450 students representing 16 schools and 6 countries gathered at our school over the weekend as we proudly hosted the British Schools in the Middle East (BSME) under 11 Games. This competition is open to the larger schools in the region, is highly competitive and provides an opportunity for athletes to test themselves at the highest level in a friendly environment. It also afforded us the opportunity to showcase our school and facilities which the other schools were envious of.
Hosting such a major event is no mean feat and we must congratulate the outstanding PE department we have at BIS Abu Dhabi along with the numerous parents, teachers, staff, students and sports leaders who gave freely of their time to make this a truly memorable event for all involved.
The term “Friendly Games” is often over used in sporting competitions but the atmosphere over the 3 days was truly friendly and supportive yet retaining the highly competitive element given the amount of training that the students put into this. A number of parents and PE teachers from many schools who have been to numerous sporting events over the years were quick to praise the event saying that this was the best one they had ever attended.
Following a superb opening ceremony attended by the entire school, the athletes then set about 3 days of intensive competition in Girls Football, Boys Football, Swimming, Basketball, Netball and Athletics.
During the 3 days there was excitement and disappointment for individuals and teams along the way but we were always proud of the effort our students placed into every performance and the way they supported each other and conducted themselves at all times. We were delighted with our overall position of 5th in this International Competition making us the highest placed Abu Dhabi School and our best performance ever at a BSME event.
Sport at BISAD continues to develop and grow and we are firmly establishing ourselves as a top sporting school throughout the region. Well done to our outstanding students for all of their hard work and the staff who put in countless hours in preparing for all sporting events. To the parents who spend countless hours supporting and taking students to and from events, we thank you for your support. Well done to everyone involved!
I was really touched by Áine’s newsletter piece last week, posing the question: ‘What would I tell my younger self?’
I spent some time afterwards thinking about my own parenting journey, and what it’s all been about, now that my two are adults and have ‘flown the nest’. Parenting isn’t easy for any of us, and that’s true even if you’re an experienced school leader – at home, I’m just Dad.
You might have seen the trend going around - “If I could tell my younger self one thing…” - a moment to reflect, to offer advice we wish we’d heard earlier, or to remind ourselves of what truly matters.
As students prepare to cross some of the biggest milestones in school life, it feels like the perfect time to pause and join in that conversation. But it’s not just our students who are preparing — so are we, as parents. These milestones don’t just belong to them. We’re living every part of it too: the anticipation, the pride, the nerves, and the quiet hopes. Sometimes, it’s the hardest thing in the world — to watch them take these big steps, to stay strong when they wobble, to let go just a little more. It’s a milestone for us as much as it is for them — and we’re walking it together.
Finding the right school for your child is a big decision. Whether you’re new to Abu Dhabi, transitioning from another school, or simply looking for the best fit, we know it can feel overwhelming. At The British International School (BIS) Abu Dhabi, we’re here to make that journey as smooth and reassuring as possible. From your very first enquiry to your child’s first day (and beyond), we’ll be with you every step of the way. This article tackles the key concerns families face when transitioning to a new school, offering clear insights into our admissions process to ensure a smooth and informed journey.
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