Educators in the UAE are reminding families not to disrupt the end-of-year routine by missing the final weeks of school, as some parents may plan vacations during Eid Al Adha and the summer holidays. Many believe that the last weeks of school are less important, but school heads stress that this period includes critical assessments, final projects, and preparations for the next academic year. To prevent students from missing important academic time, families are encouraged to schedule vacations during designated school holidays.
The Ministry of Education (MOE) mandates that summer vacations cannot exceed 8.2 weeks, regardless of the curriculum. Principals emphasize that parents must be aware of this rule and plan accordingly. According to Amy Cooper, Pastoral Director at GEMS Wellington Academy — Silicon Oasis, the last few weeks are essential for revising and solidifying learning before the summer break. Extended absences can result in significant learning loss, particularly in subjects that require continuous practice.
Institutions in the UAE are currently identifying the needs of each year group and focusing their lessons on upcoming academic requirements and trends. For example, Year 8 students are focusing on key reading fundamentals, while Year 10 students are revising exam techniques. Schools are enhancing students’ skills in the final weeks, so parents are advised to consult with their child’s school before deciding to depart early. When students miss long stretches of the school year, educators have to spend extra time catching up with them, making it important for parents to adhere to school schedules.
Vicky Martin, Head of Primary at GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi, offers practical tips for parents to help children retain and enhance their learning over the summer. These include using recipes to teach math skills, turning grocery shopping trips into math lessons, and utilizing road trips to discuss geography, history, and culture. Martin also suggests creating fun quizzes related to the places visited and encouraging children to read a mix of fiction and non-fiction. Educational apps like Duolingo can be used to offer free lessons in various subjects.
In summary, educators are urging families in the UAE to prioritize their child’s education by not missing the final weeks of school for vacations. The last weeks are crucial for revising and solidifying learning, preparing for upcoming academic needs, and preventing significant learning loss. Parents are reminded of MOE regulations regarding the length of summer vacations and are encouraged to inquire about their child’s school plans before planning early departures. By implementing practical and fun learning activities over the summer, parents can help children retain and enhance their knowledge outside of the classroom.
