Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts- this provides an insight into The Leadership Development Programme at TWS that is designed to recognise and nurture leadership potential among participants, promoting a culture of leadership and collaboration. This initiative, championed by the Executive Principal & CEO Mr. Carl Roberts, and Head of School & Deputy CEO Dr. Vijayakumari Sathyan, emphasises that true leaders empower others to become leaders.

The programme aims to:

1. Increase leadership capacity within the school, improving teaching quality and student attainment.

2. Prepare future leaders for TWS and other schools as part of succession planning for GEMS Education.

3. Enhance promotion opportunities for staff at The Westminster School.

 

Each participant received guidance in formulating an action research question relevant to their chosen topic. Subsequently, they were provided comprehensive support by their mentors throughout the various stages of the action research process.

 

The participants' comprehension and successful application of the academic reading in the school setting were evaluated through a viva conducted by non-mentors. Moreover, the completed Action Research projects underwent assessment and moderation by various mentors, ensuring the credibility and consistency of the results.

 

Out of the 22 participants from Cohort 1 (2020-2022)  we had 8 Distinctions, 7 merit and 7 at pass levels.

Out of the 8 distinctions, our three toppers were:

1st Position –  Ms. Regina Mary

2nd Position – Ms. Sandra Francis

3rd Position – Ms. Priya Manoj

 

Expanding its reach from 2022 to 2024, the programme included The Westminster School, RAK, and Cambridge International School, Sharjah, demonstrating its growing recognition and impact within the educational community.

The Graduation Ceremony for the second cohort was celebrated on June 6, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Sharjah, highlighting the achievements of the graduates followed by dinner together at the venue.

The Award for Excellence through The Future Gems Leadership Programme is based on two criteria – The 1st   criterion is 50% of the Action Research and the 2nd criterion is 25% of the Academic Reading along with 25% of the Tellal Professional Programme completed by all participants. The main Action Research was marked by 2 external examiners and 1 internal examiner.

Out of the 7 Distinctions, we have our three toppers:

1st Position –  Ms. Snehal Fernandes

2nd Position – Ms. Mariya Hussain

3rd Position – Ms. Naeem Unnisa

Ms.  Zainab Adel received a special Commendation Award in recognition of her passion and dedication towards the programme.

The eBook containing all the Action Research Projects from the first and second cohorts was created and launched by our Head of School and Deputy CEO Dr. Vijayakumari Sathyan. This would provide as a useful learning resource for our next cohort and staff.

 

Since its inaugural year in 2020, when 23 teachers graduated and four were promoted, the programme has refined its approach based on valuable insights to ensure continued relevance, rigour, and excellence. As the third cohort will begin in September 2024, the programme remains committed to fostering leadership and creating a positive impact on individuals and the entire school community.