What is the purpose of school? While gaining qualifications is certainly important, it’s just as vital to develop the skills needed to succeed in life. Research shows that 85% of job success comes from well-developed soft skills—transferable life skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and the ability to negotiate and challenge viewpoints effectively.
At BIS Abu Dhabi, we recognise that in order to grow, students need to face challenges. These challenges, both big and small, are crucial for developing resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset. A priority for us as teachers and leaders is to support students in navigating these ups and downs, understanding that both successes and setbacks are equally important in building the skills they need to thrive.
Central to this is student voice. Students are driving change through group forums, surveys, interview panels, and daily interactions, which we actively encourage and support. By providing these platforms, students constructively feedback on teaching, learning, and all other aspects of their school experience. This allows them to take ownership of their educational journey and ensures their perspectives are integral to shaping the school environment.
Our behaviour policy supports this by emphasising self-reflection and resolution, encouraging students to take responsibility for their actions and find constructive solutions. The pastoral programme promotes self-awareness, leadership, and collaboration, while our CCA programme, competitions like Chess, the UKMT, World Scholars Cup, BSME, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, CAS, and the BISAD Diploma offer structures and opportunities to build confidence, resilience, and initiative through real-world experiences.
Recognising and celebrating these skills is key. We encourage parents to highlight when their children demonstrate perseverance, empathy, leadership, and the ability to negotiate and challenge viewpoints effectively. Simple strategies, such as discussing goals, tackling challenges together, and fostering a positive mindset, will help children develop the resilience and adaptability essential for future success.
By working in partnership, we ensure our students at BIS Abu Dhabi not only achieve academic excellence but also gain the transferable life skills they need to thrive beyond school.
Aine McGlue
Head of Secondary
I was really touched by Áine’s newsletter piece last week, posing the question: ‘What would I tell my younger self?’
I spent some time afterwards thinking about my own parenting journey, and what it’s all been about, now that my two are adults and have ‘flown the nest’. Parenting isn’t easy for any of us, and that’s true even if you’re an experienced school leader – at home, I’m just Dad.
You might have seen the trend going around - “If I could tell my younger self one thing…” - a moment to reflect, to offer advice we wish we’d heard earlier, or to remind ourselves of what truly matters.
As students prepare to cross some of the biggest milestones in school life, it feels like the perfect time to pause and join in that conversation. But it’s not just our students who are preparing — so are we, as parents. These milestones don’t just belong to them. We’re living every part of it too: the anticipation, the pride, the nerves, and the quiet hopes. Sometimes, it’s the hardest thing in the world — to watch them take these big steps, to stay strong when they wobble, to let go just a little more. It’s a milestone for us as much as it is for them — and we’re walking it together.
At The British International School Abu Dhabi, we believe that education is not just about academic success—it’s about nurturing compassionate, responsible young people who understand the importance of giving back. This Ramadan, I have been truly moved by the way our students have embraced the spirit of the holy month, demonstrating kindness, generosity, and a genuine commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
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