Explore how this Abu Dhabi school is helping pupils reach and unleash their true potential
PARTNER CONTENT: Welcome to Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Senior School, where education transforms into a personalised adventure tailored to each pupil’s unique interests and ambitions.
Here, learning transcends the ordinary as pupils are empowered to carve their own academic paths, choosing from an array of next-level qualifications that ignite their passions and fuel their dreams.
Independence is the cornerstone of the School’s philosophy. As pupils progress, they are encouraged to embrace academic rigour while relying less on their teachers and more on their own drive and determination.
By Year 13, pupils have not only achieved the qualifications necessary for their future endeavours but have also honed the skills, resilience, and autonomy that will serve them well at university and beyond.
But it is not all about hitting the books. Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Senior School offers a wealth of gamechanging opportunities beyond the classroom.
From diverse activities and dynamic societies to exhilarating sports and leadership experiences, pupils thrive in an environment where they can explore their interests and develop into well-rounded individuals ready to take on the world.
Comprehensive and flexible GCSE programme
“Our GCSE programme is quite comprehensive,” says Damien Ward, Head of Senior School at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Senior School.
“Over the last six years, we’ve expanded both the number of GCSEs available and the variety within each option block. This gives pupils more choices when it comes to their options.”
He continues, “We’ve also introduced numerous science pathways, recognising that some kids have a passion for science while for others, it’s just a necessary part of their educational journey. We’ve tailored our science pathways to support every pupil’s unique educational path.
Developing ownership and responsibility
“One of the key things we’re trying to develop throughout the GCSE years is ownership and responsibility,” Damien explains.
“We start this in Y9 with a philosophy project. It’s designed to get pupils thinking beyond the normal curriculum and about their passions and future aspirations.”
Damien goes on to explain how the philosophy project gives pupils a sense of ownership and pride. “This foundation is crucial when they make their GCSE choices, as it helps them take pride in their decisions and understand the importance of making informed choices.”
Unique support and flexibility
At Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Senior School, the GCSE selection process stands out due to the unique support offered to students. Damien explains that the school allows pupils to try out their GCSE subjects until the end of September.
This one-month period provides pupils with the opportunity to determine if their initial choices align with their interests and educational goals.
“If they need to make changes, we guide and mentor them through that process,” Damien notes. This flexibility is a key feature of Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Senior School’s approach, designed to help pupils take ownership of their educational journey.
By reflecting on their choices and making necessary adjustments, pupils develop important skills in responsibility, independence, and a sense of achievement. These skills are crucial as they transition to A-levels and, eventually, university.
You might also like: How the new Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Pre-Prep continues to nurture curiosity
New Environmental Management course
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Senior School is introducing several exciting changes to the GCSE programme next year. Matthew McNaught, Assistant Principal: Teaching & Learning, shares that they are adding new experiences to help pupils make more informed choices.
“We’re introducing New Environmental Management as a new subject,” says Matthew. In addition, the art pathway will now allow pupils to explore ceramics, fine art, and photography.
“They’ll be able to experience all these disciplines before deciding which one is their strength,” he explains.
Another notable offering is GCSE Psychology, which opens even more pathways for students. According to Matthew, these changes aim to provide a broader range of experiences, enabling pupils to make more informed decisions about their future academic and career paths.
Emphasising skills and curiosity
Stephanie Barnes, Deputy Head of the Senior School, highlights the importance of equipping pupils with essential skills and nurturing their sense of curiosity.
“While grades are important as stepping stones for our pupils, a huge focus is on the skills we equip them with,” she explains.
The aim is to develop an intellectual curiosity within students and prepare them to become global citizens.
Preparing global citizens
“Our students live in a diverse community and will engage across a broad spectrum of career paths with people from different backgrounds,” says Stephanie.
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Senior School aims to provide opportunities for pupils to refine the skills needed for this engagement.
This preparation includes a variety of committees and co-curricular activities (CCAs), which play a significant role in their development of skills, character and values.
Enrichment and international opportunities
Stephanie also emphasises the importance of enrichment programmes and international opportunities.
“The enrichment activities, as well as international opportunities, are crucial in their development,” she notes.
Additionally, the School collaborates with people from various walks of life who can engage with the pupils, providing diverse perspectives and experiences that are vital for their growth.
For more information, visit Cranleigh
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