A key aspect of schools today is a focus on supporting the overall development of every single student. This includes personal and social development in addition to academic development and can provide a wider range of opportunities than ever before.
At BIS Abu Dhabi, there are specific structures set up: our Service programme, the House system, various school trips, CCAs and Moral Education just to name a few. All these areas combine to help students benefit from a range of new experiences and also understand the role they can play in working with others and in making a difference to our local and global community.
I wanted to mention Service particularly in this article and specifically touch on the inspiring story of Greta Thunberg.
Just over a year ago, Greta wanted to do something to raise the issue of climate change and to influence others to work together to look after our planet. Originally it was just Greta who sat outside the Swedish parliament with a sign, yet in the last few weeks we have seen millions of people of all ages who are joining in to help raise awareness of this global issue.
Greta Thunberg is an exceptional case, but it does underline something that is very relevant for BIS Abu Dhabi students today. We believe that all our students can grow up to be positive members of society, and furthermore, we believe that making a difference to others does not have to wait until you are an adult. We create opportunities for all students to get involved with Service in one form or another - we know that this not only helps other people, it also makes a truly positive difference to each individual student too.
Patrick Horne, Principal
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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