World Ocean Day

This month, I had the privilege of delivering assemblies alongside Sajid Latif to our Secondary students on the important topic of neurodiversity and hidden disabilities. This subject is particularly close to my heart and is a key focus within our EDIB (Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging) framework.

On the way into school this morning, I had an inspiring conversation with my daughter about traditions. She shared that the Year 13 students have been eagerly discussing ways to leave their legacy in their final year, and they’ve decided on a wonderful new tradition: the Senior School Camp. This event will give them a chance to camp overnight on the school grounds, connecting as a year group with fire pits, music, food, and memories of their time at BIS Abu Dhabi. This conversation made me reflect on why traditions matter so deeply to us all.

I’ve been really looking forward to attending my first UAE Flag Day and have used it as an opportunity to learn about the flag itself.  It’s been very interesting to do so, as a ‘newbie’ and it has really helped my understanding of the pride that Emiratis have in their country and its national emblems.  I’ve discovered that the flag was designed in 1971 by Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah, a 19-year-old at the time, as part of a nationwide design contest and it was adopted by the country on 2nd December 1971.  The choice of colours is deeply important, and their symbolic meanings make a wonderful parallel with the work of the school and the values we seek to promote across the community:

Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the true spirit of community in action here at BIS Abu Dhabi. Despite the challenges we all face, including personal hardships that may touch many of us, it is heartening to see how our shared care for one another and our collective hope for a brighter future bring us together.