We’re delighted to announce that IQM has been actively collaborating with GEMS schools across the UAE since November 2024, enhancing educational outcomes and leadership capabilities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah. Central to our work is fostering sustainable relationships and a culture of high expectations and rigorous standards complying with the National Agenda and UAE Framework for Inclusion.
As international school improvement partners, IQM focuses on professional long-term relationships, engagement and trust-building through bespoke solutions, and data-driven insights. Experienced IQM Executive School Improvement Leads have worked closely with GEMS Inclusion leaders to identify and tailor strategies that improve school effectiveness and student outcomes. Central to school improvement, sustainability and future proofing is the development of self-evaluative skills among all staff, empowering them to assess and enhance their professional growth and the advancement of all their students.
At IQM, we are all teachers and know how to support schools effectively. We understand that strategic planning and direction are pivotal to the success and sustainability of educational institutions. Our bespoke model with GEMS was designed to provide insightful, data-driven, and tailored solutions that aligned with each school’s unique goals and challenges.
Our initial collaboration involved a deep dive into each school’s statutory compliance and inclusivity levels, setting the stage for ongoing improvements and celebrating key achievements along the way. This partnership not only strengthens the inclusivity agenda within GEMS schools but also fosters a unified drive towards equity and excellence.
IQM’s approach empowers GEMS Education schools to celebrate their progress and significant achievements while also providing clear guidance for future improvements aimed at reducing inequity. This fosters a strong, united purpose among children, staff, parents, and stakeholders, elevating the inclusion agenda collectively.
Through this partnership, leaders in GEMS Schools are further equipped to foster a culture of belonging that permeates the entire school environment. The initial group of schools has made significant progress in areas like inclusive leadership, school improvement, capacity building, well-being, and strategic stakeholder engagement.
We look forward to the April/May assessments, where we will measure their achievements against our rigorous standards and international framework. Berna Bouwer, Corporate Head of Inclusion at GEMS Education, highlighted the importance of this partnership: “At GEMS Education, inclusivity is at the core of our mission. We are dedicated to ensuring every student receives the necessary education, support, and opportunities. Our ongoing collaboration with IQM, a leader in inclusion excellence, underscores our commitment to continuously enhance our inclusive practices.”
The IQM Award team will be in the UAE in April/May of 2025, assessing and reviewing schools as they each seek to reach new levels of excellence and improve the life chances of ALL the young learners in their care.