The school is increasingly recognised for its dedication to community, learning, and holistic development
PARTNER CONTENT: Located in a peaceful part of Khalifa City, Al Shohub Private School blends the best of the British curriculum with deep respect for its community’s culture and heritage.
Under new Principal Helen Morris, Al Shohub is increasingly recognised for its state-of-the-art facilities and dedication to community, learning, and holistic development.
A commitment to growth Helen Morris’s passion for education is evident. “I have never wanted to be anything other than a teacher,” she shares.
Starting her career in the UK, she became the youngest qualified Headteacher in the South of England before moving to Dubai
She helped lead Horizon English School to an ‘Outstanding’ rating and contributed to the success of schools under the Taaleem group, including DBS Jumeirah Park.
After overseeing 11 Abu Dhabi schools with Aldar Education as a Group Head, she returned to school-based leadership at Al Shohub last year.
“I missed being in schools, so when Aldar asked me to consider Al Shohub, I jumped at the chance to make a difference and support the school in fulfilling its potential.”
A safe and supportive learning environment
Helen’s vision is clear: “I want Al Shohub to be an inclusive, outstanding oasis of security, happiness and learning.”
With just under 600 students and a capacity of 1,100, the focus remains on quality rather than rapid expansion.
“We want to remain a smaller primary school where each child is noticed, and staff have strong relationships with their students.”
Wellbeing is a priority. “If a child doesn’t feel safe, they will never push themselves, and if they don’t feel comfortable enough to fail, they will never achieve beyond their dreams.” Students are encouraged to take risks and develop resilience.
“Our pastoral care, wellbeing, health, safety, and facilities are exceptional.”
Celebrating culture and identity
Al Shohub follows the English National Curriculum (ENC) while integrating the community’s heritage and values.
“We are very proud of our work on national identity. Strength comes from knowing your culture and heritage,” says Helen. Lessons reflect this with culturally appropriate resources and a focus on national identity.
“We consciously take action to promote and encourage an understanding of identity in all our children.”
English is the primary language of instruction, but Arabic and French are also taught, equipping students with multilingual skills.
Learning beyond the classroom
Experiential learning is key. “Our children learn inside and outside the school while climbing, running, painting, and being in nature.”
Facilities include science labs, art suites, two swimming pools, professional kitchens, a hydroponic garden, and the Sheikh Zayed Garden for Growth, where students engage in nature-related art and science projects.
Playtime is seen as an opportunity for discovery, and plans are underway to renovate playgrounds with climbing frames, balance beams and quiet areas.
Beyond academics, students take on leadership roles, from green leaders to school council representatives.
Extracurricular activities are varied and shaped by student input, from sports teams competing in Aldar school events to specialised ECAs in technology, languages, and the arts.
Therapy is also incorporated into daily activities to support students with additional needs.
Community and inclusivity
Inclusivity is central to Al Shohub’s ethos.
A dedicated inclusion wing features therapy rooms, occupational therapy spaces, and sensory areas. Helen explains that they are deeply committed to meeting the needs of every child.
“We have robust processes for identifying, supporting, and monitoring SEN, POD, and G&T. Our inclusion team is highly qualified and experienced.”
Al Shohub received a ‘Good’ rating in its latest Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) inspection.
The focus now is on continuous improvement – higher academic expectations, teacher training, and investment in facilities.
“We are continuing on our development journey to keep our skills current and support our children; we are committed to giving them what they need to flourish,” says Helen.
With its strong sense of community and emphasis on individual student growth, Al Shohub provides automatic entry to Noya British School and serves as a feeder to Yasmina British Academy and other Aldar schools.
“We aim to make this school outstanding in holistic education,” Helen concludes, “preparing students for secondary school and beyond.”
To book a school tour, call 02 555 9995. For more information, visit Al Shohub Private School
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