Embarking on the educational journey with my child at our school, The British International School Abu Dhabi, offers a unique blend of enriching experiences and challenges. As both a parent and a school leader, I’ve come to appreciate this dual role for the invaluable insights it provides into the social, emotional, and academic development of students and families within our community.
Reflecting on my daughter’s recent completion of her IGCSEs, I recall a mix of achievements and obstacles, each marked by the countless revision cards adorning her bedroom walls. Together, we navigated through the highs and lows, celebrating her successes while also acknowledging areas where she faced challenges. Our conversations naturally led us to explore the diverse pathways available within our school, leveraging her past academic experiences and considering her future aspirations.
Through engaging discussions with my daughter about her strengths, interests, and long-term goals, we carefully selected a pathway tailored to her unique needs—a combination of the Level 3 Extended BTEC Diploma in Business with Higher Level English. Witnessing her enthusiasm and dedication to this chosen path fills me with pride and confidence as a parent. With a predicted triple Distinction in her BTEC, equivalent to 36 points at IB, I am thrilled to see her set her sights on Exeter University to pursue a BSc in Marketing and Management. Renowned for their academic excellence, universities like Exeter offer unparalleled opportunities for higher education.
As a school leader, I am equally excited to contribute to the development of a curriculum that caters to the diverse needs and aspirations of all our students, providing them with every opportunity to thrive in their academic pursuits and beyond.
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, employers increasingly seek candidates who possess not only academic proficiency but also practical skills and readiness for the workplace. At our school, we recognise the importance of offering a curriculum that not only meets rigorous academic standards but also equips students with the skills and competencies needed to succeed in the modern world.
With this commitment in mind, we have enriched our educational offerings by integrating the Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC) Diploma—a globally recognised qualification emphasising real-world applications. This approach allows students to develop a deep understanding of their chosen subjects through hands-on experience and project-based learning, preparing them for success in both higher education and the professional realm.
Our curriculum is meticulously designed to be ‘Future Ready,’ offering a diverse range of personalised, world-class learning opportunities. Here at The British International School Abu Dhabi, your child can choose from a variety of pathways, including the BTEC Diploma, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), IB Courses, or a combined BTEC Diploma and IB pathway. Across all these pathways, the IB Learner Profile serves as a guiding framework, nurturing students’ holistic development and preparing them to thrive in an ever-changing world.
As we look ahead, we are excited to announce the expansion of our BTEC Diploma offerings in the upcoming academic year, which will now include BTEC International Level 3 in IT and Sport in addition to Business. As a parent and as a school leader, I urge you to explore all the pathways available at your school with your child, ensuring that they embark on a journey tailored to their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. Together, let’s empower our children to reach their full potential and become future leaders in a rapidly evolving world.
