k h a l e e j t i m e s | a D V e R t i s i N G s U P P l e m e N t | t U e s D a Y , m a R C h 2 9 , 2 0 1 6

The multi-cultural environment in the UAE has given rise to a diverse range of schools, pro-grammes and curriculum, leaving students spoilt for

choice. Among these, the Switzerland-based International Baccalaureate (IB) is gaining attention for its uniquely de-signed courses, which promote creativity and guide students to adapt a critical mode of thinking.

According to the International Bacca-laureate educational foundation, IB edu-cation is offered in 4,477 schools across 143 countries, and the UAE alone has 37 schools.

There are three categories in IB — pri-mary years programme, middle years programme and diploma programme. Each caters to different age groups for a more concentrated approach, where children as young as three years old are enrolled for an early start and the oldest are 19 years of age.

Gone are the days of passing knowl-edge, facts and theory down one-way from teacher to student. The IB pro-gramme encourages both teachers and students to take on an interactive style of

learning that opens up routes for in-depth discussions and a hands-on ap-proach to education.

Teachers further take on the role of mentors, while students are inspired to make decisions and select their own top-ics for special projects so that they are better involved in their subjects.

Educators in IB strongly focus on re-search and writing, and note that peers stand as a role model of learning. Stu-dents are expected to develop critical thinking, which would later assist them in advanced university courses and real world scenarios.

This, paired with evolving digital technologies, would help mould stu-dents into competitive and productive adults of tomorrow.

— farhana@khaleejtimes.com

» Farhana Chowdhury

Aldar Academies’ Al Bateen was launched in 2011 with a vision to apply a holistic approach to education by employing a rigorous curriculum and assessment pro-gramme that encompasses creativity, leadership, critical thinking and indepen-dent learning, both in class and in extra-curricular activities.

“Our vision has been to create an inclu-sive and highly ambitious academic insti-tution. To this end, our ascent to becom-ing an IB World School — achieved two years after opening — was vital,” said Dr Chiara Tabet, IB DP Coordinator, Aldar Academies’ Al Bateen.

In the latest inspections from Abu Dha-bi Education Council (ADEC), Al Bateen Secondary School received an A1 “Out-standing” grade, and to date is known to be the first secondary school to achieve this rating. “We have had very good I/GSCE results so far and are very excited to graduate our first Y13 cohort this year,” she added.

Al Bateen Secondary School offers two prestigious and rigorous curricula — the English National Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

Students enjoy numerous local and international field trips as part of their learning experience as well. “As far as university preparation, we offer one-to-one assistance with applications, plus extensive orientation workshops and university fairs. We also possess a wide network of partners including top na-tional and international universities,” she says.

Standing apart from others “Our value-add is based around the level of care and support that is given to each student. We focus on each student as an individual, with unique talents and attri-butes, and concentrate on bringing out the best in each one,” said Tabet.

Curriculum structureThe school offers English National Cur-riculum with an international dimension in Years 7 to 9, followed by the I/GSCEs in Years 10 and 11. At the Year 12/13 level, both the IB Diploma Programme and British A-Levels are offered, which parents and students choose based on preference and future goals. The IB is a rigorous and rewarding curriculum based around six subject groups as well as the DP core, consisting of TOK (theo-ry of knowledge), CAS (creativity, action, service), and Extended Essay.

Students choose their courses from the subject groups of sciences, mathematics, individuals and societies, language and literature, and language acquisition. Stu-dents choose three to four higher-level classes, and take the rest at a standard level.

Admission overview Al Bateen is an inclusive school model, but students need to show evidence of good work ethics and an exemplary be-haviour for learning. For both the IB Di-ploma Programme and A-Levels, entry conditions are dictated by its wish for each child to be placed in the best possible position to succeed.

“Like all IB World Schools, we recom-mend IB for students who possess high levels of inquiry, who are principled, open-minded thinkers and reflective risk-takers. The IB is academically rigorous,

but is also a boundary-pusher; students who best fit the programme are those who are not afraid to have their opinion and their worldview challenged. At the same time, the curriculum requires an agile in-tellectual capability,” Tabet said.

Overall environment and co-curricular sceneAl Bateen is passionate about maintain-ing a creative and inclusive learning envi-ronment, where students are comfortable to speak freely, think outside the box, and get creative. Its CAS activities are sub-stantial and updated every term.

“The service element of CAS is a core focus for us — we want to instil a sense in our students of giving back to both their local and global communities. Students write reflections on their extracurricular journeys. Environment plays a big role — thanks to student-led initiatives, Al Bateen is now a fully recycling school,” she said.

In addition, the school offers a wide se-lection of after-school creative activities such as graphic design, photography, jew-ellery design, languages, calligraphy, book club, Quran club, music, choir, dra-ma, and dance. It also offers sports such as football, cricket, baseball, basketball, netball, swimming, rugby, badminton, sailing and water sports, expeditions, and international award schemes.

Promoting intercultural understanding among students

Internationalism and multiculturalism is a critical component of the IB learner pro-file, which is why the international and cross-cultural dimension is a part of ev-erything Al Bateen does.

“We involve it in assemblies, debates, and events such as our recent interna-tional day, or the fund-raising drives we engage in such as enterprise day. Interna-tionalism is a key theme in all lesson plan-ning,” she said.

Another critical component is instilling a sense of value in each student’s own culture, even as they learn about others. For instance, students can take exams in their own mother tongue at both the IB Diploma and I/GCSE levels.

“Because of the extent of the multicul-tural student body, every student inter-acts with different cultures every day,” Tabet added.

Student individuality is a valuable asset

Rise of the IB

Al Bateen Secondary School helps students achieve their potential as citizens of a global society and as individuals with their own talents and ambitions

International Baccalaureate gains student preference for its intensive but beneficial courses

CAtegOrieS Of iB eduCAtiOn

Primary Years Programme (PYP) ❖for students aged 3 to 12Middle Years Programme (MYP) ❖for students aged 11 to 16Diploma Programme (DP) ❖for students aged 16 to 19

dr Chiara tabet, iB dP Coordinator, Aldar Academies’ Al Bateen

ing skills and a love of learning. Al Bateen Secondary School’s

unique approach provides chal-lenges and progression delivered through high quality teaching, learning and assessment.

Facilities at the school are excel-lent and include a research labora-tory, 850-seat auditorium, music recording studios, Astro-turf field, a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, basketball courts, sports hall and outdoor play areas — all com-bined with an enriched selection of extra-curricular activities.

When students walk out, they are equipped with the skills and attributes they need to succeed as lifelong learners in the 21st cen-tury world — information technol-ogy, creative thinking, critical analysis, problem solving and de-cision making. It all begins by pro-viding a caring and supportive environment in which students respect each other, feel safe and happy, and thrive.

Al Bateen Secondary Schools offer the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Pro-gramme, the perfect programme for students seeking a broad,

challenging education with a global view.

The IB Diploma Programme is an academically challenging and balanced programme of education with final examinations that pre-pares students aged 15 to 18 for success at university and life be-yond. The Diploma Programme prepares students for effective par-ticipation in a rapidly evolving and increasingly global society as they develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically, and ac-quire breadth and depth of knowl-edge and understanding, studying courses from six subject groups.

“The IB Diploma Programme is perfectly suited to conscientious and motivated students who wish to combine cooperative and inde-

pendent learning across a broad base of subjects,” says Dr Chiara Tabet, who heads the IB pro-gramme at Al Bateen. “It is highly regarded by leading universities and is excellent preparation for success at university level.”

Students of the IB Diploma Pro-gramme have an increased advan-tage of being accepted into the most prestigious universities worldwide, including Harvard, Yale and Princeton.

AL BATEEN SECONDARY SCHOOLTel: + 971 2 8132000Email: admissions@albateen.sch.aeWeb: www.albateen.sch.aeStreet No.28, Al Manaseer Area,Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Schooling at GEMS Wellington is more than just academics. Students here are prepared to think independently and have the confidence to make mature decisions after school. “I have found studying the IB at GEMS Wellington Academy to be the most challenging and re-warding experience,” remarks Venkatesh Ku-mar, a Blended Learning Diploma student who has applied to UCLA, Oxford and Berkeley universities to study Computer Science.

“To be amongst the pioneers studying the Blended Learning IBDP (International Bacca-laureate Diploma Programme) is a very excit-ing and valuable experience. I have learned so many skills in research, critical thinking and time management,” he added.

Students studying the IBDP or the IBCP (In-

ternational Baccalaureate Career-related Pro-gramme) are able to follow one or more cours-es as digitally interactive courses that include live lessons in a global classroom with some of the world’s best IB teachers and full access to carefully selected resources. Blended learning and the integration of technology are at the forefront of the curriculum and in keeping with the Academy’s educational rationale and the vision of the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority as a “Smart City”. GEMS Wellington Academy, Silicon Oasis (WSO) has a unique blended

learning plaza that provides students and teachers with opportunities to be inventive and creative with technology, using a more pro-gressive pedagogy to impact learning.

A genuine desire for learningReflective and resilient, WSO students em-body a genuine desire and capacity for learn-ing, are truly internationally minded citizens, capable of leading and influencing their own communities.

Munira Rajkotwalla, a first year Diploma student, has aspirations to find employment in the care, and support of others and contribute towards eliminating world hunger.

“Through TEDx Youth, for example, WSO students are able to have a voice and comment on pertinent issues affecting the world today. I wanted to encourage my peers to become in-volved, learn more deeply and present their ideas about global and local turbulence from a personal perspective,” says Rajkotwalla.

Independence and driveIt is clear that WSO students develop skills, knowledge and personal capabilities necessary to make a positive difference in an ever-chang-ing world. WSO offers 26 different IB subjects in niche areas as Computer Science, Design Technology and Film.

The heart of the IB Diploma is the core pro-gramme, designed to develop cognitive skills and attributes of an expert learner, alongside the independence and drive of a citizen deter-mined to find a way in which he or she can con-tribute to the world.

Al Bateen Secondary School is an Aldar Academies School where it aims to raise courageous children with the ability to apply critical thinking within a global view. Its holistic approach towards educa-tion sees students step out with an international edge whilst at the same time receive ample opportu-nities to develop individual abili-ties through creativity, sport, teamwork, leadership, perfor-mance and service. Its interna-tionally qualified teachers help students to develop problem-solv-

GEMS International School — Al Khail has invested heavily in the International Baccalaureate (IB) because, quite simply, it believe sthe curriculum offers the best system of education available in the world today. As well as being rigorous and well respected by higher education providers, the IB is broad enough and flexible enough to meet changing needs.

Its new Principal, David Otta-viano, was formerly the Presi-dent of International Baccalaure-ate in North Asia. He brings with him an international pedigree that includes almost 20 years as the head of private IB curriculum schools across the world.

The GEMS IB programme, spearheaded by the former Di-rector-General of the Interna-tional Baccalaureate, Jeffrey Beard, has seen substantial suc-cess across the UAE. James Mac-

Donald, Chair of the IB Asia Pa-cific Regional Council and a recent addition to the team, has been charged with overseeing IB provision in GEMS schools throughout the UAE.

What’s special about an IB education at GEMS Internation-al School — Al Khail? GEMS In-ternational School believes it is important that today’s students are prepared for the workplaces of tomorrow. The school wants its students to excel in a spirit of discovery and independent thought. It wants them to benefit from teaching and learning prac-tices that incorporate emerging technologies such as robotics, 3D printing and augmented real-ity. Its classrooms are student-centred, skills-based, and rooted in technology; it wants young learners to have every opportu-nity to develop their interests and passion because it believes that it is the best way to enable them to flourish.

At GEMS International School, students are far more likely to collaborate together on a project or research independently online than poring over textbooks in si-lence. From designing virtual cit-ies using innovative software to exploring a new language with multimedia resources, its stu-dents are offered numerous op-portunities every day to connect with the kind of learning they will need for the future.

To find out more about GEMS International School — Al Khail, visit: gemsinternation-alschool-alkhail.com

Developing skills based on future needsInternational Baccalaureate is broad enough to meet changing educational requirements

» GEMS International School

» GEMS Wellington Academy

» Al Bateen Secondary School

InternatIonal Baccalaureate (IB) currIculum ScHoolSIITUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2016 | ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT | khaleej times

GEMS International School believes it is important that today’s students are prepared for the workplaces of tomorrow.

An education that prepares for life

A FUTURE SHAPED BY OUR CHILDREN

GEMS Wellington prepares students for the future through a range of digitally integrated qualifications

We can’t predict the future, but Al Bateen Secondary School can prepare your child to embrace it

reasons to do IB Diploma at al Bateen Secondary School (rated “outstanding” By aDec)

Offers academic learning ❖that is recognised by universities around the world Universities value students ❖with meaningful experiences beyond the classroom Creates independent ❖learners and strong writers Cultivates an international ❖mindset At every step, the school ❖prepares students to embrace the futureIB students have proven ❖time management skills Encourages critical thinking ❖Subjects aren’t taught ❖in isolation

SchooLS offERING IB cURRIcULUM SchoolS Type of courSe offered

Abu Dhabi International Private School Diploma Programme ◗

Ajman Academy Primary Years Programme ◗

Al Bateen Secondary School Diploma Programme ◗

Al Najah Private School Diploma Programme ◗

American Community School, Abu Dhabi Diploma Programme ◗

American International School, Abu Dhabi Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme ◗

Australian International School Diploma Programme ◗

Australian School of Abu Dhabi Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, ◗ and Diploma Programme

Dar al Marefa Private School Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme ◗

Deira International School Primary Years Programme ◗

Dubai American Academy Diploma Programme ◗

Dubai International Academy Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, ◗ and Diploma Programme

Emirates International School, Jumeirah Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, ◗ and Diploma Programme

Emirates International School – Meadows Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, ◗ and Diploma Programme

Emirates National School - Abu Dhabi City Campus Primary Years Programme, and Diploma Programme ◗

Emirates National School – Mohammed Bin Primary Years Programme, and Diploma Programme ◗Zayed Campus

Emirates National School Al Ain City Campus Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme ◗

GEMS American Academy - Abu Dhabi Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme ◗

GEMS Modern Academy Diploma Programme ◗

GEMS Wellington Academy - Silicon Oasis Diploma Programme ◗

GEMS Wellington International School Diploma Programme ◗

GEMS World Academy – Dubai Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, ◗ and Diploma Programme

GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi Primary Years Programme ◗

German International School Sharjah Diploma Programme ◗

Greenfield Community School Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, ◗and Diploma Programme

Jumeira Baccalaureate School Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme ◗

Jumeirah English Speaking School Diploma Programme ◗

Raffles World Academy Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme ◗

Raha International School and Diploma Programme Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme ◗

Ras Al Khaimah English Speaking School Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme ◗

Repton School, Dubai Diploma Programme ◗

The British International School Abu Dhabi Diploma Programme ◗

The Universal American School – Dubai Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme ◗

Towheed Iranian School Diploma Programme ◗

Uptown School Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme ◗

Victoria International School of Sharjah Diploma Programme ◗Source: IBO website

khaleej times | ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT | TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2016

GEMS schools have been the trusted choice for families in the UAE for over 55 years. With our proven track record and passionate team of educators, GEMS Wellington Academy - Silicon Oasis o� ers an outstanding and enriched selection of personalised learning pathways at Post 16, all leading to university entrance.

• Highest quality teachers

• Unique learning and caring environment

• Digitally Integrated IB Courses personalised for each student

• Focus on 21st Century skills and competences

Join us for one of our daily tours:

admissions_wso@gemsedu.com

gemswellingtonacademy-dso.com

+971 (0) 4 515 9000

Are you looking for an IB education which will truly prepare your child for the 21st Century?

TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2016 | ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT | khaleej times

The IB at a glance:• Fastest growing educational

system in the world

• Offers a rigorous integrated programme with great breadth of study

• Incorporates teaching practices from around the world

• Encourages exploratory learning, problem solving and high level thinking

• Fosters global citizenship

For over 55 years, parents have placed their trust in GEMS schools. As passionate educators with a proven track record, we believe our International Baccalaureate curriculum is the perfect choice for children with curious minds.

We are committed to delivering a continuous IB education for all students through the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP), thereby providing the ideal preparation for entry to the world’s top universities.

Why choose GEMS International School – Al Khail?• The GEMS IB education strategy, spearheaded by Jeffrey Beard, former

Director General of the International Baccalaureate, has seen our UAE

schools consistently score above-average in IB assessments over recent

years in comparison to the rest of the world

• Our new Principal, Dr. David Ottaviano, formerly President of IB North

Asia, is an educational psychologist and IB curriculum specialist; he

brings with him an international leadership pedigree that includes almost

20 years as the head of private international IB curriculum schools in

Italy, Japan, Romania and Serbia

• James MacDonald, Chair of the IB Asia Pacific Regional Council, as

Senior IB Curriculum Lead, will oversee the IB curriculum across GEMS

schools in the UAE, ensuring cross-school integration and shared best

practice

• All our teachers receive rigorous and continuous IB training and we have

IB-accredited trainers

• We place an emphasis on developing strong character and leadership

qualities, important characteristics for today’s 21st century learners; our

students participate in international and regional competitions including,

The World Scholar’s Cup, Model United Nations and more

• Our school was purpose-built to deliver IB programmes; developments

include 11 dedicated science labs, a digitally connected design technology

lab for middle year students, advanced communication teaching facilities

including an on-site TV station and more.

+9714 339 6200 / 600 56 7771

registrar_gis@gemsedu.com

gemsis-alkhail.com

Enrolling Now from KG 1 – Grade 10 (Expanding to Grade 11-12)*

*Grade opening and operations are subject to the completion of facilities for the said year group and final approval from KHDA.

James MacDonaldChair of the IB Asia Pacific

Regional Council

Dr. David OttavianoPrincipal and International Baccalaureate Specialist

Jeffrey BeardFormer Director General

of the International Baccalaureate

The GEMS International Baccalaureate (IB) experience: sustaining natural curiosity and amplifying the desire to learn

GEMS International SchoolAL KHAIL

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