Valuable lessons as schools return today

Crown Prince’s ‘moral education’ enters curriculums

ABU DHABI // Educators have welcomed the introduction of “moral education” to school curriculums, as thousands of them prepare to return to the classrooms today.

The initiative was announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

It aims to promote ethics, personal and community growth, culture and heritage, civic education, and rights and responsibilities in pupils.

“It is such an important addition to Abu Dhabi and we look forward to seeing moral education rolling out in other schools,” said Brendan Law, headmaster at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi.

“We are delighted that such an important initiative has been introduced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed.” Mr Law said moral educa- tion had been included in the Cranleigh Code, which encouraged pupils to be socially aware and responsible.

He said it was tied to the school’s rewards programme, which aimed to recognise excellent pupils and those with strong sporting or musical abilities – but also those who demonstrated kindness, empathy and tolerance.

Assemblies, one-to-one sessions with students and continuing campaigns thoughout the year would enforce the value of a moral code, he said.

Peter Carpenter, Aldar Academies’ director of education, also said moral education was a welcome initiative.

“Regardless of age, our aim is to prepare students for life. Although academic success is very important, we educate ‘the whole child’,” he said.

“This means helping young people to understand the important contribution they can and should make to society. It also means behaving properly, with respect and understanding, courtesy and empathy towards others.”

Mr Carpenter urged pupils to take pride in pursuing excellence, creativity, passion, respect and collaboration.

“We really believe that by following these values, our students are on their way to a successful future,” he said.

At Dubai British School, moral education is a key part of the new academic year. Principal Brendon Fulton said the school welcomed the initiative.

“Since our inception, we have placed a strong emphasis on not only developing academic, cultural and sporting talent, but also on developing well-rounded citizens who are able to contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.

“From a very early age, DBS students are provided with opportunities to … develop an appreciation of their rights and responsibilities as members of society.”