GESS Talks Live
MON 30 OCTOBER
10:30 - 11:10Knowledge vs skills: what students should really learn
There has been a long-running pedagogical debate over the benefits of a skills-based educational approach, as opposed to a knowledge-based education. With the huge development in technology, it is increasingly hard to predict the future of employment. But is a transversal – skills-based – education enough to help our students navigate the world beyond school? What role does knowledge play in a society where everyone has access to the internet and can google whatever they want?
Is there a ubiquity of information and scarcity of knowledge.? This panel session will explore how we as educators and parents can empower and support students to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to manage the unpredictability and uncertainties of their future.
Language : English
Topic : Curriculum
Speakers:
- Dr Gilda Scarfe | CEO | Positive Ed Ltd
- Ambika Gulati | Principal/ CEO | The Millennium School
- Jenin Al Shalabi | Y12 Student & Founder of Chatterbox | Hartland International School
- Soha Halfawi | Enabler
11:20 - 12:00Performing Arts Education - What is next?
A panel discussion on the current state of the Performing Arts in education and what strategies can be considered good practice in education establishments across the region.
Language : English
Topic : Music / Performing Arts / Sports
Speakers:
- Adam Laird | Head of Secondary Music, Apple Teacher | Jebel Ali School
- Hayley Limpkin | Business Coach for Razzamataz Theatre Schools | Razzamataz Theatre School
- Martin Barraclough | Director of Music | Cranleigh Abu Dhabi
- Dr. Sarah Martinez Rebollo | Music teacher | NLCS
12:10 - 12:55Being a school leader in the Middle East
This panel explores the unique opportunities and challenges faced by education leaders in the Middle East. From navigating cultural differences to implementing innovative teaching strategies, this panel offers insights and practical advice for school leaders looking to make a positive impact in the region's diverse and rapidly evolving educational landscape.
Language : English
Topic : Leadership and Management
Speakers:
- Dr Helen Wright | Director | Global Thought Leadership
- Poonam Bhojani | CEO | Innoventures Education
- Kai Vacher | Principal | British School Muscat and British School Salalah
- Dr Steffen Sommer | Director General | Misk Schools
- Pam Mundy | Former Founding Director of Schools and Education at NEOM | NEOM Education, Research and Innovation
13:00 - 13:20An Armchair chat about sustainability in schools
Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Speakers:
- Dr Helen Wright | Director | Global Thought Leadership
- Ana Romero | Head of Sustainability | Wellington College
13:30 - 14:30EdTech: Future Learning
This panel focuses on the vital role of Edtech in shaping the future of education and paving the way for an ever-evolving learning landscape. Our expert panelists will provide valuable insight on how we can utilize different Edtech resources as efficiently as possible to prepare educators and our students for the current and future job markets.
Language : English
Topic : Digital / eLearning
Moderator:
- Al Kingsley | CEO of NetSupport, Author, and Chair of UK Multi-Academy Trust | NetSupport
Speakers:
- Linda Scaife | Digital Learning Lead | Bloom World Academy
- Baz Nijjar | Principal Advisor – Education Technology | GEMS Education
- Carl Morris | Co-Founder | The Online School
- Skyler Carr | Co-Founder & Chief Handraiser | Infini-D Learning
- Julia Garvey | Deputy Director General | British Educational Suppliers Association
14:50 - 15:10Transcending Project-Based Learning: A Structured Approach to Interdisciplinary Education
In an era where Project-Based Learning (PBL) has become mainstream, in this talk, I propose an idea to explore the evolution beyond this framework, focusing on the innovative implementation of 'Solution Based Learning' (SBL). This methodology, deeply rooted in the extensive research and practical experience accumulated by THINK Global School (TGS) and the THINK Learning Studio, aims to provide a more comprehensive and integrated approach to interdisciplinary learning. Our proposal revolves around insights drawn from over 1,500 executed projects, illuminating the intricacies of assessment, project portfolio construction, and transcript creation.
The crux of my presentation will be the unveiling of TGS’s unique SBL model. It aligns curriculum design with real-world problem-solving skills, seamlessly integrating multiple disciplines into each student's learning experience. The benefits are two-fold: enriched student comprehension across academic fields, and a tangible demonstration of their mastery via a diversified project portfolio. We'll also delve into the innovative assessment methodologies that ensure each student's understanding and aptitude are accurately represented. By shedding light on these elements, we aim to inspire a shift towards Solution Based Learning, paving the way for a true shift in the future of education.
Language : English
Topic : Curriculum
Speaker:
- Russell Cailey | Managing Director | THINK Learning Studio
15:10 - 15:30The Counter Current Flow in Education
Looking at how education is and will change, this talk will go through the changing role of the teacher and the student and question whether they are moving in opposite directions and the factors that are affecting this.
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Speaker:
- Alex Gray | Head of Science | Dubai British School Emirates Hills
15:30 - 15:50The Clash of Titans: AI vs. Teachers - Implications for Educational Leaders
Discover the future of educational leadership in the AI era. Challenge norms, ignite innovation, and shape the destiny of learning. Unleash your leadership potential. Be part of the revolution! This presentation focuses on the challenges and decisions faced by educational leaders in the evolving landscape of education and AI. Gain insights into the impact of AI on leaders, teachers, ethics, and innovation. Embrace change, or risk falling behind. Be the visionary leader who sets the course for educational excellence. Don't just watch the Titans clash; be the leader who shapes the future.
Language : English
Topic : VR / AI / Robotics
Speaker:
- Stephen Cox | Global Educational Leader
16:00 - 18:00#CollabUAE Teach Meet
#CollabUAE is a community-based initiative that enables teachers from across the UAE to network together. Our goal is to enable a platform for teachers to see the power of online collaborations, sharing practice, resources and professional development opportunities alongside free CPD
Presenters: Thomas Sale, Co-Founder of #CollabUAE and Head of Junior Computing and Year 5 class Teacher, Kent College
Andi Price, Co-Founder of #CollabUAE, Teacher and Lead on EdTech and Innovation at Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai
Agenda/Sessions (Please note the order of the sessions will be decided on the spot at the event)
AI in education: Dragged or Driven?
In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an undeniable reality. The question is, as educators, are we being dragged along by this technological wave, or are we driving the transformation? The interactive presentation is designed specifically for educators who want to understand where they stand in this journey of educational innovation and explore strategies to drive change.
Zaineb Mahdi, Assistant Headteacher, GEMS Wellington International School
Death of the Digital Native
Debunking the idea that students 'just know' how to use technology, Andy will take you on a whistle-stop journey of how we came to use the term,the battle between digital natives and digital immigrants, as well as what we can do to help students move on from this label.
Andy Perryer, Head of Digital Learning, Cognita
Empowering Future Innovators: Bridging Collaboration and STEM in Primary Education
Mark explores the critical intersection of collaboration and STEM education in primary schools. It delves into strategies for fostering teamwork and creative problem-solving skills among young learners, emphasizing the importance of these skills in shaping future innovators.
Mark Ryan, Head of Specialists, Raha International School, Abu Dhabi
Preparing to shape education with technology
As educators, we are responsible for supporting learning experiences that shape the future of education. Technology can be a great tool, but how do we ensure technology is part of our school's vision and implemented seamlessly?
This session will explore the process of introducing technology into a school and strategies to ensure devices are used effectively.
Michael Henderson, Training Manager, Al Ain Educational Investments
Planning between the lines
Is the latest always the greatest?
"Planning Between the Lines" delves into the heart of TPACK, demonstrating its powerful framework to discern when to use technology, when to leverage AI, and perhaps most importantly, when to choose traditional methods.
Alex Gray, Head of Science, Dubai British School Emirates Hills
Language : English
Moderators:
- Thomas Sale | Head of Junior School Computing and Yr5 Class teacher | Kent College Dubai
- Andi Price | Co-Founder of #CollabUAE, Teacher and Lead on EdTech and Innovation | Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai
Speakers:
- Andy Perryer | Head of Digital Learning | Cognita
- Zaineb Mahdi | Director of Innovation and Digital Technology across GEMS Wellington group - Assistant Headteacher | GEMS Wellington International School
- Mark Ryan | Head of Specialists | Raha International School, Abu Dhabi
- Michael Henderson | Training Manager | Al Ain Educational Investments
- Alex Gray | Head of Science | Dubai British School Emirates Hills
TUE 31 OCTOBER
10:30 - 10:50Future-Proofing Pathways
In today's world, where knowledge and information are readily accessible to all, it is becoming increasingly important to empower students to be the cartographer of their own pathways and pursue the lives they truly desire. The traditional approach of directing students towards predetermined career paths with standardised assessment methods is rapidly losing relevance. The focus needs to switch from asking children 'what they want to be' towards 'who they want to be' , the programmes I have been designing over the last number of years seek to address exactly this.
A core curriculum of study to equip students with a diverse range of skills and abilities, enabling them to develop character and navigate their own unique journeys. Embracing a blended learning approach, combining essential skills teaching with independent learning opportunities. By placing the student at the centre of their own learning process, this Core Curriculum fosters a transformative journey of self-discovery, and self - realisation helping young adults end up exactly where they aught to be.
Students at Cranleigh who complete all the elements of the Core Curriculum not only gain additional accredited qualifications but also develop vital attributes such as critical thinking, adaptability, collaboration, confidence and tenacity. These skills are crucial for success and thriving in the modern world. The programme goes beyond conventional academic learning, nurturing confident, resilient, and mindful global citizens who are ready to shape the future according to their own aspirations.
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Speaker:
- Elizabeth Kelleher | Deputy Head of Senior School | Cranleigh Abu Dhabi School
11:00 - 11:20Armchair Chat Maria Vitoratos, Hana Rafeeq and Leena Rafeeq
Language : English
Topic : Digital / eLearning
Moderator:
- Maria Vitoratos | Career Educator, Lecturer & Coach | MV Careers
Speakers:
- Hana Rafeeq | Creator and Innovator | HANAS App
- Leena Rafeeq | Creator and Innovator of Ogler EyeScan | https://www.linkedin.com/in/leena-rafeeq-938498259/
11:30 - 12:15Exploring contemporary visions of Early Years Education
This panel will consider best international approaches to Early Years education from experts with global experience. Our panel will discuss what early years education should look like and how to meet children’s needs in an inclusive, empowering way.
Language : English
Topic : Early Years
Speakers:
- Dr. Sarah Rogers | CEO | QUEST and EYES
- Jacqueline Harmer | Head of the IPC | International Curriculum Association (Fieldwork Education)
- May Zalat | Head of Education | Blossom Nurseries - Babilou Family.
- Erin Herndobler | Head of Teaching and Learning in Early Childhood | The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Girls
12:30 - 12:50Armchair chat about the impact of high-quality counselling for student achievement, and well-being
Language : English
Topic : Wellbeing
Speakers:
- Maria Vitoratos | Career Educator, Lecturer & Coach | MV Careers
- Annika Jisu Babu | School Counselor, Member of Child Protection and Child Safeguarding Team | GEMS Modern Academy
13:00 - 13:45Key Strategies for Preventing Burnout in Educators and Students: A Comprehensive Guide to Well-being
This panel is all about well-being for all and spotting the signs of ‘burnout’ early in children and educators. In addition to this, there are discussions on how to treat and manage these issues, and how to prevent them. Our well-being panel of experts will discuss everything educators need to know in order to avoid burnout in staff and students.
Language : English
Topic : Wellbeing
Speakers:
- Maria Vitoratos | Career Educator, Lecturer & Coach | MV Careers
- Thomas Blakemore | Class Teacher | Kent College Dubai
- Nadim Saad | CEO | The Happy Confident Company
- Sorcha Coyle | Founder | Beyond Class
13:55 - 14:15AI in the Classroom: Empowering Students or Threatening their Learning Experience?
In this session, you’ll explore the rapid advancements in AI technology and its widespread integration across various industries. You’ll learn about the transformative potential of AI in revolutionizing education and enhancing learning experiences. Join us as we delve into the disruptive learning methodology of 42 Abu Dhabi, a coding school which is equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in the age of AI. As one of the leading coding schools in the region, 42 Abu Dhabi’s curriculum is focused on AI fundamentals, such as machine learning, data analysis, and natural language processing, to ensure that its students are well-prepared to navigate the AI landscape in their future careers.
Language : English
Topic : VR / AI / Robotics
Speaker:
- Marcos Muller-Habig | Acting CEO | 42 Abu Dhabi
14:20 - 14:40Beyond the Classroom: Unlocking Untapped Learning Potential
Would you believe it if you were told that a 17-year-old could sell an app for $30 million?
Or that a 13-year-old is capable of climbing Mount Everest? Or that a teenager could win the Nobel Peace Prize?
These are real stories of ambitious individuals from around the globe. There are countless examples of people achieving awe-inspiring achievements and breaking mind-blowing records at a shockingly young age. What, then, can we teach the youth so that they are equipped with the right skills to succeed? How can we prepare our students for a bright future filled with unlimited possibilities and help them reach the ceiling of their potential? Every child has something valuable to share; every individual’s story is unique and valid. In this talk, we will explore the tactics to understanding, supporting and empowering students so they not only drive better overall results for the school, but also learn invaluable skills to become high-performing leaders and change the world for the better.
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Speaker:
- Nawal Fagir | Director | Nummu Academy
14:50 - 15:35Inclusive education: what does it truly mean?
This panel focuses on the true meaning of inclusivity in education and our role as educators to achieve that. The panel will discuss a variety of experiences and best practices from those involved in education or with students and families on a day-to-day basis. Why is inclusion so important and why is the gap between inclusive education and inclusive workplaces significant? How can schools play a role in addressing this issue? The panel will share valuable insight on the biggest challenges being faced and how education leaders can support families in preparing their children for the future.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Moderator:
- Dr Helen Wright | Director | Global Thought Leadership
Speakers:
- Faiza Mubeen | Director of Inclusion | Beech Hall School Riyadh
- Wendy Harris | GEMS Wellington Cluster Director of Inclusion and Assistant Headteacher | GEMs Wellington International School
- Taruna Khattar | Head Of Inclusion& Wellbeing | Ambassador School, Dubai
- Minahil Kamran | International Exams Officer & Educational Psychologist | GEMS Westminster School, RAK
- Andaleeb Ishteyaq | Head Inclusion and Pastoral Care | JSS Private School Dubai
15:45 - 16:30Panel Discussion: Education for the future, are we there yet?
A panel discussion that identifies what the latest global education trends tell us, where are the bright sparks and how can we translate that to varying contexts.
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Moderators:
- Olly Lewis | Deputy Head Academic | Amity International School
- Al Kingsley | CEO of NetSupport, Author, and Chair of UK Multi-Academy Trust | NetSupport
Speakers:
- Sajid Gulzar OBE | Principal | Kings’ School Al Barsha
- Zaineb Mahdi | Director of Innovation and Digital Technology across GEMS Wellington group - Assistant Headteacher | GEMS Wellington International School
16:40 - 17:25EdHeroes: How to Make a Leader Within Our Educational System
This session emphasizes the critical role teachers play not just as educators but as leadership mentors. The panel will delve into why it's vital for teachers to embody leadership qualities and how these abilities better equip them to nurture leadership skills in their students. A key element of this discussion will be the equal importance of fostering leadership and traditional subjects like math in our educational system. Balancing these elements prepares students for life beyond academia, empowering them with invaluable leadership skills such as decision-making and resilience. We will expound on the premise that anyone can be a leader, explaining how leadership cultivation can enhance everyone's potential and, most notably, contribute significantly to children's well-being and growth. The session is dedicated to transforming our understanding of the educational landscape, emphasizing a holistic approach to create well-rounded individuals.
Language : English
Topic : Leadership and Management
Moderator:
- Alina Baimen | Co-Founder and CEO | EdHeroes
Speakers:
- Dr Osama Obeidat | Chief Executive Officer | Queen Rania Teacher Academy
- Anna Molero | Chief Government Officer | Teach For All
WED 01 NOVEMBER
10:20 - 11:00Education for the Heart: How to Thrive in a Noisy World
Prem Rawat will be speaking from his 55 years plus of experience of presenting an alternative perspective of education for the heart, and exploring its importance in a modern world. The world we live in has become dominated by technology which is creating an almost deafening external noise that is overwhelming many, especially the young. Prem's goal is to put people back in touch with themselves using practical learning tools. His presentation will be based on his deep personal experience in over 5,000 event presentations he has made in his long speaking career. His unique Peace Education Program EDU will exhibit at the GESS and provides practical tools for educators and students alike to develop inner resources promoting wellbeing, by looking at key themes including inner strength, hope, gratitude, dignity and personal contentment.
Language : English
Topic : Learning Environment
Speaker:
- Prem Rawat | Founder | The Prem Rawat Foundation
11:00 - 11:45Safeguarding in Schools: Key Challenges and Effective Solutions
Join our leading panel of experts as they delve into the critical topic of safeguarding in schools. This engaging panel will shed light on the key challenges faced by educational institutions when it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of students. Our panelists will share their insights, experiences, and best practices, offering practical solutions to tackle these challenges head-on
Language : English
Topic : Wellbeing
Moderator:
- Zenub Khan | Partner | Zen PD
Speakers:
- Sydney Atkins | Vice Principal | GEMS Modern Academy
- Paul Bray | Training Lead | SEND International
- Gerard O'Dea | Managing Director | Team Dynamis Ltd
11:50 - 12:10Armchair Chat: Developing students into contributors and disruptors
Language : English
Moderator:
- Olly Lewis | Deputy Head Academic | Amity International School
Speakers:
- Hannan Moti | Co-Founder, CEO | iCodejr
- Skyler Carr | Co-Founder & Chief Handraiser | Infini-D Learning
12:15 - 12:35Armchair chat with: Russell Cailey and Lucy Hayter
Language : English
Speakers:
- Russell Cailey | Managing Director | THINK Learning Studio
- Lucy Hayter | Director, Generation Global | Generation Global (Tony Blair Institute for Global Change
12:40 - 13:25How sustainable is your early years and school setting
Language : English
Topic : Sustainability
Moderator:
- Frances Powell | Head of Secondary | The Arbor School
Speakers:
- Autumn O'Brien | Outdoor Education Expert and Owner of The Nature Caravan | The Nature Caravan
- Hannah Mainds | Head of Global Awareness Studies & Service Learning / Secondary Ecoliteracy Teacher | The Arbor School, Dubai
- Priyanka Pandey | Blossom nursery | Sustainability and BCORP manager
14:00 - 15:00Online & Alternative Learning Concepts panel session
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, traditional learning paradigms are being reshaped by digital innovation and alternative approaches. This panel explores the dynamic world of online education and innovative learning methods that cater to diverse needs and learning styles, while also preparing students for the future workplace. From virtual classrooms and interactive platforms to flexible learning paths and unconventional teaching techniques, discover how educators and learners alike are embracing new avenues for knowledge acquisition.
Language : English
Topic : Innovative Methods / 21st Century Teaching
Moderator:
- Raya Bidshahri | Founder & CEO | School of Humanity
Speakers:
- Skyler Carr | Co-Founder & Chief Handraiser | Infini-D Learning
- Hannan Moti | Co-Founder, CEO | iCodejr
- Carl Morris | Co-Founder | The Online School
- Russell Cailey | Managing Director | THINK Learning Studio