In recent years, the issue of inclusive education has garnered increased attention, particularly as parents strive to secure appropriate academic environments for children with special learning needs. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a growing number of academic institutions are stepping forward with proactive strategies designed to support and integrate these students. Notable among these pioneering institutions are Springdales School Dubai and GEMS Modern Academy, which have embraced inclusive approaches, creating educational landscapes conducive to overcoming challenges that students with special needs frequently face.
Rashmi Virmani, the section lead for the foundation stage at Springdales School, encapsulated the school’s ethos, stating, “Admission is open to students of all abilities. Our goal is to create an adaptive learning environment that fosters independence and confidence in every student.” Currently, Springdales supports 107 students of determination, and the institution boasts a range of accessible features, including ramps, elevators, and sensory rooms, as well as speech therapy facilities. These services collectively enhance the learning experience for students, allowing them to thrive in a supportive and accommodating environment.
At the heart of Springdales’ efforts is its inclusion department, known as Sawa—meaning “together” in Arabic. This vital organizational unit develops Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) tailored to the unique needs of each student. In addition to traditional academic activities, it also integrates vocational training and life skills development into the curriculum, thereby ensuring that students can pursue a diverse range of subjects without the constraints of a standard, potentially overwhelming, curriculum.
Virmani shared a compelling anecdote about a student who faced substantial barriers due to cerebral palsy and a compromised immune system. When she first enrolled at Springdales in Kindergarten, the school took extraordinary measures to ensure her safety and accessibility. “We had a special person accompany her and provided an attendant in the classroom when she needed help,” she recalled. When the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a pivot to remote learning, Springdales swiftly established an online program that enabled this student to continue her education seamlessly. Now in Grade 3, she is thriving academically, a testament to the unwavering dedication of her teachers and the school community.
Parental participation plays a crucial role in the educational experience at Springdales, with many families reporting transformative outcomes for their children. One parent, Shaanija Ashraf, detailed her daughter’s journey with autism, describing how her struggles in different environments finally culminated in success at Springdales. “The school has been incredibly supportive, organizing IEPs and strategies that have made a huge difference,” Ashraf stated. Her daughter, who once felt alienated in previous institutions, now engages actively in school activities, thanks to the inclusive culture fostered by the staff. “The inclusive atmosphere has made her feel like a valued member of the school community,” she asserted.
Another inspiring success story comes from Nimalan Jayaraman Banumathi, a student who joined Springdales in second grade. Tailored to focus on his interests rather than traditional, language-heavy subjects, his curriculum was adjusted to include Painting and Computer Applications. Supported by the Sawa department, Nimalan excelled, achieving a Certificate of Merit in Computer Applications during his Grade 10 exams and aspiring to pursue a degree in computer science. His mother, Dr. Banumathi, reflected on the journey, stating, “The inclusive atmosphere made him feel valued and capable, building his confidence over the years.”
The decision to relocate to Dubai, like that of many families, was primarily influenced by the search for economic and educational opportunities for children with special needs. Deepesh Narayanan’s family embodies this very narrative. His son, diagnosed with moderate autism, has witnessed remarkable progress since joining Springdales, particularly in artistic and musical domains. “A proud moment for us was when Dhyan joined the Annual Day Choir and confidently performed with his peers,” Narayanan exclaimed, underscoring the importance of community involvement in boosting his child’s confidence.
Through these inspiring accounts, it becomes clear that Springdales School Dubai exemplifies a model for inclusive education, demonstrating how tailored interventions and cohesive support systems can empower students with special learning needs. As educational institutions across the region increasingly recognize the necessity of such frameworks, they set a precedent for enhancing the overall quality of educational experiences, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
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