Mr. Howsen, Principal of The Aquila School, joined the team at Which School Advisor (WSA) for their second edition of WSA TV. The discussion, led by WSA’s Early Years Editor Jenny Mollon, saw a panel of representatives from schools and specialist centres, offering their insights into how to support children with different needs. A focus on inclusive education has turned into a real priority for the UAE government, with new initiatives being implemented by The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and other regulatory bodies.
The panel discussion covered elements of what makes a school inclusive and how different schools are working towards becoming more inclusive. Mr. Howsen said “the new regulations which require all schools to be genuinely inclusive, I believe are morally right”. At The Aquila School, we recognise the importance of being inclusive, therefore we have a specialist team based inside the school, who work with all children who need additional support. This may be in the form of group learning, additional phonics lessons or individual educational plans (IEP).
We also work closely with the Hemam centre, who provide specialist full-time 1:1 ABA therapy, to children with significant needs on the Austism Spectrum – something as a school we do not possess the expertise to provide. Children who are enrolled with Hemam, access our curriculum and facilities and are gradually integrated into mainstream lessons alongside their therapy schedule in school.
You can watch the interview here.