Please ensure all contact details and student/parent photos are updated on GEMS Connect before your first day of school
Jen Grace
Vice Principal Secondary
I am Jen Grace, Vice Principal Secondary. I am honoured to be part of our learning community at GIS that is deeply committed to excellence, nurturing each student’s potential for growth, and ensuring every individual is empowered to become the very best version of themselves.
At the heart of GIS is a shared belief that every student has the potential to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. My role is to help foster an environment where the strengths, interests, and aspirations of every learner are recognized, developed, celebrated and truly flourish.
As we look ahead to the next academic year, I am excited to build upon the strong foundations already in place, alongside the wider leadership team.
Secondary School Timing
Monday - Thursday
08:00AM - 3:30PM
Friday
08:00AM - 11:30AM
Please note:
Lessons will begin promptly following the playing of the UAE National Anthem at 7.58AM. Lateness will be recorded from 8:10AM. Students must not arrive at school before 7:50AM.
Secondary students must wear their ID badges on campus. If your child has not yet received their ID badge, please direct them to Ms. Mary Ann at the Secondary Reception. Replacement ID badges can be ordered at the STS office.
Personal Devices
At GIS, we implement a 'Bring Your Own Device' (BYOD) laptop policy. Students are expected to use their devices strictly as learning tools. They must safeguard their own possessions, as the school is not liable for any loss or damage.
Students receive education on digital citizenship and safeguarding to ensure they use digital platforms responsibly and safely. Mobile phones are not permitted during school hours (8:00 to 3:30), including breaks and lunch periods. Phones should be stored safely away in bags or lockers with notifications turned off. Non-compliance will result in confiscation of the mobile device.
For urgent communication between home and school, students or parents should contact the school's Front of House Team, who will support families accordingly.
Teachers may occasionally permit the use of mobile devices for specific learning tasks. However, lesson plans are designed so that phones are not essential. If a personal device causes distraction, teachers may implement stricter controls or temporarily confiscate the device to maintain focus in the classroom.
Digital devices like smartphones and tablets provide easy access to online platforms and content. While this seamless accessibility offers many benefits, it also poses potential risks to the health, well-being, and safety of young people. Both students and parents, along with schools, must be aware of these risks.
With rapid technological advances and the constant emergence of new online platforms, effectively monitoring and controlling the online activities of young people can be challenging. At times, students may seek out or accidentally encounter inappropriate online content. It is crucial that they feel comfortable and confident discussing such issues with trusted adults.
Establishing agreements around device usage is a healthy and productive approach to maintaining online safety and media balance. There are numerous tips and strategies available to support a well-informed and balanced approach to media use. We encourage parents to explore the E-safety: Parent Guidance, designed to assist GIS parents in promoting digital safety at school and at home.
Middle School Counselor (Grades 6 to 8): s.agrawal_gis@gemsedu.com
High School College Counselor: m.nambiar_gis@gemsedu.com