How Dubai schools are addressing the unique needs of students with special learning requirements

Khaleej Times

01-04-2025

As parents continue to face challenges enrolling children with special learning needs in schools, some academic institutions in the UAE are taking proactive steps to ensure these students are accommodated and supported.
Among them, Springdales School Dubai and GEMS Modern Academy stand out for their inclusive approaches, helping students overcome significant obstacles and thrive.
"(At Springdales) Admission is open to students of all abilities. Our goal is to create an adaptive learning environment that fosters independence and confidence in every student," said Rashmi Virmani, section lead – foundation at Springdales.
The school, which currently supports 107 students of determination, is also equipped with accessible features such as ramps, elevators, sensory rooms, and speech therapy facilities.
Inclusive environment for students
Springdales' inclusion department, Sawa — meaning 'together' in Arabic — offers individualised education plans (IEPs), targeted interventions, and a supportive atmosphere to help students with special learning needs succeed. The school also integrates vocational training and life skills development, offering flexible subject options for those who find traditional curricula challenging.
Rashmi shared a notable example of a student with cerebral palsy, who was wheelchair-bound and immunocompromised when she first enrolled at the school in KG1.
Due to the student's vulnerability to infections, Springdales took extra precautions by sanitising her learning environment and limiting her exposure to crowds. 'We had a special person accompany her and provided an attendant in the classroom when she needed help,' Rashmi explained.
When in-person learning proved unsustainable, the school developed a dedicated online programme, which continues to support her education. Now in Grade 3, she is excelling virtually, thanks to the unwavering support from her teachers and parents.
Individualised education plans
The school also encourages active parental involvement. One parent, Shaanija Ashraf, shared how her daughter, diagnosed with autism at two-and-a-half, finally found a supportive environment at Springdales after struggling to fit in at other institutions.
'The school has been incredibly supportive, organising IEPs and strategies that have made a huge difference,' she said. Her daughter now participates in a wide range of programmes and events, never feeling excluded. "The inclusive atmosphere has made her feel like a valued member of the school community," Shaanija added.
Another student, Nimalan Jayaraman Banumathi, who joined Springdales in second grade, thrived after the school tailored his curriculum to focus on subjects he was passionate about.
Struggling with language-heavy subjects, the school replaced Social Studies and a second language with Painting and Computer Applications. With continuous support from the Sawa department, Nimalan achieved a Certificate of Merit in Computer Applications during his Grade 10 exams and now plans to pursue a degree in computer science.
Significant progress
'The inclusive atmosphere made him feel valued and capable, building his confidence over the years. The teachers played a crucial role in understanding his unique learning needs and adapting their teaching methods to help him thrive," said Dr Banumathi, Nimalan's mother.
Similarly, for families like that of Deepesh Narayanan, whose son has moderate autism, relocating to Dubai was a decision made solely for his education. Since joining Springdales, the family has witnessed significant progress in his learning journey, particularly through his artistic and musical talents. 'A proud moment for us was when Dhyan joined the Annual Day Choir and confidently performed with his peers,' said Deepesh.
"He also participated in community outreach events, which further boosted his confidence," he added.
'They never give up on me'
At GEMS Modern Academy, inclusion is similarly a cornerstone of the school's philosophy. With around 3,928 students, the school ensures no student of determination is turned away.
"No student of determination is refused admission, provided there is a vacancy and the school has the resources and capacity to offer the necessary support," explained Dr Pashu Bhattacharya, head of Inclusion at GEMS Modern Academy.
The school goes above and beyond, training staff in Braille to assist students with visual impairments and fostering peer support through initiatives like Rafikis, where neurotypical students learn to assist neurodivergent peers.
One Grade 4 student captured the school's dedication, saying, "The best thing I like...is that they never give up on me."
Parental collaboration is also central to the school's approach. The Kaizen Open House, held every term, provides parents with insights into their child's progress, while workshops and career guidance sessions help families navigate the future. "Open communication and active collaboration are key elements of this partnership," added Dr Pashu.
The school's inclusion efforts is evident in the achievements of its students. Two students of determination have even taken the stage as TEDx speakers, sharing their personal stories of resilience.
"At GEMS Modern Academy, inclusion is not merely a practice – it's a promise to empower every child to reach their fullest potential and make a meaningful impact in their communities," Bhattacharya concluded.