UAE Indian schools start academic year online
As Indian curriculum schools across the UAE gear up for the new academic year — traditionally starting in April — uncertainty over whether students will be heading off to class or logging on is heavy on teachers’ and parents’ minds.
But even as authorities keep a watchful eye on the situation and offer guidance, schools are making use of this window to plan for every outcome. From K-12 teacher training, to parent surveys, there’s a strong emphasis on making sure that learning continues — without compromising student wellbeing.
For many families, uncertainty has been the greatest difficulty. While systems are being established, conversations at home are influenced by worries about emotional stability, routine and how access to devices will shape the experience.
School leaders say they are drawing on lessons learned from earlier iterations of distance learning as they remain nimble — prepared to switch formats while continuing to engage and support students.
Preparing for a digital start
Some schools have begun preparing for their March start dates.
The groundwork is well underway, said Abhilasha Singh, principal of Shining Star International School. She said, “Our academic year commences on March 30 and we have begun setting up professional development sessions with our teachers from today (Monday).
Because there are now guidelines in place, what schools do is make sure that the teachers they hire and all their professional development are aligned with those guidelines.” “ADEK has provided distance learning guidelines and policies, which we are breaking down to ensure that staff are fully prepared.”
At the same time, schools are also venturing beyond their four walls to address equity in the home. “The same way we’re doing a survey with parents to see if they have enough devices at home, it is part of our work on equity and access,” she added, emphasizing the need for computer equipment for all students.
Balancing readiness with reassurance
For schools starting a bit later, the approach is one of cautious readiness.
He said they are watching regulators with interest, before preparing for a seamless transition should that be required.
“We are continually monitoring the situation and complying with all KHDA directives. Our academic year is supposed to begin on April 6 and we have ample time to prepare,” he said, adding that contingency plans are already in place.
Based on past experience, he expressed confidence that the system can adapt. “If day one of the new academic year is on-line: … our previous experience with blended and online learning has prepared our teachers, students and parents well. We expect an orderly and supportive beginning, including defined schedules, orientation sessions and regular assistance to provide a smooth transition for all parties involved.”
Yet beyond logistics, schools are also attuned to the emotional pulse of families. Jones said, “At this point … uncertainty is the number one concern for families,” stressing that younger students especially thrive on reassurance and routine to remain confident.
Staying prepared behind the scenes
Fatima Martin, Principal/CEO GEMS New Millennium School also echoed similar sentiments noting that institutions are in sync with official advisories while being well prepared behind the scenes.
“We are following the KHDA and UAE guidelines. “Right now, the plan is for schools to welcome students back in person on April 6,” she said, emphasizing that families would be immediately informed if plans changed.
Meanwhile, preparations for distance learning are underway. “Our team are well prepared — including learning plans, MS Team structures and VLE training for our stakeholders,” she said.
Martin also noted the changing nature of parental worry, adding, “We are seeing families report an overlap between academic and emotional concerns — less about screen time and more about uncertainty. The wide-ranging responses brought the biggest questions around learning continuity, Board Exam Assessment Schemes (since many were cancelled), event timelines and children’s mental welfare as ‘we too’ are going through this moment in time.”
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