Abu Dhabi schools focus on supporting ‘at risk’ students

School heads say some students may be experiencing learning difficulties, identified by educational psychologists, which could be both physical and intellectual

- Nandini Sircar

Abu Dhabi schools have begun implementing the 39 updated policies announced by the education regulator.

One of the key policies focuses on early identification and support of students who are at "educational risk" in order to enhance their chances of academic progress, promotion, graduation, and successful transitions to postsecondary education or other career paths.

The ADEK Student Protection Policy mandates that schools establish measures to prevent and address student maltreatment. Furthermore, the ADEK Student Administrative Affairs Policy requires schools to identify students with unauthorised absenteeism exceeding five per cent as a "concern" and assess whether they are at educational risk.

School heads said some students may be experiencing learning difficulties, identified by educational psychologists, which could be both physical and intellectual.

David Craggs, vice-principal, GEMS World Academy - Abu Dhabi, said: "We are actively implementing ADEK's mandate to support students at educational risk by developing and refining policies and processes that fully align with the guidelines. We have collaborated with all stakeholders to design policies that identify, assess, and support students facing educational challenges. We have also developed processes that ensure individualised support is available with early intervention and individualised support plans that monitor student progress."