Sustainability & Wellbeing Space
TUE 12 NOVEMBER
10:55 - 11:15Everyone can learn to eat everything
Why schools should embrace the Taste Education method to encourage children to try new food and eat healthy for a sustainable planet. Taste Education is based on sensory experiences of food where children are stimulated to describe their multisensory experiences and refrain from making judgments without having first tried the food. These experiences lead children to have a lifelong positive attitude towards experimenting with new foods, increasing the variety of healthy and sustainable foods.
Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Speaker:
Raffaella Cappello | Owner | Seeds for Kids
11:20 - 11:40Why Can't We All Be Happy?
Most of us want to be happy, and we all deserve to be. Yet, many of us aren't. People worldwide continue to struggle. As humanity, happiness serves us both individually and collectively and is the key to our thriving. And when it comes to education, whether you are a leader, administrator, staff member, teacher, parent or student, when you unleash your inner happiness, everyone benefits! Let's talk about happiness! How are you going about it? Are you prioritising it and do you have your own definition of it? Do you have a vision of what you want in the different areas of your life? Are you taking committed action toward that? When it comes to happiness, we have the power, yet we often stand in our own way. Find out what happiness is (and what it isn’t). Learn about the 5 steps to happiness and get ready to connect lovingly with yourself and others! The happier we are, the happier we can all be!
Language : English
Topic : Neuroscience
Speaker:
Rania Badreldin | Founder and CEO / Happiness Consultant | The Family Hub
11:45 - 12:05Nature Connection for Sustainability and Wellbeing
Sustainability starts with a love of the natural world. Why would someone rethink, reduce, recycle or change their behaviour if they’ve never experienced nature's wonders or had a chance to appreciate biodiversity? Through innovative, outdoor citizen science games, we can unite school communities to appreciate and connect with wildlife, boost wellbeing, have fun, and supercharge sustainable behaviour choices. In a world of screens, malls, and instant gratification, people are more disconnected from nature than ever. Sir David Attenborough says, “No one will protect what they don't care about; and no one will care about what they have never experienced.” How often do our students get to notice, learn about, or enjoy nature? Building on his work with The Rock Pool Project, Alan will share how his school recently created one of the biggest wildlife events ever in The UAE; with students, parents and staff relishing the collective challenge to discover and share thousands of wildlife records.
Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Speaker:
Alan Smith | Sustainability Lead & STEAM Teacher | Jebel Ali School
12:10 - 12:30Wellbeing: what leading from the front looks like in schools
In this talk, Dr Helen Wright, former Head and now executive coach and consultant to schools across the world, will draw on her experience of coaching leaders in schools across the world to explore what really works in focusing staff wellbeing. She will seek to ignite ideas and insights, and emphasise the importance of wellbeing starting with the individual, before the systems and structures needed to evolve in school can take root.
Language : English
Topic : Leadership and Management
Speaker:
Dr Helen Wright | Director | Global Thought Leadership Limited
12:35 - 12:55Reflection on how we approach mental health and wellbeing as a school-wide approach
A 20-minute chance for those attending to reflect on the 3 pillars for mental health and wellbeing in schools. We will reflect on the importance of each of the pillars, as well as how we can begin building these pillars and their foundations up as a school. The workshop sets a large emphasis that each school is uniquely individual and the approach therefore must also be unique.
Language : English
Topic : Leadership and Management
Speaker:
George Peterkin | Managing Director | Mind Your Health
13:00 - 13:20Climate Education - The Latest Research Evidence
Climate change is having a profound impact on education globally. The poorest countries in the world experience high levels of disruption due to both direct and indirect impacts. In this talk, Dr Richard Churches will discuss Education Development Trust’s research into the impacts of climate change on education in Kenya and Rwanda, also drawing on global literature. Delegates will leave understanding the complex relationship between climate change and education, and the potential role of education in mitigation, adaptation and resilience building. You can see our documentary, one of our research publications here: https://www.edt.org/research-and-insights/climate-change-and-education-in-kenya/
Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Speaker:
13:25 - 13:45Transforming students’ behaviour, resilience and inclusivity within your school community
This session will explore the current challenges schools are encountering when looking at implementing an effective wellbeing and pastoral care approach and will give impactful solutions to develop a whole-school approach where all students have a voice, and where they are all equipped with the tools that they need to thrive. Nadim will share real life examples of best practices across the world and how these can help students feel safer and more included, which results in better self-regulation, behaviour and confidence.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Speaker:
Nadim Saad | Founder and Chief Happiness Officer | The Happy Confident Company
13:50 - 14:10Improving safeguarding practice for students of colour
International schools benefit from diverse student populations, and whilst DEI efforts have improved safety for many, students from Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic communities often face racism and bias which impacts on their mental health and psychological safety. Park House, British School Muscat, Nic Bailey (UK) and PMC Safeguarding are undertaking research to identify student experience and improve safeguarding practice.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Speaker:
Priya Mitchell | CEO | PMC Safeguarding
14:15 - 14:35Empowering Minds: Engaging Children in the Thinking Process
Empowering Minds: Engaging Children in the Thinking Process is an insightful session that explores innovative strategies to foster critical thinking in children. Through a combination of practical tips and engaging activities this session empowers educators and parents to nurture young minds and encourage active participation in the learning process. Helping children understand their own thinking process not only enhances their problem solving skills but also enables them to reflect on their own learning and make changes as needed. This self-efficacy leads to positive academic growth. Additionally, by understanding how they think, children can develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their strengths, which can contribute to their overall cognitive and emotional development. Making thinking visible helps empower young minds and leads to increased self-confidence and independence with problem-solving and decision-making.
Language : English
Topic : Neuroscience
Speaker:
Shama Noman | Project Manager Voices of Future Generations Middle East | Emirates Literature Foundation
14:40 - 15:00Climate Change
Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Speaker:
Ana Romero | Head of Sustainability | Wellington College And Wellington College International
15:05 - 15:25The Unified Arab Emirates
♫ (Hey!) What a wonderful kind of day, if we can learn to work and play, and get along with each other. ♫ GEMS Education is honoured to share its journey in the Unified Champion School (UCS) program, reflecting in our unwavering commitment to inclusivity. Our approach aligns seamlessly, creating an environment where every student feels valued and supported. Unified Sports: We champion the Unified Sports model, fostering teamwork and camaraderie among students with and without intellectual disabilities. Inclusive Youth Leadership: We provide platforms for inclusive youth leadership, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected within our school communities. Whole School Engagement: Inclusivity permeates every aspect of our school culture. Through our collective efforts, we aim to transform every school into a UCS school. Creating environments where every student feels valued, respected, and supported, driving positive change and transforming lives.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Speaker:
Matthew Alan Thomas | Director of Unified Champion Schools for GEMS Education & DASSA (Dubai Affiliated School Sport Association) | GEMS Wellington Academy, Silicon Oasis
15:30 - 15:50The Art of Listening
This presentation will focus on the importance of listening and how this impacts building rapport to guide students and staff to organisational success.
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Speaker:
Rene De Gee | Senior Leadership Team member and Counsellor | The English Modern School Al Khor
16:20 - 16:40Inclusion 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.
Language : English
Topic : Curriculum
Speaker:
Berna Bouwer | Corporate Head of Inclusion | GEMS Education
WED 13 NOVEMBER
10:55 - 11:15Outdoor Education in 'The Indoor Epidemic'
There is an urgent need for Outdoor Education in our current educational ecosystem. Join our conversations on what we can learn from Forest School Education in Scandinavia and how to apply it to your setting in the UAE. Receive practical steps to make brave changes in your school which will positively effect your whole learning community.
Language : English
Topic : Curriculum
Speaker:
Autumn O'Brien | Early Years Expert and Forest School Teacher | Dubai Future Foundation
11:20 - 11:40Identifying Learning Disorders in the Mainstream Classroom
Learning disorders are prevalent in mainstream classrooms, often posing challenges for both students and educators. This presentation aims to equip educators with the knowledge and tools to identify and support students with common learning disorders. We will explore prevalent conditions such as dyslexia, ADHD, and dyscalculia, highlighting their key characteristics and the early signs educators can observe in a classroom setting. The session will provide practical strategies for recognizing these learning disorders, supported by evidence-based practices. Educators will learn to create an inclusive learning environment that addresses the diverse needs of all students, ensuring that those with learning disorders receive appropriate support and interventions. Additionally, the presentation will offer a wealth of resources, including assessment tools, intervention techniques, and instructional strategies designed to enhance learning outcomes for students with learning disorders.
Language : English
Topic : SEN / Gifted & Talented
Speaker:
Massrat Shaikh | Educational Psychologist | Kawakib Solutions
11:45 - 12:05Depression and Anxiety
As an educator and mental health specialist I call myself fortunate to work with students with different ages, working closely with students who are confused, not knowing the reasons of their situations like sadness, confusion, self harm, emotional breakdowns and anxiety.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Speaker:
Sheena Raheman | Lead Counsellor | Beech Hall School Riyadh
12:10 - 12:30Curriculum Leaders: How to Meet DSIB Social Responsibility and Innovation in your Curriculum
Join me as we explore how to lead your curriculum teams in developing a cutting-edge curriculum. This will help you and other school leaders redevelop your curriculum that integrates sustainability and rigorous academic integrity, along with meeting the DSIB Innovation and Social Responsibility, along with Learning Skills into your into curriculum design. I'll demonstrate how educational leaders can spearhead transformative change in your school. We will explore how to lead on: Elevating sustainability's pivotal role in your secondary classrooms. Implementing actionable methodologies to seamlessly integrate sustainability principles across diverse educational contexts. Building impactful projects that integrate sustainability education and skills development. Developing rubrics that assess, track and measure learning skills. Championing sustainability initiatives, gaining stakeholder support, and navigating implementation challenges effectively.
Language : English
Topic : Curriculum
Speaker:
Hannah Mainds | Assistant Head of Secondary | The Arbor School
12:35 - 12:55FlexEd - How are we embracing flexible working in schools?
FlexEd - How are we embracing flexible working in schools? In recent years, flexible work arrangements have gained significant attention across various industries. While the corporate world has been quick to adopt these practices, the education sector has been relatively slower in embracing flexible working in schools, which is understandable given the nature of the job. In this presentation, we will explore the importance of careful deliberation and consideration of flexible work arrangements for teachers, professional support staff stressing the benefits and concerns for both schools and staff. We will also shed light on the risks of not offering flexible work options, such as losing talent and how a range of schools are implementing effective employee strategies.
Language : English
Topic : Curriculum
Speaker:
Kai Vacher | Principal | British School Muscat and British School Salalah
13:00 - 13:20Paths of Growth: Enhancing Children's Wellbeing
This workshop is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of strategies and practices aimed at nurturing the overall well-being of children. Through this workshop, attendees will delve into various aspects of children's physical, emotional, and mental health, gaining insights into effective methods for fostering a supportive environment conducive to their growth and development. The workshop will cover a range of topics, including the importance of holistic well-being, promoting positive mental health, fostering resilience, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and nurturing emotional intelligence. Participants will also explore practical techniques for building strong relationships with children, fostering open communication, and creating safe spaces where they can thrive.
Language : English///Arabic
Topic : Learning Environment
Speaker:
Hagop Dertavitian | Voices of Future Generations Manager | Emirates Literature Foundation
13:50 - 14:10Embedding Sustainability Across The Curriculum
In this presentation, I'll discuss a ground-breaking sustainability programme being integrated into school curriculums. We'll explore the importance of instilling sustainability principles early, its alignment with educational goals, and the program's tangible benefits for students and communities. Through real-world examples, we'll showcase how this initiative fosters environmental stewardship, critical thinking, and active citizenship, empowering the next generation to drive positive change. Embedding sustainability into the curriculum will put sustainable decision making at the heart of the next generation of leaders. In this presentation we will share some of the success stories and the impact on students, teachers and schools.
Language : English
Topic : Curriculum
Speaker:
Gary Carney | Chief Operating Officer | The Sustainability Academy
14:15 - 14:35The Effects of Social Media on Wellbeing
This talk highlights the connection between self esteem and social media. The impact that social media can have on our students and how, as educators, we can effectively help our students to combat the effects through development of the curriculum, of skills such as critical thinking, communication and resilience.
Language : English
Topic : Digital / eLearning / Coding
Speaker:
Tracey Moxley | Executive Director of Schools | New Century
14:40 - 15:00Creative Classroom Percussion
This practical session will show all educators how to teach music in an inclusive, mindful and totally accessible way without the need to read classical music notation. Employing a unique "Colour and Play" system, delegates will see how young people can learn to play music a wide range of different genres. From Western Classical to Jazz and Music for Animation, using readily available classroom musical instruments Andy will show how pupils can create, build confidence and celebrate achievements by learning to play creative music in the classroom.
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Speaker:
Professor Andy Gleadhill | Professor of Music | Self Employed
15:05 - 15:25The Inclusion Action Team; how to ensure Inclusion is a whole school responsibility
The presentation will address how to develop an Inclusion Action Team within your school, emphasising strategies to enhance the experiences of diverse student groups. It will showcase the implementation at GEMS Wellington International School (WIS), highlighting the challenges encountered, the solutions adopted, and our comprehensive journey towards ensuring Inclusion permeates throughout the whole school, making sure everyone understands that Inclusion is everyone's responsibility. There will also be examples of work undertaken by the Inclusion Action Team and examples of impact at WIS.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Speaker:
Wendy Harris | Director of Inclusion for the Wellington and British Indpendent Cluster of school, Assistant Headteacher | GEMs Wellington International School
15:30 - 15:50Music above and beyond
Music and arts and its impact in Education, moving forward. How Music can be taught in a different way and how to build an exciting curriculum that will support our students have an holistic education.
Language : English
Topic : Music / Performing Arts / Sports
Speaker:
Dr Sarah Martinez | Head of Music | Brighton College
15:55 - 16:15Wellness for the Whole Person: Embracing Modern Wellbeing Trends
In today's fast-paced world, wellness has evolved from a trendy buzzword to a vital lifestyle choice. It's no longer just about physical health; it's a holistic approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit to achieve optimal well-being. This presentation explores the multifaceted nature of modern wellness, delving into emerging trends, the signs of burnout, the importance of wellbeing policies in education, and practical self-help techniques that can transform your life.
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Speaker:
Dr Emanuel Vincent | Consultant | Pinkgrape Consulting
16:20 - 16:40The Impact of AI on Educator Wellbeing and Resilience: Risks and Opportunities
The 3 major contributors of the Global Mental Health Crisis. Key risks to address to prevent AI from increasing stress and burnout. The most overlooked strategy for building a high-performing and resilient educational workforce.
Language : English
Topic : VR / AI / Robotics / Ed Tech
Speaker:
Kat Thorne | Founder/Managing Director | The Morning GameChanger
THU 14 NOVEMBER
10:30 - 10:50Aligning Sustainable Development Goals and UAE's COP28 Priorities in Education: Challenges and Opportunities
In this presentation, I aim to showcase the methodologies adopted within the early years education provider: Blossom Nursery (Babilou UAE) to seamlessly integrate sustainable practices across 12 countries. Emphasizing strategic pillars and ESG metrics tailored for Blossom Nurseries, I'll delve into the essential aspects for educational institutions (operations, facilities, curriculum development, teacher and staff training) in the UAE to address while aligning with ESG disclosures and local COP28 green education agendas. Additionally, I will present case studies illustrating successful sustainability initiatives implemented within the nursery setting.
Language : English
Topic : Early Years
Speaker:
Priyanka Pandey | Sustainability Advisor and Climate Education | Consulting Services
10:55 - 11:15Facilitating independence and opportunity for diverse learners
Language : English
Topic : SEN / Gifted & Talented
Speaker:
John Paton | Head of Inclusion | Dubai British School Jumeirah
11:20 - 11:40Sustainable Wellbeing education in schools
At the core of the talk is the idea of Sustainable Wellbeing - emerging as a new alternative and comprehensive approach to models and measures that integrate the two key notions of sustainability and wellbeing. This is because a development model cannot be considered as a generator of wellbeing if it is not sustainable overtime, where young people cannot consider having acceptable wellbeing without considering nature and future generations. Accordingly, the talk sheds light on the need for transformative education about both sustainability and wellbeing, the talk embeds the audience within the concept of Sustainable Wellbeing and interlinks concepts of Happiness, Wellbeing, Holistic Prosperity and Quality of life. Through interactive activities, the talk enhances the audience's interest to learn more about initiating sustainable lifestyles through teaching about sustainability from a transformative and impactful lens.
Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Speaker:
Nomhle Shantel Sandawana | Educator, Education Consultant and PhD researcher | EduWell Consultancy
11:45 - 12:05ADHD: The Often Silent Barrier in Schools and How to Help
Individuals with a diagnosis of ADHD may face a barrage of internal difficulties. These difficulties may be particularly present in the area of Executive Functioning. Executive Functioning affects our ability to organise, problem solve, control our impulses, manage our emotions, etc. This can, in turn, cause academic difficulties and academic delays. Using the principles of ABA, combined with specific curriculum programs, mindfulness and awareness training, and other techniques, we can help these individuals to overcome their difficulties. The aim is to teach them to recognize when they are having difficulties and to advocate for themselves.
Language : English
Topic : Curriculum
Speaker:
Carrie Green | Educational Director and Co-Founder | Thriving Souls
12:10 - 12:30Ikigai for Educators- Looking for our everyday reason to be
With teacher burnout at an all time high, and in the midst of the "Great Migration" of teachers into other career pathways, a look at the japanese notion of "ikigai" allows us the intentional conversation about purpose, joy, and looking at what inspires us. It is the beginning of a personal period of reflection that allows us to take inventory of the things that matter most to us and the impact that has on our daily lives.
Language : English
Topic : Motivation / Coaching
Speaker:
Colleen Menichini | University Counselor | Uptown International School
12:30 - 12:50Developing a Positive Mindset: Tools for Everyday Transformation
Join us for an enlightening presentation designed to help you develop a positive mindset and harness the power of your thoughts to transform your daily life. Whether at home, work, or school, this session will equip you with practical tools to shift your mindset, think bigger, and become more aware of your current state of mind. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to fall into the trap of living on autopilot, disconnected from our true potential. This presentation aims to awaken you from that unconscious state and empower you to take control of your mind and, consequently, your life. Through a series of actionable strategies and insights, you'll learn how to break free from limiting beliefs, cultivate a growth-oriented mindset, and embrace a more conscious, intentional way of living. By the end of this session, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and tools to start creating the life you truly desire. Discover the path to true self-awareness and leadership within yourself. Begin your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling existence today.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Speaker:
Monisha Gurkar | Wellness Facilitator & Mindset Coach | Monisha Gurkar Lifestyle Consultancy (MGLC)
13:00 - 13:20Championing Sustainability in Schools Through Sports and PE
In this engaging and informative talk, Ben Hardy Jones, the Head of Sustainability for the Desert Vipers, will explore the critical role that sports and physical education (PE) play in fostering a sustainable future. Aimed at educators, students, and school administrators, this presentation will highlight the interconnectedness of sustainability and sports, showcasing practical strategies and inspiring initiatives that schools can adopt to promote environmental responsibility through their sports programmes.
Topic : Music / Performing Arts / Sports
Speaker:
Ben Hardy Jones | Head of Sustainability | The Desert Vipers
13:25 - 13:45A Journey of Sustainability in Kuwait
This case study presentation will share the sustainability journey of Al-Bayan Bilingual School in Kuwait as it has engaged and mobilised students to make significant contributions to the community, both inside and outside the school, in fostering a greater connection to nature and the environment through the establishment of a farm campus, vertical tower farms on campus, bee hives, various recycling projects, and much more.
Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Speaker:
Kevin Fullbrook | Director | Al-Bayan Bilingual School