Subject: Safeguarding our children is our top concern: Unveiling new child safety guidelines! 

Dear parents & caregivers, 

Ensuring the safety of our little ones is paramount to us all. We are fully cognizant of this responsibility at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) and the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) and we work closely with you to uphold it. For this reason, we have compiled two comprehensive child safety guides, one for safety at home and another for safety in vehicles. The guidebooks highlight comprehensive instructions and recommendations to help you create a secure environment for children to safely explore their surroundings. They also offer guidance on installing the necessary equipment to safeguard youngsters against hazards, both at home and on the road. 

The two essential guides, prepared and reviewed by ECA in collaboration with ADPHC, adhere to international best practices and policy recommendations as well as global health and safety guidelines. 

Your dedication to the well-being of children entrusted to your care is invaluable, and so we encourage you to download these guides and acquaint yourself with the security protocols outlined within. 

Thank you for allowing us to assist you in nurturing and protecting your precious ones. 

@adphc_ae @abudhabi_eca 

For more information, you can reach us on info@adphc.gov.ae 

Warm regards, 

Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority & Abu Dhabi Public Health Center

The UAE and Standardized Testing

Dear GEMS American Academy Parents,

As a community committed to providing world-class education, we often discuss the benchmarks that guide our curriculum and teaching methods. Today, we delve into the significance of international assessments like TIMSS, PISA, and PIRLS, which the UAE rigorously participates in to ensure that our national education goals are met. These assessments are more than just tests; they are essential tools that help shape the future of education in the UAE.

Understanding TIMSS, PISA, and PIRLS

• TIMSS (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study) assesses the mathematics and science knowledge of fourth and eighth-grade students worldwide. It provides insights into how well students have learned essential math and science concepts.

• PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) evaluates the reading, mathematics, and science literacy of 15-year-olds. This assessment focuses on the application of knowledge in real-life situations, preparing students for the demands of the modern world.

• PIRLS (Progress in International Reading Literacy Study) measures the reading comprehension of fourth-grade students, highlighting the importance of early literacy development.

Aligning with the UAE’s National Agenda Goals

The UAE's Vision 2021 and Centennial Plan 2071 outline ambitious goals for educational excellence. By participating in these international assessments, the UAE aims to:

1. Benchmark Against Global Standards: Understanding how our students perform compared to their peers globally helps identify strengths and areas for improvement. This comparison ensures that our education system remains competitive and meets high international standards.

2. Inform Policy and Curriculum Development: The data from these assessments can provide valuable insights into effective teaching strategies and curricular areas needing enhancement. Policymakers use this information to design initiatives that elevate the overall quality of education in the UAE.

3. Promote Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Assessments like PISA emphasize real-world application of knowledge, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These competencies are crucial for students' success in the 21st century.

4. Monitor Progress Over Time: Regular participation in TIMSS, PISA, and PIRLS allows the UAE to track the progress of its educational reforms. It helps measure the effectiveness of implemented strategies and make necessary adjustments.

The Role of Parents and Schools

At GEMS American Academy, we believe that parents play a pivotal role in the educational journey. Here’s how you can support your child in the context of these international assessments:

• Stay Informed: Understand the purpose and structure of these assessments. Discussing them with your child can reduce anxiety and build confidence.

• Encourage Curiosity: Foster a love for learning at home. Encourage your child to ask questions, explore new ideas, and engage in problem-solving activities.

• Collaborate with Teachers: Maintain open communication with your child’s teachers. Understanding your child's strengths and areas for improvement can help tailor support at home.

• Parent Feedback: Provide feedback to the testing bodies when asked to complete surveys. These surveys allow you to share your information and provide feedback to the testing agencies. This information is used in conjunction with student outcome to identify possible needs in the UAE.

By embracing international assessments like TIMSS, PISA, and PIRLS, the UAE ensures that our children receive an education that prepares them for global citizenship. At GEMS American Academy, we are proud to align with these national goals, striving for excellence in every classroom. Together, we can build a future where our students thrive academically and personally, ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to your child’s education.

Justin Kirby

K-12 Curriculum Director

Dear Students and Parents,

GEMS American Academy  is hosting the In-person HMC Young Global Leaders Program by the Harvard Model Congress. The 5-day program will bring together exceptional mentors from Harvard Model Congress to engage, mentor, and inspire students.

Please find below the details of the program.

The Harvard Model Congress Young Global Leaders Program hosted by GEMS American Academy, Abu Dhabi 

Spread over 5 action-packed days, the mission of the Harvard Model Congress Young Global Leaders Program is to indulge school students with strong leadership potential in immersive learning engagements, discussions, and mentorship. The program will focus on leadership, problem-solving, communication, public speaking, and critical thinking while working with students toward a final ‘Actionable Project’ under the guidance of Student mentors. These skills are essential for tomorrow’s changemakers and future leaders.

Students will work in small groups throughout the program on an impactful ‘Actionable Project’ designed to tackle real-world problems, stimulate ideas for future collaborative projects, and mold young learners into future leaders. 

 What will students gain?

• Learn a systematic, comprehensive approach to solving real-world problems from trained and dedicated Harvard Model Congress mentors.

• Hone your thought process to become more analytical and creative.

• Use data to quantify and validate your proposed solutions.

• Practice your communication skills to convey your recommendations effectively.

• Brainstorm practical methods to implement your solutions.

• Enhance your portfolio with a certificate from Harvard Model Congress, and through actionable projects.

Program Details (program brochure with detailed information attached)

• Program Dates: 19 - 23 August 2024

• Program Duration: 5 days

• Mode: In-person at GEMS American Academy, Abu Dhabi 

• Venue: GEMS American Academy, Abu Dhabi 

• Eligibility: 

  • 1. Group 1 - Grades 6th to 8th

    2. Group 2 - Grades 9th to 12th

• Program fee:  USD 600

• You can use the following link to make the payment for the program: https://forms.gle/QZdWzT8UzQczTbco6 

Warm Regards,

Team - Learn with Leaders

Dear Parents,

We are thrilled to announce another incredible opportunity for your children to unleash their creative potential and immerse themselves in the world of performing arts. After the success of last summer's course, West End Stage, the world-famous ultimate theatre summer school is returning to Dubai this July.

This unmissable five-day course, running from Monday 8 to Friday 12 July 2024, at GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis, offers students the opportunity to be taught by West End stars and leading industry professionals in acting, singing, dance and musical theatre.

Throughout the week, students will rehearse some of the biggest numbers from the most well-known and well-loved musicals, which will then be performed to an audience of friends and family. Furthermore, the summer school will also include exclusive workshops based around hit musicals.

With teachers to be announced soon, students will learn from the very best in the business. 

West End Stage began in London with the aim of igniting a global passion for theatre, bringing young people from all over the world together through their shared love of performing. Students will build their confidence, learn new skills, make friends for life and have an enormous amount of fun.

The summer programme is open to students aged 8 to 18, of all abilities and from all schools.

GEMS families are entitled to a 20 per cent discount when signing up, meaning that the summer school will cost just AED1450 per child.

What West End Stage Dubai offers students:

• Learn from leading professionals 

• Masterclasses in West End shows 

• An intensive week of theatre training in acting, singing, dance and musical theatre 

• Perform at the end of the week in front of family and friends

• Boost confidence, self-esteem and creativity

• Develop social skills and have fun! 

To book your child’s place on the summer school or to find out more information visit https://westendstagedubai.com 

Space on the summer school is limited, so don't miss this opportunity for your children to experience the magic of the stage and learn from the very best in the industry. 

Click here for a glimpse of what’s in store for your child with West End Stage this summer. 

Register today to secure a place for your child in this extraordinary summer stage school. 

Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact West End Stage by emailing info@westendstagedubai.com 

Exciting News!

PARENT ID AND LANYARDS

Gentle reminder to wear your Parent IDs with yellow lanyards when entering school premises.

• If you have ordered new IDs and received confirmation that they are ready, please remember to collect from Main Reception.

• If you have not received your Parent ID yet, please email your photo to pre_gaa@gemsedu.com  as soon as possible.

• If you have received your Parent ID before August 1, please visit Main Reception to reprint the new scannable ID and replace your lanyard.

While on campus parents and guardians are to wear the new GAA yellow lanyard. If lanyard is not worn, we kindly request you to register as a guest before entering the campus. This is to ensure that every adult in school is identified clearly for the safety and security of everyone on campus. 

• June 3-7 - EduTech Book Fair

• June 3-7 - Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week by GAAPA

• June 4 - GAAPA Board Voting Closes

• June 6 - Band 1 Concert

• June 10 - KG2A & KG2E Promotion Ceremony @9am

• June 11 - KG2B, KG2C & KG2D Promotion Ceremony @9am

• June 12 - Grade 5 Promotion Ceremony @9am

• June 13 - Grade 8 Promotion Ceremony @9am

• June 28 - LAST DAY OF SCHOOL