Dubai’s educational institutions sprang back to life on Monday, January 5th, as students concluded their four-week winter hiatus and returned to classrooms across the emirate. The morning commute witnessed increased traffic congestion around school zones, accompanied by heightened security measures including traffic marshals and police patrols to ensure student safety during the transitional period.
At Gems Founders School in Al Barsha, the atmosphere blended sleepy yawns with vibrant excitement as students reconnected after the extended break. While younger children exhibited tentative adjustments to renewed routines, older students enthusiastically exchanged stories of holiday travels and festive celebrations. The campus buzzed with conversations about New Year resolutions and academic aspirations for the coming term.
The return marked particularly significant milestones for several community members. Linomi Ariyasena, a Year-12 Sri Lankan expatriate who recently joined the institution, expressed determined optimism despite morning fatigue: “Waking up early wasn’t easy, but once I arrived, my mood improved dramatically. My resolution is to achieve academic excellence while cultivating kindness toward everyone.”
Educators also demonstrated renewed vigor, with new Islamic Studies teacher Mahmoud Naim describing his appointment as “the beginning of a meaningful journey.” He emphasized goals beyond curricular requirements: “I aim to help students connect their learning with personal growth and skills development.”
The return held special significance for Zayan Jabbar, a Year-8 student with profound autism whose enthusiasm for mathematics and school community remained undiminished. Principal Matthew Burfield highlighted how Zayan’s journey exemplified institutional commitment to inclusive education, noting the evolution of support systems including two dedicated learning assistants and the community-based organization Small Steps Big Dreams founded by his mother.
Physical Education Department Head Molly Jenkins captured the prevailing sentiment: “There’s genuine warmth in reuniting with our educational family. The beautiful weather allows immediate outdoor activities, reinforcing the joy of collective rediscovery of academic rhythms.” Principal Burfield concluded that the extended break ultimately reinforced the school’s role as a constant, vibrant community hub whose essence only fully manifests through the presence of its students and staff.