Swiss International Scientific School is a shining example of a school truly committed to inclusive practice. The school takes pride in its mission “to provide an inspiring, inclusive and challenging learning environment where excellence and effort are recognised and celebrated”, and this is reflected in the inspiring lived experiences of its learners. The school is a leader in international education in Dubai and is part of the Nord Anglia Education Trust, with a diverse student cohort spanning from Early Years to Grade 12, alongside 200 boarders. There are currently 382 students identified as Students of Determination on the Inclusion Register, and the school meets the needs of its diverse community through an emphasis on academic standards and holistic development.
Students can embrace the very best opportunities on offer, with well-supplied learning spaces, extensive sports and arts facilities, in a modern, vibrant building. The inclusion room is equipped with sensory equipment, providing a calming and welcoming space for pupils who require additional support. The school’s commitment to empowering its students to contribute positively to their society underpins life at the school, where every student can thrive academically and socially. The Primary Student Representative Council (SRC) aptly described to IQM’s assessors that “In our school, you have a chance to be you, whoever you are… we’re a society where everyone loves everyone and we’re all friends together.”
The school describes it inclusion journey over the last three years as ‘transformational’, and this is clear to see in every aspect of school life. The Principal’s decision to create an Inclusion Lead role in senior leadership has enabled inclusion to be embedded in whole-school decision making and initiatives, ensuring maximum impact for all learners. An example of this is the school’s innovative approach to bilingual education; students can immerse themselves in a choice of pathways – English/French or English/German – led by two native speakers, so they can transition easily and naturally between two languages. Students can also opt to follow a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) pathway, taught in English with additional languages offered as part of the curriculum. For students who require support in their preferred language, they are able to speak to bilingual therapists, a strong example of how inclusion is at the heart of decision-making in the school. Indeed, these opportunities for flexible personalisation allows the needs of all learners to be met, irrespective of background, and to feel included in a rich learning environment.
Staff speak highly of the key role the Inclusion Lead plays in championing the needs of Students of Determination, as well as other groups whose progress is carefully tracked, such as EAL learners, Emirati Students, Boarders, Gifted and Talented students, and the students working just below expected levels. The school is also actively investing in leadership development, with plans to train middle leaders and the Inclusion Lead in coach-like leadership skills. Indeed, the school has gone above and beyond to provide bespoke learning spaces, as well as making adaptations to the school to make it more accessible and engaging. The schools has a strong wellbeing offering, with counsellors available for both primary and secondary learners, offering one-to-one support on issues ranging from friendship difficulties to anxiety.
The staff play an important role in ensuring the school maintains its dynamic environment and is always striving to improve. All members of staff are fully committed to an inclusive educational experience for learners. From the extremely knowledgeable inclusion Governor to each member of staff spoken to during the assessment, every member of staff has high aspirations for the school’s inclusion agenda. This message is echoed by the Principal, who states that “We want to ensure that needs are not just met, but that the opportunities are there for everyone to thrive.” Inclusion staff do not play background roles within the school; they are invited to speak at high-profile events in the school community and help to facilitate inclusive events for students, such as the Unified Special Olympics for students who may not benefit from the usual opportunities for competitive sports. The Equity Diversity Inclusion and Belonging Group ensures sensitivity around cultural norms and fosters an inclusive and welcoming environment for all, through events such as International Day. The school is passionate about providing “something for everybody”, so every student can thrive and achieve.
The benefits of an inclusive learning environment are also felt by staff at the school. Staff wellbeing is a priority within the school, with a staff wellbeing committee organising clubs and activities to promote physical and mental wellbeing. Staff feel supported and valued, and this is reflected in working hours, intensive coaching, and support provided during the first year. The school has invested heavily in Quality First Teaching, as part of its commitment to providing a high quality, inclusive provision in every classroom. The staff in the boarding house offer a secure and caring ‘home away from home’ environment for its students, alongside its excellent resources for learning and socialising. The Heads of House live on campus, and every floor has a dedicated member of staff, with at least five qualified teachers present within the boarding house. Inclusion is also extended to parents in the school community, with regular workshops covering a wide range of topics, from resilience-building strategies to digital wellbeing practices. There is also a dedicated Parent Café that provides a comfortable space for parents to work and connect with other parents at the school. These offerings are well-attended and highly valued by parents.
Inclusion is not just a policy at Swiss International Scientific School – it is a living, thriving element of school culture that transforms the lives of everyone in the school community. Every learner is supported and empowered, with parents encouraged to embrace school life and everything the school has to offer their children. With the staff’s unwavering commitment to excellent outcomes for all students, the school is going from strength to strength on its inclusion journey.