Principal’s Message
Dear Family,
Since the last edition we have been very busy getting everything ready for our new school. We have been books for our library and funky chairs for the book areas in the classrooms. At The Aquila School, we will ensure that not only do children learn to read in both English and Arabic – we want to ensure they develop a love of reading too – and we have lots innovative ways we will do this. We have also met many children and their families – both at the visitor centre, and at the School’s & Nursery Show at Jumeirah Hotel. The families we have met are really interested in how we will engage children to enjoy learning while making as much progress as possible – and the way that we are using our common starting point – living in Dubai – at the heart of the curriculum. Families are also reassured by knowing that so many of our new staff are coming from the only school ever in Abu Dhabi to have been graded as outstanding in two inspections!
Warm wishes,
Wayne Howsen
Principal
Latest in School Development
Our School Building
Recently we were delighted to welcome our friends from Which School Advisor, who were impressed at how the building is taking shape. In their review they commented on the different zones of the school that will contribute to our family atmosphere.
In just three weeks time we will be moving into a part of the building so that families will be able to see an example of the classrooms – as well as take part in a number of exciting challenges for the whole family. Keep an eye out for an amazing prize!
News
We are delighted to welcome to members of Team Aquila – one expected – one a surprise.
Firstly – we congratulate our Head of Primary – Kylie Cleworth – on the birth of baby Zoe.
We also welcome Aquila, The Parrot. Aquila was found in the street unable to fly-but already he is feeling much happier and is enjoying meeting families in our visitor centre – if you are in the area please feel free to come and say hello!
Andrew Churm
Primary School Teacher
Andrew’s wife Julie joins Aquila also as an Early Year’s teacher, and his two children joined as two of our first students in Year 3 and Year 6.
“I started teaching in 2006, working in primary schools in the North of England. Following that, I moved with my family to the UAE to teach in an international school in Abu Dhabi. I am now in my fourth year in the middle east, it’s a great place to live and learn and I am loving every minute of it. My passions in life, to name just a few, are my family (also at Aquila), travelling, football and playing my guitar.
Within school, I have been teaching in KS2 (Years 3-6) and really enjoy Maths, Science and Sports. I also relish the challenge of being the coach of the school football team, and take great pride in the fact that our team were championing over all the other Abu Dhabi schools.
I take great pleasure in developing excellent relationships with my pupils to develop amazing teaching and learning opportunities, and I want children to understand that they can take care of themselves, the people around them and become independent learners.”
Upcoming Events
Meet our Outstanding Heads in The Villa
Looking for a School? Fancy a coffee?
Come and meet the Principal and Head of Primary at Costa Coffee, The Villa, tomorrow Wednesday the 21 March at 3pm.
You will easily spot us – one of us will be wearing a hat!