BIS
ABU DHABI
Term 1 2024
Issue #15
Follow the journey of our largest ever Duke of Edinburgh International Award cohort
Our Triathletes impressed us with their determination & resilience
FS2 students shone in their production of 'The Colour Monster'
PRINCIPAL‘S WELCOME BIS ABU DHABI TIMES
As we reflect on Term 1 of the 2024-2025 academic year, I am delighted to share the highlights of what has been a truly exceptional start at BIS Abu Dhabi. This term, our students have demonstrated remarkable achievements both inside and outside the classroom.
In academics, our Primary and Secondary students have thrived in our enriched curriculum, pushing the boundaries of their learning and developing problem-solving skills in exciting new ways. In Primary, events such as the Teach Rex workshop, a Police visit, and F1 STEAM Project Showcase brought learning to life. In Secondary, students celebrated successes in the UKMT Senior Maths Competition and an interschool Chess Tournament. Senior School also explored various career and university pathways through visits, gaining valuable insights into future opportunities.
Our commitment to sustainability continues to grow, highlighted by our new partnership with The Alliance for Sustainable Schools and the successful Year 4 Sustainability Conference, where students showcased their dedication to environmental stewardship. These initiatives are fostering a strong sense of responsibility, and we look forward to seeing how our students continue to embrace sustainability inside and outside the classroom.
A special mention to the students awarded the Headteacher’s Commendation Awards this term, celebrating their outstanding academic, creative and value-driven achievements.
Beyond the classroom, it has been an actionpacked term, with enriching school trips and a record number of students participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, embracing personal growth and challenge.
The World Scholars Cup trip to New York and the Nord Anglia MIT Student Trip to Boston offered exciting opportunities for our students to broaden their horizons and connect with like-minded peers globally.
Our community spirit has been vibrant, with events like the Amazing Race, Pinktober Coffee Morning, Triathlon, and parent workshops bringing us together and strengthening our sense of unity and support across the school. Our community and parent partnership initiatives continue to strengthen the bond between school and home, enriching the experience for all involved.
In the arts, our Winter Concert, Open Mic Evening, and FS2 Winter Production showcased the incredible talent of our students, leaving everyone inspired by their creativity and performances. Our sports teams also excelled, with strong performances at the BSME U19 and Dubai 7s, demonstrating the sporting spirit and commitment of our athletes.
As we reflect on an incredibly successful term, I am immensely proud of all our students, staff, and parents for their contributions. I look forward to the next chapter of our journey together as we continue to inspire and support one another in “Creating Your Future.” Wishing you all a well-deserved break and an exciting Term 2 ahead.
Alan Cocker Principal
FS2
World
MIT
Chess
The
Alumni
World
Year 3 Teach Rex Workshop
Year 3 had an exciting day in school this term, when Teach Rex came to visit. The children were captivated by Jam, a life-sized T-Rex, who helped bring learning to life. The workshop consolidated children's learning about fossils, teaching them the science behind how they're formed and how our understanding of dinosaurs has evolved thanks to paleontologists’ discoveries of them. They also explored how animals are classified based on their diet, deepening their knowledge of the animal kingdom. The children used similes, expanded noun phrases, and adverbs to describe Jam, reinforcing the skills we've been practicing in class. Additionally, they had a blast integrating ICT into their learning through a green screen activity, adding a digital twist to their creative expressions.
Biology Masterclass Heart Dissection
As part of our ongoing CCA programme, Mr. Pinnock used his experience and expertise as a Biology teacher to create a series of IGCSE Biology Masterclasses for Year 10 and 11 students this term.
He began with a refresher on heart dissection, where students worked in pairs to identify and name the key components and their functions, essential for achieving top IGCSE Biology grades.
Following sessions focused on extensive exam preparation, including writing model exam answers.
Abu Dhabi Police Visit
Year 2
This term, our Year 2 students were excited to welcome Abu Dhabi Police Officers who shared valuable lessons on the importance of traffic rules and road safety! After the informative talk, the students had a blast exploring the police car and even sounding the sirens!
A big thank you to the Abu Dhabi Police for this fun and educational visit!
Year 7-11 Bookmark & Infographic Competition
In English, our Year 7 to 11 students have had an amazing start to the year! Year 7 to 9, students created beautiful bookmarks, while our Year 10 & 11 students designed their own infographics based on the GCSE Literature texts they’re studying.
Bookmark Winners: Jasper 7D, Elise 7F, Storm 8A, Lishu 8A, Zoha 9B, Evelyn 9E. Infographic Winners: Adithya 10A, Sebastian 10D, Cassandra 10F, Eva 11A, Lily 11C, Zarak 11D, Michelangelo 11F, Salem 11G.
A huge congratulations to all our winners and a big well done to every Year 7 to 11 English student for such a creative and inspiring start to the year!
Pharmacy Careers Information Session with Al Ain University
In October, we were excited to welcome Al Ain University's Abu Dhabi College of Pharmacy to celebrate World Pharmacy Day! They spoke to our students about the many career paths in Pharmacy, from becoming a community or hospital pharmacist to exploring pharmaceutical
research, drug trials, and innovative drug delivery techniques. A big thank you to the Abu Dhabi College of Pharmacy for sharing their insights! Our students asked some fantastic questions as they explored future career possibilities.
Year 3 Caveman Chronicles Day
Year 3 students embarked on an exciting adventure back in time with their topic theme day, Caveman Chronicles! The day was packed with hands-on activities that transported the children to the Stone Age, giving them a taste of life in prehistoric times.
The students created their own versions of Stonehenge, using clay for miniature models and bricks to build larger replicas. They also experienced the challenge of making fire using flint, much like our ancestors did thousands of years ago! The creative fun continued with designing and crafting Stone Age necklaces and learning basic sewing skills, an important part of life in the Neolithic period. To top it all off, students practised hunting techniques, learning how early humans survived by working together.
Not only was the day full of fun, it also ticked off a range of cross-curricular skills in history, art, science, and physical education, all while promoting teamwork and collaboration. It was truly an unforgettable and immersive learning experience for Year 3, bringing the Stone Age to life in a way they will remember for years to come!
Year 5 Sensory Lesson
In Year 5, our students embarked on exciting hands-on learning experiences designed to spark their imagination. At our sensory station, coconuts, sand, salt, plants, and shells transported them to a tropical paradise, which is sure to inspire them to write vivid setting descriptions using rich, detailed vocabulary. In Geography, the students built a working river model using tin foil, baking trays, stones, and sand, learning about the parts of a river, how they form, and their significance to both nature and human activity.
Secondary Maths Enriched Curriculum Projects
At BIS Abu Dhabi, we’ve incorporated enrichment activities into the Year 7-9 (Key Stage 3) maths curriculum to broaden opportunities and allow students to apply maths in real-world contexts. This term, our Secondary mathematicians have been hard at work with their enriched curriculum projects!
Year 7 have been exploring number patterns, including the fascinating concept of Happy Numbers, while also honing their teamwork skills.
Year 8 have delved into Fibonacci sequences and geometric patterns, drawing inspiration from Arabic art to creatively apply their knowledge.
Year 9 focused on planning their future finances, using spreadsheets and learning smart strategies to predict their financial situations—fun maths with valuable life lessons!
Our Secondary Maths Department is passionate about showing every student that maths can be exciting, creative, and relevant to the world around us. Well done to all our students for their enthusiasm and fantastic work.
European Languages Day
In celebration of European Languages Day, our students embraced the richness of linguistic diversity and cultural heritage. From tonguetwister challenges and quizzes, to creating poems and posters about their own countries, the enthusiasm was infectious.
Our talented Year 9 students delivered a fantastic assembly on the benefits of learning languages as they prepare for their GCSE choices, while our Year 5 and Year 6 classes enjoyed treasure hunts and exciting language challenges in their MFL lessons. Here’s to our vibrant school community and the love of languages!
Year 11 Hajj Presentations
Our Year 11 Islamic students had the incredible opportunity to welcome Professor Hamad from Khalifa University to our school. They proudly presented their Hajj Sustainability Projects, showcasing innovative ideas to support Muslims during Hajj. Professor Hamad was very impressed as he judged their thoughtful contributions and gave invaluable feedback & insights to help take their projects to the next level!
Nursery Rhyme Day
This term, our Nursery children have been immersed in the enchanting world of nursery rhymes and the incredible learning opportunities they offer. Through these timeless rhymes, the children explored counting and rhyming patterns while expressing their creativity through singing and art. Their journey culminated in a delightful performance for overjoyed parents, where our youngest students confidently and expressively sang in the auditorium. The event beautifully captured the awe and wonder that nursery rhymes bring to our children, making it a truly memorable experience for everyone involved.
Year 4 Sustainability Conference
This term's Year 4 Sustainability Conference at BIS Abu Dhabi was a vibrant celebration of learning and creativity, showcasing the children’s hard work and dedication to environmental stewardship. The event began with a heartfelt musical performance in both English and Arabic, setting a powerful tone for the day. Students proudly presented PowerPoint projects to their parents, demonstrating their deep understanding of topics such as hydroponics, water filtration, and sustainability heroes Wangari Maathai and David Attenborough. Attendees explored exciting workshops, including "Build Your Own Water Filter," hydroponics demonstrations, and hands-on art creation. A big thank you to our wonderful parents for their support and enthusiasm in making this day a success!
Senior School Options Evening
In October, our Senior School Open Evening showcased the vibrant community and academic excellence at our school. The event began with an inspiring presentation by Mrs. McGlue, Mrs. Brazier and Mr. Cochlin, highlighting our vision, dedication to student success, and the breadth of our educational programmes. The main purpose of the evening was to help students start deciding their pathways for the future, exploring subjects that align with their passions and ambitions.
Empower Hour is a fantastic wholeschool initiative that encourages children to share their thoughts, ideas, and suggestions on how we can enhance BIS Abu Dhabi as a place to learn and grow.
Guided by our wonderful Empower Hour Student Voice Ambassadors, our Primary students collaborated across year groups with peers from their houses to discuss how we can reshape our reward system at BIS Abu Dhabi.
Following this, parents and students explored an array of dynamic subject stalls, expertly run by enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff and students who demonstrated engaging activities, shared their passion, and answered questions. From interactive science experiments to literary discussions and creative arts displays, the evening brought the curriculum to life. We hope the excitement and warm atmosphere left parents inspired and eager about the opportunities awaiting their children in the Senior School.
Empower Hour
Our Commitment to Sustainability
We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with The Alliance for Sustainable Schools! As part of our ongoing commitment to social responsibility, our Sustainable Goal Ambassadors - Tia, Renad, and Turkan - recently met our Principal, Mr. Cocker, and Mr. Latif to sign a sustainability charter. This marks a significant step in our journey to make our school more ecofriendly and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Our focus is on ‘Responsible Consumption and Production’, and we are excited to collaborate with staff, students, and stakeholders to drive impactful change. Looking ahead, we are searching for the next wave of passionate Sustainable Goal Ambassadors for the 2025–2026 academic year. If you're interested in leading our sustainability initiatives, please reach out to Mr. Latif, Head of Ethos. Let’s work together to build a greener future!
University Visits
Throughout Term 1, our Senior Academy has been buzzing with opportunities for aspiring university students. Andrea Triplow from RCSI Bahrain visited to showcase their state-of-the-art facilities and Irish degree programmes, identical to those offered in Ireland. Students in Years 12 and 13 also explored options at IE University in Spain, with its vibrant Madrid campus and stunning Segovia location, learning about courses, entry requirements, and student life.
Graham Barnes from the University of Waterloo, one of Canada's top institutions, introduced the innovative co-op programme, which integrates work experience with academic studies, helping students offset tuition and living costs. Later in the week, Aakash Gorana from the University of Calgary highlighted their diverse offerings, from a stunning winter sports location to unique societies and opportunities tailored to both IBDP and BTEC students.
Year 6 F1 STEAM Project Showcase
The Year 6 F1 STEAM Project Showcase was an incredible culmination of the students' hard work and interdisciplinary learning this term. By integrating Science, Maths, English, Reading, Humanities, and PSME, students created and presented imaginative F1 team projects that truly showcased their talents and potential as future innovators in the field.
Year 2 Carnival Day
At the end of Term 1, Year 2 transformed into a vibrant sea of colour and rainforest animals as children welcomed their families to join them for Carnival Day. The event began with an incredible musical performance by the children, setting the tone for an exciting and joyful celebration. Families were then invited into the classrooms to explore the amazing work Year 2 had been doing throughout the term. The children proudly shared their impressive NonChronological Reports about their chosen rainforest animals, showcasing their knowledge and hard work. Afterwards, parents and children worked together on a variety of creative activities, including making colourful carnival masks, crafting mosaic clay tiles, and designing collage animals. The day was a fantastic blend of learning, creativity, and family involvement, bringing the rainforest theme to life in a truly memorable way.
The students communicated their learning with confidence, engaging parents and peers alike with their insights and enthusiasm. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our Year 6 community and to the students and teachers of Year 4 and 5 for their support and participation. As well as to the Senior School students who inspired everyone by sharing how F1 in Schools evolves at higher levels.
Year 1 Toy & Transport Museum
Year 1's Toy & Transport Museum was a wonderful celebration of learning and creativity! We kicked off the event by welcoming parents and sharing two special songs, a transport song and a toy song, performed by the children. Afterwards, we invited parents back to the classroom to view the incredible work from Term 1. The highlight was the futuristic modes of transport the children designed and built with junk modelling, each with the challenge of being sustainable. Over the term, the children have explored the history and evolution of toys and transport, learning about how these items have changed over time. The children also learned all about different materials and their properties, this knowledge really helped when they were designing their transport. It was a fantastic way to showcase their hard work and curiosity!
Year 5 Fashion Show and ACE Time
Our talented Year 5 students showcased their creativity and commitment to sustainability in a special project in collaboration with Goumbook, an organisation dedicated to environmental initiatives across the UAE. The students embraced the challenge of designing unique items that reflected their personal style, while promoting the importance of recycling and sustainable living. Throughout the project, they explored different art materials, created
mood boards, and discovered how small, creative actions could make a big difference for the planet. Their hard work and dedication culminated in an incredible fashion show, where their innovative designs took centre stage. The children then took their parents to their classrooms where they were able to show them pieces of work that they are proud of and show them how to tackle a variety of challenges that they have already conquered throughout the term!
Headteacher's Commendation Award
Celebrating BIS Abu Dhabi Brilliance
Congratulations to Gibrane, a Year 13 IB student, on receiving the Headteacher’s Commendation Award and the prestigious gold BIS Abu Dhabi B (for Brilliance) for his impressive project "How AI Can Tackle Financial Illiteracy and Exclusion." His research offers valuable insights into how AI solutions could expand financial knowledge, particularly for underserved communities. Recently, Gibrane presented his work at the UN's Global Goals Week Future of Investment Forum, engaging with an international audience and advocating for AI as a “growing solution in today’s world.” His initiative and commitment to meaningful change, by improving financial literacy, are truly inspiring.
Gautham, a Year 13 IB student, has been awarded the Headteacher’s Commendation Award and the prestigious gold BIS Abu Dhabi B (for Brilliance) for his exceptional dedication to learning and his embodiment of all of the IB Learner Profile characteristics. His achievements extend beyond the classroom; he recently won an international award in neuroscience research through Research | Youth 4 Neuro. His award-winning project, titled "Neurotechnology & The Future of Neuroscience: The Advent of a Neural Prosthetic System to Augment Detailed Memory Encoding and Recall," highlights his commitment to academic excellence and innovation in cutting-edge fields. With his remarkable drive and accomplishments, Gautham’s future as a changemaker is undoubtedly bright.
Year 9 student Akil has been awarded the Headteacher’s Commendation Award and the prestigious gold BIS Abu Dhabi B (for Brilliance) after earning seven BISAD Brilliance Awards last term. He has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication to learning and engagement, embodying our school values of honesty, kindness, and respect. Akil also took the initiative to volunteer and deliver an assembly to his year group on Black History Month, showing leadership and a commitment to celebrating diversity. His positive advocacy at such a young age is a testament to our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion and points to a very bright future. Incredible work, Akil!
Congratulations to Kalle, Michelangelo, Ignacio, and Ximena on their outstanding achievements in the June 2024 Cambridge GCSE language exams, earning the prestigious Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards: Kalle: High Achievement in Foreign Language German Michelangelo: High Achievement in Foreign Language Italian Ignacio and Ximena: Top in the UAE for Foreign Language Spanish.
These remarkable achievements reflect their hard work and the support of their teachers and parents. Next to the Headteacher's Commendation for their achievements, our awardees were also presented with certificates at the Outstanding Cambridge Leaner Awards ceremony on 28 November 2024 at Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai.
Imogen from Year 7 has been awarded the Headteacher’s Commendation Award and the prestigious gold BIS Abu Dhabi B (for Brilliance) for her compassion and creativity in fundraising for Breast Cancer Awareness. She made and sold bracelets during Pinktober, even continuing her efforts over the holiday break, raising a remarkable amount for this important cause. Her initiative and dedication are truly inspiring, and we are proud of her being an advocate for such an important cause.
Congratulations to Neil from Year 10 for his exceptional performance in the UAE Space Olympiad 2024 (USO 2024), where he secured 1st rank in the Senior Category among all students in the UAE! This impressive accomplishment is a testament to Neil's dedication and passion for space exploration and science.
As a result of his outstanding achievement, Neil has won a fully sponsored trip to visit JAXA, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, where he will have the opportunity to further his understanding of the field he is so passionate about.
We are thrilled to announce that 16 of our Year 12 students have been recognised by the Pearson Edexcel Examination Board for High Achievement in the UAE for their exceptional performance in the 2024 IGCSE examinations. A special congratulations to Huda for achieving the highest mark in the UAE for Art! To honour their hard work and dedication, we recently awarded these outstanding students a Headteacher Commendation Certificate and the prestigious BISAD ‘B’ for their lanyardsa symbol of their incredible accomplishment.
The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award
At the beginning of Term 1, we invited parents to attend information sessions about The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award (DofE). Mr. Givens, our DofE Coordinator, spoke about the benefits of participation, addressing questions about the timeline, cost and what is involved. The most important message conveyed was that DofE is more than just the Adventurous Journey trip, it also involves the Service, Skill and Physical Activities, which requires commitment and promotes leadership and independence.
These information sessions were highly successful, leading to a record intake of 111 students for this year's Bronze Award. We also have a strong group of 99 students undertaking the Silver Award, and we will see our first group of Gold Award students completing their final Adventurous Journey at the end of this academic year!
Bronze Award Enrolment for Year 9 (13+ years old)
Silver Award Enrolment for Year 10 (14+ years old)
Bronze & Silver Practice Journeys
DofE International Award Bronze Practice Thursday, 28th - Friday, 29th November
DofE International Award Silver Practice Sunday, 24th - Tuesday, 26th November
Award Enrolment for Year 12 (16+ years old)
Practice
Gold
Silver Qualifying Journey (2 nights)
Gold Qualifying Journey (2 weeks)
Silver Practice Journey (1 night)
Gold
Journey (2 nights)
AI Robotics Road Show at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
This term, our Senior students visited Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (CCAD) to explore the use of AI robotics in surgery, including the da Vinci Surgical System. This cutting-edge technology allows surgeons to perform highly precise procedures with robotic arms controlled from a console, enhancing visualisation and precision for better patient outcomes.
Students had the chance to operate the system themselves, practising their skills by manipulating a rubber ring over a wire in a simulated surgical procedure. Our students impressed the robotics technicians with their manual dexterity and handeye coordination. The experience sparked curiosity and inspiration, with Sophie, from Year 13, expressing a newfound interest in bio-engineering, and Samsara, from Year 13, amazed by the precision of robotic controls. After a tour and lunch at CCAD, our students left inspired to lead future advancements in healthcare.
Poetry
For All Competition
In November, four Secondary students from Mrs. Ariss’ Poetry For All CCA represented BIS Abu Dhabi at the ‘Emirates NBD Poetry for All’ National Semi-Finals. Ben and Salma from Year 12 and Noah and Haneen from Year 7 recited their poems of choice to a panel of judges. These budding poets performed with confidence and clarity. This annual competition is in collaboration with the Emirates Literature Festival. As a school and community, we would like to congratulate all our semi-finalists for their efforts and wonderful performances!
Dr. Tom Crawford visits BIS Abu Dhabi!
Dr. Tom Crawford, an Oxford University mathematics lecturer and popular YouTuber known as 'TomRocksMaths', visited BIS Abu Dhabi this term to inspire our Secondary students. He gave engaging talks on various topics in mathematics, including 'The Maths of Pokémon' and modeling pollution in ocean currents.
Dr. Tom also met with our IB students, offering insights on preparing for university interviews in STEM subjects. Our top mathematics students practiced interview-style questions, gaining a firsthand experience of what a real interview might be like.
It was fantastic to welcome such a respected mathematician to our school, and his visit was a hit with students. This experience reflects the positive culture around mathematics at BIS Abu Dhabi, showing everyone how fascinating and rewarding the subject can be.
UKMT Senior Maths Competition
In September, 47 students from Years 10-13 took part in the UKMT Senior Mathematics Competition, a 90-minute examination that challenges gifted students worldwide to solve complex problems under intense time constraints. The competition paper included rich questions designed for students to showcase their mathematical talents and think beyond the curriculum, approaching problems abstractly, logically, and critically. Among those who participated, our students earned 3 Gold, 10 Silver, and 21 Bronze awards.
A special shout-out to the following students who achieved 'Highest in Year Group': Adithya (Year 10) – Gold Award, Rais and Jiho (Year 11) – Silver Award, Hyeonmin (Year 12) – Gold Award and Best in School, Adam (Year 13) – Gold Award. Congratulations to all of our incredible students who participated, and a heartfelt thanks to our dedicated teachers who continue to motivate and inspire our young mathematicians!
FS2 Splatter Rooms Adventure
FS2 went on their very first school trip this term, and the excitement was off the charts! The children could hardly wait to get on the bus with their friends, chatting all the way to Splatter Rooms. Once there, they dived right into a world of colour, exploring paints with brushes, sponges, and loads of joyful splattering! They loved choosing their own colours and creating unique masterpieces - each canvas as special as they are! The creativity was endless, and everyone went home with a one-of-a-kind work of art!
Year 6 Yas Circuit Trip
This term, Year 6 completed a topic centred all around Formula 1 and chose to combine it with the MIT project for Term 1: How can AI make things better?
They had the privilege of attending Yas Marina Circuit with the F1 in Schools team, where the students participated in a variety of activities to support their project and had lots of fun. On the day, the students raced the cars they had built in school using compressed air as the catalyst, showcasing their impressive reaction times - a key skill of a racing driver. They were then given the opportunity to tour the venue, gaining a behind-the-scenes insight into the set-up and grandeur of running a major sporting event. Alongside this, students were able to use racing simulators to put their driving skills to the test, competing against each other. Finally, the highlight of the day, was putting all of this practice and knowledge into a real-life context on the go karting track and turning into Lewis Hamilton or Amna Al Qubaisi! Overall, it was an action-packed and insightful couple of days, and who knows, it could be the start of a future Formula One World Champion's career!
World Scholars Cup - New York!
The BIS Abu Dhabi World Scholars had a brilliant end to the academic season with their trip to Yale University and New York! Every year, the World Scholar’s Cup culminates in the “Tournament of Champions” hosted by the International Relations Society at Yale University. In this competition, the top teams from around the world compete against each other in debate, writing and quizzing. This year, BIS Abu Dhabi was represented by 17 students: 10 in the junior division, 7 in the senior division.
For both divisions, the competition starts with an opening ceremony and a scavenge hunt around the Yale Campus in central New Haven. Students are placed in multi-school teams and have to complete a series of fun photo challenges. This is the ideal opportunity to meet students from around the world and form new friendships. The World Scholar’s Cup places a great emphasis on community events and students also take part in a cultural fair, dance and talent show over the course of the competition.
After the opening ceremonies, the students had two days of academic events. The first of these days were spent in local high schools, where they participated in the debate, collaborative writing and challenge (individual quiz) events. The second was spent in the historic Woolsey Hall which typically hosts key Yale events, such as graduations. In addition to the academic events, our students had the opportunity to tour the local area. In New Haven, we had a Yale sophomore give our students a tour of the campus. Like our students, she was an international student and gave them a real insight into life at a world-leading university such as Yale. Our students also got to visit Boston where, as well as touring historical Boston, they were able to visit Harvard and MIT. We also took the opportunity to spend two days in New York, visiting the Statue of Liberty, the top of the Rockefeller Centre and Times Square.
Our students’ hard work paid off with our junior teams taking home 31 medals and our seniors with an equally impressive 28 medals! We are very proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing what our students achieve next year!
Congratulations to:
Y7: Jenson
Y8: Fyodor, Lydia
Y9: Megan, Anahita, Abdul Aziz, Linus
Y10: Sebastian, Khalid, Zuni, Rinan, Daniel, Cian
Y11: Aleksandra, Didi, Kylie
Y12: Hannah
Abu Dhabi Art 2024 at Manarat Al Saadiyat
Our Years 10-12 Art & Photography students enjoyed an inspiring visit to Abu Dhabi Art 2024 at Manarat Al Saadiyat. During a guided tour of the galleries, they explored a diverse range of contemporary artworks, learning about the artists, techniques, and cultural influences behind them. This enriching experience brought their curriculum to life, deepening their understanding of artistic concepts and sparking creative ideas for their own work. It was a valuable opportunity to connect classroom learning with the wider art world!
Year 5 Kayak in the Jubail Mangroves
To consolidate their learning from the ‘Resourceful’ topic and celebrate the beauty of the UAE, Year 5 traveled to the Jubail Mangroves this week. They explored the fascinating ecosystem on kayaks, getting up close (occasionally too close) to the trees. We were guided by the incredible Max and Dennis around the boardwalk, learning all about how the mangroves work. Did you know they have three different types of roots? We also discovered why they’re called grey or white mangroves - they excrete salt through their leaves. The mangroves are home to thirteen species of crab and many other types of wildlife. A big thank you to Jubail lMangroves for hosting us - it was an amazing day out!
Nord Anglia MIT Student trip
Last term, Leena and Diana from Year 12 were successful in the MIT Competition earning a place in this year's MIT Student Trip to Boston, USA. In November, accompanied by Ms. Roughley, they joined 68 students from Nord Anglia Education schools, for a week of STEAM activities! They attended science lectures, participated in climate action groups, visited workshops, and much more! Their main project involved building a camera, which is now part of active research at MIT. The camera will be sent to Alaska to capture images of the Aurora Borealis, and we will soon be able to track it's images.
Leena and Diana respresented the Middle East and BIS Abu Dhabi with the highest regard, leaving an incredible impression on both students and staff at MIT!
BTEC students go behind the scenes at the F1!
Shortly before the F1 event, our Level 3 BTEC Sports and Business students had the incredible opportunity to tour Yas Marina Circuit with Ethara's Marketing and Communication Director. They gained exclusive insights into the strategic and operational efforts behind the scenes of the F1 event. Minds were blown, and inspiration was ignited!
BTEC Sport Students Visit Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub
As part of their unit on Health, Wellbeing, and Sport, our Level 3 International BTEC in Sport, our students visited the Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub. They were treated to an exclusive tour and presentation by Managing Director, Craig Henderson, who highlighted the facility's development as a community provider and outlined Abu Dhabi's vision for promoting health and wellbeing among its residents.
Adding to the BTEC students enriching experiences, they attended a session with Mr. Seth Amoafo, CEO of PASS Abu Dhabi and Community Engagement Officer for the Special Olympics. He delivered an inspiring talk on his leadership philosophy, 'The Pursuit of Purpose,' and how it has shaped his role in promoting sport, inclusion, and diversity within the Abu Dhabi community. Students left the site visit inspired and with a deeper understanding of the health, wellbeing, and sport industry.
Year 2 Cultural Foundation Trip
This term, our Year 2 students enjoyed an incredible trip to the Cultural Foundation, which linked perfectly with our topic on the UAE! First, our students attended a creative art session, where they learned printing techniques and printed the name of Sheikh Zayed the First. Next, they visited the House of Artisans and discovered the beauty of traditional Emirati crafts. Finally, they explored Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest building in Abu Dhabi, where Sheikh Zayed the First was born.
Year 2's trip truly highlighted the importance of national identity and the rich heritage that connects us all.
BIS Abu Dhabi Celebrates another Chess Tournament win!
In November, our Chess Team participated in the Abu Dhabi Schools Chess Tournament at BSAK. Our team played incredibly well against impressive opponents, and our team came top! Our score was 27 points in total over 5 rounds. It was great to see so many great players from Raha, BSAK, Brighton, Cranleigh and Repton.
Well done to the players:
Adam (Team Captain)
Shokan
Aadi S
Liheng
Imad
Dhairya
Shyaam
If your child is interested in being involved with chess, please get in touch: chess@bisad.ae
Year 1 trip to StudiYo Lab
This term, Year 1 students visited StuDIYo Lab in Abu Dhabi Mall. The aim of the day was to put their materials learning to the test by designing and creating a toy. Their chosen material was wood, and the children created their own bow and arrow after being taught how to use the equipment safely. The children had a wonderful day consolidating their learning with some real hands-on activities!
The BIS Abu Dhabi Amazing Race
Before the start of the term, on Saturday, 24th August, over 60 families - parents, students, and staff - participated in the BIS Abu Dhabi Amazing Race!
Teams raced across Abu Dhabi, solving clues and snapping creative selfies at five different locations to unlock the next clue. After the race, everyone came together for a fun picnic back at BIS Abu Dhabi. This event not only brought families closer together, but also helped new families get to know the city better.
Congratulations to our runners-up and a big shoutout to our winning family, the Silvas, who won an overnight stay at the Warner Brothers Hotel, Abu Dhabi, for their exceptional creativity.
Welcome Back Coffee Mornings and Information Sessions
We were delighted to kick off the new academic year with our annual 'Back to School' Parent Coffee Mornings and Curriculum Information Sessions from our staff! These events provided a wonderful opportunity for our parent community to come together, learn about the year ahead, and meet other parents and key staff members from their child's year group. It has been lovely to see parents meeting their child's new Class Teachers/ Form Tutors and connecting with fellow parents over coffee and cake.
Alumni Visits
We were thrilled to welcome back two of our alumni, Tamsin Sangster (Class of 2023) and Harvey Busby (Class of 2021). Tamsin, now studying at Oriel College, Oxford, spoke to prospective Oxbridge candidates about the application and interview process, and shared insights on studying at Oxford compared to other UK universities. She also gave a lunchtime presentation to students in Years 11, 12, and 13 interested in studying law, offering a glimpse into life as a Law student. Harvey, now a performance analyst for Newcastle United Football Club (NUFC), gave a fascinating talk to our IGCSE PE, BTEC L3 Sport, and IB Sports, Exercise & Health Science students. He shared his academic journey, discussed how performance analysis is used in football recruitment, and gave students an inside look at his work at NUFC.
Flag Day
On Friday 1 November, we celebrated UAE Flag Day with a whole-school gathering under the flag. Prior to the celebation, Emirati students Hamad in Year 13 and Rodha in Year 10 lowered the flag. Mr. Alan Cocker, Principal, spoke to our students about the symbolic importance of flags in bringing people together. He highlighted values such as courage, hope, and honesty, represented in the colours of the Emirati flag, and encouraged us to strive for these values in our daily lives. Following Mr. Cocker’s address, the flag was raised by Hamdan in Year 6, Zayed in Year 12, and Badr in Year 13, as the whole school community sang the National Anthem together.
World Children's Day
On Wednesday, 20th November, our school community came together to celebrate and acknowledge World Children's Day, with this year’s theme on ‘The Future Changed Child’. The day began with a powerful moment of unity, as we gathered on the school field to form a large "WCD" for a group photo, while our Primary School students sang ‘We Are the World’ under the direction of Ms. Keane on the piano and Mr. Quigley orchestrating away. Later in the classroom, Primary children were encouraged to express their voices and actively participate in choosing many of their own activities. In Secondary, students engaged in thoughtful discussions and activities centered around the importance of childhood, both locally and globally.
Eid Al Etihad - Union Day 2024
We came together to celebrate Eid Al Etihad, or Union Day, with an unforgettable lineup of performances, carnival activities, games, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant UAE-themed souq.
Our talented students shared heartfelt poems, dances, songs, and speeches in the Auditorium, while others worked hard to support the food and activity areas, ensuring that our entire community enjoyed the festivities.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event so special. The unity and pride we share as a community beautifully reflect the remarkable nation we are fortunate to call home.
FS2, Year 1 & 2 Phonics Workshop
We were delighted to welcome so many parents to our first Phonics Workshops of the year for FS2, Year 1 and Year 2.
FS2 parents enjoyed meeting Fred the Frog and diving into oral blending, followed by interactive phonics activities with their children in the classroom.
Year 1 parents were introduced to the Read Write Inc. (RWI) scheme, sharing how their children will learn to read and write with us at BIS Abu Dhabi.
Year 2 parents participated in a Phonics & Reading Workshop, where they explored key phonics elements, practised speed sounds, and discovered new ways to support their children’s reading journey at home.
We hope these sessions were helpful and gave a clearer understanding of how phonics works. We look forward to welcoming you back later on in the year.
Year 5 Parent Workshop
Our Year 5 writing workshop was a resounding success! Parents gained valuable insights into how we develop writing skills, including strategies to improve vocabulary, sentence structure, and overall fluency. They had the chance to explore both creative and structured writing tasks designed to build student confidence and ability.
A big thank you to everyone who participated. We are excited to continue supporting your child’s writing journey by fostering a love of reading at home!
Pinktober Coffee Morning
In October, we hosted a wonderful PINKTOBER parent coffee morning in support of Breast Cancer Awareness! We were honoured to have Dr. Jelena Tufegdzic, Specialist Obstetrics & Gynecology from Global Care Hospital, and BIS Abu Dhabi parent Ms. Alaa Hasan as our guest speakers, alongside exciting activities like a raffle draw, catwalk, nail station, and henna tattoos!
The true highlight of the event was the generous charitable contributions from our amazing parents, students, and all participants – THANK YOU! These donations will make a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer patients.
Special thanks to our dedicated parent volunteers and incredible sponsors, whose support made this event a huge success. We’re thrilled to share that, together, we raised AED 19,315 for Al Jalila Foundation. This achievement shows the powerful impact we can create when our community unites.
Parent Coffee Morning and Workshop
The final Parent Coffee Morning of the year, featured a workshop by behavioural specialists from Aspris Wellbeing Centre. Through the workshop, parents were supported to reflect on ways to manage stress and improve communication patterns within the family. There was a specific focus on attachment/parenting styles, one’s own childhood, understanding family relationships and how to foster healthy interactions. The session provoked some very insightful discussions which created a space for reflection and parental growth. A huge thank you to everyone who participated – together, we’re creating stronger, healthier family dynamics!
Parent Out & About Macrame Workshop
Our Parent Community Group hosted a delightful macramé workshop for parents, combining creativity and community bonding. Participants learned the art of knotting to create beautiful, handmade designs. An experienced instructor guided the workshop, providing step-by-step guidance in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
It was wonderful to see parents enjoying a moment of creativity while connecting with others. Stay tuned for more engaging events like this!
Year 3 ACE Time
Year 3 welcomed parents into their classrooms for ACE Time (Adult and Child Evaluation Time) – a wonderful opportunity to showcase the incredible progress our Year 3 students have made this term! Together with their parents, students engaged in activities highlighting their learning across the curriculum. From crafting descriptive writing to solving addition and subtraction problems, exploring reading comprehension, and demonstrating their knowledge of skeleton types, our students did a remarkable job showcasing their skills. Parents also joined their children in reflecting on their Year 3 journey so far, creating special moments of connection and pride. The event was a resounding success, with parents praising the creativity and enthusiasm of their children. Thank you to everyone who came along!
'The Big Issue' Guest Speaker Event
Secondary's first ‘The Big Issue’ guest speaker event took place on Monday, 25th November. The most requested topic by our parent community was ‘Anxiety and Stress Management’ and we were delighted to welcome Dr. Asha Dullabh, a Senior Clinical Psychiatrist at Global Care Hospital to deliver a presentation on this ‘Big Issue.’ The session was very well attended, and parents actively participated, posing thoughtprovoking questions and sharing their perspectives, creating a vibrant atmosphere of mutual learning and dialogue. The positive feedback highlighted the importance of addressing these topics in a proactive and collaborative manner. As a result, plans are already underway to organise follow-up workshops and foster ongoing conversations, ensuring continued support for our school community's well-being.
Winter Concert
On Wednesday, 4th December, our school community came together to celebrate the festive season at The British International School Abu Dhabi’s first-ever Winter Concert. The evening was filled with dazzling performances of music and dance from our talented students, showcasing the hard work and creativity from this term's CCAs. The auditorium buzzed with excitement and festive cheer as students lit up the stage with their energy and artistry. Guests also enjoyed delicious treats from the Community Group Snack Shop, adding a cosy touch to the festivities.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and supported our students on this special night. Together, we made beautiful memories to kick off the holiday season!
FS2 Production - The Colour Monster
At the end of Term 1, our FS2 children took to the stage to perform their adorable production of The Colour Monster! Through songs, dances, and confident speeches, they shared the importance of understanding and expressing emotions. The audience was absolutely wowed by their talent, and we couldn't be prouder of their hard work and creativity! Well done, FS2 - you truly brought the stage to life!
Secondary Open Mic Evening
In November, our Secondary Music students hosted their first Open Mic evening of the year! The Open Mic programme, held every Wednesday lunchtime, provides students with a platform to showcase their talents, performing live music for friends and classmates, and adding a vibrant musical touch to BIS Abu Dhabi each week.
The Open Mic evening was a fantastic celebration of their hard work and passion for music, shared with friends, teachers, and family. The event featured a diverse lineup of performances from the Rock and Pop CCA, the Secondary Choir CCA, and soloists from the Orchestra. The repertoire included an impressive range of styles and instruments, featuring music by Queen, Hans Zimmer, Shostakovich, and Metallica.It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening, and our students should be incredibly proud of their performances!
BSME U19 Squad at the Annual BSME Games
Our BSME U19 squad competed in the BSME Games at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi this term, joining 14 teams from across the Middle East. The weekend kicked off with Boys' Football and Girls' Netball. The Boys' Football team narrowly lost in a penalty shootout, finishing as runners-up, while the Girls' Netball team placed 7th. Special mention to Leandro (Year 13), who was named MVP of the Boys' Football competition.
Saturday saw the Girls' Football team finishing 7th and the Boys' Volleyball team securing 3rd place. BIS Abu Dhabi finished 3rd overall, an outstanding achievement! We are incredibly proud of our students' accomplishments, resilience, and sportsmanship, with positive feedback highlighting their respect and character throughout the event. Well done to all!
Triathlon
On 14th November, we proudly hosted our annual BIS Abu Dhabi Triathlon in collaboration with Gulf Multi Sport!
An incredible 200 athletes from Year 3 to Year 13 participated, showcasing remarkable determination and resilience throughout the event. Our amazing CAS volunteers supported the transition zones, providing guidance on the course, while staff volunteers ensured the event ran smoothly as marshals. A special thank you to our Community Group for running the snack shop and sponsoring ice pops, keeping everyone energised.
The triathlon included swimming, cycling, and running, with course distances tailored to each year group. Every athlete crossed the finish line and received a well-deserved participation medal. The final run, often the toughest part, was met with unwavering effort and determination, cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd of parents and supporters.
Congratulations to all athletes and volunteers for making this event such a success!
Dubai 7s
During the National Weekend, over 60 students participated in the Dubai7 event in various capacities, showcasing the spirit and talent of BIS Abu Dhabi. Students played for the combined Nord Anglia Education Netball and Rugby teams, represented their own clubs, and volunteered to support the event. It was fantastic to see so many students and staff enjoying the atmosphere, proudly representing their teams, and cheering each other on from the sidelines.
The Rugby teams faced tough opposition, but having two teams in the competition this year, compared to one last year, was a significant achievement. Despite the challenges of bringing players together from our school and sister school NAS Dubai, they gave their best and embraced the experience of competing at the prestigious Dubai 7s. Plans are already underway to strengthen collaboration between Nord Anglia schools in the UAE to compete more effectively against top teams like DESC and DC in the future.
The Netball team delivered a strong performance, reaching the plate final and narrowly missing the win by just two points. After a slow start, they found their rhythm and played excellent netball. This remarkable effort was even more impressive given they had only two training sessions together and included players from three different Nord Anglia schools.
The student volunteers were outstanding throughout the weekend, starting early and finishing late, with some days extending until 10 pm. Their dedication and enthusiasm were evident, and they relished the opportunity to be part of such a high-profile event. A highlight for many was stepping onto the main pitch and meeting professional players. Event organisers were highly impressed with the volunteers working on Pitches 1 and 2, where professional matches took place, and shared glowing feedback about their contributions. A heartfelt thank you to all the students and staff who played, supported, or volunteered during the weekend. BIS Abu Dhabi truly shone on the big stage!
BIS
Graduate Tamsin Sangster
What made BIS Abu Dhabi special for you?
BIS Abu Dhabi has always felt like a second home for me because of the positive and friendly atmosphere. It is clear the staff care about supporting the students. I always felt comfortable speaking to teachers when I had concerns, and was also excited to share my successes with them. The school also encourages togetherness through its diversity of nationalities and opportunities to bring together students of different ages on House Days, National Day celebrations and even when older students help out with CCAs and sports teams for younger years. There is a clear community feeling.
Which school activity inspired you the most?
My favourite memory was participating in the 2023 U19 BSME Games, during my final year of school. It was an incredibly special experience not only because our school was the overall winner, but to be able to reflect on how far the team and I had come since my first BSME U11 Games (where we came last). We were given a parade through the school to celebrate our success and I was also honoured to give a short speech. It was a fitting end to my BSME journey.
What is the most important lesson you learned during your time at BIS Abu Dhabi?
I learnt that with hard work you can achieve anything you put your mind to, especially in relation to the IB programme. Some things will take a while, but if you break things up and reflect on the progress you have made along the way, it makes it less overwhelming. This was especially relevant during COVID lockdown, during my GCSEs, when things became really challenging. The teachers at BIS Abu Dhabi kept encouraging me to work hard, and through listening to their advice and putting in the effort, I was able to get the grades that I wanted. I continued that momentum through my IB years and now achieved my ultimate goal, to get accepted into my top University choice.
What ambitions did BIS Abu Dhabi inspire in you?
BIS Abu Dhabi inspired a love of learning in me, which is one of the reasons why I am currently studying Law. And when I start my career, I will still be learning because every case is so different, and the law is constantly evolving. BIS Abu Dhabi has also inspired me to always aim high, which is why I aimed for Oxford, why I will aim to attain a Training Scheme in a top Law Firm, and why I am aiming to be a Blues Runner in the Oxford University Cross Country Club.
Class of 2023
Which university and degree did you choose, and why?
It was a tough choice between Engineering and Law, as both involve problem solving. I settled on Law because it was the option that would best keep my options open in the future. Travel and working with different people from all over the world is important to me, I think that is because I have grown up amongst so many people from different cultural backgrounds, and I understand that studying English Law will allow me to practice law in many different countries. Also, I thought that in the future, I could take my legal practice to work with engineering firms, meaning I could have a bit of everything. For my university choice, I think I had always aspired to go to the University of Oxford because of its reputation, and BIS Abu Dhabi has always encouraged its students to ‘Be Ambitious’. But, I also attended an Open Day in Oxford and from then on couldn’t see myself going anywhere else.
How did the IB help your experience at university?
Managing a heavy workload and tight deadlines during the IB Programme helped make a smooth transition from school to university. Due to the coursework that the IB requires you to complete, I have felt more confident when writing, researching and referencing for my university essays. Furthermore, the IB focuses on reflection and evaluation, which has encouraged me to not only engage with different perspectives that enhance my arguments, but also to self-reflect which has helped to improve my learning and writing.
What has been your proudest moment since graduating?
Since graduating, I was very proud to achieve a 2.1 in my end of Year 1 University Exams. I was also proud to have my first job, working as a waitress in a café over the summer, and to earn money for the first time (that didn’t come from a race). It was a fascinating experience, in which I learnt so many new skills and so much about working with different people and customers.
What are you doing now?
I am currently in my second year of studying law at the University of Oxford, learning and studying for my final exams which will take place in 2026. Those exams will allow me to move to the next step in my path towards becoming a solicitor. Aside from reading tort law and land law this term, I am part of the University’s cross country club and Oriel College’s rowing club to keep active and to maintain a good balance between work and social life.
Abu Dhabi
At our school, we celebrate every child’s unique gifts and talents, by creating exceptional learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom. We believe in preparing our students to not only achieve academically, but to also develop character, kindness, and confidence to make a positive difference in the world.
Alan Cocker, Principal
CREATE YOURFUTURE
At The British International School Abu Dhabi, we open doors to life-changing experiences. Our Early Years play-based approach sparks curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning.
Our new Eco-Edventure area takes learning outdoors, building resilience, critical thinking, and care for the environment. Guided by inspiring teachers in a state-of-the-art environment, our students grow into thinkers, creators, and future-makers. Help your child discover all they can do, and all they can be.
Find out more about our Early Years Curriculum: bisabudhabi.com
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