Spring break in UAE: How schools are preparing for next term, new academic year

Khaleej Times

20-03-2025

Schools in the UAE are focused on achieving their academic targets before the spring break, urging senior students to continue their studies during the holidays. Some institutions said they will use this period to prepare for the new curriculum.
Spring break for most international curriculum schools will last for three weeks, from March 24 to April 14, 2024, with Indian schools closing for the end of their academic year.
The schools will be utilising the time to set up classrooms, ensuring a smooth transition for students into the next school year.
This break also aligns with the Eid Al-Fitr holiday, which will be observed from March 29 to April 1.
Mohammedali Kottakkulam, Principal, The Central School Dubai, said, 'As this period is the end of academic year for CBSE schools, we are busy preparing the New Year curriculum and getting classrooms ready for our students in order to ease their step into a fresh learning year.'
Principals are advising students to use this time to set academic or personal goals for the upcoming year.
'They must reflect on what worked and what didn't in the past year and create a plan for improvement, catch up on reading to relax and stimulate their mind. We suggest they use the break as an excellent opportunity to reconnect with loved ones.'
Finalising year-end results
In the interim period, the school staff are busy finalising year-end results, tracking student progress in internal and external assessments.
'They are also preparing scheme of work for the new lessons, organising parent-teacher meet, orientation for both existing and new parents and providing professional development sessions to equip the staff with essential skills to deal with challenges. On the whole, we are all geared up to step into a promising new academic year of 2025-26,' added Kottakkulam.
Educators are also highlighting that students find a balance between rest and light productivity during the break.
Belle Wagner, Academy Principal, GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis, said: 'While relaxation is essential, it's also a great opportunity to stay engaged and keep the mind active. Reading, hobbies, or educational activities can keep the mind active without being overwhelming.'
'Older students may want to set aside some time for revision to prepare for upcoming exams, ensuring a smoother return to school. Additionally, some of our staff members are running revision sessions for their students to provide extra support during the break,' added Wagner.
Several high-stake exams after spring break
Many high-stake exams like IGCSEs/GCSEs, IB, or SAT/ACT exams tend to take place shortly after the spring break.
Therefore, school leaders emphasise the importance of students focusing on preparation while maintaining a healthy balance to manage stress.
Dara Devereaux, Head of Secondary Boys at GEMS Wesgreen International School – Sharjah, said, 'For students in exam classes, there has been a strong focus on intensive revision prior to the spring break. Students have been working hard on past papers and refining their exam techniques. Teachers have tailored intervention work, ensuring that any gaps identified during mock exams are addressed, allowing students to enter the break with more confidence.'
Other headteachers also emphasised the importance of students spending time outdoors, enjoying fresh air, and reconnecting with family to support overall well-being and mental clarity.
Devereaux added, 'We always encourage our students to take a balanced approach during their school breaks and ensure they get time to enjoy their surroundings and spend time with family and friends. We emphasise that they should balance their studies with rest and relaxation, and ensure they are physically and mentally ready for the challenges ahead. It's important to create a targeted study schedule that allows for focused work on areas that need improvement while also incorporating relaxation.'