FRESH START FAMILIAR VALUES

Starting at a new school is one of life’s big milestones. It’s a moment filled with anticipation, excitement and, often, more than a little apprehension.

At DESS Primary Academic City, we understand that this transition can feel daunting, whether you’re a child joining midway through primary school or a young learner stepping into a classroom for the very first time.

That’s why we’ll be working hard to ensure that every child and family feels supported, welcomed and ready to thrive from day one.

Dr Hannah Al Ali knows what it’s like to walk through the gates of a brand-new school. Today, Hannah is an Associate Professor of Applied Mathematics and Dean of the School of Mathematics and Data Science at Emirates Aviation University, as well as a DESS Trustee. But back in 2005, she was one of the very first students at DESS College and she remembers that starting somewhere completely new wasn’t easy.

“I was older, starting secondary school, but I still felt nervous”, she admits. “I had questions: Would I fit in? Would I make friends? And would the school feel like a community straight away?”

Hannah recognises that for primary aged children, and especially for those starting school for the very first time, those questions can feel even bigger. “For a young child, it’s not just about fitting in. It’s about finding their footing, feeling safe and understanding that this new environment is going to be fun and nurturing.”

It’s this understanding that has shaped the way we are preparing to open DESS Primary Academic City’s doors. With a focus on empathy, connection and community, the school is committed to turning first day nerves into lasting confidence and joy.

A Legacy of Shared Values

The school will be the newest addition to the DESS family, joining DESS Primary Oud Metha and DESS College. But while it’s a new chapter, it shares the same foundation: a commitment to values that unite all three campuses.

These values are more than words - they are the framework for everything we do, shaping the way children, staff and parents interact and work together. They create a shared sense of belonging, ensuring that every child, no matter their starting point, feels part of a wider, supportive community.

Hannah reflects on the power of these shared values. “At DESS, values aren’t just taught; they’re lived. That’s what gives children the confidence to explore, make mistakes and grow. Knowing there’s a clear set of principles guiding everyone - whether you’re five or fifteen - makes a big difference.”

To help families embrace this new chapter, clear expectations on what it means to be a DESS child will be communicated well in advance. These will ensure that parents and children understand what it means to be part of the DESS family, creating a sense of consistency and confidence even before the first day.

Preparing for a Smooth Transition

The transition to a new school is about more than just logistics; it’s about ensuring every child feels seen, heard and valued from the start. That’s why our programme of transition events will be designed to help children form connections and feel familiar with their new environment from the outset.

These events will include opportunities for children to meet their future classmates and teachers, play games and explore their new surroundings. For older children joining later in primary school, it’s a chance to build friendships and ease any anxieties about fitting in an established year group. For those starting school for the first time, it’s about creating a sense of excitement and wonder as they embark on their educational journey.

“Even the smallest details can make a big difference”, Hannah adds. “Knowing what a child loves or who they already know helps teachers create a welcoming experience that feels personal and reassuring.”

A Proven Track Record in Transition Support

Helping children settle into new environments has always been a real DESS strength. DESS Primary Oud Metha has a long-standing reputation for its thoughtful approach to transition, using buddy systems and tailored resources to ensure children quickly feel at home.

Hannah’s Advice for Parents

For parents, navigating the start of a new school can be just as emotional as it is for their children. Hannah offers some thoughtful advice: “Talk to your children about what excites them - new friends, new activities, new opportunities. Frame it as an adventure, not a challenge. And remind them that it’s okay to feel nervous. It’s just a sign that they care.”

Reassurance is key. Children look to the adults around them for cues, so maintaining a positive outlook can help ease concerns. Trust is equally important. By choosing DESS Primary Academic City, parents are joining a community built on excellence, ambition and collaboration. Every detail, from the curriculum to the facilities, has been designed to ensure success.

As one DESS parent put it: “It’s not just a school; it’s a family. The staff genuinely care about each child, and that makes all the difference.”

A Bright Beginning

Starting at a new school is more than just finding your way to the right classroom. It’s about discovering your place, building confidence and feeling part of a community.

As Hannah reflects, “The first day is always a leap of faith, but it’s one worth taking. At DESS, you don’t just start a school - you start a journey of growth, belonging and possibility.”

At DESS Primary Academic City, we’re ready to welcome every child with open arms, ensuring that this new chapter begins with confidence, connection and a shared belief in their extraordinary potential.