Dwight School Dubai

sustainability BULLETIN

19 June 2026

Dwight's Vision for Sustainability

At Dwight School Dubai we commit to embedding sustainability in teaching and modelling sustainable practice through our daily operations and decision-making, ensuring that our school fosters a culture of responsible action with hope for the future.

With our vision in mind, we would like to present a selection of the many ways we are embedding sustainability into life at Dwight.

Jennifer Baker | Science Teacher & Sustainability Coordinator | jbaker@dwight.ae

World Environment Day

Friday the 5th of June was United Nations World Environment Day.

This year the theme was ‘Climate Action’ and the host nation was Azerbaijan (for further information about Azerbaijan’s impressive climate action please see this link - it is inspiring to see the progress that is being made!).

At Dwight School Dubai we focused on the climate action we can take in our everyday lives. Can we reduce our carbon footprint by using public transport or biking or walking? Can we choose to buy items with less packaging?

How can we reduce the amount of disposable plastic in our lunchboxes?

Dwight students were challenged to bring a morning snack without plastic by either bringing fruit or baking at home. Have a look at our lovely (disposable) plastic-free lunchboxes!

Grade 1 Trashion Show

As part of their inquiry into the central idea, People can make choices to support the sustainability of Earth's resources, Grade 1 students proudly participated in a Trashion Show inspired by the animal kingdom. Exploring the concepts of causation, responsibility, and perspective, students considered how human actions impact wildlife and habitats while reflecting on the choices we can make to create a more sustainable future.

Using recycled and reusable materials, students worked with great enthusiasm and imagination to design and create animal-inspired costumes, masks, and accessories. We are delighted to share this digital booklet, which showcases their creative journey from initial design ideas through to their final creations. Discover the animals they chose to represent and advocate for, learn about the environmental issues affecting them, and celebrate the creativity, agency, and student voice demonstrated throughout the process.

We hope you enjoy exploring and celebrating our students' innovation, environmental awareness, and commitment to sustainability.

Click here to view the Trashion Show!

EEG Speaking Competition

Nature Positive Economies: Our EEG Journey - From Start to Victory

By Haya (Grade 7)

It all started with a Google classroom announcement from Ms. Kaur. I was immediately curious and so were my teammates. We decided to participate, and little did we know how far this journey would take us. Looking back now, taking part in the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) competition was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had at Dwight School Dubai.

I joined the competition in January. As the weeks passed, more students joined until our team consisted of five members: Sebastian, Ollie, Jayden, Ryan, and me. From the very beginning, we were determined to do our best and proudly represent our school.

The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) is one of the UAE’s most established student events focused on environmental awareness and sustainability. The 26th cycle was held under the Earth Day theme, "Our Power, Our Planet," bringing together students from across the country to discuss important environmental challenges and solutions. This year’s competition welcomed a record 707 students from 118 schools across the UAE, competing over four days.

Representing Dwight School Dubai was a tremendous honour. Throughout the competition, we worked hard, supported one another, and continuously challenged ourselves to improve. Our efforts paid off beyond anything we had imagined. We achieved 4th place in the UAE, and 2nd place in our category with a score of 180 out of 200 points. As first time participants, this accomplishment made us incredibly proud and showed us the power of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance.

Our presentation felt both timely and urgent: “Nature Positive Economies: Are We Ready for a World Where Ecosystems Come First?" For decades, countries have judged progress almost entirely through GDP, a system that rewards production and consumption while ignoring its cost to the planet. Our talk explored what it would mean to flip that model, building economies where protecting forests, oceans, and wildlife is the foundation of how we measure prosperity, not an afterthought.

Researching this topic showed us just how relevant it is here in the UAE, from major investments in renewable energy and mangrove reforestation, to the ban on single use plastic, and the protection of significant species like the Arabian Oryx. These examples gave us hope that growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience was the way we worked together. Although we collaborated remotely, we remained committed and organized, meeting online to research, write and rehearse our presentation. Ollie developed the script and researched the strengths and weaknesses of the current economic system. Ryan explored alternative approaches and solutions, including NAPI and PHS. Sebastian created a website about Nature Positive Economies and researched the advantages and challenges of the proposed system. Jayden was responsible for crafting and delivering the introduction and conclusion of our presentation. My role was to research the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and explore how they connect to Nature Positive Economies. I examined how environmental protection, economic development, and social wellbeing can work together to create a more sustainable future.

None of this would have been possible without the guidance and support of Ms. Kaur, who guided and supported us throughout it all. We are incredibly grateful for her dedication, encouragement, and belief in our team. Thank you, Ms. Kaur.

Looking back, this experience reflected what Dwight stands for: encouraging students to be inquirers, thinkers, and principled global citizens. Dwight inspires us to learn beyond the classroom, develop a global perspective, and make a positive impact in our communities. This competition gave us the opportunity to put those values into practice, and we hope our research inspires others to think more deeply about the kind of world we want to build for the future.

Sustainable School Uniform Swap

By Victoria (Grade 9)

Recently, we hosted a sustainability school uniform swap, where students were able to swap their small school clothes for bigger ones. The result of this was a big success; we had students of all ages and grades handing down their small uniforms in exchange for larger uniforms. It was truly a wonderful sight to see that families and children are taking action and getting involved in recycling and reusing.

Over 80% of clothes end up in landfills, taking up significant space. If we don't recycle our clothes it is extremely harmful to the environment, as it depletes natural resources and drives massive amounts of greenhouse emissions such as carbon dioxide into our atmosphere. Our clothes can take up to 500 years to be broken down; more specifically, synthetic fabrics like polyester release microplastics and methane as they sit in the ground. 85% of all used clothing gets thrown away into the trash each year. As we continue to purchase new clothes and throw away our old ones, new clothes continue to be produced and manufactured, and we increase the amount of chemical pollution in the environment, as toxic dyes and bleaches are used. Some factories release pollutants or waste into oceans and rivers, affecting many organisms and habitats.

Here are a few simple but effective ways that you can do today to get involved in recycling clothes, and in general:

Bring uniform that you have grown out of to the uniform swap and collect the size you need.
If your local community or building apartment has a clothing recycling bin, drop your unwanted or small clothes there.

If we all start and take action today, we can at least hope for a better tomorrow, so start recycling!

Grade 1 Little Earth Market

While recycling uniform is one way to reduce landfill, why stop there?! Grade 1's Little Earth Market enabled students to swap toys, books and clothes - students brought in pre-loved items and swapped them for tokens that they could use in the Earth Market. All the leftover items were doated to school support staff. A great way to get new books and toys in a sustainable way - just look at all those happy faces!

Roots and Shoots

Roots and Shoots is an international organization established by the late and great Jane Goodall. Schools all over the world work on local and international projects that benefit the environment and improve the lives of people and animals.

Here at Dwight School Dubai we have Roots and Shoots available as an ECA.

Our Recycled Dollhouse Project

By: Tisya & Cleopatra (Grade 1)

For the last two weeks, we have been making dollhouses in Roots & Shoots. We used recycled materials from Ms. Estelle’s classroom instead of buying new things. We used cardboard boxes, paper rolls, bottle caps, and other materials that might have been thrown away. We turned them into bedrooms, kitchens, tables, chairs, and decorations for our dollhouses.

Our favourite part was being creative and working together. Sometimes we had to solve problems when things did not fit or stay up, but we kept trying until they worked.

This project taught us that old materials can be reused in new ways. Instead of throwing things away, we can give them a second life. We also learned that reusing materials helps the environment by reducing waste.

We are very proud of our dollhouses and had so much fun making them. We can’t wait for our next Roots & Shoots project!

For further updates from our wonderful Roots and Shoots team, please see their dedicated page on the Roots and Shoots member page article page:

https://janegoodall.ae/member-profile/3815

Lower School Green Team

Lower School Green Team has enjoyed meeting and brainstorming ideas about how we can reduce waste in our lunchboxes and classrooms and at home. They have shared their ideas in assemblies, presenting on how to take care of classroom resources and on using items mindfully. Our goal for next year is to continue to reduce waste and to explore outdoors spaces - putting our green fingers to use!

Why not join the team next year?!

Looking Ahead

Solar panels coming to Dwight?

Did you know that the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 aims to have 100% of Dubai’s power generated by clean energy sources (such as solar) by 2050?! Our school recently hosted site visits from a selection of solar panel companies who will investigate the feasibility of installing solar panels on our building rooftops. We are very excited to see their proposals - Dwight School Dubai could be joining the solar revolution soon!

More Water Stations

The Central Park Water Station has already saved 42,272 plastic bottles from being used! Look out for more water stations around the school soon as we continue to reduce, reuse and recycle at Dwight.

Composting

A sustainability goal for Dwight School Dubai moving forward is to reduce our landfill contribution by composting. The benefits of composting are wide ranging - from reducing carbon emissions to improving soil quality and, of course, giving students hands-on experience with real-life science! The garden plans are in development, watch this space…

Call to Action

So now you see some of the fantastic things our students are involved in, what can you do?

Here are a few practical ideas:

We need lots of materials for Spark Day (Tuesday, 30th June) in Spirit Week! Please bring in boxes, cardboard tubes, egg boxes, plastic cups/bottles, string/rope/yarn, old toys that can be disassembled and reused, popsicle sticks, chopsticks, disposable cutlery and plates - anything you think we can make a fabulous creation from! Please deliver to homeroom or advisory teachers.

Uniform Swap - Reusing school uniforms is a great way to reduce the amount of textile waste in landfill. Our next uniform swap has had to be postponed due to the switch to online school, but keep your eye on the bulletin for a new date.

Bring your own coffee cup - you can even get free coffee at the school cafe if you bring a reusable mug 9 times! (But please make sure your cup has a lid on it if you are going to walk around the school with your morning coffee).

Please remember to bring in useful items such as bottle tops, fabric scraps, paper rolls and boxes - the recycling centre in the Little Sparks building provides valuable tools for the imaginations of our youngest recyclers.

Set up good recycling habits at home - Green Truck is a subscription service that will collect your recyclables from your door - and Dwight families get a 10% discount!

MYP Celebration

Our MYP Celebration Assembly on Friday, 12th June was a wonderful conclusion to the school year and a fitting tribute to the achievements of our Grade 10 students. The event was expertly hosted by Malika and Almansur, whose confidence, warmth, and professionalism kept the audience engaged throughout. We were inspired by thoughtful and heartfelt speeches from Arya, Diva, Diya, Ayla, Naima, Halle, Olivia, and Rayan, each reflecting on their MYP journey and sharing memorable experiences.

A particular highlight was the series of student-created videos, including the moving “Messages to Our Future Selves,” in which students shared their hopes and aspirations for where they see themselves in ten years’ time. The assembly was further enriched by outstanding musical performances from Sam and Malika on piano, Setayesh on cello, and Niels and Ameera on guitar and violin. Together, these performances showcased the remarkable talents, creativity, and spirit of our MYP students, making the celebration a truly memorable occasion for all.

Katherine Filkins | Assistant Principal & MYP Coordinator | kfilkins@dwight.ae

Library Book Return

As we approach the end of the school year, the Library will soon begin its annual inventory.

We request that all borrowed library books be returned to the Library no later than Monday, 22nd June. Please take a moment to check classrooms, drawers, bags, and homes for any outstanding library materials.

If you are unsure whether you have any books outstanding, please feel free to contact Ekta (Upper School) or Safeera (Lower School) or ask your child to pass by the library.

Thank you for your support and cooperation.

Ski Trip

We are pleased to offer our ski and snowboard adventure this year during the final week of Term 1, for students in Grades 6 to 12.

The resort is situated in La Tzoumaz, Switzerland, and has some of the best skiing in Europe!

Please sign up before Friday 26th of June, or speak to a member of the PHE team for more information.

Ski Trip Parent Letter

Alistair Munro | PHE Teacher & ECA Coordinator| amunro@dwight.ae

Summer Camps

More Info - Multi Sports Camp

More Info - Little Explorer Camp

Student Spotlight - Spark of Genius

Malika (Grade 10) received an Honourable Mention in the Senior Division of the Cambridge Re:think Essay Competition 2026. She placed among the top 10% of over 15,000 submissions from students in more than 50 countries.

Her essay explored the question of whether AI systems should be granted legal personhood or remain under human accountability.

In addition, Malika’s research paper on UAE free zones and globalization, completed through her Advanced Political Science Honors course, has been published in the International Journal of High School Research.

These accomplishments reflect Malika’s hard work, intellectual curiosity, and passion for learning.

Congratulations, Malika, and best wishes for continued success in your future academic endeavors!

Iman (Grade 11) was featured in a recent podcast, promoting her entrepreneurship and creativity, turning waste into a business.

Iman spoke impressively and passionately about her project and we are delighted to share the podcast with the Dwight community.

The 16-Year-Old Founder Turning Closet Waste Into A Business

Niels (Grade 9) was invited to perform live and acoustic on Dubai One TV, singing his newly released original song. His proud parents have shared this short video that captures his reaction as he watches himself on national television for the first time - a pretty special and memorable milestone!

The full performance will be released by the channel in a couple of weeks and will also be available on YouTube, but they thought the community might enjoy seeing this little behind-the-scenes moment in the meantime.

They also wanted to pass on their thanks to the school for all the encouragement and opportunities Dwight has given Niels within the music department. It played an important role in helping him grow in confidence and pursue his passion for music.

The ISM Dwight U8s completed an invincible summer season last weekend, winning all of their games and lifting the trophy!

Congratulations to the 7 Dwight students who were part of the winning team: Saleh, Luca, Federico, Tucson, Jaoquin, Saeed and Kian.

House Updates

Current House Point Totals

30,202

29,930

28,963

27,868

Message from the Head of School - 19 June 2026

Dear Parents,

Friends of Dwight (Parent Association)
On behalf of students and staff, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all of our parents and to the Friends of Dwight for their incredible support, generosity, and partnership throughout this academic year.

A strong school community is not built by a school alone. It is created through the collective efforts of students, parents, faculty, and staff working together with a shared commitment to helping every child thrive. The warmth, encouragement, and support shown by our parent community have played an invaluable role in making Dwight School Dubai such a special place.

During our Friends of Dwight coffee morning, three of our Student Ambassadors - Simah, Charlotte, and Gabriele - reflected on their highlights of the school year and shared their appreciation for the parents who helped organise and contribute to so many memorable community events - the Winter Fayre, National Day, International Day, Trunk or Treat, Breast Cancer Awareness initiatives, including the Pink Day Walk & Bake Sale, and other celebrations, such as Diwali. These events have helped create lasting memories and strengthened the sense of belonging that defines our community.

School Consultative Group (SCG)
We welcome parent applications to join the SCG. Please refer to my message in last week's bulletin (linked here) for further information about the role of the SCG and the application process. The deadline to apply is Friday, 26th June.

Please click here to read our special edition Sustainability Bulletin and this week's notices.

Warm regards,

David Hutson | Head of School