Discover how BIS Abu Dhabi shapes global citizens through immersive learning, cultural experiences, and real-world connections
PARTNER CONTENT: At The British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi), education extends beyond textbooks, offering immersive learning experiences, life-changing trips, and global competitions that equip students for success inside and outside the classroom.
“We start by identifying our objectives, then decide on the most engaging way to achieve them,” says Pat O’Neil, Year Six Teacher and Visits & Trips Coordinator. “Collaboration and including students’ ideas makes the learning experience dynamic and relevant.”
Jamie Atkins, Head of Year Six, adds that the goal is to give students ownership of their learning. “We connect what they know with real-life situations,” he explains.
For example, through BIS Abu Dhabi’s link with MIT, students created their own F1 teams, managing sponsorships and conducting mock interviews, culminating in a trip to Yas Marina Circuit.
These young engineers also designed and built their own F1 cars, resulting in impressive speed and performance, showcasing their dedication and attention to detail.
Pat explains that hands-on learning helps students relate their education to future careers. “When they can connect it to real jobs, it clicks,” he says.
These projects direct their passions and shape future career paths. For example, a science project on space might inspire a student to become an astronaut, or a biology project could lead to a future as a vet.
Fostering independent learning
The Titanic project instantly sparked interest with its universal recognition.
“Everyone knows the Titanic,” says Pat. It includes a “Titanic Day,” whereby students experience different class systems and engage in debates on key events leading to the disaster. “Had the captain done his job well? What if the rivets had been better?” These questions prompt critical thinking and debates on responsibility.
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Jamie adds that the project encourages independent learning. “We provided the tools, but they had to research themselves,” he explains. Students take ownership of their learning, forming opinions backed by evidence. “For 10-year-olds to challenge each other and justify their positions in debates is highly impressive.”
Immersive cultural connections
Pat shares that BIS Abu Dhabi’s Global Citizenship Programme includes a life-changing trip to a Tanzanian village.
“Students help build a school and goat sheds for local families and experience a safari,” he explains. Students fundraise USD $400 each through events like bake sales, with the money supporting community projects.
For Seema, a BIS Abu Dhabi student, the trip opened her eyes to life in a developing country. “Seeing how different life is there made me realise how much I take for granted,” she says. Her involvement in building a goat shed showed her how even small efforts can make a big impact.
Kristen, also a student, adds, “I feel so much more grateful for what we have. They don’t have much, but they’re so happy,” reflecting on how the trip gave her a deep appreciation for cultural diversity.
Logan, another student at BIS Abu Dhabi, highlights the lasting impact: “I’d heard so much about it. I knew it was an experience I couldn’t miss out on.” For Logan, the trip was not just about adventure, but about learning through giving. “It felt incredible knowing the money we raised helped so many people,” she shares.
Pat also highlights other unique Tanzania trips, such as climbing Kilimanjaro and walking with the Maasai Mara. “You’re off the grid, washing in rivers, camping in the wild, and staying with the Maasai Mara tribes,” he says. These immersive experiences give students a deep connection to the local culture and environment.
Jamie adds, “Parents are excited for their children to experience a different side of the world, as they believe it will have a significant impact on how their children view the world.” This is evident in Logan’s reflections: “It was truly a transformative experience that changed the way I look at life.”
Through fundraising, immersive cultural experiences, and community service, BIS Abu Dhabi fosters a sense of global responsibility in its students. As Seema put it, “It was an unforgettable experience that truly changed how I see the world.”
Connected learning on a global level
BIS Abu Dhabi leverages Nord Anglia’s Global Campus to connect students with global learning. “Through Global Campus, students engage in challenges and competitions linking over 90 schools worldwide,” says Jamie.
Year Six students, for instance, use MIT challenges like “Coding for Better” to explore AI, collaborating with peers across the globe.
The school also facilitates cultural exchanges, such as pen pal programmes. A German language teacher connected with a school in Germany, while a Year Two teacher collaborated with a class in Mexico, exchanging videos to enhance cultural understanding.
Pat highlights a new venture with a school in Costa Rica. “We’re planning a 10-day exchange trip, with a programme tailored to Costa Rica’s rainforest setting,” he says. Excited about the project, Pat adds that they aim to finalise details and share the itinerary by year end.
Celebrating diversity
“At BIS Abu Dhabi, fostering an appreciation for diversity is a key part of the student experience. Pat explains how this multicultural environment shapes their perspective.
“Students are immersed in a multicultural environment. From a young age, they interact with peers from a wide range of nationalities – Uruguay, Australia, India, Kazakhstan, and many more,” he says. “This exposure helps them see themselves as global citizens. Rather than focusing on differences, they celebrate the diversity around them. It’s not about being from one place; it’s about embracing the richness of global perspectives, creating a sense of identity that transcends borders.”
Jamie highlights how events like the annual Iftar help students experience cultural diversity.
“Last week, we had 150-200 families from the community, each bringing a dish from their culture,” he says. The event, held on the basketball courts and in the new canteen, brought the community together to share a meal and celebrate diverse traditions.
“BIS Abu Dhabi’s approach to education blends immersive experiences, global connections and a commitment to diversity, shaping students into well-rounded global citizens.
By connecting classroom learning with real-world situations and fostering cultural appreciation, the school equips students with essential skills for the future.
Whether through life-changing trips, collaborative projects, or celebrating diverse traditions, BIS Abu Dhabi ensures its students are prepared to thrive in an interconnected world.
For more information, visit The British International School Abu Dhabi
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