Excellence in Education Leadership 2024 is a series where we shine a spotlight on the heads of schools and universities in Bahrain. We sit down with these leaders and uncover the insights, aspirations, and strategies driving them to shape the future of education.
In this exclusive interview, we speak with Abby Saadeh, Academic Principal, Canadian School Bahrain
I believe that the role of an educational leader in today’s world is to be a visionary and a guide for the school community. An education leader must always start with a student-centred approach to their school’s vision. At the Canadian School Bahrain, it is our role to ensure that we are implementing a curriculum rooted in the British Columbia, Canada education system which emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and hands-on learning experiences.
Parent engagement is also essential in the success of students and therefore we work with parents as partners in each child’s educational journey. I also believe an educational leader is committed to providing instructional leadership to teaching staff so that they are confident with using best and innovative practices in teaching.
The key to providing enriching learning experiences is opportunities that nurture students’ natural curiosity and problem-solving skills. At the Canadian School Bahrain this includes introducing several initiatives that integrate technology meaningfully into learning. These aspects help us to prepare students for future challenges such as adaptability, innovation, and understanding of global perspectives. We have also provided modern learning spaces to create a positive student-centred atmosphere.
Inquiry-based learning is at the centre of Canadian School Bahrain’s approach. It encourages students to explore topics through questioning, research, and problem-solving. This method develops critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper understanding of content, as students engage in their learning process.
CSB utilizes tools like one-to-one iPads from grades 4-9, a MacBook from grades 10-12, interactive whiteboards, and several educational apps such as coding and robotics software to enhance teaching and learning. This helps students develop digital literacy skills while allowing for more personalized and interactive learning experiences. Furthermore, CSB focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) through projects and assignments that combine these fields to solve real-world problems.
Lastly, the Canadian School Bahrain is committed to global education and practice through the UN Sustainable Development Goals as we are committed to eco-friendly practices such as recycling programs, beach clean-ups, and participation in eco-summits which all contribute to becoming socially responsible citizens.
Technology and AI are changing education through personalizing learning as it allows educators to meet individual student needs, making lessons more engaging and interactive, and providing instant feedback. Tools like educational games, virtual and augmented reality, and multimedia resources bring the real world into the classroom, helping students visualize concepts in real time.
It can promote collaboration among students, offer access to more resources, and support inclusive learning for those with diverse needs. Technology is innately more inclusive as it can mean more time for learning. Also, skills like coding and problem-solving prepare students for future careers. Ultimately, AI empowers students to take control of their learning and develop the skills needed for success in an ever-changing world.
A recent student success story at the Canadian School Bahrain involves a group of middle school students who participated in a UN Sustainable Development Goals STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) fair. The students developed innovative solutions to reduce plastic waste by designing a sustainable recycling system.
Through inquiry-based learning and collaboration, they researched, designed, and built a prototype that impressed both local experts. Their projects were part of a school-wide initiative to implement more eco-friendly practices. This achievement highlighted the power of inquiry-based learning and the creativity fostered by CSB’s innovative curriculum.
The best thing that happened to me as a student was the opportunity to try new things and explore my interests. I was given several leadership roles, which helped me develop essential skills like communication, responsibility, and teamwork. Having teachers who genuinely believed in me and set high expectations pushed me to work harder and grow both academically and personally. Their support and confidence in my abilities made a lasting impact on me.
Parents should consider the Canadian School Bahrain because it offers a balanced education that nurtures both academic and personal growth. With a focus on hands-on learning, students are encouraged to ask questions, explore new ideas, and think critically.
The supportive environment, combined with the Canadian curriculum, ensures that each child receives individual attention and opportunities to grow as a leader. Teachers hold high expectations and believe in their students’ potential, helping them build confidence and skills that prepare them for future challenges.
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