Matthew is an inspiring leader whose transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to educational excellence has left a lasting impact on the educational landscape within the UAE. His vision has elevated GEMS Founders School Dubai and has made a significant impact across multiple schools, driving their growth from start-ups to high-performing institutions. Matthew is a consistent champion of school improvement, expanding initiatives such as the home-grown entrepreneur award and making meaningful contributions to the wider community.
The judges were impressed by GEMS Our Own Indian School’s leadership team’s wide range of impactful initiatives sharing educational excellence, high-quality pedagogy and leadership strategy. This was evidenced by the school's support of 18 staff members to achieve their BEd qualifications. It was evident that all school leaders are driven by their pledge to lead with love and foster supportive relationships with students, families and staff.
Dubai College has a tremendous track record of achievements - both in terms of academic rigour and extra-curricular activities. Their nomination demonstrated a high quality of impact, and strength of evidence through exceptional academic results, a wide range of opportunities for pupils and strong external validation. Their impact on the whole community was clear through philanthropic endeavours, a commitment to sustainability and high staff retention rates.
Our judges felt that GEMS Founders School Dubai deserved recognition for its focus beyond academics and the impact on wellbeing and inclusion across the school. The school represents great value for families, with affordability balanced with a high-quality and well-rounded education. It is a truly international school, embracing diversity and providing tailored pathways for every student’s success.
Our judges praised Dubai English Speaking School Primary Oud Metha for placing wellbeing at the core of their ethos. This is consistently reflected in their robust curriculum, strong community engagement initiatives and holistic approach. Their We SHINE curriculum offers comprehensive mental health support, while student voice is empowered through active student leadership. With a focus on emotional regulation, personal growth and mindfulness, the school ensures every pupil benefits from its commitment to wellbeing.
Dubai British School Jumeirah Park evidenced clear impact that staff are happy and thriving. They have taken active steps to address workload and work life balance for staff which is supported through a culture of care, collaboration and community. Through tailored initiatives, bespoke mental health support and policy enhancements, they ensure staff happiness and professional fulfilment, leading to a thriving team, happy students and a strong school community.
The judges were impressed by Raha International School Gardens Campus' proactive inclusion model and unique self-advocacy initiatives for students. Early intervention strategies and a structured support system ensure that students of determination are fully integrated, rather than relying on withdrawal-based interventions. Their training models have been adopted by other schools, making them a leader in inclusion at the regional level.
GEMS Founders School puts their staff at the heart of all they do and they have consistently maintained high standards. Their processes for induction and progression, aided by their tailored development pathways, have resulted in an impressive retention rate across all school staff. The judges also welcomed GEMS Founders’ focus on the wellbeing of all staff, including support staff and LSAs.
This early years provision is innovative and well-rounded. Jebel Ali School offers its youngest students outstanding experiential learning, nurturing key learning skills through play. Children develop positive attitudes through sustainability initiatives such as ‘trash to treasure’, the early years allotment, birdwatching cameras and making birdfeeders from recycled materials. Community involvement is strong. Children grow in confidence and thrive through the environment and opportunities provided.
This is the kind of educator children remember into adulthood. The judges were impressed by the strong testimonials evidencing Arjun's impact way beyond his classroom into the lives of students and families. He has embraced diversity for female football and changed the narrative around sports. Arjun’s students’ experiences and self-worth have been enriched in ways they would never have known without him.
This is a standout submission, demonstrating clear and effective strategies grounded in collaboration and inclusivity. The parent partnership strategy at The British International School Abu Dhabi meaningfully involves parents in governance and curriculum planning, demonstrating strong engagement, inclusive practices and measurable impact through surveys and participation rates. By fostering trust, transparency and unity, the strategy empowers their diverse community to thrive.
An excellent all-round entry, demonstrating a broad and cohesive range of innovation, supported by strong evidence of impact. ICS makes effective use of GenAI with both staff and pupils. Their use of School AI and GenAI Chatbots impacts learning, and they stand out for their development of virtual reality and their collaboration as digital innovators.
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