GESS Talks Live

Like any other complex skill, effective communication must be taught. By using assent procedures, even young children can practise communication, self-determination, and self-advocacy skills. In this panel, three experts will discuss the role assent can play in early childhood in the context of education, research, and parenting. Dr. Shannon Ward, Clinical Director of the Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Special Education operated by the New England Center for Children, will offer examples of what innovative assent-based programming can look like in education, including with students of determination. Jessica Castelyn, Research Consultant at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, will offer views about the importance of assent in early childhood research. Dr. Michelle Kelly, Behavioural Psychologist and Associate Professor at Emirates College for Advanced Education, will share suggestions about how parents of young children can embed assent opportunities into everyday activities.

Language : English

Topic : Early Years

This panel will discuss the varying recruitment requirements and look at where there are teacher shortages. Why some schools don’t see problems with recruitment and what training is available

Language : English

Topic : Recruitment and Development

In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, collaboration is a crucial tool that elevates every element of teaching and learning. Join BSME for a panel discussion featuring leading educators, network and cluster leads as we explore the transformative power of collaboration in education. Our diverse panel will share their success stories, innovative strategies, and details of existing collaborative communities you can join before looking at how you can embed a culture of collaboration in your organisation.

Language : English

Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching

Multiple factors (and most of them positive!) are driving many schools, school groups and Early Childhood providers to explore new territories, new opportunities to share their ‘legacy’ and recent innovations and are searching for partners and investors who share that vision. Given that there are already amazing providers already established in Dubai, and a dizzying range of choices for parents, why are new entrants to the Middle East targeting Dubai and its counterparts as their next destination? In this session, we invite colleagues to ‘eavesdrop’ on a conversation between Pam Mundy, Executive Director of Pam Mundy Associates and Fiona Carter, International Director of Education as they discuss dreams, decisions and destinations in this ‘armchair chat’.

‘And suddenly you know: it’s time to start something new and trust the excitement of new beginnings’ Meister Ekhart

Language : English

Topic : Early Years

Join us in this panel as we delve into the crucial aspects of wellbeing policies, identifying burnout signals, and crafting effective personal strategies. Discover actionable insights to foster resilience and maintain equilibrium, empowering educators to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

Language : English

Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching

This talk will delve into strategies for effectively integrating university and careers guidance into the secondary school curriculum. Participants will learn practical tips for fostering student awareness of higher education options, developing essential career skills, and building strong relationships with universities. The talk will also explore the importance of personalized guidance and the role of technology in supporting students' academic and career aspirations.

Key Takeaways:

• Strategies for integrating university and careers guidance into the curriculum

• Tips for developing essential career skills in students • Building strong relationships with universities

• The importance of personalized guidance

• The role of technology in supporting students' academic and career aspirations

Language : English

Topic : Higher Education / Vocational

Language : English

Topic : Curriculum

In light of recent headlines highlighting online safety concerns, our distinguished panel of experts will delve into the multifaceted aspects of safeguarding, addressing both the online and in-class environments. This panel aims to underscore the significance of comprehensive safety measures across schools, social settings, and homes, emphasising the pivotal role that online and personal safety play in ensuring a secure and protected learning experience for students.

Language : English

Topic : Digital / eLearning / Coding

#CollabUAE TeachMeet #CollabUAE connects visionary educators across the United Arab Emirates, fostering a vibrant community dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning. Dive into a world of collaboration, innovation, and inspiration

Moderators: Tom Sale Director of IT and Innovation Kent College Dubai Andi Price Lead on Edtech and Innovation Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai

Speakers:

Tai Paschall Digital Cluster Education Lead Bloom Charter Schools

Death of the Digital Native

Debunking the idea that students 'just know' how to use technology, Andy will take you on a whistle-stop journey of how we came to use the term, the battle between digital natives and digital immigrants, as well as what we can do to help students move on from this label.

Andy Perryer Head of Digital Learning Cognita Schools

Human-Centred Curriculum Design

Unlock the potential of your curriculum in this session on Curriculum Design and Implementation: Coherence, Creativity, Compassion, and Community Action. Join us as we explore how to craft a curriculum that connects knowledge across disciplines whilst staying student focused. Discover strategies for creating a coherent learning experience, fostering creativity within a curriculum built on compassion, and embedding meaningful community partnerships. This session is ideal for educators looking to deepen their understanding of interdisciplinary learning and design a curriculum that is both academically rigorous and personally meaningful for students.

George Stokes Deputy Head Teacher - Primary The Arbor School

Pastoral Excellence as a Foundation for Academic Success: A Data-Driven Approach In this session, explore how strong pastoral systems lay the foundation for academic success by addressing the emotional and social needs of students. Discover how tracking attendance and behavioural data can enhance student engagement and drive improved outcomes. Using real-world case studies and well-being metrics, this presentation will demonstrate practical strategies to integrate pastoral care into your school culture. Attendees will gain insight into how schools can link student well-being to attainment, creating a supportive environment where both personal development and academic achievement thrive.

Bodruz Jamir Head of Year & English Teacher Dubai British School Emirates Hills

Adaptive Professional Learning

This presentation will provide insights into how adaptive professional development and learning can transform teachers and leaders. Part of the three pillars of time, training and trust, we will explore ways in which a programme of APL can empower and invigorate a staff body, making professional learning relevant and worthwhile for all.

John Short Ring Head of Senior School Kent College Dubai

Fran Ring Vice Principal: Pedagogy and Practice Jumeirah College

Beyond the Hype: AI in Education

In this short presentation, Mark Anderson, the ICT Evangelist will share some of the research into what works with AI to help see beyond the hype and why we can learn from the lessons of Bananarama to achieve better impact with our use of AI and all EdTech.

Mark Anderson Director ICT Evangelist

CollabUAE : Edsidera providing bespoke extra curricular options

Discussion over the benefits of bespoke extra curricular awards. Building a global community of support. Ensuring schools have the support they genuinely need.

Rachael Wilding, Director and Founder of Edsidera

AI Goes to School

Tai Paschall, AI in Education and EdTech Specialist has done all your AI homework for you. The session is packed with real application for how you can easily integrate AI in your school safely and efficiently!

Tai Paschall Digital Education & AI Specialist

Language : English

Topic : Learning Environment