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Admissions are now open for 2025/2026
As a teacher at BIS Abu Dhabi, I have the privilege of watching students grow — not just academically, but as young people finding their path in a complex world. One thing I’ve learned time and again is this: success doesn’t come from rare moments of brilliance — it comes from the quiet power of habits.
Research tells us that up to 40% of what we do each day is driven by habit, not active decision-making. That means the routines our students form — the way they begin their morning, how they handle a setback, whether they choose to read or scroll — are shaping who they become.
Experts like James Clear (author of Atomic Habits) explain that small, consistent actions can lead to exponential growth over time. When a student builds the habit of reviewing their work regularly, asking questions in class, or planning their homework schedule, they’re laying the foundation for long-term success. These small choices reduce stress, sharpen focus, and build confidence — and they happen quietly, in the background, day by day.
One of the most powerful places we see habits in action is in sport. Top athletes don’t rely solely on talent — they rely on disciplined routines. Take Serena Williams, who follows an unwavering training schedule, or Mo Salah, known for his exceptional personal discipline, sleep habits, and recovery strategies. Behind every medal or moment of glory is a long list of quiet, repeated actions.
In class, I often refer to these stories to inspire students. They love hearing that Olympians still practise the basics — not because they can’t do them, but because repetition builds excellence. The same applies to writing a great paragraph, solving a maths problem, or showing up each day with a growth mindset.
What makes me proudest at BIS Abu Dhabi is not just watching students achieve academically, but seeing how they grow into thoughtful, kind, and respectful people. And just like academic habits, our values live in the routines we practise. These are our school values, and we see them come to life through habits every day:
When students practise these things daily, they become more than habits — they become part of who they are.
At BIS Abu Dhabi, we know that what our students do every day matters more than what they do once in a while. As educators and parents, we have the chance to guide those habits — to celebrate the effort, the consistency, and the values that shape lasting success.
Let’s keep encouraging the small steps. They lead to incredible places.
Alan Grant
Deputy Head of Secondary
As we draw this academic year to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been a truly remarkable journey for The British International School Abu Dhabi. This year has been defined by so much more than achievement, it has been a year of resilience, creativity, compassion, and bold ambition.
Read on to discover the unforgettable highlights, proud achievements, and inspiring moments that made this year at BIS Abu Dhabi truly remarkable.
The penultimate week of term always brings a mix of energy and reflection. Lessons are still purposeful, but there is also a sense of looking back, recognising just how far our students have come.
This year, we have seen strong academic success across the school. Students have worked hard, and the outcomes reflect that effort. But just as important have been the achievements beyond the classroom in music, sport, language, technology, and the arts. Our curriculum is broad for a reason, and it has been clear this year that our students are thriving in many ways.
Celebrating Our Shared Success: A Year of Partnership and Recognition
As we approach the end of a vibrant academic year filled with events, achievements, and memorable moments, I am delighted to share some fantastic news with you all. Our school has been honoured with not one, but two prestigious awards in recognition of our commitment to parent engagement: the MENA Parent Partnership Award and the ADEK Best Parent Engagement Award.
Read on to discover how these awards celebrate our collaborative culture, highlight parent-school partnerships, and support meaningful improvements for our students.
It’s something I’ve believed for a long time — that learning isn’t predetermined by our genes. It’s about growing, persevering, and learning through the process. I was really mindful of this idea at this week’s wonderful Primary Summer Concert, after which I found myself reflecting on whether these amazing children have an innate talent, or whether they have achieved so much because of hard work and practice.
I believe it’s the latter. These children, their parents, and their teachers all seem to share the belief that by trying and working hard, they will get better at what they do. This is what we call a growth mindset.
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