Schools Ready for Any Situation Amid Student and Teacher Absences During Break.
Dubai: With the UAE extending distance learning beyond the spring break, schools nationwide are preparing for all scenarios to ensure uninterrupted education.
On Tuesday, the UAE announced that distance learning will continue across nurseries, schools, and higher education institutions for two weeks after the spring break ends on March 22. Previously, authorities had announced an early spring break starting March 9, after the educational sector shifted to online learning from March 2 in response to the Iranian aggression targeting the country.
School leaders speaking to Gulf News welcomed the government’s decision to prioritise safety and addressed a key concern for hundreds of students and teachers currently on break: do they need to return to the UAE?
They noted that school communities have responded with resilience and understanding. “While understandably disappointed not to be returning to on-site learning, our community has reacted positively and sympathetically. Everyone recognises that the safety of our students and families is the priority,” said Matt James, Vice Principal at GEMS Wellington Academy–Silicon Oasis.
Lisa Johnson, Principal of the American Academy for Girls (AAG) in Al Mizhar, echoed these sentiments: “There has been a strong sense of calm, care, and cooperation across the community. We have deep respect for and trust in the government’s forward-thinking approach.”
Simon Crane, Headmaster of Brighton College Dubai in Al Barsha South, added that the extension “has been met with a calm and measured response,” with parents and students showing a strong sense of collective responsibility.
Students and Teachers Abroad
For families currently overseas, schools say they are prepared to ensure a smooth transition to distance learning.
Matt James noted that staff have been encouraged to return to the UAE for the remote learning period. “However, given the unprecedented circumstances, each case is being considered individually, with careful attention to each person’s wellbeing,” he said.
At schools like Woodlem British School Ajman, the approach differs. Principal Natalia Svetenok explained: “While some students and staff may be abroad due to Spring Break, others may choose to extend their stay. Systems are already in place to ensure a seamless and uninterrupted move to distance learning. At present, there is no requirement for students or teachers to return to the UAE while remote learning continues.”
At Brighton College Dubai, Simon Crane noted that pupils and staff have the flexibility to engage fully with the programme remotely, although a return to the UAE would be expected once in-person schooling resumes.
Lisa Johnson added: “At this stage, we anticipate some variation in return timelines, particularly for families currently abroad. A small number may delay their return depending on travel conditions and personal circumstances. Operationally, this has minimal impact, as our distance learning model is designed to support students across different time zones and locations.”
Wellbeing in Focus
Beyond academics, schools are placing equal emphasis on pastoral care. GEMS Wellington Academy has hosted online sessions to help children stay calm, while AAG uses its digital platform, YouHQ, for daily wellbeing check-ins for both students and staff. Brighton College ensures that pupils remain connected with their teachers and peers.
Dr Neil Hopkin, Director of Education at Fortes Education, which operates Sunmarke School and Regent International School, said: “Our pastoral teams have maintained direct contact with families throughout. Updated guidelines have been shared with parents at every stage, and we continue to coordinate closely with KHDA.”
Back to Campus
Dr Neil Hopkin noted that although both Sunmarke School and Regent International School quickly activated distance learning protocols following the announcement, they are looking forward to welcoming students back to campus.
“School is where children thrive, and our doors will be open the moment it is safe to do so,” he said, adding that guidance for families currently abroad will be provided once greater clarity emerges.
Natalia Svetenok added: “Guidance has been shared to support students and families during this period. Our focus remains on continuity, stability, and ensuring that every child feels supported—both academically and emotionally—regardless of their location.”
Meanwhile, Simon Crane summed up the collective approach: “While we remain hopeful for a return to in-person schooling in due course, we are carefully planning for all eventualities.”
