We use cookies to improve your online experiences. To learn more and choose your cookies options, please refer to our cookie policy.
There are many times in our lives when we have to make decisions. As simple human beings, when faced with numerous choices, it can often feel overwhelming. The plain truth is that we seek out opportunities that give us choices. There is joy in making choices, such as going to restaurants, perusing menus, and taking time to decide on a nice evening meal with family. However, when confronted with these choices, we often find ourselves in a dilemma. Will I make the right choice? Will I have food envy when it arrives at our table? When decisions hold more weight, there is also stress and anxiety that come with making choices.
On the 16th January 1897, John Dewey published an article called ‘My Pedagogic Creed’ which marked the beginning of a long and incredibly important body of work for a man whose ideas about education and its purpose remain as relevant today as they were 127 years ago. John Dewey worked as a classroom teacher for a few years before entering academia to embark on a career of studying education, considering its purpose and making recommendations to various government bodies on how to organise education for young people.
At The British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi), our passion for learning goes beyond the classroom walls, it’s the driving force behind everything we do. I became a teacher, because I loved learning in my own school days, and I continue to aspire to be a lifelong learner. My goal is to instil this passion in my students, empowering them to become independent and self-driven learners.
Before delving into this week's highlights and news, I want to warmly welcome all our new pupils and families who have recently become part of our fantastic school community.
We understand that transitioning to a new school, and in some cases, a new country, can be a challenging experience. However, please rest assured that as a school and a community, we are here to support you every step of the way. Many of us have been in your position before and we are committed to making your time with us a positive and enriching experience.
Last weekend, our joint BIS Abu Dhabi and NAS Dubai Nord Anglia Education Rugby Team participated in Dubai 7s. This is the first time two Nord Anglia Education schools have come together to form a ‘representative’ team and we are incredibly proud of all the boys who were selected to represent the school and the Nord Anglia Education group on the pitch.
Before I start this week’s newsletter, I want to thank you all for the partnership and support you continue to show as we work together as a community to educate our children. I do hope you are able to enjoy some of the winter break as a family and have time together that is memorable for all the good reasons. Our children grow up so quickly and such moments matter to us; I wish you all the best over the break and look forward to your safe return in the new year.
Sometime in the late 1990’s I walked into a café in Birmingham and said ‘hello’ to a student of mine who happened to be there enjoying lunch with her family. Mum and Dad smiled at me, said hello and I overheard the girl whisper ‘that’s my History teacher’ to them. I’ve always quite enjoyed the minor celebrity status of being a teacher out of the school building. Students are often very confused by the notion that teachers exist outside of the classroom. A while later, as the family left the café, the father gave me a nod, smiled and said
‘‘History teacher eh? What year was the Battle of Waterloo then?’’
On Thursday, 23rd November BIS Abu Dhabi held an exciting Rubik's Cube Tournament, drawing in the talents of 13 students who showcased their impressive problem-solving skills and dexterity. The event was triggered by a Year 6 student's impressive Rubik's Cube solve during our BISAD's Got Talent, which ignited a spark of curiosity and determination among the school community.
The BSME (British Schools Middle East) Games is the highlight of the sporting calendar for any multi-sport athlete. At the beginning of the academic year students attend a rigorous trial to compete for a place within the squad. The PE Department selects 12 girls and 12 boys to represent the school in Football and Volleyball for the boys and Football and Netball for the girls. This year was extra exciting, due to the opportunity to travel to Kuwait.
The BIS Abu Dhabi Team would like to remind our community that our Term One CCA programme finishes on Friday 24th November.
If your child is registered with an external provider, please contact the company leading their CCA to establish their finish date.