As schools following the Indian curriculum in the UAE approach their last week before the winter holidays, the atmosphere is a mix of festive joy and dedicated focus. Younger students are excited about field trips and seasonal parties, while those in Grades 10 and 12 are already gearing up for board exams set for early next year.
The board exams for Grades 10 and 12 are scheduled to start on February 17. Grade 10 will complete their exams by March 10, and Grade 12 by April 9.
With over 100 CBSE-affiliated schools in the UAE, school principals emphasize the importance of balancing relaxation, reflection, and preparation to maintain academic progress.
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Community Engagement and Academic Discipline
Fatima Martin, Principal of New Millennium School, notes that the days leading up to the break are designed to be meaningful rather than just a time to unwind.
“This period is not merely a countdown to the holidays; it’s a well-planned combination of community bonding and festive celebrations. One of our key events is Al Farah Wal Shukr, where senior students host a potluck lunch for all support staff to foster gratitude within the school community.
“The winter season enhances this spirit, encouraging outdoor sports and trips that provide a refreshing break before the holidays. Younger students are full of excitement, while those preparing for boards are settling into a steady study routine.”
She highlighted that with board exams looming, schools help students plan their break wisely.
“Given how close the holiday is to the board exams, we treat this time as a skillful balance – rest in one hand, revision in the other. Our teachers assist students in creating a strategic study plan to enjoy their break without losing academic focus. We call it FOMO – Focus On Maximising Opportunities.
“Students are encouraged to relax yet stay focused, with benchmark assessments, internal exams, and board preparations on the horizon for the new year.
“Teachers have crafted a meaningful break plan to ensure continuous learning. It’s a blend of joy and purpose, setting the stage for a productive January.”
‘Celebration, Reflection, and Preparation’
Deepika Thapar Singh, CEO-Principal of Credence High School, describes the atmosphere as both festive and academically driven.
“The air is filled with a warm, joyful excitement as we approach the holidays. For our Grade 10 and 12 students, the first Pre-Boards are over; answer sheets have been returned, and teachers are reviewing every detail with the students. We’re preparing for the upcoming PTM to keep parents well-informed.
“In recent weeks, the school has conducted sessions to help board students approach their exams with calm and confidence.
“They now understand that a straightforward, regular study routine is their best path to success. Meanwhile, the rest of the school is buzzing with excitement as students embark on field trips across the UAE, learning through real-world experiences.
“The atmosphere combines celebration, reflection, and purposeful preparation. As always, we’ll continue to support our students and parents, ensuring each child feels confident, cared for, and ready for what’s ahead.”
Festive Joy and Focused Preparation
At Woodlem Park School in Ajman, the week is packed with various activities.
Shiny Davison, Principal, emphasized that the term’s end will be festive while ensuring students, especially those preparing for boards, remain focused on upcoming academic goals.
“As we approach the holidays, the campus is buzzing with festive joy and focused preparation. We’ll end the term with a winter party. Younger students are embracing the festive spirit, while board students receive guidance on balancing study with relaxation.
“We have also arranged holiday project work, with major events like Globex, focusing on sustainability and the Year of the Family, planned for the new term.
As we move into the New Year, we encourage our students and families to make joint resolutions.”
