This site is part of the Informa Connect Division of Informa PLC

This site is operated by a business or businesses owned by Informa PLC and all copyright resides with them. Informa PLC's registered office is 5 Howick Place, London SW1P 1WG. Registered in England and Wales. Number 3099067.

Berna Bouwer

Corporate Head of Inclusion

GEMS Education

Berna is a highly qualified Educational Leader and Educational Psychologist with almost 25 years of experience in the field. She began her career as a primary school teacher in South Africa, specializing in Mathematics and ELL, and has since worked in a range of environments, including schools catering to students with diverse learning needs. After earning her MEd in Educational Psychology, Berna worked as a School Psychologist and also managed a Private Practice. Her international experience includes roles in Dubai as a Director of Inclusion, Deputy Head, Year 1 -6 teacher, GCSE Psychology teacher, ABA Therapist, and Inclusion Specialist. In the UK, she served as Lead Inclusion Specialist for GEMS (UK & Europe), a teacher of mathematics and psychology GCSE. Head of Prep at Sherfield School, as well as Head of Inclusion, DSL, and Pastoral Deputy Head (whole school). Berna has recently returned to the UAE as Corporate Head of Inclusion for GEMS Education, where she is overseeing the development and implementation of comprehensive inclusion strategies and initiatives across the network of schools. Berna is passionate about cultivating a culture of inclusion and excellence, not only in GEMS but also in the region.

SPEAKER SESSIONS

12 November, 2024 | 16:20 to 16:40
Inclusion as a Driver for Change: Embracing Diversity and Opportunity in Dubai's Education System

This talk explores the transformative impact of inclusive education in Dubai, emphasizing how it drives change, fosters acceptance, and provides opportunities for all students. Inclusion in education means integrating all students, regardless of abilities, into mainstream schools, ensuring they feel valued and supported. The UAE's strong legislative framework, including the UAE Disability Act and the Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework, mandates accessible and inclusive education for all Students of Determination. Inclusion promotes a culture of acceptance, challenges stereotypes, and enhances educational outcomes by exposing students to diverse perspectives. Practical strategies for implementing inclusion include teacher training, curriculum adaptation, and support services. Inclusive education empowers students, builds a supportive community, and prepares them for a diverse world, ultimately fostering a more inclusive society.