Why Play Matters at BIS Abu Dhabi The importance of Early Years education

We are delighted to share that BIS Abu Dhabi recently hosted the prestigious Abu Dhabi Teaching Conference, a vibrant and enriching event that brought together over 600 teachers and school leaders from across the region. This conference, organised by a passionate committee of educators, is designed to foster collaboration, promote regional talent, and provide a platform for sharing best practices in education.

At BIS Abu Dhabi, we have embraced the exciting potential of digital technology in the classroom, particularly through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Just recently, one of our students trialled an AI-powered learning platform that provided personalised feedback on their essay, helping them improve their writing skills in real time. This experience exemplifies how AI can tailor educational experiences to each individual’s needs, allowing for a more customised and engaging learning journey. By incorporating AI into our curriculum, we aim to support our students in becoming creative problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and confident digital citizens who are ready to thrive in an increasingly tech-driven world.

For the past decade, The British International School Abu Dhabi has actively participated in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), promoting personal growth, resilience, and community impact among our students. This year is particularly special as we celebrate our first cohort of Gold Award achievers. With the largest number of participants ever, the DofE International Award continues to be a vital part of our mission to create world-class learning experiences, nurturing empathetic, resilient, and talented individuals.

Life is full of questions - some small and simple, others profound and life-shaping. At BIS Abu Dhabi, we believe asking the right questions is key to growth, discovery, and future success. 

This term, our students have been reflecting on big questions: 
- What do I want to do when I’m older? 
- Where do I want to go to university? 
- What GCSEs should I study to help me achieve my goals? 
- Should I pursue a BTEC pathway or the IB Diploma Programme in Senior School? 

These are not easy questions, but it’s not about having all the answers now - it’s about being brave enough to ask them. 

In my experience, Term 2 is always a productive part of the year. By this point, relationships between adults, teachers, and students are well-established, routines and expectations are firmly in place, and the children have settled into their classes.

At the British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi), the early years mark the beginning of a magical journey where children thrive in a safe, happy, and child-centered environment. Led by passionate educators, our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) nurtures purposeful, lifelong learners through engaging, play-based learning experiences.

From December 11th to December 16th, 2024, 16 male students from Years 8 and 9 took part in a life-changing journey to Mecca and Medina during our school's first Umrah trip. The programme, organised by the Islamic Department and overseen by Dr. Abdul Rahim Al-Amad and Professor Ahmed Arafa, offered students a special chance to connect their classroom lessons with real-world experiences while deepening their spiritual understanding.

I want to wish each and every one of you a very Happy New Year! It has been truly wonderful to see everyone return after the winter break. The students have come back with smiles, delighted to reconnect with friends after their time away. We also have many new starters this term, and I am sure you will join me in extending a very warm welcome to all our new families and staff.