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TUE 12 NOVEMBER
This talk will bring a new perspective to the concept of 'Inclusion' in schools. What it truly means, why it is not the answer we think it is and most importantly, how we can achieve the aims and objectives of 'inclusion' without any of the pitfalls. This will be delivered through the art of storytelling with some interactive participation from the audience and visual images to support understanding and alternative needs. It will be lighthearted but impactful and memorable.
Language : English
Topic : Wellbeing
Shona O'Callaghan | Lead Educational Consultant and Founder of ECM | Empowering Creative MindsChildren learning the Taste Education method at school have a more positive attitude towards trying new food for healthier and more sustainable eating habits. Taste Education is based on sensory experiences of food where children are stimulated to describe their multisensory perceptions and refrain from making judgments without first trying the food. These experiences lead children to have a lifelong positive attitude towards experimenting with new foods and increasing the variety of healthy and sustainable foods, like fruits and vegetables.
Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Raffaella Cappello | Founder | Seeds for KidsMost 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
Rania Badreldin | Founder and CEO / Happiness Consultant | The Family HubSustainability 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
Alan Smith | Sustainability Lead & STEAM Teacher | Jebel Ali SchoolIn 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
Dr Helen Wright | Director | Global Thought Leadership LimitedA 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
George Peterkin | Managing Director | Mind Your HealthClimate 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
Dr Richard Churches | Director of Research | Education Development TrustThis 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
Nadim Saad | Founder and Chief Happiness Officer | The Happy Confident CompanyInternational 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
Priya Mitchell | CEO | PMC SafeguardingEmpowering 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
Shama Noman | VoFG Project and Education Development Manager | Emirates Literature Foundation Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Ana Romero | Head of Sustainability | Wellington College And Wellington College International ♫ (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
Matthew Alan Thomas | Director of Unified Champion Schools for GEMS Education & DASSA (Dubai Affiliated School Sport Association) | GEMS Wellington Academy, Silicon Oasis 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
Rene Oliver | Senior Leadership Team member and Counsellor | The English Modern School Al Khor A paper entitled (Sustainable Development in Education) discusses the principles and activities of sustainable development in education, and how to apply them through a sustainable and innovative business model that focuses on the importance of lifelong education in professional development, achieving success and self-learning to empower beneficiaries cognitively to play their role in the comprehensive development of the entire community.
Language : Arabic
Topic : Learning Environment
Haifa Binkhamees | Capacity Building Specialist | UNESCO I Regional Centre for Quality and Excellence in EducationThis 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
Berna Bouwer | Corporate Head of Inclusion | GEMS EducationWED 13 NOVEMBER
How can we help and support students to channel complex and varied emotions about climate change in a way that can lead to positive and meaningful action? I will explore and share how to find the right balance, by using constructive doubt and constructive hope as a pathway.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Peter Milne | Founder and Director | TARGET4GREEN Educational Consultancy and Training LTDThere 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
Autumn O'Brien | Early Years Expert and Forest School Teacher | The Nature CaravanLearning 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
Massrat Shaikh | Educational Psychologist | Kawakib Solutions 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
Sheena Raheman | Lead Counsellor | Beech Hall School RiyadhJoin 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
Hannah Mainds | Assistant Head of Secondary | The Arbor SchoolFlexEd - 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
Kai Vacher | Principal | British School Muscat and British School SalalahThis 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
Hagop Dertavitian | Voices of Future Generations Manager | Emirates Literature FoundationMay Zalat is an early childhood educational consultant, qualified trainer, and Positive Discipline Parent Coach with over sixteen years’ experience in the early years. With a strong foundation in early childhood education and a profound passion to ensure that every child, regardless of their abilities, has access to inclusive opportunities in education. May has initiated IECE (Inclusion in Early Childhood Education), an initiative aimed to empower and educate early childhood professionals to create inclusive environments to cater to the needs of all children. By breaking down barriers through knowledge sharing and partnership building, they strive to create a more inclusive landscape in UAE nurseries. This initiative is driven by a genuine desire to give back and make a positive impact in the early years education sector in the UAE. By providing free monthly sessions and fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, we aim to support nursery leaders and educators in creating more inclusive environments for all children. In her role as Head of Education at Blossom Nurseries, she is involving effectively leveraging her extensive experience and qualifications to drive positive change in early childhood education, nursery management, educator training, and coaching. As a visionary leader, May inspires those around her to not only join, but to LEAD the change.
Language : English
Topic : Early Years
May Zalat | Founder | IECE InitiativeThis 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
Tracy Moxley | Executive Director of Schools | New CenturyThis 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
Professor Andy Gleadhill | Professor of Music | Self EmployedThe 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
Wendy Harris | Director of Inclusion for the Wellington and British Independent Cluster of schools | GEMs Wellington International SchoolMusic 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
Dr Sarah Martinez | Head of Music | Brighton CollegeIn 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
Dr Emanuel Vincent | Consultant | Pinkgrape ConsultingThe 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
Kat Thorne | Founder/Managing Director | The Morning GameChangerTHU 14 NOVEMBER
In recent years, the UAE has become more aware of the need for sustainable practices to combat climate change and protect the planet for future generations. The government and education authorities have shown their commitment through initiatives like UAE Vision 2021, UAE Green Agenda 2030, and the National Climate Change Plan 2050. Programs such as Sustainable Schools, Greening Schools Program, BIG Green Lessons, E-Green Tool, Eco Schools, SPEA's Sustainability Rating Index for Early Years, and the Naha Platform encourage the integration of sustainability into education settings and, in some cases, require progress reporting. In this session, we will explore topics related to environmental, social and governance impacts associated with the education sector or running a nursery/school here in UAE and what key positive actions can we take to mitigate the negative impacts and can contribute to United Nations Sustainable development goals positively. Additionally, I will present case studies illustrating successful sustainability initiatives improving operations, facilities, curriculum development that I have implemented here in UAE.
Language : English
Topic : Early Years
Priyanka Pandey | Sustainability Advisor and Climate Education | Consulting ServicesLanguage : English
Topic : SEN / Gifted & Talented
John Paton | Head of Inclusion and Executive leader | Dubai British School JumeiraAt 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
Nomhle Shantel Sandawana | Educator, Education Consultant and PhD researcher | EduWell Consultancy 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
Carrie Green | Educational Director and Co-Founder | Thriving SoulsWith 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
Colleen Menichini | University and Careers Guidance Counsellor | NLCS DubaiLanguage : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Faiza Mubeen | Director of inclusion | Beech Hall School RiyadhJoin 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
Monisha Gurkar | Wellness Facilitator & Mindset Coach | Monisha Gurkar Lifestyle Consultancy (MGLC)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
Ben Hardy Jones | Head of Sustainability | The Desert VipersThis 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
Kevin Fullbrook | Director | Al-Bayan Bilingual SchoolIn this dynamic workshop, we'll explore the intersection of wellbeing, sustainability, and the pivotal role of the Third Sector (nonprofits, NGOs, and social enterprises) in creating impactful change within educational settings. Participants will discover innovative strategies for integrating sustainability practices into school culture while fostering a holistic approach to student and staff wellbeing. We'll uncover how partnering with Third Sector organizations can provide unique opportunities for schools to model social responsibility, enhance community engagement, and build a sustainable future for all. Attendees will leave with practical tools and a strategic roadmap to align their institutions with global sustainability goals and support the wellbeing of their entire school community.
Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Dr Catherine O'Farrell | CEO | Incluzun
The 18th edition of GESS Dubai returns in 2025 with an exhibition showcasing a wide range of educational products from suppliers from all corners of the world and a CPD accredited conference featuring high level speakers and innovative content.
Tuesday 11 November: 10:00 - 18:00
Wednesday 12 November: 10:00 - 18:00
Thursday 13 November: 10:00 - 17:00
We are here to answer any questions you might have.