Fiona Darby

Fiona Darby is an Abu Dhabi-based education writer with a background that spans education, banking, and even horse racing. With over 20 years’ experience in the UAE and a mother of two, she approaches education stories through a parent’s lens, always asking how schools can best nurture not just academic success but curiosity, confidence, and wellbeing. When she’s not writing or interviewing schools, you’ll most likely find her outside. A passionate runner and nature enthusiast, she thrives in the outdoors and recently discovered a new obsession with triathlon. Inquisitive, committed, and always excited for the next challenge, Fiona brings both personal experience and professional insight to her writing.
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New Principal Doug Pettitt shares his vision for Mamoura British Academy, where high expectations, strong values and meaningful relationships combine to help every student thrive

NAS Abu Dhabi is taking a fresh approach to Sixth Form, combining personalised learning, academic ambition and tailored university guidance

Aldar Education launches the UAE’s first student-led podcast created, hosted, and delivered entirely in Arabic

GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi grows with new campus, IGCSEs, and stronger IB pathways

NAS Abu Dhabi builds confidence through inclusive performing arts and global creative opportunities

BIS Abu Dhabi BTECs deliver strong results, practical learning, and clear university pathways

Discover how YBA blends academic excellence, innovation, and leadership opportunities with personalised support for every student

How Mamoura British Academy embeds inclusion into everyday teaching, ensuring every student can participate, progress and belong

Discover how sport at NAS Abu Dhabi is balancing participation, performance and personal growth through an inclusive, student-centred philosophy

Bateen World Academy nurtures curiosity, wellbeing, and play-based learning in its Early Years programme

Muna British Academy opens its new campus, continuing its legacy of strong values, community, and exceptional education

At RIS, sport is a cornerstone of student development, building character, confidence and community across both campuses

NAS Abu Dhabi’s secondary school puts care, community, and small cohorts at the heart of learning

Bateen World Academy highlights why relationships and a sense of belonging are central to student confidence, wellbeing, and achievement

YBA personalises Post-16 with tailored pathways, experience and guidance for life ahead

Discover how Yas American Academy brings the real world into the classroom

Cranleigh Abu Dhabi’s Scholarship Programme nurtures leadership, resilience and purpose alongside academic excellence

Tadweer Group inspires students across the UAE with hands-on sustainability workshops and activities for National Day

Pioneering global study shows how teaching students to think about their thinking boosts learning, confidence, and wellbeing

Discover Cranleigh Abu Dhabi’s Early Years programme, where curiosity, community, and values guide children aged 3–7 through their first steps in learning

From IB Primary Years to GCSEs and the IB Diploma, students thrive academically and personally, guided by expert teachers and a supportive community

Start your child’s journey with confidence, creativity, and curiosity at Yasmina British Academy Early Years