies that reinforced our school values in a fun way and gave some breathing space away from the challenges we all faced. From day one, it has been our number one priority across all parts of the organisation. Giving children dedicated connectivity so they can remain in touch with their teachers and peers and providing a calm and safe space to discuss fears about the ongoing situation. We held a CPD across all staff to enhance their ability to support this.
The challenges we faced as a community during COVID-19 showed us that if we come together, we can come back stronger.
When talking to children, I think it’s important to recognise the situation and its seriousness, whilst also ensuring that you reinforce that adults are doing everything in their power to protect them and reminding them of how successful the UAE has been at that.
20 Standing Together
“There is a strong sense of community here, and that collective spirit of looking out for one another is something that helps families feel supported even during challenging moments. What continues to stand out in the UAE is the strong sense of community and the reassurance that families and residents are kept informed, supported and safe.” – Candice Combrinck Principal, Dubai International Academy, Town Square, Dubai
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Candice Combrinck Principal, Dubai International Academy, Town Square, Dubai
As our community continues to grow, we want families to know that they can reach out to us at any time and that open communication will always be an important part of the culture we are building. Children are very perceptive. Even when we try to shield them, they often sense from our tone, body language or conversations around them that something is happening. Because of this, it is usually better to acknowledge their questions rather than avoid them. The key is to keep explanations age-appropriate. Younger children often only need simple reassurance that the adults around them are aware of what is happening and are there to keep them safe. Older children may ask more questions and may benefit from a slightly deeper conversation that helps them understand the situation without creating unnecessary worry. As a new school community that is still taking shape, one of our priorities has been to reach out to families who have already connected with us to ensure that everyone is safe and well. Even though the school has not yet opened, we believe that building relationships early is an important part of creating a supportive community. We are keeping in touch through direct communication with families and updates through our admissions channels.
It is also important for parents to listen carefully. Sometimes children are not looking for detailed answers. They simply want reassurance that things are being managed.
Maintaining normal routines and a calm approach helps children feel secure, even during uncertain moments. The UAE has long been a place where people from many different countries live, work and raise their families together. One of the reassuring aspects of living here is the strong systems in place to keep residents informed and safe. For many of us who are far from our home countries, the UAE has truly become a home away from home. During these uncertain times, the country’s leadership and authorities are very proactive in providing clear guidance and updates. Families feel confident that information is shared quickly and responsibly and that the well-being of residents remains a priority.
22 Standing Together
“My positive message to the UAE is one of confidence and pride. This is a nation that looks after its community, and in moments like these, we are reminded how strong we are when we stand together, united and proud to call the UAE home.” – Ian Pugh Principal, Al Ain British Academy, Al Ain
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Ian Pugh Principal, Al Ain British Academy, Al Ain
At Al Ain British Academy, the well-being of our community remains a top priority. We have shared online wellbeing resources and counselling options to ensure families and students know where support is available when needed. We are also communicating regularly through written updates and social media to keep our community informed and connected. To maintain our strong sense of belonging, our teachers have created videos for students and families, sharing positive messages so everyone continues to feel close to the AABA community.
For exam students, we are still running online revision sessions during the holidays to support our oldest students in their preparations.
At the same time, our team is working behind the scenes to prepare for a successful return to school, ensuring we are ready to welcome students back with energy, enthusiasm and a strong focus on learning once we know more about what returning will look like. For communication, we are using email, our school’s Instagram account, and some video messages from our school community to students. When discussing sensitive topics, parents should remain calm and reassuring, as children take emotional cues from adults. Reassure your child that the UAE is extremely effective at looking after its citizens, part of the reason we love our home here. Try to maintain normal family routines and encourage children to stay connected with friends and family, even if this is online, to help them feel supported and secure. Having lived in the UAE for 10 years, I have seen time and again how this country responds to challenges with unity, calm and strength. The UAE consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership and a clear commitment to the wellbeing of its people.
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“As our Founding Father, HH Sheikh Zayed, so profoundly stated: The UAE is a country built on kindness and tolerance. A place where people live together in union, with mutual respect. By continuing to support one another, we help ensure the UAE remains a place of hope and inspiration for generations to come. Our beautiful country.” Ishy Bilady…(Long live my country). – Joanna Povall Principal, Wales International School, Abu Dhabi
“We are certainly not complacent and recognise that we are in incredibly challenging and worrying times. However, we also know that the government and the authorities here are taking the best form of action to safeguard all citizens in this country, and ultimately, we need to try to stay strong together and support each other. Keep connected with people, whether that be friends, work colleagues, or family overseas - no one has to do all of this alone, and there are no perfect answers, but we do know that together, we are all
the stronger.” – Fiona Cottam Principal, Hartland International School, Dubai
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Joanna Povall Principal, Wales International School, Abu Dhabi
When it comes to having sensitive conversations with children, please follow the advice provided by the government in a leaflet for parents, available in both Arabic and English. The advice given is excellent. I am so proud of our entire school community for the support they have provided for one another during this unforeseen time. There has been a mix of structured systems and personalised support. We are keeping in touch with our community. We have been using email, WhatsApp, Class Dojo, and telephone calls.
Fiona Cottam Principal, Hartland International School, Dubai
We’re obviously also working very closely with BSME, COBIS and other organisations so that we can better advise examination students who are probably the most anxious group of young people as exam season draws close. In terms of ongoing communication, letters from the principal, from postal teams, class, teachers, and other members of the leadership team, regular emails and phone calls. The KHDA published some very good guidance about how to have difficult conversations with young people regarding some of the experiences that they might be facing at this time, and there are also some other support agencies that work with schools, which have also published some clear guidance. Support is very much happening, I suppose, from a distance as you might expect, but we’re keeping in constant email and phone calls as appropriate. In relation to our staff, we are in constant contact, giving regular updates and regular reassurances to make sure that everybody is OK.
No one has to do all of this alone, and there are no perfect answers, but we do know that together, we are all the stronger.
Parents will know best how to advise their own children, and I don’t think it’s a one-size- fits-all. Each family will have to approach questions and challenges in their own unique way, but schools and our school counsellors are also here to support should families need.
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“The UAE is a great example of a strong, united community that shares responsibilities. We are reminded of how strong we are when we help each other through tough situations. Families, teachers, and community leaders have a big part to play in giving our kids hope and stability. We can keep building communities where every child grows up in a safe, hopeful, and full-of- opportunities society.” – Nataliia Svetenok Principal, Woodlem British School, Ajman
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Natalia Svetenok Principal, Woodlem British School, Ajman
Our instructors include social-emotional development in their courses every day, and our counselling team is there to help children and parents. We also plan community events, workshops, and well-being check-ins that help people feel more connected and safer. When things are unclear, schools are highly important for making things stable, trustworthy, and helpful, so that everyone in the community feels noticed, supported, and appreciated. We keep families up to date through newsletters, online platforms, and direct connection with teachers and school officials. We also promote open communication by holding parent meetings, webinars, and community events where families may ask questions and give comments. We desire to inform families not only about everything going on at the school but also to ensure they are connected to the school’s mission and know their children are receiving the academic and emotional support they require. When talking to kids about something sensitive, it is essential to connect with them. This means that before kids are ready to listen to their parents or respond to their queries about what they are being talked about, they must first feel safe and comfortable. Our school still places a lot of emphasis on community health. We work to help kids, families, and staff by staying in touch, providing pastoral care, and running wellness programs that build emotional strength.
Kids will always learn to trust and feel comfortable around their parents when they know they are being listened to and cared for.
I would tell parents to talk to their children in a calm, honest, and age-appropriate way. It is always better to listen to a child’s queries about something rather than give them a quick response.
28 Standing Together
“My message to the UAE is… You’ve got this, we’ve got you. Thank you for all that you are doing. This too soon will pass. We love the UAE.” – Nicola Lavis Head of School, SZPAB, Abu Dhabi
”The UAE is our home, and it is a country that has always shown strength, unity, and resilience. Our leaders and defence services have been outstanding in how they support and protect the nation. If we continue to stay positive, support one another, and stand together as a community, the UAE will come through this and bounce back even stronger.” – Patrick Affley Director, Ajman Academy School, Ajman
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Nicola Lavis Head of School, SZPAB, Abu Dhabi
When talking with children about the current situation, explain it in developmentally appropriate terms, use analogies they can understand, and reassure them that they are in the best country and that they will protect and keep them safe. When it comes to supporting our staff and the community, not having huge expectations of work submitted, maintaining connection, and ensuring the mental health and well-being of everyone are a priority.
Patrick Affley Director, Ajman Academy School, Ajman
Ajman Academy has supported the well-being of our community by maintaining clear communication and a sense of normality for families and students. School leaders have also taken time to check in with teachers to ensure staff feel supported during this period. We have encouraged our community to use the holiday period to relax and rest, especially as it is still Ramadan, a time for reflection, peace, and togetherness. We are aiming to keep things as normal as possible for our community by continuing to share our Term 2 highlights and looking ahead to Term 3. In the coming days, we will provide more detailed communication as we approach the resumption of learning in Term 3, once we have further guidance and information from APEA.
Children are often more resilient than we think and can handle difficult conversations when they are approached with honesty and reassurance.
Parents should keep explanations simple and age-appropriate, listen to their children’s questions, and maintain normal routines where possible to provide a sense of stability. While it is natural for adults to feel worried, remaining calm and composed during these conversations helps children feel safe and supported, as they often take their emotional cues from the adults around them.
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“The UAE has always shown steady, thoughtful leadership that places safety and stability first. For those of us living here with our families, that brings a great deal of reassurance. Our experience has taught us that perspective matters. When we stay informed, avoid speculation, and trust the systems around us, we help keep our communities calm and safe. This country has always moved forward with unity and resilience, and that is something worth remembering.” – Shujahat Munir VP and Deputy CEO, GEMS Westminster School, Sharjah
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Shujahat Munir VP and Deputy CEO, GEMS Westminster School, Sharjah
We are supporting our community with continuous check-ins with stakeholders, well-being support from corporate teams, and counsellor support sessions for students, parents, and teachers. We are using a variety of tools for communication, both formally and informally, using Email, social media, and Teams meetings. When children hear worrying news, they often look to their parents for cues on how to feel. The most helpful approach is to stay calm, listen to their questions, and answer honestly in simple, reassuring terms. Children don’t need every detail; they need to know that the adults around them are informed, thoughtful, and focused on keeping them safe. Children don’t need every detail; they need to know that the adults around them are informed, thoughtful, and focused on keeping them safe.
Children are often more resilient than we think and can handle difficult conversations when they are approached with honesty and reassurance.
Remind them that the UAE is a place where safety and stability are taken seriously, and that many people work every day to protect the community. Above all, let them feel heard, supported, and reassured. Sometimes it helps to pause and remember where we are.
Simon O’Connor Head Master, Harrow International School, Dubai
Harrow has yet to open, but we are regularly communicating with our community, providing updates and reassurance. “The UAE education system is both resilient and experienced in adapting to unusual contexts. School leaders are also experts at working together with both the authorities and each other to find common solutions. Parents should have confidence that education standards will be maintained despite the challenges currently being faced.” – Simon O’Connor Head Master, Harrow International School, Dubai
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“My positive message to the UAE is, at moments like these, our strength comes from community. This is a time we show our values that define us. Belong, Challenge, Achieve. We belong to a strong community, we face challenges with courage, and together we will continue to achieve for our children.” – Zara Harrington, Principal, BC Academy International School, Dubai
Zara Harrington Principal, BC Academy International School, Dubai Community wellbeing is key; we have been connecting as much as we can. Fun daily quizzes for the community to engage with, along with all our regular tools for communication. We try to limit communication to avoid overwhelming parents and staff. Messages simple and factual. We advise parents to use a factual but positive tone when having difficult or sensitive conversations with their children.
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Supporting School Leaders in Times of Uncertainty
Creating Space for Thoughtful Conversation In normal times, one of the most effective things a leader can offer is space for thoughtful conversation. When emotions are heightened, people present a demand for immediate answers, but in addition to this what they need is to feel heard. Leaders who balance decisiveness with listening carefully, asking good questions and allow people to express concerns help create the psychological steadiness that communities need. Crucially, by doing this, they also insure against how stress can lead to the centralisation of authority (Staw et al., 1981). Sometimes the most powerful leadership act is simply being present and attentive enough to allow others to think clearly. The Importance of Reflection Under Pressure At the same time, leaders themselves need places where they can pause and regain perspective. In the work we do with schools across the region, we often see how constant pressure can narrow attention and make complex decision-making harder. Research tells us this is a natural human response to stress, which is why moments of reflection are so important. Supporting Leaders in Practice In response to the conversations we have been having with school leaders, we are publishing a short handbook exploring how people perform under pressure in volatile and uncertain environments. It looks at how stress affects thinking and decision-making and offers practical ways to maintain clarity when situations feel complex. Alongside this, we are offering short decompression sessions for school leaders across the UAE - confidential spaces where leaders can pause, think out loud and process the pressures they are carrying. Sustaining a Culture of Care One of the strengths of the UAE education community is the way people support one another during difficult moments. Ensuring that leaders themselves feel supported is an important part of sustaining that care. We are committed to supporting them.
The Weight of Leadership in Uncertain Times At moments like this, school leaders often find themselves holding far more than their job descriptions suggest. In our recent conversations with leaders across the UAE, it has been striking how much responsibility they are carrying: supporting colleagues who may be worried about family members elsewhere in the world, responding thoughtfully to students’ questions, communicating with parents, and continuing to make careful decisions while information evolves. Leadership in these circumstances involves a great deal of emotional labour. Leaders are expected to offer calm and reassurance while navigating the same uncertainty as the people they serve. Having worked alongside schools in the UAE for a number of years, we have seen how deeply leaders here care about the people in their communities. Schools in this region are uniquely diverse, bringing together families with connections across the globe. That diversity is a strength, but it also means moments of global tension are often felt very personally within the school environment. In such circumstances, leadership presence matters enormously. Staff and families take their cues not only from what leaders say but from how they show up. A Diverse Community, A Shared Experience
Julie Keyes The Educational Coach
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36 GESS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT WINNER
ISOBEL ABULHOUL, FOUNDER OF EMIRATES LITERATURE FOUNDATION, HONOURED WITH GESS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
2025 WINNER
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38 GESS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT WINNER
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I sobel Abulhoul OBE I have spent a lifetime being true to one simple belief, that when a child becomes a reader, someone who reads regularly for pleasure, they gain a head start that lasts a lifetime. Reading builds critical thinking, creativity, curiosity, empathy, and confidence. It opens doors, long before a child may even realise, they exist. The GESS Lifetime Achievement Award for Education is something I will treasure, because it recognises not a single moment, but a lifetime spent following that dream. I never set out to win awards. I set out to make sure children had access to books, stories, and reading experiences that respected who they are, the languages they speak, and the futures they could imagine. When I say I, I mean the wonderful people who have been at my side, and who shared the same passion for education and for making a difference. Nothing is ever achieved without the help and support of incredible kindred spirits. I accepted this wonderful award on their behalf. Nurturing an Ecosystem of Reading When I look back over the years, this belief has taken many forms: bookshops that welcome families, schools that nurture curiosity, festivals that bring stories to life, libraries that empower communities, and publishing initiatives that give children books that are both a mirror and also a window on the world. Together, they form an ecosystem built on trust, patience, and people. The greatest reward is seeing a child fall in love with reading There have been challenges.‘Nothing worth having was ever achieved without effort.’ Funding, changing educational trends, fear of doing something differently but I have learned that staying true to one’s values matters, whilst always being open to listen to differing opinions. Education is not about speed. It is about depth. It is about each child and how they can learn best.
Education is not about speed. It is about depth. The memories that stay with me longest are mainly personal. My own children’s joy of favourite books, and now my grandchildren’s journey falling in love with books and reading. Observing children enjoying books in school libraries, that they have chosen for themselves, finding a teacher rediscovering joy in reading aloud, listening to a librarian who have realised the difference they can make. All these beautiful moments help me realise why this work matters. A Journey That Continues This award does not mark an end. It strengthens my resolve to continue, to support in whatever way I can. With each passing year, I may have less energy, but I am uplifted by the chance to help. One child, one book, one dream, at a time.
One child, one book, one dream, at a time. As I said, this journey has never been mine alone. I am deeply grateful to my family, colleagues, partners, and communities who have walked alongside me. Most of all, I am grateful to the children, who remain our greatest teachers.
EMIRATES LITERATURE FOUNDATION
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GROWING TOGETHER WITH DIBBER THE POWER OF FAMILY SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS IN EARLY LEARNING Historically, education was viewed as a shared space between the educator and the child with families remaining largely on the periphery of the learning journey. Today, however, the narrative has evolved. Parents are increasingly aware of the importance of being actively involved; educators are encouraging deeper collaboration, and children feel secure when their home and school environments are aligned.
42 Excellence in Pre School
A t Dibber (a global leader in early childhood education, with 600+ nurseries and schools across 9 countries), early learning does not begin and end at the nursery door. It extends to every moment of a child’s life with the family playing the most influential role. Experience and research consistently show that children thrive, both at home and in school, when parents, educators, and the wider school community work together, grounded in mutual trust, shared values, and open communication.
Early learning at Dibber extends to every moment of a child’s life with the family playing the most influential role.
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Alignment Between Home & School Young children flourish when they experience consistency across their most important environments, home and their second home - their nursery. At Dibber, emotional safety is created by ensuring that children feel seen, heard, and supported wherever they are. The school staff and educators routinely engage with families ensuring that everyday moments and learnings are discussed, guidance on behavior and development is offered, and routines align with a child’s pace and needs. This continuity builds confidence in children, who know what to expect, and reassurance in parents, who trust that their child is cared for with the same warmth and respect they receive at home. By prioritising connection and relationships, Dibber intentionally creates a nurturing environment where children feel safe to explore, grow, and express themselves. At Dibber, children feel safe to explore, grow, and express themselves. Parents As Active Partners In The Learning Journey Meaningful collaboration and a true partnership go far beyond drop-offs, pick- ups, and the occasional parent-teacher meetings. At Dibber (where they have been perfecting play-based, child-led learning for over 20 years, long before it became mainstream), families are encouraged to be active participants in their child’s learning journey, not passive observers.
Ample opportunities are created for families to participate in nursery activities, so they may connect with educators as well as other like-minded families. For instance, Dibber nurseries in the UAE regularly invite families to parent workshops, which offer practical insight into child development and positive parenting techniques and strategies. Family yoga sessions are organised to encourage parent-child bonding and overall well-being. Family fun days are a true celebration of the Dibber community, bringing parents, children, and educators together in a joyful setting. These experiences lay the foundation for trust, a keen sense of belonging, and connection in the community. Ample opportunities are created for families to participate in nursery activities Practical Support For Families Parenting young children is always filled with joy, but it can also bring moments of uncertainty; whether during settling-in periods, transitions between age groups, sleep routines, or developmental milestones. Dibber’s role is to walk alongside families as trusted partners, offering honesty, empathy, and practical guidance.
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Digital Safety & Modern Parenting In today’s digital world, one of the most pressing challenges for parents is managing technology and screen time. While technology and AI are now part of everyday life, many families are seeking guidance on how to introduce them thoughtfully and responsibly to their young ones. At Dibber, rooted in the world-renowned Scandinavian curriculum from one of the happiest nations in the world, human interaction, play, and real-world experiences and connections remain central to early childhood. Therefore, parents are supported in developing healthy boundaries around digital use. Young children are encouraged to explore their creativity and curiosity through hands-on, meaningful experiences.
Through regular conversations and shared strategies, Engaged EducatorsTM at Dibber ensure children and their families and caregivers receive consistent support across home and school environments. When emotional, social, or developmental challenges arise, educators get in touch with families to find the best solution. This partnership reassures parents that they are not alone, and that their child’s well-being is a shared responsibility. Inclusion & A Strong Sense Of Belonging Every child deserves to feel valued, respected, and included. Their initiative for young children of determination, called ‘Dibber 4’ALL’, reflects the nursery’s deep commitment to inclusive early education and genuine belonging for every child and family. Through this program, children of determination receive tailored therapeutic support that is seamlessly integrated into everyday nursery life. Individualised learning strategies are developed collaboratively with parents, therapists, and educators, ensuring each child’s unique needs are respected and met. Dibber’s ‘Dibber 4’ALL’ initiative for young children of determination, reflects the nursery’s deep commitment to inclusive early education Families are encouraged to actively involve in planning and decision-making, ensuring that children and parents are satisfied with the plan of action. This inclusive approach ensures that children of determination not only receive the personalised support they need but also grow in a joyful and nurturing community that celebrates diversity and values every child for who they are.
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