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Send us a text We unpack what actually drives learning, why engagement is a poor proxy for understanding, and how to align curriculum, instruction, and assessment for long-term memory. Carl Hendrick challenges fads, makes a case for explicit instruction and retrieval, and explores where AI can help without doubling the workload. • Defining learning as change in long-term memory • Why learning styles and similar fads fail • Curriculum as the primary lever for improvement • Explicit instruction before independent tasks • retrieval practice that targets hinge knowledge • Aligning curriculum, instruction, assessment • Limits of lesson observations as evidence • Instructional coaching over grading teachers • Smart uses of AI for planning and feedback Please hit subscribe Carl will be in the UAE for our Middle East School Leadership Conference on January 29th in Dubai at Al Habtoor Grand Hotel and Resort. www.schoolleadersme.com. Please do register at schoolleadersme.com Support the show Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text What happens when school moves from vague ideas about “reimagining” to the nuts and bolts of design? We sit down with Russell John Cailey, founder of Elham Studio and former, to map a practical path from traditional classrooms to living, place-based learning that actually works. From 90s Manchester to Hiroshima, Boston, and Botswana, Russell shares the hard-won lessons that turned curiosity into a curriculum architecture schools can implement now. We break down a simple but demanding blueprint: start with clear competences and learning objectives, run a transparent design cycle that students can follow, and capture growth through robust portfolios instead of one-shot tests. This triangle turns projects from theatre into craft and helps schools align inquiry to standards across IB, US credit systems, and even the rigid constraints of GCSE and A-level. We also get honest about “kayfabe” in education—when innovation is a performance—and highlight signals that a programme is the real deal, from authentic community partnerships to visible student work. AI takes centre stage as a tool that should walk beside us and behind us, not in front. Rather than ban it, we explore how to teach the journey to the prompt: scoping problems, structuring prompts, iterating outputs, and deciding what remains human. Paired with portfolios, AI can amplify research, reflection, and agency without outsourcing thinking.  For listeners in the Middle East, we talk candidly about why the market keeps opening British schools and where micro schools, studio models, and mastery plus PBL could thrive next. Subscribe for more conversations that turn buzzwords into blueprints, and leave a review to tell us which part of the design triangle your school needs most. Connect with Russell here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-john-cailey/ Learn more about his work here: https://www.elham.world/ Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text We talk with Jeremy Newton, director of schools at the British International School Riyadh, about leading seven campuses during Saudi Arabia’s rapid transformation and how a non-profit British model adapts to local needs and Vision 2030. We explore AI in the curriculum, enrichment that prepares students for an uncertain future, and the school’s unexpected cameo on the Riyadh Monopoly board. • Jeremy’s path from East London to Riyadh • Life and opportunity in Riyadh for families • Vision 2030 as a practical guide for schools • Non-profit identity and community service • Balancing the British curriculum with Arabic and local history • REACH 2030 strategic planning across campuses • AI education, ethics and device use in schools • Enrichment pillars, trips and real-world experiences • Riyadh Monopoly board feature and school culture • Advice to teachers considering roles in Saudi Arabia Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text We meet Richard Drew, principal of Jumeira Baccalaureate School, and trace his path from sporty Nottingham kid and clarinettist to long-serving IB headteacher in Dubai. He shares why character, inclusion, and patient culture-building stay at the heart of JBS. • shifting from football to rugby and the habits sport builds • why learning an instrument strengthens patience and focus • choosing a BEd in PE and finding purpose in teaching • early rugby career, injury and lessons in resilience • Australia exchange and the haves vs have-nots divide • UAE PPP years, translators and cultural fluency • stepping into JBS and leading through change • IB identity and Character Mark Plus recognition • Inspire and Aspire inclusion embedded in school life • staff continuity, community trust and belonging • philosophy of happiness, health and safety driving learning • future plans to mentor leaders and give back locally • life outside school: cycling, cooking and family sport Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text We trace a candid journey from Wall Street to Riyadh, exploring how a family‑owned school group opened Saudi Arabia’s first international Reggio‑inspired preschool and a trilingual K‑12, while building bridges between global classrooms and responsible AI. Practical stories mix with philosophy, policy, and culture to show how human‑centred schools grow in a fast‑changing Kingdom. • why Saudi Arabia’s education landscape is changing fast • government support and the super licence pathway • hiring leadership across Singapore, the UK and the UAE • clearing resources, translations and curriculum approvals • what Reggio Emilia is and how it differs from products • atelieristas, light studios and environment as third teacher • trilingual learning and Global Classroom exchanges • AI Smart Planner boosting inquiry and minority languages • scaling tech without losing teacher judgement • head, heart, hands: a vision for Riyadh • community engagement, climate realities and giving back Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text We explore how a flexible online and hybrid model supports anxious and neurodivergent learners, elite athletes, and mobile families, while helping schools expand subject options without new hires. Hugh Viney shares a student’s journey from school refusal to Oxford and outlines a GCC hub for trips, meetups, and community. • Why some students thrive outside traditional classrooms • Asynchronous and live teaching blend that boosts engagement • Mentoring, community, clubs, trips, and regional meetups • Attendance gains for emotionally based school avoidance • Practical signs leaders can spot for alternative pathways • Neurodivergent-friendly structure, breaks, sensory control • Screen time addressed through fewer live lessons and routines • Hybrid solutions to add GCSEs and A levels cost-effectively • New models for sixth form and rescuing closing schools • Teacher recruitment, standards, and flexible contracts • GCC time zone launch and growth roadmap Connect with Hugh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugh-viney/ Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text We sit down with Dubai College headmaster Tomas Duckling to explore how a top school stays kind, rigorous, and human. From Watford roots and boarding school leadership to distributed decision-making and no emails after hours, Tom shares how he protects culture while moving forward. • DC’s calm culture, high standards, and strict boundaries on after-hours email • From Brunei and Switzerland to Dubai: lessons from boarding and international schools • Reputation, demand for places, and misconceptions  • Transitioning from deputy to head: decision-making and accountability • Trusted autonomy and distributed leadership to grow future leaders • Tradition with innovation: de-implementation to free teachers for learning • Family life, music, travel goals, and simple joys that keep the balance • Stoicism, humility, and values that shape leadership choices • A turnaround framework: philosophy, people, process Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text Salma and Leisa explore how to build classrooms in the UAE where every student feels seen and valued, and where local culture is integrated alongside global learning. Practical steps, candid reflections on bias, and clear guidance on using AI as a co-creator make this a toolkit for real change. • agreeing on a shared definition of culturally responsive practice • recognising and reflecting on bias through confidential prompts • creating learner profiles to understand language, history, and needs • auditing libraries and curricula for representation and local relevance • balancing Emirati identity with global exposure • contrasting UAE inclusion with US/UK contexts and public school dynamics • using AI critically as a co-creator, not a content consumer • prioritising critical literacy, collaboration, and academic integrity • designing teacher PD that matches context and future skills Meet Salma: Dr Salma Waly, an Arab American 40 Under 40 honoree, is an award-winning global educator and EdTech leader dedicated to building inclusive, future-focused learning communities and expanding opportunity. With 20 years of experience across higher education, international schools, corporations, start-ups, and NGOs, she brings a global perspective shaped by work in the United States, Asia, the GCC, Africa, and South America. Her culturally hybrid identity fuels her commitment to equity and inclusion, ensuring all learners feel valued. Currently based in the UAE, she is an assistant professor at Sharjah Education Academy, founder of Universal Narratives LLC, and host of the Universal Narratives Podcast. Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text What does it take to rise from teaching assistant to Director of Education? In this candid conversation, Nikki Williams shares her remarkable journey through international education to her current role leading Taleem's educational vision across multiple schools and curricula. Born into a nomadic life across Southeast Asia and the Middle East due to her father's career in oil and gas, Williams confesses she was never a model student. "Frankly, I couldn't have imagined any profession less likely to be on my CV than education," she reveals with refreshing honesty. Yet this background proved valuable, helping her connect with struggling students when she eventually found her calling in the classroom. Williams offers practical advice for educators aspiring to leadership positions: show initiative, demonstrate passion, and contribute to the bigger picture. "A lot of times it can be driven by money, and that really can't be your motivator in education," she cautions. Instead, she looks for teachers who proactively share knowledge and take on responsibilities beyond their job description. The conversation explores the unique challenges women face in educational leadership, with Williams noting how self-criticism and imposter syndrome can hold talented educators back. "You've got to have the courage to step up and put yourself forward and be uncomfortable sometimes in that role," she advises, while celebrating the increasing representation of women in senior positions. As both a mother and leader, Williams speaks candidly about the emotional reality of having her three children leave home, while reflecting on the privileges of raising a family in the UAE. Her insights on maintaining wellbeing through scheduled self-care and exercise resonate with any busy professional juggling multiple responsibilities. Perhaps most thought-provoking are Williams' reflections on education's future. She identifies the critical balance between embracing AI and technology while ensuring students develop the soft skills that machines cannot replicate. "Focusing entirely on rote learning and getting exams right is not going to be setting our students up for success," she warns, challenging educators to rethink how we prepare young people for a rapidly evolving world. Subscribe to the Teach Middle East Podcast for more conversations with educational leaders shaping the future of learning across the region and beyond. Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text Dan Fitzpatrick returns to discuss the rapid evolution of AI in education since our last conversation in 2023, exploring how generative AI has moved from simple text-based tools to diverse applications creating music, videos, software and more. We examine the complex balance between embracing AI's educational potential while addressing growing concerns about safety, screen time, and the future of work. • AI now speaks our language, making it more accessible than previous technologies • Teachers already possess the core skills needed to leverage AI effectively • Silicon Valley tech leaders often send their children to low-tech schools while developing AI for global use • The economic framework is shifting toward entrepreneurial skills in what some call the "intelligence age" • As AI automates more jobs, education may need to focus less on content acquisition and more on problem-solving and values • Dan's new book, "The Educator's 2026 AI Guide", offers practical tools, case studies, and ethical considerations for implementing AI • Notebook LM allows educators to create personalised research assistants by uploading source materials • Finding balance between technological engagement and digital sanctuary remains crucial for student development Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text Rosemary Campbell-Stevens, veteran educator and decolonisation advocate, shares her journey from the Investing in Diversity programme to her current work reimagining education systems worldwide through a decolonial lens. • How the "Investing in Diversity" programme transformed leadership for global majority educators from 2003-2011 • The powerful shift from identifying as "ethnic minority" to embracing "global majority" identity • Growing up in a "nationalistic Jamaican household" that fostered pride and global consciousness • Why DEI initiatives often fail to create meaningful change in international schools • The colonial roots of education systems designed to produce compliant workers rather than develop full humanity • How parallel systems of self-determination can complement efforts to reform existing institutions • The importance of creating education systems where no child leaves without a strong sense of self • Current projects including decolonising corporate business models and establishing a CARICOM education commission Contact Rosemary at [email protected] to learn more about her work in decolonising education systems. Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text Nick Hart, Principal of Horizon English School in Dubai, shares his journey from aspiring footballer to educational leader and unpacks how school leadership must evolve beyond industrial models to embrace complexity and meaningful interactions. • Nick's unconventional path to education began with a sports science degree and a semi-professional football career • Horizon English School ranks among Dubai's top schools with exceptional academic achievement combined with happy children and staff • Educational blogging became Nick's tool for clarifying thoughts and self-accountability in leadership • Leadership has evolved from industrial "command and control" models to creating conditions where solutions emerge from interactions • Schools should aim for coherence (aligned values with adaptable practices) rather than consistency (everyone doing the same thing) • Effective leaders need extensive knowledge across multiple domains and an understanding of complexity • New leaders should listen and understand before implementing changes • School leadership teams benefit from diversity of thought, experience and perspective Connect with Nick on LinkedIn or visit his blog at athttps://mrnickhart.wordpress.com/  to explore more of his insights on educational leadership. Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text Barry Cooper, founding principal of The Global College in Madrid, explores what educators should prioritise in the new academic year, with particular focus on navigating AI challenges and fostering critical thinking. • Barry's journey from considering priesthood to banking to finding his true calling in education • The Global College's vision of internationalism with at least 50% overseas students • Their innovative entrepreneurship program in partnership with IE University • Why AI is the "big ticket item" for educators this year • The four principles for healthy AI use: understanding AI, understanding the topic, using AI as a collaborator, applying critical thinking • The importance of focusing on student understanding rather than just content production • How student agency and voice are central to The Global College's approach • The need for safe spaces where students can discuss complex global issues • Current challenges in university admissions and higher education systems • Why teaching remains "literally the best job in the world" despite its challenges Connect with Barry Cooper on LinkedIn to continue the conversation about education, AI, and preparing students for a rapidly changing world. https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrycoopereducation/ Support the show Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text Artificial intelligence is reshaping education, but are school leaders ready to guide this transformation? Veteran educator Ann Palmer, with over 35 years of leadership experience, shares her journey from headteacher to AI advocate, revealing a striking contrast between the UK's cautious approach and the Middle East's enthusiastic embrace of educational technology.  After recognising how time-strapped administrators struggle with strategic tech integration, Palmer wrote her book on AI leadership and uncovers a surprising trend of "covert AI use" amongst UK school leaders who quietly experiment with AI tools but hesitate to discuss them openly due to lingering "cheating" associations. Palmer's vision for AI in schools extends far beyond typical cheating concerns, encompassing reduced administrative burdens, personalised professional development, efficient data analysis, and cross-curricular integration. What makes this conversation particularly valuable is her balanced perspective - whilst enthusiastic about AI's potential, she remains steadfast that emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and human connection must stay central to education.  "We are leaders, so we lead the developments. We don't let AI lead us," she asserts, offering a framework for thoughtful implementation that keeps humanity at the forefront whilst leveraging technology for more equitable, personalised learning.  Leading with AI - Order Now @ https://amzn.eu/d/2kLEFLS BIO: Ann Palmer has over 35 years of experience working in education, with schools and universities.   She has partnered with schools and other organisations across the UK and internationally and is the founder of the RACE Charter Mark which is an award recognising effective race equality strategies. She has supported sectors outside of education with setting up similar accreditations.   Ann has been a facilitator on a number of professional programmes, is a public speaker and is highly acclaimed in the field of DEI, leadership and Artificial Intelligence.  She is a Generative AI Training Advisory Board member in the UK. Ann is a qualified Executive Coach and Team Coach, coaching CEOs and other senior personnel and teams internationally.   She is described as "a leader who leads with flair and vision" and is described as "inspirational". As an entrepreneur, Ann currently holds roles across a number of businesses, including Race Excellence which is a consulting business offering high quality and personalised diversity training and accreditation for corporations and businesses.  She is a Founding Fellow with the Chartered C Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text Bloom World Academy in Dubai has implemented a pioneering AI qualification program, reflecting their innovative approach to education while maintaining a balance between technology and traditional values. • School starts at 9 AM rather than earlier, respecting students' sleep needs and family time • Offers flexible schedules (8 AM-5 PM) with optional enrichment activities • Creates a family-first environment with spaces for parents to work and socialise • Uses Learning Achievement Passports for customised learning plans for every student • Implements "stage not age" grouping based on ability rather than strictly by age • Partners with Code School Finland for an AI certification program • Teaches AI to all students from age 4 through a spiral-based curriculum • Balances "authentic intelligence" and "artificial intelligence" • Emphasises communication, general knowledge, and adaptability alongside technical skills • Maintains 90% teacher retention through wellbeing initiatives and planning time Visit bloomworldacademy.ae to learn more about our approach to education and AI integration. John Bell's Bio: A highly experienced senior educationalist who has worked in the education sector for more than 42 years, Mr John Bell has led Bloom World Academy since its founding in 2022. Now in his third year as Principal, Mr Bell continues to bring academic rigour to life, delivering an educational experience that ensures every child is academically successful, socially happy, and emotionally attuned and resilient.  Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools. Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast. Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/. Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson Connect with Leisa Grace: Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/