At the British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi), inclusion isn’t a separate initiative, it is the foundation of everything we do. From the moment a student joins our school, they are welcomed into a caring, respectful, and inclusive environment where Kindness, Honesty, and Respect guide every interaction. These values are not just words on the wall - they shine through classrooms, corridors, playgrounds, and beyond, creating a school culture where every student feels safe, valued, and understood.
The inclusive classroom is at the heart of BIS Abu Dhabi’s educational philosophy. We believe that all children, regardless of background, ability, or learning need, have the right to access high-quality education in a supportive, nurturing setting. Inclusion at BIS Abu Dhabi means recognising and celebrating individual differences while ensuring that every student is given the tools and opportunities to succeed.
Our classrooms are vibrant, welcoming spaces designed to meet diverse learning needs. Teachers are trained regularly to ensure they are equipped with the latest inclusive teaching strategies. Every lesson is structured around clear routines and expectations, providing consistency for all learners. Students are met at the door each day, reinforcing a strong sense of belonging and setting a positive tone for learning.
For students with Additional Educational Needs (AEN), we go further. A personalised student profile or Individual Learning Plan (ILP) is created in collaboration with the student and parents, helping teachers understand how each individual learns best. This ensures that learning is tailored, purposeful, and engaging. These documents support the building of meaningful relationships between staff and students, encouraging trust and fostering deeper connections that enhance the learning experience.
The curriculum is adapted to suit each child's personalised needs and embedded into daily teaching practice. Lessons include a variety of approaches to suit different learning styles, whether visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. Students are regularly given the opportunity to move, explore, and learn through real-life, practical experiences that make learning both relevant and memorable.
Students are encouraged to present their work in a format that aligns with their strengths, whether through written responses, visual representations, or oral presentations. This flexibility allows every student to demonstrate their understanding in a way that reflects their unique abilities.
Student voice plays a central role in shaping our inclusive ethos. Whole-school feedback and visible, respectful relationships between students and staff highlight the strength of our community. At BIS Abu Dhabi, learners feel seen, heard, and empowered.
Our commitment to inclusivity extends far beyond the classroom. It is reflected in the relationships we build, the lessons we teach, and the values we live by every day. BIS Abu Dhabi is more than just a school, it’s a community where every child truly belongs.
Mental health is a vital part of our students’ overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked or misunderstood. It's time to change that. Prioritising mental health can improve our lives in ways we might not even realise.
Why Mental Health is Important for You
Mental health affects how you think, feel, and act. It influences our relationships with friends and family, and it can impact our students’ schoolwork.
Step into any vibrant Early Years classroom, and you'll likely hear the joyful hum of children deep in play - building, pretending, exploring, and negotiating their world. To the untrained eye, it may just look like fun and games. But within those moments of giggles and glue sticks lies something truly magical: deep, meaningful learning.
In this article, discover how play supports vital early development, how BIS Abu Dhabi brings the EYFS curriculum to life through play, and why protecting this joyful, purposeful approach to learning is more important than ever.
The British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi) was deeply honoured to welcome Her Highness Sheikha Shamma Bint Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan to its campus on Thursday, 17 April 2025. Her Highness, President & CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA) and The Climate Tribe, is a distinguished entrepreneur, thought leader, and researcher with a deep commitment to sustainability, climate change, and gender equity.
Finding the right school for your child is a big decision. Whether you’re new to Abu Dhabi, transitioning from another school, or simply looking for the best fit, we know it can feel overwhelming. At The British International School (BIS) Abu Dhabi, we’re here to make that journey as smooth and reassuring as possible. From your very first enquiry to your child’s first day (and beyond), we’ll be with you every step of the way. This article tackles the key concerns families face when transitioning to a new school, offering clear insights into our admissions process to ensure a smooth and informed journey.
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