BIS Abu Dhabi Kicks Off School Year with Innovative Family Orientation

Abu Dhabi, UAE – The British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi) has ushered in the new school year with a fresh and engaging approach to family orientation, blending creativity, community spirit, and exploration through a series of innovative welcome events. Among these, the standout event was the thrilling ‘Amazing Race,’ a citywide adventure that allowed families to connect while discovering the cultural gems of Abu Dhabi.

On August 24th, BIS Abu Dhabi families participated in the Amazing Race, navigating iconic landmarks such as Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Emirates Palace, and The Louvre. The event challenged families to solve creative clues and capture the essence of these landmarks through selfies. The most creative snapshot won a luxurious overnight stay for a family of four at a top Yas Island hotel.

One enthusiastic parent shared their experience, saying, “What a fantastic idea to organise this event! We had so much fun navigating through Abu Dhabi and discovering our new city. Since we didn’t have a car yet, we teamed up with another family from the school, and it’s wonderful to see that our sons are already friends!”

Alan Cocker, Principal at BIS Abu Dhabi, highlighted the school’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment, stating, “At The British International School Abu Dhabi, we believe that starting the new school year should be as exciting and welcoming as possible for all families. Our innovative approach to orientation and community integration reflects our commitment to making every student and their family feel at home from day one. The Amazing Race was not just a fun event; it was a way for our new and returning families to bond, explore Abu Dhabi, and create lasting memories. We are thrilled by the positive feedback and look forward to a year filled with growth, learning, and community spirit.”

The orientation programme also featured other creative initiatives, such as Transition Days, where tutor profiles and introductory videos were shared with families ahead of the term, ensuring early connections with teachers. Additionally, the school implemented a buddy system, provided pastoral care from form tutors, and arranged settling-in calls from teachers, all aimed at fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

The programme culminated in a delightful group picnic in the Sports Hall, where over 140 families gathered to socialise and enjoy a meal together. The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with families expressing their appreciation for the chance to explore Abu Dhabi and connect with others.

With these innovative and community-focused efforts, BIS Abu Dhabi has set a new standard for starting the school year. The school looks forward to a year of connection, growth, and success built on this strong foundation.