Safe and Focused Learning

At NAS Abu Dhabi, we want every child to learn in an environment that’s calm, focused and respectful. We started this term with a strong emphasis on the safe use of technology and devices across the school. To help our students in Years 6-11 minimise distractions and engage more fully in school, we’ve introduced phone pouches. All students who bring a mobile phone or smart watch to school are now required to purchase a pouch and keep their devices stored during the school day.

As our Head of Secondary explains: ‘The introduction of phone pouches for students is an important step in helping students minimise distractions, stay present and engage more fully with their peers and teachers. By encouraging healthier digital habits, we aim to support both academic success and student wellbeing.’

Meanwhile in Primary, the year began with Digital Detox Week: a digital-free start that allowed children to immerse themselves in play, creativity and connection. Our Head of Primary shared: ‘The early days of school set the tone for a child’s entire learning journey. Based on the feedback from our Technology Working Party, our digital-free start has allowed our children to connect deeply in class, focus on play and learning and explore the world through curiosity and imagination. By limiting these digital distractions in the first week we have nurtured independence, resilience and promoted the importance of creativity within our curriculum. It has been wonderful to watch children begin the year with balance.’

Together these approaches reinforce our commitment to safe and focused learning. By guiding our students to use technology thoughtfully, we’re helping them grow healthy digital habits, strengthen relationships and enjoy a more balanced start to the year.