School Talk: UAE

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Ever wondered how the nuances of etiquette can shape a child's future? Join us for an illuminating conversation with Orchids Roy, a certified etiquette coach from the British School of Excellence. Discover how Orchids transitioned from corporate training to empowering children with essential social skills. Motivated by her experiences as a mother and the accolades received by her well-mannered daughter, she shares her journey into child etiquette coaching. Orchids breaks down the core modules of her workshops, including creating a lasting first impression, mastering communication, and perfecting table manners. She also highlights why children are more receptive to learning these soft skills and the crucial role parents play in reinforcing these lessons.

In this episode, we explore effective strategies for raising polite and well-mannered children, especially those who are naturally shy. Orchids emphasizes the importance of parental engagement, consistent boundaries, and the use of polite expressions like "please" and "thank you." Through real-life anecdotes, she illustrates the lasting impact of early etiquette education. We also delve into how etiquette serves as a tool for empowerment, complementing academic and online safety education. Additionally, we discuss the potential for integrating social skills into school curricula and the evolving role of AI in making etiquette coaching more inclusive, preparing children to be culturally aware global citizens. Don't miss this insightful episode packed with valuable tips and strategies!


For anyone interested in enrolling their kids in the Etiquette 4 Everyone youth etiquette workshop this summer, send Orchids a WhatsApp at 058-5960716. Also, visit their Instagram page at https://instagram.com/etiquette4everyone to learn more about the workshop.

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What if AI could revolutionise education as we know it? Join us as we sit down with Tom Gayler, the visionary Head of Innovation and Digital Learning at Arcadia School, to uncover the transformative power of AI in classrooms. Since 2016, Tom has led the charge in making learning more engaging and globally connected through the integration of cutting-edge technology like tablets and mobile devices. Discover how AI is not just a buzzword but a game-changer, poised to personalize learning and prepare our students for a tech-driven future.

In our second segment, we delve into the nuanced relationship between AI tools like ChatGPT and education. Can AI be both a powerful research tool and a potential pitfall for plagiarism? Hear firsthand from Tom about the balance educators must strike. We also spotlight Dan Fitzpatrick's PREP model, which has empowered teachers to craft innovative lesson plans and up their teaching game. This conversation underscores the urgency of equipping both students and educators with the skills to use AI ethically and effectively.

Lastly, we tackle the ever-pressing issue of screen time and device safety. Drawing from an Oxford University study, we highlight the importance of screen content over sheer duration. Tom sheds light on practical strategies for managing screen time, including the 20-20-20 rule to combat eye strain and the integration of tools like Apple Classroom for effective device management. We also discuss the burgeoning fields of eSports and online education, emphasising the need for schools to adapt and prepare students for a future teeming with tech-related career opportunities. Tune in for invaluable insights and actionable advice that could reshape the educational landscape.

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Unlock the secrets to making learning both fun and effective as we welcome Dani Howard and Susan Bazaza on School Talk. With Danni's 13 years of teaching wisdom and Susan's impressive 15-year career, we dive into play-based learning and its transformative impact on education. From their experiences at DBS in Jumeirah Park , Dani and Susan share compelling stories of how blending adult-led activities with continuous provision fosters independence, critical thinking, and creativity in young learners.

Transitioning from the Foundation Stage to Year One can be challenging, but Dani and Susan emphasise the importance of strong teacher-student relationships and a supportive learning environment. They reveal how play-based learning can cater to diverse classroom needs and inspire creativity through incidental teaching and a child-led approach. Learn how such environments encourage passionate and meaningful educational experiences, meeting curriculum goals seamlessly.

Assessment and parental engagement play a crucial role in play-based learning, and this episode sheds light on how Dani and Susan use creative means to meet curriculum standards. From posters to digital projects, they share practical tips on making assessments both effective and enjoyable. Discover how building strong parental involvement through thoughtful communication can enhance a child's learning journey, ensuring that education extends beyond the classroom walls. Tune in for valuable insights and practical advice for educators and parents alike.

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Get ready to explore the transformative power of inclusion in education with our special guest, John Paton, the Director of Inclusion at Arcadia School. How can schools create meaningful opportunities for every student, regardless of their needs? John shares his expert insights into the importance of quality first teaching, understanding individual student requirements, and fostering collaboration between homeroom and specialist teachers. We'll also delve into how well-being and vocational skills are crucial for comprehensive student development.

Building strong relationships between teachers and parents is a cornerstone of student success. In this episode, we'll navigate the essentials of effective communication, transparent documentation, and the importance of routine and engagement during transitions. Learn how to establish a foundation of happiness and engagement for children, ensuring they thrive both academically and emotionally. John also sheds light on the collaborative approach needed between parents and schools to meet the growing demand for special needs services.

In our exploration of specialised education for diverse learners, John discusses the role of Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) and the setting of sustainable, long-term goals. Discover alternative educational pathways such as vocational programs and the ASDAN framework, which emphasise practical skills and independence over traditional academics. Finally, we reflect on the evolution of inclusive education and the ongoing need for development in vocational programs, aiming to make education accessible and enriching for all students. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that promises to inspire educators, parents, and anyone passionate about inclusive education.

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Embark on an enlightening journey through the nurturing pathways of pastoral care in education with our guests Ashley Mccarthy and Lee Bossler from Fairgreen International School. They open up about the intricacies of shepherding young minds towards not only scholastic achievements but also emotional, social, and mental fortitude. Uncover the profound connection between a student's well-being and their academic performance, attendance, and the development of indispensable soft skills. Through their experiences, we understand how a collaborative effort involving teachers, parents, and students is pivotal in cultivating a supportive and flourishing educational environment.

As we navigate the landscape of student independence, we delve into the transition from YouHue to YouHQ, a platform championing self-help through innovative resources. We reveal the roles of Wellbeing Champions and a dedicated well-being team in fostering a nurturing atmosphere, where appreciating teaching staff and connecting over cookies are just as important as traditional learning. Fairgreen's strategic approach to pastoral care spotlights the happiness and safety of its learners, with strong parent-teacher relationships at its core, ensuring that well-being remains the unwavering focus of their educational philosophy.

In the arena of pastoral care, we address the balance of support and discipline, emphasising a first-response system that enables students to learn from their missteps within a nonjudgmental framework. Through initiatives like the Dreams program, we're introduced to personalised lessons targeting the emotional and social growth of students, demonstrating that success in pastoral care is measured not just by academic data but by observable changes in student behavior and the overall school culture. Join us for this captivating conversation with Ashley and Lee, as they share their expertise and fervent dedication to fostering a caring educational community at Fairgreen.

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Ready to peel back the layers of the International Baccalaureate and the Primary Years Programme? 

Join me as Peter Bonner, the esteemed Principal of GEMS World Academy in Dubai, pulls back the curtain on the world of education through the lens of these dynamic curricula. From his unexpected shift from city planning to the helm of a leading educational institution, Peter maps out the landscape of curriculum development, the balancing act between global standards and local tailoring, and the critical role educators play in keeping the classroom compass pointing true north.

Venture into the heart of PYP and its six fundamental themes that transcend discipline boundaries, fostering a concept-based and skill-centric approach to learning. Peter and I navigate the balance between inquiry-led exploration and structured subject lessons, shedding light on how schools like GEMS World Academy ignite student passions within the curriculum's flexible framework. With a peek into the professional development that enriches IB educators and a nod to the upcoming 2025 IB conference, this episode stitches together the day-to-day embodiment of transdisciplinary themes in a tapestry of student growth and curiosity.

As we near the close of this enriching dialogue, we witness the crescendo of the PYP journey—the PYP exhibition. Peter opens up about the transformational power of well-being in schools, particularly in post-pandemic times, and GEMS World Academy's pursuit of excellence through innovation and expansion. Every conversation with Peter is a walk through the hallways of educational evolution, where the echoes of student laughter mix with the sounds of progress. So, pull up a chair and lend an ear – your outlook on education is about to be transformed.

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