Microsoft selects GEMS Education School in Dubai as Mentor School for outstanding educational achievements

Dubai, United Arab Emirates:  Microsoft Gulf has announced Cambridge International School, Dubai (CIS) as one of the 80 outstanding Mentor Schools, from a pool of 250 applicant schools hailing from 75 countries around the world. Cambridge International School, Dubai has been recognized as a ‘Mentor School’ for successfully using 21st Century teaching pedagogies. Cambridge International School is the first GEMS school and the only school in UAE to be awarded this title.                    

The project application was judged by an external group of education experts. To be considered for ‘Mentor Status’, schools must demonstrate a commitment to innovation and the ability to overcome obstacles in preparing students to be the 21st century learners. In addition, they must have developed programs that can serve as models for other schools.

The application, video and other documents have been acknowledge as clear representation of school’s passion for innovative teaching and learning. It was also made clear that the school leaders are dedicated to improving student outcomes and mentoring other school leaders within the community. Cambridge International School’s achievement is further enhanced by two of its teachers being recognised as Microsoft Expert Educators. This award is a recognition of their Innovative Projects designed on the principals of 21 Century teaching and learning. Ms Shafaque Riaz and Ms Lourdina Franco are the only two teachers in the UAE to be recognized with this award The Microsoft Mentor Schools application and the 21st Century skills development and technology integration has been led by Ms Saba Adnan, CIS Assistant Principal. Both achievements are part of an exclusive, year-long program designed to recognize educators and schools that are on the leading edge of education innovation.

Commenting on the success of Cambridge International School, Craig Lamshed, Principal and CEO of Cambridge International School said “We are delighted to receive this recognition of the great work that is underway here at Cambridge International School. We look forward to developing our partnership with Microsoft over the coming years. This will enable us to improve our student’s capacity to use 21st Century Skills; empowering them to become highly effective members of the workforce”.

Commenting on the award, Ahmed Ameen Ashour, Microsoft Gulf’s Education Lead said: “Microsoft is committed to providing educators with access to the latest technology to support education programs in-line with the vision of the leadership of the UAE. On behalf of Microsoft, I would like to congratulate Cambridge International School on achieving the Mentor School Status. Their use of the latest tools and methodologies to facilitate smart learning and help shape the minds of tomorrow’s leaders at school is commendable. We are truly proud of their achievements and look forward to future collaborations to support enhancing the learning experience and providing a heightened educational journey.”

As a Microsoft Mentor School, CIS will receive the following benefits:-
• Recognition as a global leader in education via social media and other Microsoft channels
• Coaching and mentor services for one year lead by former Microsoft Mentor Schools
• Insider access to Microsoft strategy and technologies
• Leadership professional development opportunities
• Invitation-only special events from Microsoft
• Representation of Cambridge International School in the Microsoft Global Forum 2014 in Barcelona, Spain
• Invitation to attend the Microsoft School Tour during the BETT Show in London

Cambridge International School will be working closely with Microsoft’s Education team in the UAE to continue its journey towards educational excellence.