While authorities continue to monitor the situation and issue guidance, schools are using this window to prepare for all eventualities
As Indian curriculum schools across the UAE prepare for the new academic year, traditionally commencing in April, uncertainty over whether students will start in classrooms or online is weighing on educators and parents alike.
While authorities continue to monitor the situation and issue guidance, schools are using this window to prepare for all eventualities. From teacher training to parent surveys, the focus is on ensuring continuity of learning without compromising student wellbeing.
For many families, the uncertainty is proving to be the biggest challenge. Even as systems are put in place, concerns around emotional stability, routine and access to devices are shaping conversations at home.
School leaders highlight that lessons learnt from previous phases of distance learning are helping them stay agile — ready to switch formats while keeping students engaged and supported.
Some schools are already leaning into preparation mode ahead of their March start dates.
Principal Abhilasha Singh of Shining Star International School said the groundwork is well underway. She said, “We begin our academic year on March 30, and from today (Monday), we’ve started professional development sessions with our teachers.”
She explained that with guidelines now in place, schools are working to ensure teachers are equipped and aligned. “ADEK has shared distance learning guidelines and policies, which we are breaking down to ensure staff are fully prepared.”
In parallel, schools are also looking beyond the classroom to address equity concerns at home. Highlighting this, she added, “At the same time, we are conducting a survey with parents to understand whether they have sufficient devices at home, as part of our efforts to ensure equity and access for all students.”
For schools beginning slightly later, the approach is one of cautious readiness.
David Jones, Principal of Springdales School Dubai, said they are taking cues from regulators while preparing for a smooth transition if needed.
“At present, we are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to follow all KHDA directives. Our academic year is scheduled to begin on April 6, which gives us adequate time to prepare,” he said, adding that contingency plans are already in place.
Drawing on past experience, he expressed confidence in the system’s ability to adapt. “If day one of the new academic year is online…our prior experience with blended and online learning has equipped our teachers, students, and parents well. We anticipate a structured and supportive start, with clear schedules, orientation sessions, and continuous guidance to ensure a smooth adjustment for all stakeholders.”
However, beyond logistics, schools are also attuned to the emotional pulse of families. Jones noted, “At this stage… the primary concern among families is uncertainty,” pointing out that younger students, in particular, need reassurance and routine to stay confident.
Echoing similar sentiments, Fatima Martin, Principal/CEO of GEMS New Millennium School, said institutions are aligned with official directives while staying prepared behind the scenes.
“We are guided by KHDA and UAE regulations. As of now, schools are scheduled to resume on-site learning from April 6,” she said, stressing that families will be updated promptly if plans change.
At the same time, preparations for remote learning are already in place. “Our teams…are fully prepared, with learning plans, MS Teams structures, and VLE training for all stakeholders,” she added.
Martin also highlighted the evolving nature of parental concerns, adding, “Families are expressing a blend of academic and emotional concerns — less about screen time and more about uncertainty. Their biggest questions relate to learning continuity, Board Exam Assessment Schemes (given that many were cancelled), event timelines, and the emotional wellbeing of children navigating through this point in time.”
© Khaleej Times
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