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Student individuality is a valuable asset Al Bateen Secondary School helps students achieve their potential as citizens of a global society and as individuals with their own talents and ambitions
Rise of the IB International Baccalaureate gains student preference for its intensive but beneficial courses » Farhana Chowdhury
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he multi-cultural environment in the UAE has given rise to a diverse range of schools, programmes and curriculum, leaving students spoilt for choice. Among these, the Switzerlandbased International Baccalaureate (IB) is gaining attention for its uniquely designed courses, which promote creativity and guide students to adapt a critical mode of thinking. According to the International Baccalaureate educational foundation, IB education is offered in 4,477 schools across 143 countries, and the UAE alone has 37 schools. There are three categories in IB — primary years programme, middle years programme and diploma programme. Each caters to different age groups for a more concentrated approach, where children as young as three years old are enrolled for an early start and the oldest are 19 years of age. Gone are the days of passing knowledge, facts and theory down one-way from teacher to student. The IB programme encourages both teachers and students to take on an interactive style of
Categories of IB education ❖❖ Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 3 to 12 ❖❖ Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students aged 11 to 16 ❖❖ Diploma Programme (DP) for students aged 16 to 19
learning that opens up routes for indepth discussions and a hands-on approach to education. Teachers further take on the role of mentors, while students are inspired to make decisions and select their own topics for special projects so that they are better involved in their subjects. Educators in IB strongly focus on research and writing, and note that peers stand as a role model of learning. Students are expected to develop critical thinking, which would later assist them in advanced university courses and real world scenarios. This, paired with evolving digital technologies, would help mould students into competitive and productive adults of tomorrow. — farhana@khaleejtimes.com
Aldar Academies’ Al Bateen was launched in 2011 with a vision to apply a holistic approach to education by employing a rigorous curriculum and assessment programme that encompasses creativity, leadership, critical thinking and independent learning, both in class and in extracurricular activities. “Our vision has been to create an inclusive and highly ambitious academic institution. To this end, our ascent to becoming an IB World School — achieved two years after opening — was vital,” said Dr Chiara Tabet, IB DP Coordinator, Aldar Academies’ Al Bateen. In the latest inspections from Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC), Al Bateen Secondary School received an A1 “Outstanding” grade, and to date is known to be the first secondary school to achieve this rating. “We have had very good I/ GSCE results so far and are very excited to graduate our first Y13 cohort this year,” she added. Al Bateen Secondary School offers two prestigious and rigorous curricula — the English National Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Students enjoy numerous local and international field trips as part of their learning experience as well. “As far as university preparation, we offer one-toone assistance with applications, plus extensive orientation workshops and university fairs. We also possess a wide network of partners including top national and international universities,” she says. Standing apart from others “Our value-add is based around the level of care and support that is given to each student. We focus on each student as an individual, with unique talents and attributes, and concentrate on bringing out the best in each one,” said Tabet.
but is also a boundary-pusher; students who best fit the programme are those who are not afraid to have their opinion and their worldview challenged. At the same time, the curriculum requires an agile intellectual capability,” Tabet said.
Dr Chiara Tabet, IB DP Coordinator, Aldar Academies’ Al Bateen
Curriculum structure The school offers English National Curriculum with an international dimension in Years 7 to 9, followed by the I/GSCEs in Years 10 and 11. At the Year 12/13 level, both the IB Diploma Programme and British A-Levels are offered, which parents and students choose based on preference and future goals. The IB is a rigorous and rewarding curriculum based around six subject groups as well as the DP core, consisting of TOK (theory of knowledge), CAS (creativity, action, service), and Extended Essay. Students choose their courses from the subject groups of sciences, mathematics, individuals and societies, language and literature, and language acquisition. Students choose three to four higher-level classes, and take the rest at a standard level. Admission overview Al Bateen is an inclusive school model, but students need to show evidence of good work ethics and an exemplary behaviour for learning. For both the IB Diploma Programme and A-Levels, entry conditions are dictated by its wish for each child to be placed in the best possible position to succeed. “Like all IB World Schools, we recommend IB for students who possess high levels of inquiry, who are principled, open-minded thinkers and reflective risktakers. The IB is academically rigorous,
Overall environment and co-curricular scene Al Bateen is passionate about maintaining a creative and inclusive learning environment, where students are comfortable to speak freely, think outside the box, and get creative. Its CAS activities are substantial and updated every term. “The service element of CAS is a core focus for us — we want to instil a sense in our students of giving back to both their local and global communities. Students write reflections on their extracurricular journeys. Environment plays a big role — thanks to student-led initiatives, Al Bateen is now a fully recycling school,” she said. In addition, the school offers a wide selection of after-school creative activities such as graphic design, photography, jewellery design, languages, calligraphy, book club, Quran club, music, choir, drama, and dance. It also offers sports such as football, cricket, baseball, basketball, netball, swimming, rugby, badminton, sailing and water sports, expeditions, and international award schemes. Promoting intercultural understanding among students Internationalism and multiculturalism is a critical component of the IB learner profile, which is why the international and cross-cultural dimension is a part of everything Al Bateen does. “We involve it in assemblies, debates, and events such as our recent international day, or the fund-raising drives we engage in such as enterprise day. Internationalism is a key theme in all lesson planning,” she said. Another critical component is instilling a sense of value in each student’s own culture, even as they learn about others. For instance, students can take exams in their own mother tongue at both the IB Diploma and I/GCSE levels. “Because of the extent of the multicultural student body, every student interacts with different cultures every day,” Tabet added.
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International Baccalaureate (IB) Curriculum SCHOOLS »
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Developing skills based on future needs International Baccalaureate is broad enough to meet changing educational requirements GEMS International School — Al Khail has invested heavily in the International Baccalaureate (IB) because, quite simply, it believe sthe curriculum offers the best system of education available in the world today. As well as being rigorous and well respected by higher education providers, the IB is broad enough and flexible enough to meet changing needs. Its new Principal, David Ottaviano, was formerly the President of International Baccalaureate in North Asia. He brings with him an international pedigree that includes almost 20 years as the head of private IB curriculum schools across the world. The GEMS IB programme, spearheaded by the former Director-General of the International Baccalaureate, Jeffrey Beard, has seen substantial success across the UAE. James Mac-
GEMS International School believes it is important that today’s students are prepared for the workplaces of tomorrow.
Donald, Chair of the IB Asia Pacific Regional Council and a recent addition to the team, has been charged with overseeing IB provision in GEMS schools throughout the UAE. What’s special about an IB education at GEMS International School — Al Khail? GEMS International School believes it is important that today’s students are prepared for the workplaces of tomorrow. The school wants its students to excel in a spirit of discovery and independent thought. It wants them to benefit from teaching and learning practices that incorporate emerging technologies such as robotics, 3D printing and augmented reality. Its classrooms are studentcentred, skills-based, and rooted in technology; it wants young learners to have every opportunity to develop their interests and passion because it believes that it is the best way to enable them to flourish. At GEMS International School, students are far more likely to collaborate together on a project or research independently online than poring over textbooks in silence. From designing virtual cities using innovative software to exploring a new language with multimedia resources, its students are offered numerous opportunities every day to connect with the kind of learning they will need for the future. To find out more about GEMS International School — Al Khail, visit: gemsinternationalschool-alkhail.com
GEMS Wellington prepares students for the future through a range of digitally integrated qualifications Schooling at GEMS Wellington is more than just academics. Students here are prepared to think independently and have the confidence to make mature decisions after school. “I have found studying the IB at GEMS Wellington Academy to be the most challenging and rewarding experience,” remarks Venkatesh Kumar, a Blended Learning Diploma student who has applied to UCLA, Oxford and Berkeley universities to study Computer Science. “To be amongst the pioneers studying the Blended Learning IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme) is a very exciting and valuable experience. I have learned so many skills in research, critical thinking and time management,” he added. Students studying the IBDP or the IBCP (In-
ternational Baccalaureate Career-related Programme) are able to follow one or more courses as digitally interactive courses that include live lessons in a global classroom with some of the world’s best IB teachers and full access to carefully selected resources. Blended learning and the integration of technology are at the forefront of the curriculum and in keeping with the Academy’s educational rationale and the vision of the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority as a “Smart City”. GEMS Wellington Academy, Silicon Oasis (WSO) has a unique blended
A genuine desire for learning Reflective and resilient, WSO students embody a genuine desire and capacity for learning, are truly internationally minded citizens, capable of leading and influencing their own communities. Munira Rajkotwalla, a first year Diploma student, has aspirations to find employment in the care, and support of others and contribute towards eliminating world hunger. “Through TEDx Youth, for example, WSO students are able to have a voice and comment on pertinent issues affecting the world today. I wanted to encourage my peers to become involved, learn more deeply and present their ideas about global and local turbulence from a personal perspective,” says Rajkotwalla. Independence and drive It is clear that WSO students develop skills, knowledge and personal capabilities necessary to make a positive difference in an ever-changing world. WSO offers 26 different IB subjects in niche areas as Computer Science, Design Technology and Film. The heart of the IB Diploma is the core programme, designed to develop cognitive skills and attributes of an expert learner, alongside the independence and drive of a citizen determined to find a way in which he or she can contribute to the world.
» Al Bateen Secondary School
Reasons to do IB Diploma at Al Bateen Secondary School (Rated “Outstanding” By ADEC)
A FUTURE SHAPED BY OUR CHILDREN
❖❖ Offers academic learning that is recognised by universities around the world ❖❖ Universities value students with meaningful experiences beyond the classroom ❖❖ Creates independent learners and strong writers ❖❖ Cultivates an international mindset ❖❖ At every step, the school prepares students to embrace the future ❖❖ IB students have proven time management skills ❖❖ Encourages critical thinking ❖❖ Subjects aren’t taught in isolation
We can’t predict the future, but Al Bateen Secondary School can prepare your child to embrace it Al Bateen Secondary School is an Aldar Academies School where it aims to raise courageous children with the ability to apply critical thinking within a global view. Its holistic approach towards education sees students step out with an international edge whilst at the same time receive ample opportunities to develop individual abilities through creativity, sport, teamwork, leadership, performance and service. Its internationally qualified teachers help students to develop problem-solv-
ing skills and a love of learning. Al Bateen Secondary School’s unique approach provides challenges and progression delivered through high quality teaching, learning and assessment. Facilities at the school are excellent and include a research laboratory, 850-seat auditorium, music recording studios, Astro-turf field, a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, basketball courts, sports hall and outdoor play areas — all combined with an enriched selection of extra-curricular activities. When students walk out, they are equipped with the skills and attributes they need to succeed as lifelong learners in the 21st century world — information technology, creative thinking, critical analysis, problem solving and decision making. It all begins by providing a caring and supportive environment in which students respect each other, feel safe and happy, and thrive. Al Bateen Secondary Schools offer the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, the perfect programme for students seeking a broad,
challenging education with a global view. The IB Diploma Programme is an academically challenging and balanced programme of education with final examinations that prepares students aged 15 to 18 for success at university and life beyond. The Diploma Programme prepares students for effective participation in a rapidly evolving and increasingly global society as they develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically, and acquire breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding, studying courses from six subject groups. “The IB Diploma Programme is perfectly suited to conscientious and motivated students who wish to combine cooperative and inde-
pendent learning across a broad base of subjects,” says Dr Chiara Tabet, who heads the IB programme at Al Bateen. “It is highly regarded by leading universities and is excellent preparation for success at university level.” Students of the IB Diploma Programme have an increased advantage of being accepted into the most prestigious universities worldwide, including Harvard, Yale and Princeton. AL BATEEN SECONDARY SCHOOL Tel: + 971 2 8132000 Email: admissions@albateen.sch.ae Web: www.albateen.sch.ae Street No.28, Al Manaseer Area, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Schools offering IB Curriculum Schools
Type of course offered
◗◗ Abu Dhabi International Private School
Diploma Programme
◗◗ Ajman Academy
Primary Years Programme
◗◗ Al Bateen Secondary School
Diploma Programme
◗◗ Al Najah Private School
Diploma Programme
◗◗ American Community School, Abu Dhabi
Diploma Programme
◗◗ American International School, Abu Dhabi
Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Australian International School
Diploma Programme
◗◗ Australian School of Abu Dhabi
Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Dar al Marefa Private School
Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Deira International School
Primary Years Programme
◗◗ Dubai American Academy
Diploma Programme
◗◗ Dubai International Academy
Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Emirates International School, Jumeirah
Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Emirates International School – Meadows
Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Emirates National School - Abu Dhabi City Campus
Primary Years Programme, and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Emirates National School – Mohammed Bin Zayed Campus
Primary Years Programme, and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Emirates National School Al Ain City Campus
Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme
◗◗ GEMS American Academy - Abu Dhabi
Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme
◗◗ GEMS Modern Academy
Diploma Programme
◗◗ GEMS Wellington Academy - Silicon Oasis
Diploma Programme
◗◗ GEMS Wellington International School
Diploma Programme
◗◗ GEMS World Academy – Dubai
Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme
◗◗ GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi
Primary Years Programme
◗◗ German International School Sharjah
Diploma Programme
◗◗ Greenfield Community School and Diploma Programme
Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme,
◗◗ Jumeira Baccalaureate School
Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Jumeirah English Speaking School
Diploma Programme
◗◗ Raffles World Academy
Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Raha International School and Diploma Programme
Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme
◗◗ Ras Al Khaimah English Speaking School
Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Repton School, Dubai
Diploma Programme
◗◗ The British International School Abu Dhabi
Diploma Programme
◗◗ The Universal American School – Dubai
Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Towheed Iranian School
Diploma Programme
◗◗ Uptown School
Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme
◗◗ Victoria International School of Sharjah
Diploma Programme Source: IBO website
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Advertorial
GEMS International School AL KHAIL
The GEMS International Baccalaureate (IB) experience: sustaining natural curiosity and amplifying the desire to learn The IB at a glance: • Fastest growing educational system in the world
• Offers a rigorous integrated programme with great breadth of study • Incorporates teaching practices from around the world • Encourages exploratory learning, problem solving and high level thinking • Fosters global citizenship
Jeffrey Beard
Dr. David Ottaviano
James MacDonald
Former Director General of the International Baccalaureate
Principal and International Baccalaureate Specialist
Chair of the IB Asia Pacific Regional Council
Why choose GEMS International School – Al Khail? • The GEMS IB education strategy, spearheaded by Jeffrey Beard, former Director General of the International Baccalaureate, has seen our UAE schools consistently score above-average in IB assessments over recent years in comparison to the rest of the world • Our new Principal, Dr. David Ottaviano, formerly President of IB North
For over 55 years, parents have
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placed their trust in GEMS schools.
brings with him an international leadership pedigree that includes almost
As passionate educators with a
20 years as the head of private international IB curriculum schools in
proven track record, we believe our
Italy, Japan, Romania and Serbia
International Baccalaureate curriculum is the perfect choice for children with curious minds. We are committed to delivering a continuous IB education for all students through the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP), thereby providing the ideal preparation for entry to the world’s top universities.
• James MacDonald, Chair of the IB Asia Pacific Regional Council, as Senior IB Curriculum Lead, will oversee the IB curriculum across GEMS schools in the UAE, ensuring cross-school integration and shared best practice • All our teachers receive rigorous and continuous IB training and we have IB-accredited trainers • We place an emphasis on developing strong character and leadership qualities, important characteristics for today’s 21st century learners; our students participate in international and regional competitions including, The World Scholar’s Cup, Model United Nations and more • Our school was purpose-built to deliver IB programmes; developments include 11 dedicated science labs, a digitally connected design technology lab for middle year students, advanced communication teaching facilities including an on-site TV station and more.
Enrolling Now from KG 1 – Grade 10 (Expanding to Grade 11-12)* +9714 339 6200 / 600 56 7771 registrar_gis@gemsedu.com gemsis-alkhail.com *Grade opening and operations are subject to the completion of facilities for the said year group and final approval from KHDA.