Schools in the UAE Prepare for the Upcoming Mid-Term Break: A Reflection on the Importance of Rest in Education
As the academic calendar approaches the February mid-term break, educational institutions across the United Arab Emirates are making necessary adjustments to their schedules. This anticipated hiatus, set to begin mid-month, serves as a crucial opportunity for students and educators to recharge, reflect, and prepare for the remainder of the academic year.
Diverse Break Durations Tailored to Institutional Needs
The duration of the break varies significantly among different schools, with some institutions opting for a full week off from February 10 to 14, while others will implement shorter breaks of two to three days. This variability aligns with the overarching goal of maximizing instructional time while allowing families a brief respite from the rigorous academic environment.
Lisa Johnson, Principal of the American Academy for Girls, spoke passionately about the significance of these breaks. “Periodic breaks improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being,” she articulated, underscoring their indispensable role in supporting effective education. Johnson’s perspective reflects a growing recognition within the educational community that student engagement is closely tied to psychological health and well-being.
Curriculum Coverage and the Importance of Balance
In parallel, Neetha Shetty, Principal of Al Diyafah High School, shared insights regarding her school’s approach to curriculum planning in relation to the mid-term break. “We have a one-week break from February 10-15. Around 60-70% of the curriculum for senior classes is covered before the break, while in primary classes, it’s 50-60%,” Shetty explained. Her remarks highlight the meticulous planning that educators undertake to ensure students are well-prepared, with the cooler January weather further facilitating outdoor sports activities.
Moreover, Shetty emphasized the importance of breaks not merely for students, but also for educators who, she noted, require opportunities to recharge and mitigate the risk of burnout. This sentiment resonates broadly within the education sector, where the demands of teaching can often lead to significant fatigue over time.
Lisa Passante, Principal of Star International School in Al Twar, elaborated on the overarching structure of school calendars, stating, “Our mid-term break is from February 10-12. Shorter breaks this year help families with children in different schools align their schedules.” This consideration reflects an increasing awareness among institutions of the need for familial cohesion, ensuring that students across diverse educational environments can benefit from collective rest periods.
Navigating Changes Ahead: Ramadan Preparations
As Ramadan approaches in March, additional adjustments are anticipated within the educational sphere. Schools are preparing for shorter working days and will adapt their syllabi to accommodate the unique dynamics of this holy month. Amid these adjustments, educators and administrators are united in their understanding that strategic breaks and thoughtful planning are vital to fostering both a productive learning atmosphere and a compassionate educational community.
With the collective insights noted by various school leaders, it is evident that educational institutions recognize the dual significance of academic achievement and mental wellness. The break in February will not only serve as an intermission in the academic journey but also as a pivotal moment for rejuvenation and reflection, contributing positively to students’ overall learning experiences.
In conclusion, as the UAE’s educational institutions prepare for the mid-term break, they are also reinforcing a broader commitment to an educational philosophy that prioritizes both rigorous academic standards and the holistic development of students. This approach aligns with global educational trends that emphasize wellbeing as integral to effective learning, ensuring that while knowledge is being imparted, the welfare of the participants remains a foremost priority.
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