Margaux joined the BIS Abu Dhabi family in 2019 in Year 12 and has now graduated with 42 points out of a possible 45 in the IB Diploma Programme, placing her amongst the top IB Candidates worldwide. Margaux was delighted to receive such a high score and as a result she will be heading to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands to study Psychology. It is a subject that she is particularly passionate about because of her interest in neuropsychology and special educational needs.
As part of the IB Diploma course, students are required to complete an Extended Essay. This is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper. Margaux received full marks in her essay entitled To what extent are there links between Parkinson’s Disease and Type 2 Diabetes? Her research showed that although the two illnesses appear to be totally different, patients that have Type 2 Diabetes have a higher chance of contracting Parkinsons’ Disease. Through this exercise, Margaux developed essential research and analysing skills that will without doubt support her through university and beyond.
When asked how completing the IB Diploma supported her university application, Margaux replied: “I think that having Psychology as an option in the IB Diploma Programme was a sure advantage for me over many other applicants who were not able to study Psychology in school. There is an entrance exam to study Psychology in most universities and with the knowledge I had already gained on the subject, I already had an edge over the competition. I think that the IB Diploma Programme also helped me develop a structured routine and discipline in my work-life balance which I think will be very helpful in my time at university.”
Margaux is excited about her move to the Netherlands as even though it is officially her home, she has never actually lived there. “I cannot wait to see the red, orange and yellow leaves in autumn, the snow in winter and the flowers in spring!” said Margaux.
Margaux has been an active student at BIS Abu Dhabi, she has been involved in the Senior School Orchestra as principal chair as well as member of the band for school productions. Her voice was an asset in the school choir and the music department will be sure to miss her enthusiasm.
One of her fondest memories of her time at BIS Abu Dhabi was the Year 12 Tanzania trip. “I will always treasure the memories of the Tanzania trip in 2019, it was an amazing opportunity to further develop friendships with others in my year group whilst also being of service to the Maasai community. I think what I will miss most about BIS Abu Dhabi is that sense of community formed within my year group between all the students but also with the teachers. This was such a support generally but especially during the periods of online learning.”
Margaux is hoping to work with children after she completes her time at university. She will be sure to share the joys of learning and sense of community she has felt at her time at BIS Abu Dhabi. Congratulations, Margaux.
The end of the year is a time for reflection and celebration, as well as an opportunity to look ahead.
During the last weeks, we have celebrated students at the Sports Awards Assemblies, welcomed fathers sharing time with students in the Early Years team, enjoyed end-of-term showcases across many year groups, attended IB presentations, participated in a Science Fair hosted by the Science CCA, and watched the Dance Production, BISAD’s Got Talent Show, and the Music Open Mic event, to name but a few.
Earlier in June, a group of our IB students jetted off to Iceland for an unforgettable adventure. Damian Toader from 12A shares his experience of this incredible trip, capturing the essence of Iceland's breathtaking landscapes and unique natural phenomena through his lens as the group's photographer.
Dear Parents,
As we approach the end of this term and the academic year, we take great pride in celebrating the multitude of successes our children have achieved. This period has been filled with events showcasing the diverse talents and interests of our students here at BIS Abu Dhabi. From the creativity of our dance performances, our success at sports competitions to the incredible ongoing school trips, from the talent displayed at the BISAD’s Got Talent audition and our Open Mic sessions to the World Scholars Cup and the Quran reading, our calendar has been brimming with opportunities for our students to shine.
The British International School Abu Dhabi
