How We Learn
How We Learn

Our learning approach

Students at The Aquila School in Dubai embark on a dynamic and personalised learning journey, guided by the transformative Learning.First™ framework.

In a safe and happy environment, they make choices, take ownership of their learning and grow into confident learners who thrive academically and personally.

By engaging in Moral and Social studies alongside Arabic and Islamic, students learn in a setting that meets high international standards while embracing and reflecting the culture and values of the UAE.

As part of an inclusive community, they receive personalised programmes and tailored support that meet their academic needs while respecting their time beyond school - promoting a healthy balance between learning, life and personal interests. 

Skills for life

Life competencies are the essential skills every student needs to succeed in learning, relationships and their future. Backed by research with Cambridge University through CamTree, ISP's Life Competencies Framework is embedded into school life, helping students build the self-belief to set ambitious goals, take action and shape their own success.

Cognitive

Thinking deeply, questioning and problem-solving: "I lead my learning by solving problems, communicating confidently, and managing my time effectively."

Critical thinking

Making sense of information, solving problems, and making smart decisions

Creativity

Generating new ideas, exploring different perspectives and innovating 

Curiosity

Asking "why?" and "what if?" to deepen understanding and spark new ideas

Global

Understanding the world and taking action:  "I am curious about different cultures and take action for a better world."

Citizenship

Recognising one's role in the global community

Action

Taking meaningful steps to support social causes 

Understanding

Respecting different perspectives and ways of life

Self-leadership

Managing self, goals and growth:  "I know how I learn best, set goals and stay motivated to improve."

Confidence

Believing in self and tackling challenges with a positive mindset

Learning to Learn

Understanding how to improve learning strategies

Wellbeing

Balancing mental, emotional and physical health

Interpersonal

Working together and building strong relationships: "I collaborate, communicate and build meaningful relationships with others."

Collaboration

Working effectively as a team to achieve shared goals

Communication

Expressing ideas clearly and listening to others

Social-Emotional

Understanding emotions and managing them effectively

Digital

Using technology safely and creatively: "I use digital tools responsibly to communicate, create and innovate."

Digital Literacy

Using technology effectively and safely

Responsibility

Respecting others and making ethical choices online

Innovation

Using technology to develop ideas and improve solutions

Cognitive Global Self-leadership Interpersonal Digital

Where learning comes first 

Most schools talk about what they teach. We focus on how your child learns. Through the Learning.First™ approach, students reflect on their progress, explore new approaches and make decisions that drive their growth. 

Curiosity fuels our learning Confidence drives lifelong learning The power of 'Good Struggles' Teachers as co-pilots 

Curiosity fuels our learning

The best learning happens when students are actively engaged. We ignite curiosity through hands-on projects and inquiry-based learning, making learning exciting, memorable and full of exploration.

Confidence drives lifelong learning

Our students trust in their abilities, build confidence and lead their way forward. This mindset helps them believe they can learn and achieve anything, fostering a love for lifelong learning.

The power of 'Good Struggles'

We believe great learning happens just beyond the comfort zone. That’s why we create purposeful challenges, or 'good struggles', that help students stay motivated while they grow. Through these experiences, students build resilience, solve problems, and learn to keep going – even when it’s hard.

Teachers as co-pilots 

Learning here is a partnership. Teachers work alongside students as guides, helping them navigate choices, embrace good struggles, inspire those 'aha' Amazing Learning moments of self-discovery and grow in confidence.

Where learning comes first 

Most schools talk about what they teach. We focus on how your child learns. Through the Learning.First™ approach, students reflect on their progress, explore new approaches and make decisions that drive their growth. 

Growing curious, confident minds

As part of International Schools Partnership, every child’s journey is enriched with proven learning experiences that forever spark curiosity and grow confidence.

Academic achievement
Academic achievement

Enjoy personalised learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding.

Life competencies
Life competencies

Gain life skills to thrive in academics, as well as careers and personal lives.

Multilingualism
Multilingualism

Develop proficiency in multiple world languages, while being supported in home or first languages.

International opportunities
International opportunities

Try global skill-building programmes that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership.

Life and career pathways
Life and career pathways

Benefit from personalised guidance for university and career choices, supporting your chosen path.  

Measuring the quality of learning

We use the International Schools Partnership’s proven Learning Improvement Process (LIP) to ensure the quality of learning is continuously improving. This framework combines evidence, reflection and action, so teachers and leaders can focus on what makes the greatest difference for every learner. It means teaching is always evolving, learning experiences are continuously refined, and progress is measured against clear standards. For families, it gives confidence that your child’s education is guided by a framework built on evidence, designed for improvement and proven across a global community of schools.

International Baccalaureate learner profile

At our private British school in Dubai, learners think critically and solve complex problems. They engage in rigorous educational programmes and explore different languages, becoming culturally aware in a rapidly changing world. 

Moral, Social and Cultural Studies

Students build a solid foundation in Moral, Social and Cultural Studies (MSC), learning about society, local and global history and important values including honesty, empathy and global awareness. They grow to respect diversity, understand human rights and become caring, taking action as responsible members of society.

Moral

At our school in Dubailand, students grow as ethical human beings, developing moral thinking and reasoning. By applying these principles in a variety of social contexts, as well as in school, family and local communities, our learners grow the skills they need to participate actively and make a positive difference in the world.

Embracing our values including honesty, tolerance, respect, helpfulness, responsibility, moderation, humility, thoughtfulness, consciousness, harmony and courage, our learners shape their character and guide their actions as compassionate and responsible members of society. 

Moral

Social

Students develop a profound understanding of human geography, sociology, economics and information literacy - cultivating both the wisdom to navigate our interconnected world and the skills for lifelong learning.

By championing solidarity, financial responsibility, diversity and inclusion, they become engaged citizens who honour civic duty, uphold laws and strengthen communities through respect and cooperation.

Through critical thinking, creativity and collaboration, they grow into capable, compassionate leaders - equipped to solve problems, make ethical decisions and drive meaningful change in society. 

Social

Cultural

Students explore the UAE’s governing structures and rich heritage, strengthening their sense of loyalty and belonging to the national community. They learn to participate responsibly in society, while embracing the values of tolerance, family and respect that define the UAE’s cultural identity.

Cultural
Digital learning and technology

Digital learning and technology

Students at Aquila lead the way in technology, using devices from the start to express ideas and tackle real projects across subjects. As they move up, they master coding and robotics with Python, Lego Spike and Tello Drones, turning curiosity into action.

Every lesson is hands-on - students solve problems, create and collaborate, building the skills they need to explore domains including web development, game design and machine learning.  

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Grow a curious, confident mind while driving academic success and global readiness through continuous learning, empowered by ISP’s Learning,First.™ approach.

Enquire now