GEMS Wellington International School - Dubai Branch

Student attainment and progress in English, mathematics and science in all phases are outstanding. There is an improving picture for attainment and progress, especially in Primary, for both Islamic education and Arabic with all judgements being at least good. In all phases, students have effectively developed learning skills, and when given opportunities, these are used well to support both academic and personal growth.

Student attitudes and behaviours are exemplary. They personify the school’s values of Integrity, Empathy and Fortitude. There is very strong peer support, not only within year levels but also across phases. They have an effective understanding of Islamic values, Emirati and other world cultures. They are active in a wide range of extracurricular activities, from a variety of sports, sustainability action to charitable enterprise.

Teachers skilfully plan engaging lessons, optimising resources, including technology, for personalised learning. Islamic education and Arabic advances have improved student outcomes. High expectations, independent enquiry, critical thinking, open-ended questions, group work, and communication skills are standard. Assessment data analysis informs curriculum adjustments, ensuring teaching is tailored to individual needs. Robust learning support is evident throughout.

The school places a strong emphasis on the promotion of well-being, integrating it into its core values of Integrity, Empathy, and Fortitude. Leadership consistently prioritises and models well-being principles, implementing innovative and research-based policies to support a comprehensive well-being programme. The well-being team ensures exceptional outcomes. The commitment of staff, governors, and active involvement of parents contribute to a supportive environment. Students actively lead well-being initiatives. The school ensures tailored support and interventions for a flourishing academic community.

The school fosters a highly inclusive ethos. A very effective inclusion team delivers personalised interventions, resulting in significant progress for students. Teachers have a thorough understanding of individual students, implementing effective strategies to address learning barriers. Parents actively participate in shaping their child's education programme. There is a well-integrated curriculum for students with diverse learning needs, ensuring individualised targets for the development of confidence and independence. The programmes facilitate access to further education or employment opportunities for senior students.

The school’s leadership is an inspirational, aspirational and highly effective team, developing and supporting students’ academic development and well-being. The school uses a variety of data to effectively inform its self-evaluation processes. Monitoring of teaching is robust, focusing on student outcomes. The school is very successful in engaging parents. Governance makes a significant contribution to the overall performance of the school. The premises are of high quality, providing the specialist learning spaces needed for the expanding curriculum.