Connecting Purpose to Pathways: Empowering Schools for a Changing World
Educators across the UAE are redefining what it means to prepare students for lifelong success. In this interactive workshop, you’re invited to connect, collaborate, and explore practical strategies to build future-ready learning experiences that are locally relevant and globally competitive.
Designed for decision-makers and academic leaders shaping curriculum, assessment, and student pathways, we'll address key priorities: overcoming the challenges of limited time and resources, keeping students and families engaged by igniting their passion and purpose, and enhancing pathways to success in work and life. Through expert keynotes and hands-on discussion, you’ll get ideas and support to deliver a premier educational experience for today’s students.
Time: 8:45am - 1:00pm GST (breakfast served from 8:45am)
Location: The Arbor School
Spaces for this free event are very limited.
Register your interest now!
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SPEAKERS
Christine Simmonds
CEO, Fujairah National Group
Christine Simmonds is a recognised Middle East education leader with over 30 years’ experience in the UK, Europe, Middle East and Asia. Christine was a founding Director of Quality and Standards at KHDA where she was Principal Inspector for Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau and played a pivotal role in transforming Dubai’s education system. Christine is known locally and internationally for transforming schools and is currently CEO of Diyar Education. Previous roles have included CEO of International School’s Partnership and Director of Education for EtonHouse, Korea.
Dr. Tim Hughes
Director of Academic Quality Assurance & School Improvement, Bloom Education
Dr. Tim Hughes is a highly experienced international academic leader who has led large-scale school improvement across the UAE, India, and the UK, with a track record of outstanding inspection outcomes and academic excellence across institutions including LEAMS Education, Athena Education, and Aldar Academies. Dr. Tim is the creator of the Successful School Improvement Framework, TIMS Taxonomy, T&L Improvement Continuum, and Leadership Practice Continuum - frameworks designed to support schools on their path towards educational excellence.
Gemma Thornley
Principal, The Arbor School
Mohamed Khairy Mohamed
Assistant Headteacher - MOE Subjects, The Arbor School
Mohamed Khairy Mohamed is a senior education leader with over 24 years’ experience across British and international schools, he currently serves on the SLT leading curriculum, assessment, and inspection readiness, and is an accredited Penta (ETIO/BSO) school inspector.
Rory Galvin
Regional Learning Director, ISP
Phil Redhead LLB, PGCE, MSc, MBA
Education Partner, EdV
Phil is a recognised pioneer in education innovation, bringing over 25 years’ experience spanning teaching, leadership, and digital transformation, and has led large-scale digital initiatives across the UAE and Middle East, holding senior leadership roles at GEMS Education, TETCO, and Deloitte Middle East.
Conor Gately
SVP & General Manager, International, Edmentum
With over 20 years’ experience in education technology and commercial leadership, Conor leads Edmentum’s global expansion through strategic partnerships with ministries, school groups, and investors. He focuses on aligning solutions with national education reform agendas and leveraging AI-driven assessment and instruction to improve learner outcomes.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
By participating in the workshop, you’ll learn the following:
Strategies to drive cutting-edge curriculum design: Meet the needs of today's & tomorrow's learners while aligning with shorter school weeks.
A vision for expanded academic and diploma options: Attract families’ interest and support students’ short- and long-term success by combining expansive courses, a focus on wellbeing, and flexible paths to post-secondary success.
Strategies to accelerate achievement: Explore how data-driven assessment and personalised learning can close gaps and accelerate student progress.
Insights from peers: Network and collaborate with fellow education leaders to share practices for overcoming limited time and resources.
AGENDA
The day will include a variety of collaborative learning opportunities, giving you valuable insights and inspiration to build an action plan for your school.
8:45am – 9:15am | Arrival, Networking & Light Breakfast
9:15am – 9:30am | Welcome & Introduction
Receive a welcome from the head of school before embarking on a tour.
9:30am – 10:00am | Host School Tour
An interactive walking tour showcasing how the host school drives success in curriculum design, assessment innovation, and student engagement.
10:00am – 10:30am | Case Study Presentation
Led by the local school leader, get a deeper look at how the host school has achieved excellence in aligning local and global priorities.
10:30am – 10:45am | Networking Break
10:45am – 11:30am | Panel Discussion: Leading the Future of Learning
A dynamic panel conversation exploring the evolving education landscape in the UAE.
11:30am – 1:00pm | Collaborative Practical Session: Putting Learning into Action
Facilitated breakout discussions that allow leaders to apply concepts from earlier sessions to their school contexts.
12:05pm – 12:45pm | Marketplace Share-Out
12:45pm – 1:00pm | Whole Group Reflection and Q&A
1:00pm | Networking Lunch & Close
