The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has added 1,000 pre-KG seats across 12 private schools in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra for the academic year 2024-25. This initiative is part of ADEK’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the educational foundation for young learners in the region. By engaging with investors and stakeholders, ADEK has empowered private schools rated “Good” and above in the latest Irtiqaa ratings to expand their pre-KG sections within their established schools. Clear guidelines and criteria have been put in place to ensure increased enrollment and a smooth transition into kindergarten for children aged 3-4 years, which is crucial for long-term educational success and development.
Mariam Alhallami, Acting Executive Director of Early Education Sector at ADEK, emphasized the importance of expanding early education opportunities to invest in the most crucial years of a child’s development. Early education lays the foundation for lifelong learning, confidence, and success. The goal is to empower parents to give their children the best start in life, helping them thrive in school and beyond. The 12 schools offering the new pre-KG seats include ABC Private School, Al Ittihad National Private School, ADNOC Schools, Al Manara Private School, Al Nahda National Schools, Bait Al Maqdes International Private School, Future Leaders International Private School, International Community Schools, Sharjah American International Private School, Summit International Schools, International Community Schools, and ADNOC Schools.
Schools interested in adding pre-KG seats must meet specific criteria set by ADEK, including space availability, submission of academic plans catering to this age group, building requirements such as separate entrances and exits, capacity requirements, staff ratio, assignment of a head/principal to manage the pre-KG section, fee structure alignment with current approved KG1 fees, and an updated school trade license through the Department of Economic Development to include ‘nursery’ as an additional activity. By implementing these criteria, ADEK aims to ensure that schools offering pre-KG programs provide quality education and a conducive learning environment for young children.
The addition of more pre-KG seats in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra reflects ADEK’s commitment to investing in early childhood education to set a strong foundation for students’ future success. This initiative will benefit young learners by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel academically and personally. By empowering private schools to expand their pre-KG sections, ADEK is creating more opportunities for children aged 3-4 to receive quality education that will support their growth and development. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of these new pre-KG seats to give their children the best start in their educational journey.
In conclusion, the recent addition of 1,000 pre-KG seats in Abu Dhabi is a significant step towards enhancing early childhood education in the region. ADEK’s collaboration with private schools and implementation of clear guidelines and criteria will ensure that young learners receive quality education and support for their long-term development. By investing in the education of young children, ADEK is preparing them for a successful future and empowering parents to make informed decisions about their children’s early education. The expansion of pre-KG seats in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra will have a positive impact on the overall educational landscape and contribute to the growth and development of young students in the region.
