In the words of the founding president and father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al
Nahyan, “Education is like a lantern which lights your way in a dark alley”. Sheikh Zayed
(may his soul rest in peace) led the nation during an era that saw the UAE transform
itself to one of the most modern countries in the world.

I am delighted to be able to welcome you to International Academic School, our
consistently improving school in Shakhbout City. IAS will always strive for academic
attainment and personal wellbeing, for creating a supportive and inclusive community
whilst also celebrating individual successes and for a fulfilling education that endures
long-life learning.

AS you are fully aware the COVID-19 pandemic has placed unprecedented stress on
schools and their ability to deliver their programs. Educators around the world have
responded admirably to the challenge, as have their students and communities.

Consequently, the planning and preparation for school re-opening at the beginning of
the 2020/2021 academic year is subject to many procedures which the school must
apply and follow. We would like to assure you that The International Academic School
adheres to all laws, policies and guidelines issued in this regard.
Accordingly, we would like to inform you that some changes may occur to the school
re-opening models, as per the updates in school re-opening policies and guidelines
issued by the Ministry of Education and ADEK which we shared with all parents. The
school is committed to applying them to ensure that our students are safe, happy and
their well-being is paramount to all staff.

Distance Learning at IAS was inspected on 15th. June 2020 and the evaluation report
was shared with the school on 25th. June 2020. IAS was awarded Developed which the
highest rank with one area required to be improved.
Our purpose as educators is to encourage intellectual curiosity, independent thought
and effective learning habits. From an early age, we encourage pupils to be
dynamically intellectual, culturally creatively and develop independence, so by the
time they leave school, they are well prepared for the expected, but can also
overcome any unfamiliar challenges.

Here at IAS our students are individuals with potential, unique strengths and interests
and I believe that it is our duty as a school to add value to each student by helping
them achieve academic success and the joy of learning in an inclusive community in
which all our students, parents and staff feel challenged, valued and successful.
“I am deeply committed to ensuring students are given every opportunity to
experience exceptional learning opportunities in enabling environments – safe, happy,
challenged and successful. Pupils, staff and parents feeling proud of their efforts and
achievements are key drivers for me professionally. Inspiring others to drive forward to
reach their goals, never giving up when faced with challenge, is for me what lifelong
learning and education are all about.”

However, what makes IAS, a genuinely special place is the people. A visit to our
campus will leave you marveling at our students. Our newly formed students’ junior
leadership team radiate the right sort of confidence and are eager to tell visitors about
all the amazing learning experiences that they enjoy every day.
The driving force of every successful school is the teaching staff, our highly qualified and
carefully selected teaching staff receive high quality continuing professional
development (CPD) that enhance their teaching practice and encourage them to be
reflective practitioners who are willing to learn from each other’s in a professional
learning community that is led and sustained by our experienced senior leadership
team. our teachers are dedicated to helping children discover and shape their dreams
and enhance their learning journeys.

I could not hope to capture the essence of our school in such few words or indeed a
few web pages, however, there are also regular ‘Meet the Principal’ events where my
senior team and I would be delighted to talk to you about our school and our vision of
growth.
I look forward to writing to you again in mid-August. Until then, I wish you a safe and
happy summer holiday with your family.
Ahmed Awad MED. MA. NPQH
Executive Principal
International Academic School