GEMS Metropole School - Al Waha

At GEMS Metropole Al Waha, hands-on learning is at the heart of our FS1 curriculum. Through painting, drawing, mark-making and early writing opportunities, children are encouraged to express their ideas creatively while developing their fine motor skills. Our outdoor environments, including the forest area, provide rich opportunities for exploration, problem-solving and discovery, while collaborative experiences help children build friendships, share ideas and develop important social skills. At Metropole Al Waha, child-initiated, hands-on learning encourages children to follow their interests, make discoveries and take an active role in their learning. Through meaningful play and exploration, children develop confidence, independence and a love of learning.

We are extremely proud of our outstanding students for their well-deserved achievement in the Arabic Big Talk speaking competition, where they impressed everyone with their confidence, clarity, and strong ability to express themselves in Modern Standard Arabic.

This achievement reflects their continuous effort, the support of their teachers, and a learning environment that encourages creativity and excellence. Our students have proven that a strong Arabic voice begins with confidence, knowledge, and a passion for learning.

Congratulations to our champions, and we look forward to many more achievements and success ahead.

Our FS2 students are taking their next exciting step as they prepare to transition into Year 1. Throughout the year, they have grown in confidence, independence, and curiosity, building strong foundations for their learning journey ahead. We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved and look forward to seeing them continue to thrive as they begin this new chapter. Congratulations, FS2!

☕️ Meet Our Inclusion Team 💙
It was wonderful to welcome parents to our Inclusion Coffee Morning and introduce our new Head of Inclusion, Ms. Mariam Rafiq, and Deputy Head of Inclusion, Ms.Bethan.
As we welcome new leadership, we would also like to thank Ms.Siobhán Scanlan, our founding Head of Inclusion, for her outstanding contribution to GEMS Metropole Al Waha. Through her passion, dedication, and vision, Siobhán helped build a truly inclusive culture where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Her impact on our students, families, and staff will be felt for years to come.
Thank you to all the parents who joined us. We look forward to continuing this journey together and strengthening our partnership with families.

In Year 1, we have been exploring the Big Question: How has transport changed over time? We began by focusing on two major modes of transport — planes and trains. The children learned about the Wright Brothers and the very first powered flight, before exploring how air travel has developed over time, with a particular focus on Emirates and its links to Dubai.

We also investigated the historic Rainhill Trials and discovered how the first revolutionary locomotives transformed rail travel. Throughout the topic, the children engaged in a range of hands-on activities, including role play, construction tasks, and designing and flying their own planes, which helped to bring their learning to life.

In Science this term, the children have been learning about shadows and seasons. They explored how shadows change throughout the year depending on the position of the sun in each season and developed their observational and investigative skills through practical activities.