Developing a Coherent, Localised Primary Curriculum in the UAE with GEMS Founders Al Mizhar

Prior to implementing Cornerstones, the school was aligned with the English National Curriculum but identified key areas for development, particularly within humanities and in ensuring clear progression of knowledge and skills from Foundation Stage to Year 6.

Through the integration of Cornerstones, the curriculum has evolved into a more coherent and structured model that provides:

• Clear progression in knowledge and skills across all subjects
• Improved visibility of curriculum coverage for leaders
• Greater consistency in teaching and learning expectations

This has enabled leaders to move beyond intended planning to a clearer understanding of actual delivery and impact.

The introduction of project-based learning has transformed how pupils engage with the curriculum. Cross-curricular links and real-world applications now sit at the heart of learning, allowing children to:

• Apply knowledge in meaningful contexts
• Develop critical thinking and enquiry skills
• Collaborate and work independently
• Build confidence through expressive and creative outcomes

This approach has led to increased pupil engagement, motivation and stronger academic and personal outcomes.

Like many British international schools, GEMS Founders Al Mizhar has a globally diverse teaching team, including many educators new to the English National Curriculum.

Cornerstones provides extensive support through:

• Live chat, email and ongoing communication
• Online training and remote CPD sessions
• Whole-school and middle leader development
• Collaborative planning guidance and resources

This support enables teachers to confidently plan and deliver high-quality lessons while remaining responsive to the cultural context of their students.

A key strength of the school’s curriculum development has been its approach to localisation, ensuring learning is relevant and meaningful for pupils in Dubai.

Examples include:

• Adapting a UK coastline study to focus on Fujairah, with comparative learning
• Reframing history projects to centre UAE rulers and heritage
• Carefully selecting reading materials to align with cultural expectations

This work, led by senior and increasingly middle leaders, ensures the curriculum reflects both global standards and local identity.

Operating within the UAE presents unique challenges, including:

• Cultural considerations around specific topics such as evolution and reproduction
• Careful curation of reading materials
• Variations in the academic calendar, including Ramadan and shorter terms
• External assessment requirements impacting teaching time

Despite these complexities, the structured yet flexible nature of the Cornerstones curriculum supports effective adaptation and delivery.

The use of Maestro has streamlined curriculum planning and is beginning to support assessment processes, allowing teachers to:

• Reduce time spent on administrative tasks
• Focus more on teaching and pupil interaction
• Maintain consistency across year groups

This has contributed to a more efficient and sustainable approach to curriculum delivery.

The partnership has led to several key improvements across the school:

• Enhanced engagement through active, project-based learning
• Improved differentiation to meet diverse student needs
• Stronger consistency in curriculum coverage and progression

These changes are particularly impactful in a setting with a highly diverse teaching team and student body.

GEMS Founders Al Mizhar continues to refine its curriculum through collaboration, feedback and ongoing professional development. Their approach highlights the importance of:

• Engaging all stakeholders in curriculum design
• Investing in continuous staff development
• Ensuring local relevance alongside global standards
• Using data and feedback to drive improvement

This work positions the school as a strong example of how international schools can successfully adapt and implement a high-quality British curriculum in a global context.