UAE Schools Urge Full Term Completion Before Summer Break
As the academic year draws to a close, several schools remain open for the final week, even with just a few days left after the public holiday. This approach ensures that students have a complete academic experience before the long summer break commences.
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Mixed Attendance During Eid Break and School's Last Week
With the final school week sandwiched between the Eid Al Adha holiday and the upcoming summer break, some resident families have chosen to travel back home and take advantage of the week-long Eid holidays. However, school principals emphasize the importance of regular attendance unless there is a valid reason for absence.
Prioritizing Attendance and Student Well-being
Schools adhere to guidelines set by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), which state that students are expected to attend the entire academic year unless authorized leave has been granted. Maryssa O'Connor, principal and chief executive of Gems Wellington International School, stresses that these rules are in place to safeguard the well-being of students. Parents are urged to notify the school if their child will be absent to ensure their safety.
Authorized Absences and Leave of Absence Forms
According to another school principal, students who are currently on leave have obtained prior permission, which has been approved. Rebecca Coulter, principal of Dubai British School, explains that families who used the Eid break as an opportunity to travel have followed the school's attendance policy by submitting leave of absence forms for approval. This process ensures clarity and accountability.
Reflecting on the Academic Year and Preparing for the Future
The end of the academic year holds significance for both students and staff members. It is a time to celebrate individual and collective achievements, foster a sense of community, consolidate learning, and prepare for the upcoming academic year. The last few days provide an opportunity to cherish accomplishments and bid farewell before embarking on the summer break.
Flexible Term End Dates and Required School Days
The KHDA allows schools to determine when they conclude the term, as long as a minimum number of school days are completed and the term does not end before June 28. In the current academic year, students must attend school for 188 days. Indian curriculum schools, which begin their academic year in April, have already commenced their summer break on July 3. While term end dates may vary, most schools in Dubai are closing in early July, with classes continuing until July 7 in many cases.
Schools Embrace Last Days of Term Amidst Holiday Travel
Despite some families leaving for their home countries after the Eid break, schools that remain open until the following week continue with their regular classes. Campbell Douglas, principal and chief executive of Gems Wellington Academy-Al Khail, highlights that there is still ample teaching and learning happening across all grade levels. The school has planned various activities, lessons, and celebrations to make the last few days engaging and memorable.
