GESS Talks Live
TUE 12 NOVEMBER
10:20 - 11:05Teaching Effective Communication from the Start: Why Assent Matters in Early Childhood Education, Research, and Parenting
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
Moderator:
- Dr Sarah Mead Jasperse | Assistant Professor | Emirates College for Advanced Education
Speakers:
- Dr Michelle Kelly | Associate Professor | Emirates College for Advanced Education
- Dr Shannon Ward | Clinical Director | MRC-NECC
- Jessica Castelyn | Research Consultant | Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority
11:05 - 11:50Education Recruitment panel session
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
Moderator:
- Sanam Yaqub | Equality Diversity and Inclusion Lead. Strategic School Partnerships Lead | University of Birmingham Dubai
Speakers:
- Natallia Ershova | Talent Acquisition Manager | The Blossom Nursery Family
- Pali Nahal | Director | Ajyal Schools
- Neil Ollier | Business Development Director | Edvectus Limited
- Debra Forsyth | CEO | BSME
11:50 - 12:35Collaboration: Your Education Superpower
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
Moderator:
- Nalini Cook | Business Manager | BSME
Speakers:
- Simon O'Connor | School Director | Deira International School
- Debra Forsyth | CEO | BSME
- Sanam Yaqub | Equality Diversity and Inclusion Lead. Strategic School Partnerships Lead | University of Birmingham Dubai
- Fiona Cottam | Principal | Hartland International School
12:45 - 13:10Destination Dubai
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
Speakers:
- Pam Mundy | Executive Director | Pam Mundy Associates Ltd
- Fiona Carter | International Director (Primary and Early Years) | Wellington College International
13:15 - 14:00Finding Balance: Wellbeing Policies, Burnout Signals, and Personal Strategies for Educators
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
Moderator:
- Dr Helen Wright | Director | Global Thought Leadership Limited
Speakers:
- Kamil Majeed | CEO and Executive Principal | Nordic International School Lahore
- Rania Badreldin | Founder and CEO / Happiness Consultant | The Family Hub
- Dr Emanuel Vincent | Consultant | Pinkgrape Consulting
- Nicola S.Morgan | International Educational Consultant | NSM Training & Consultancy Ltd
- Kat Thorne | Founder/Managing Director | The Morning GameChanger
14:10 - 14:40Supporting University and Careers within your Secondary School for Teachers and Leadership
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
Moderator:
- Dr Helen Wright | Director | Global Thought Leadership Limited
Speaker:
- Sherifa Amin | Futures Counsellor | The Arbor School
14:40 - 15:25The importance of performing arts education in schools today
Language : English
Topic : Curriculum
Moderator:
- Gareth Ansell | Head of Music | Hartland International School
Speakers:
- Hayley Limpkin | Strategic Business Coach | Razzamataz Theatre Schools
- Dr Sarah Martinez | Head of Music | Brighton College
- Professor Andy Gleadhill | Professor of Music | Self Employed
15:30 - 16:15Creating Safe Havens: Safeguarding Practices for Schools and the Internet
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
Speakers:
- John Paton | Head of Inclusion and Executive leader | Dubai British School Jumeira
- George Peterkin | Managing Director | Mind Your Health
- Annika Jisu Babu | School Counselor, Member of Child Protection and Child Safeguarding Team | GEMS Modern Academy
- Rasha Al Najjar | Assistant Principal - N/S & H/S | Al Hekma International School
16:15 - 18:00#CollabUAE TeachMeet
#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
Moderators:
- Thomas Sale | Director of IT and Innovation | Kent College Dubai
- Andi Price | Lead on EdTech and Innovation | Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai
Speakers:
- Andy Perryer | Head of Digital Learning | Cognita
- George Stokes | Deputy Headteacher | The Arbor School
- Bodruz Jamir | Head of Year and Teacher of English | Dubai British School Emirates Hills
- Fran Ring | Vice Principal: Pedagogy and Practice | Jumeirah College
- Mark Anderson | Director | ICT Evangelist
- Rachael Wilding | Director and Founder | Edsidera
- Tai Paschall | Digital Education & AI Specialist
WED 13 NOVEMBER
10:30 - 11:10Innovations in EdTech and how to implement AI in Education
Join us for an insightful panel where we explore the latest advancements in educational technology and practical strategies for integrating artificial intelligence into learning environments. Hear our expert speakers to discover how AI can transform teaching methodologies and enhance student engagement and outcomes.
Language : English
Topic : Digital / eLearning / Coding
Moderator:
- Darren Coxon | Founder | Coxon.AI
Speakers:
- Tai Paschall | Digital Education & AI Specialist
- Ben Whitaker | Director | Edufuturists & The Ideas Guy
- Steve Bambury | Head of Digital Learning and Innovation | JESS Dubai
- Linda Scaife | Digital Learning Lead | Bloom World Academy
- Sabba Quidwai | CEO | Designing Schools
11:10 - 11:30Teacher Skills Network - Community building around PD for educators
Teacher Skills Network is a community of teachers, educators, lecturers, and training professionals from Singapore, Asia, and beyond focused on professional development. How can you build a network of committed educators to support professional development and training? How can you find and engage corporate partners to support such an initiative?
Language : English
Topic : Recruitment and Development
Speaker:
- Michael Klemm | Managing Director | Singapore Education Network
11:30 - 12:16Digital Literacy: Unlocking Potential with Coding
Our expert speakers explore coding and its related disciplines, skills, and instructional approaches. Discover how mastering coding skills can empower students to navigate the digital landscape effectively. Doing so, unlocks endless opportunities for innovation and growth.
Language : English
Topic : Digital / eLearning / Coding
Moderator:
- Philippa Wraithmell | Founder | EdRuption
Speakers:
- Zaineb Mahdi | Director of Innovation & Digital Technology & Assistant Headteacher | GEMS Wellington International School.
- Sara Dara | CEO | Programmers Zone
12:15 - 12:40Project Based Learning and Artificial Intelligence: A Match Made in Heaven
Language : English
Topic : VR / AI / Robotics / Ed Tech
Speakers:
- Darren Coxon | Founder | Coxon.AI
- Ayesha Farhan | Learning Designer & Facilitator | School of Humanity
12:45 - 13:30How to develop sustainable schools practically
This insightful session features a diverse panel of speakers who share their perspectives on COP28, reflecting on experiences with sustainable practices in their respective schools, and provide valuable observations. The session offers practical tips but also delves into overarching strategies for shaping the sustainable schools of the future.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Moderator:
- Edward Pearce | Director | Fairgreen International School
Speakers:
- Ana Romero | Head of Sustainability | Wellington College And Wellington College International
- Ahmed Ashour | Chief Sustainability Commercial Officer - MEA | Microsoft
- Jeremy Hallum | School Principal & CEO | GEMS Metropole School - Al Waha
- Peter Milne | Founder and Director | TARGET4GREEN Educational Consultancy and Training LTD
- Aishwarya Rai | Programs Associate and Climate Lead | Dubai Cares
13:30 - 14:00Armchair chat with Alex Gray & Gavin McCormack
Language : English
Speakers:
- Alex Gray | Head of Sixth Form | Arcadia School
- Gavin McCormack | Co-founder | Upschool.co
14:00 - 14:30Sustainable Schools and Experience design
The Directors of Kampus will be discussing the ongoing complexities of sustainable school architecture. Using experience design solutions developed for the British School of Brussels as an example of how schools can differentiate their approach and the surprising advantages this presents for a range of projects they are undertaking in the Middle East. The session will debate the choices schools and operations groups have to make and inspire delegates to develop their own unique and positive approach to their campus estate.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Speakers:
- Harry Hoodless | Head of Architecture | Kampus
- David Judge | Exec Creative Director | Kampus International
14:30 - 14:50Unlocking University Doors: Skills Beyond Scores
In this session, discover how the evolving landscape of university admissions opens new pathways for students, blending traditional academic expectations with a fresh emphasis on skills. Tailored for school counsellors, students, parents, and education policymakers, this talk demystifies the admissions process, highlighting how many universities increasingly value diverse talents and real-world skills alongside exams and grades. Learn strategies for showcasing students’ unique abilities in applications, making a compelling case for their readiness and potential, even if test scores aren't top-tier. This talk will reveal how to navigate this changing terrain, ensuring students stand out by presenting a holistic picture of their capabilities. And in turn, schools will be in the driver's seat on skills-focused higher education.
Language : English
Topic : Higher Education / Vocational
Speaker:
- Dr Ted Purinton | Founding Dean | Sharjah Education Academy
14:50 - 15:10Building a student profile through entrepreneurship - The value of skills
In the competitive academic landscape, building a robust student profile through entrepreneurship is crucial for university applications. It fosters essential skills such as leadership, creativity, problem-solving and resilience; attributes that are highly valued by universities and set students apart in the application process. Activities like starting a small business, participating in startup competitions or launching a community service project allow students to demonstrate initiative and innovation. Creating an online store showcases technical and marketing skills, while organising a charity event highlights project management and teamwork abilities. Involvement in entrepreneurship clubs or attending workshops can enhance networking and communication skills. Students can also develop financial literacy by managing budgets and investments for their ventures. These real-world experiences not only enrich a student's profile but also provide a practical understanding of business.
Language : English
Topic : Higher Education / Vocational
Speaker:
- Janice Williams | Head of Sixth Form | Repton Al Barsha
15:10 - 15:30Skills - Building Skills for Future Learning
Taking a look at the skills students acquire and require for future employability success.
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Speaker:
- Natasha Rush | Head of Sixth Form / Careers and Guidance Counsellor | Regent International School
15:30 - 16:15Bridging Tomorrow: Navigating the Transition from K-12 to Tertiary Education and Beyond
Join us for a thought-provoking panel that delves into the critical transition from K-12 to tertiary education and beyond. Navigating this educational journey can be both exciting and challenging, and our expert panel will explore key insights, strategies, and resources to empower students, parents, and educators. Discover the essential skills and knowledge needed for a successful transition, as well as the evolving landscape of tertiary education and its impact on future career paths.
Language : English
Topic : Curriculum
Moderator:
- Fiona McKenzie | Head of Education | Carfax Education
Speakers:
- Dr Ted Purinton | Founding Dean | Sharjah Education Academy
- Colleen Menichini | University and Careers Guidance Counsellor | NLCS Dubai
- Nishi Saran | Senior Vice Principal - Nexus & Senior School | Bloom World Academy
- Janice Williams | Head of Sixth Form | Repton Al Barsha
- Natasha Rush | Head of Sixth Form / Careers and Guidance Counsellor | Regent International School
THU 14 NOVEMBER
10:30 - 10:50Visionary Leadership and Conflict Resolution: Elevating School Leadership to New Heights
In this presentation, I will explore two fundamental qualities of an effective educational leader within the school context: setting a vision and mastering conflict resolution skills. I will break down these skills step-by-step, provide evidence-based insights from research, and contextualize them within the school environment. Additionally, I will illustrate these concepts with successful, real-world examples from school settings. My objective is to empower school leaders to elevate their capabilities, fostering a more dynamic and harmonious educational atmosphere.
Language : English
Topic : Leadership and Management
Speaker:
- Dr Sammy Wafi | Acting Principal | German International School Dubai
11:00 - 11:45EdTech panel: Human AI
A panel discussion about the impact of Human AI in Education
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Moderator:
- Tai Paschall | Digital Education & AI Specialist
Speakers:
- Matt Green | Owner/Director | JGM Science Tutors
- Steve Bambury | Head of Digital Learning and Innovation | JESS Dubai
- David Lefevre | Professor of Practice, Digital Innovation | Imperial College London
- Dare Pitan | Digital Education Lead | University of Birmingham Dubai
11:55 - 12:50How to include health, fitness and sustainable practises in schools
Language : Arabic
Topic : Curriculum
Speakers:
- Priyanka Pandey | Sustainability Advisor and Climate Education | Consulting Services
- Harry Hoodless | Head of Architecture | Kampus
- Clare Rawlings | Founder of Raw Movement | Raw Movement
- Raffaella Cappello | Founder | Seeds for Kids
- David Judge | Exec Creative Director | Kampus International
- Ben Hardy Jones | Head of Sustainability | The Desert Vipers
12:50 - 13:20An Armchair Chat with Dr Helen Wright and Matt Green
Language : English
Speakers:
- Dr Helen Wright | Director | Global Thought Leadership Limited
- Matt Green | Owner/Director | JGM Science Tutors
13:30 - 14:15Holistic approaches to wellness, wellbeing and mental health
Panel for leaders and teachers on how to empower yourself and take control of your own wellbeing
Language : English
Topic : Recruitment and Development
Moderator:
- Tracy Moxley | Executive Director of Schools | New Century
Speakers:
- Monisha Gurkar | Wellness Facilitator & Mindset Coach | Monisha Gurkar Lifestyle Consultancy (MGLC)
- Clare Rawlings | Founder of Raw Movement | Raw Movement
- Nadim Saad | Founder and Chief Happiness Officer | The Happy Confident Company
- Tracey Jones | CEO | Chrysalis Mindset Coaching
- Faiza Mubeen | Director of inclusion | Beech Hall School Riyadh
14:15 - 14:45Preserving Culture: An Interactive Exploration of Emirati Heritage
Join us for an engaging and interactive session that highlights the importance of preserving culture, with a special focus on Emirati heritage. Led by Ruqaya Al Hamiri, Cultural Speaker at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding, this session offers a lively and informal platform for participants to delve into the rich traditions of the UAE. In line with our motto, Open Doors. Open Minds., we will encourage open dialogue to explore the significance of cultural preservation in our rapidly changing world. Expect a fun and insightful discussion that celebrates the beauty of Emirati culture and its relevance in today’s multicultural society.
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Speaker:
- Ruqaya Al Hamiri | Cultural Speaker | Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding