Dear parents and members of the school’s community,
It is my pleasure to greet you on the Broadcaster and join the school at such an exciting time in its development. In taking up the role of Secondary Team Leader I look forward to working with a talented and dedicated team of professionals, as well with as a very likeable group of students with much potential. In joining the school I especially hope to help ABIS fulfill its goals of raising student achievement, introducing the IB Diploma programme, and developing the school into a world class learning environment within as short a space of time as possible.
It is clear to me that the school has already made remarkable progress in this direction given its young age, however it is also clear that is has reached a stage when it needs to enrich both its Secondary academic and extra-curricular programme, as well as enhance staff expertise by organising training and professional development.
Some of our priorities include:
- Raising student expectations and levels of achievement;
- Broadening the number of taught subjects on offer at IGCSE;
- Paving the way for authorisation to teach the IB Diploma (for 16 to 18 year olds);
- Evolving into an inquiry based learning environment;
- Developing a strong pastoral programme that supports student development;
- Building a strong secondary school identity.
On a personal note, this is the second time that I have worked in the region as I previously worked as an English and Media studies teacher in a reputable British School in Abu Dhabi between 2003 and 2006 before moving to a highly regarded International Baccalaureate school in Vienna that offered all three of the IBO’s academic programmes from the PYP, MYP and Diploma. As well having taught English Language and Literature at all levels including the Diploma, I have also taught Theory of Knowledge and managed the academic and pastoral programme for the grade 11 and 12 students, which numbered over 260.
Although I know that I will have the opportunity to meet with you at one of the forthcoming curriculum evenings, I very much look forward to meeting with you individually before then to discuss the school’s plans and hear your feedback on how you would like the school to develop. As I very much like to involve myself in school life you are likely to see me around the school engaging in student activities so please say hello if you have the opportunity.
Once again I would like to say that is my pleasure to become a member of the community and I look forward to meeting you and working with your sons and daughters towards our mutual goal of their success.
Warm regards and sorry for the long message!
Leo Thompson BA (Hons), PGCE, MA.
l.thompson@abisoman.com