Innovation & Inclusion: How Ambassador School Aligns with UAE Vision 2031

Edarabia had the opportunity to interview Dr. Arogya Reddy, Principal of Ambassador School, Sharjah, to gain insights into his visionary leadership and innovative approach to education. Dr. Reddy’s commitment to student success and his passion for creating an inclusive and welcoming school environment have made Ambassador School a beacon of excellence in the UAE.

1. What are your plans for 2025?

The year 2025 will be pivotal in fostering awareness and embedding the UAE Vision 2031 through enhanced innovation in our pedagogy, methodologies, and assessments. The four pillars of Vision 2031 will be integrated into our assemblies, classroom processes, and activities.

To align with Vision 2031, we will prioritize the integration of technology into our daily routines, with AI playing a central role in our initiatives. Additionally, sustainable practices will be embedded across all innovative efforts. This includes sharing best practices across the Emirates and the UAE through networking and collaboration with like-minded schools.

2. How do you decide what to focus on academically each year, and which new ideas are you pursuing?

The school development and improvement plan is designed with careful consideration of qualitative and quantitative student data, parental surveys, and forward-thinking input from stakeholders. Regular reviews, conducted through formal and informal methods with all stakeholders, enable us to identify priorities and areas for growth, aligning with the school’s vision as well as the broader vision of the Board and the nation. Global educational trends are thoughtfully integrated into the improvement plan, customized to align with the culture and traditions of the UAE.

3. What challenges do you anticipate in the field of education over the next 5 years?

A significant challenge is the vulnerability of students to various forms of cyberbullying, including threats to personal privacy and cybersecurity. Another key concern is preparing students for future job markets, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in professional environments and adapt to evolving workplace cultures. While technology aids skill development, fostering essential personal traits, interpersonal skills, and strong character profiles remains a major challenge for future generations. This is compounded by the prevalence of micro-managed, nuclear family systems, where advanced technology often promotes individualization over shared community and family experiences.

4. How do you keep students interested in learning, especially those who struggle or seem unmotivated?

Learning becomes enjoyable and meaningful when students can relate it to real-life experiences through concrete examples. Abstract concepts, on the other hand, may lead to disengagement. Technology serves as a powerful tool to address diverse learning needs and styles, with visual elements enhancing learners’ capacity to absorb information. Incorporating periodic well-being activities such as brain breaks, stretching, and physical or cognitive exercises during learning time further enriches the experience. The most rewarding educational journey focuses on recognizing and celebrating each student’s positive responses and progress throughout the learning process, rather than solely emphasizing final assessments.

5. How does the school ensure all students feel welcome and have the same chances to succeed?

Our school implements a buddy system for new students, ensuring they feel welcomed and included in every class. Additionally, our inclusive practices, including awareness sessions for all stakeholders on autism, learning difficulties, and other psychological conditions, foster a culture of understanding and acceptance among our learners.

Ongoing anti-bullying campaigns promote smooth and friendly acceptance of differences, while the Genius Club empowers gifted and talented students to pursue their passions. Teachers and parents receive training on adaptive strategies and simulation techniques to ensure that students of varying abilities are supported in all aspects of their learning journey.

6. How proactive is the school in matters of student stress and bullying?

The school strictly enforces its behavior policy with the active involvement of the Student Council. Through its various portfolios, the Student Council conducts sessions for students and parents on topics such as digital citizenship, cybersecurity, anti-bullying, well-being, and feedback surveys. They also gather and report student feedback on positive behavior within classrooms, assemblies, and common areas.

The Student Council addresses minor bullying incidents and escalates major concerns to the behavior committee. Regular anti-bullying campaigns reinforce adherence to the guidelines, while the school’s robust well-being framework ensures that all stakeholders contribute to maintaining a positive and healthy school environment.

7. How do you help students build the skills they need for life after graduation?

The school prepares future-ready students through collaborations with neighboring universities, professionals, and corporate trainers, in addition to regular career guidance sessions and life skills classes.

The curriculum for each grade is enhanced with activities that promote problem-solving, research, independent learning, and critical and creative thinking. These skills are further reinforced through regular assemblies featuring public speaking, communication, expressive arts, and design, along with theater and drama Productions.”

The school community actively participates by sharing professional experiences, while visits to industries, corporate offices, and learning centers provide valuable exposure and maximize students’ learning opportunities.

8. How involved are parents and the community in making the school better?

The parent community plays an active role through the Parent Support Group (PSG), Parent Governors on the Governing Council, and as volunteers for various activities and celebrations throughout the year.

Parents frequently visit the school to attend awareness sessions led by the Student Council and participate in academic workshops. They also contribute by sharing their professional experiences during career sessions for students.

Medical professionals among the parents conduct sessions on topics such as health and hygiene, adolescent education, viral fever awareness, breast cancer awareness, autism, and vaccinations.

Parental surveys provide valuable feedback, enabling the school to take proactive measures to address potential risks. Many parents volunteer for school initiatives and actively participate in community outreach programs, including national festivals and fundraising efforts for charitable causes.

9. How do you develop a school culture that attracts and keeps great teachers?

Staff retention strategies include initiatives such as an appreciation wall to showcase individual contributions and monthly awards recognizing excellence through titles like Smart Teacher, Powerhouse Professional, Classroom Architect, SuperNova Teachers, and Super Squad. Departments are acknowledged for their collective efforts, and “Well-being Wednesdays” celebrate the personal and professional successes of team members.

Continuous professional development and innovative learning opportunities form a key part of the retention plan. The senior leadership team’s flexible and empathetic approach in supporting staff during illness or family emergencies fosters loyalty and productivity. Additional benefits, including child education support, transportation, medical coverage, annual increments, professional incentives, and travel allowances, further motivate staff to remain committed to the school.

10. Do teachers at your school have growth opportunities for leadership roles?

We take pride in the fact that all middle and sectional leadership roles are filled through internal promotions, with every leader trained and inducted through our Pathway Programs. Our in-house leadership development empowers staff, and all team members are encouraged to participate in these programs within the school and across the network.

The longevity of our current leadership team, with over seven years of dedicated service, stands as a testament to the school’s strong professional growth opportunities and collaborative culture.

11. Which after-school activity would you say has the biggest positive impact on a student’s future?

Team sports foster essential life skills such as collaborative leadership, adaptability, and teamwork. As a result, we offer coaching in various sports as part of our after-school and weekend activities.

STEAM initiatives, including coding, AI, and Robotics, enhance problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and research skills, while also keeping students engaged with the latest global trends. Our students actively participate in these activities and excel in external competitions.

Financial literacy and entrepreneurship programs encourage students to develop business acumen through activities like Biz Pitch and Shaq Tank.

12. As a Principal, what is your definition of success?

Success is a continuous journey for our school, where every student feels happy, secure, and empowered to reach their full potential in an inclusive and culturally diverse environment.

For us, the true measure of success lies in ensuring that every achievement and milestone brings equal joy and a shared sense of accomplishment for all our stakeholders.

13. If you had the opportunity to inspire the world in one sentence, what would that sentence be?

Find your way to succeed and lead others to success.