Rashid & Latifa School

Independent, Royal Decree

Approach overview

At Rashid and Latifa School (RLS), students embark on a transformative educational journey, shaping the visionaries who will build the future and become the architects of tomorrow’s dreams. Guided by the visionary directives of We the UAE 2031 and inspired by the UAE Centennial Plan 2071, RLS stands as a beacon of innovative learning in the heart of Dubai, one of the world’s most vibrant and dynamic cities.

At RLS, we empower. Our curriculum, enriched with the insights from research, such as the OECD Future of Education and Skills 2030, is meticulously crafted to foster a continuum of experiential learning from  Early Years to Year 13. It is an odyssey that prepares students not just for the challenges of today but for the uncharted opportunities of tomorrow.

Our approach is holistic. We believe in the power of a balanced education that nurtures not only cognitive and metacognitive skills but also social, emotional, and physical wellness. From the playful explorations of our youngest learners to the strategic innovations of our senior students, RLS is a place where curiosity and creativity flourish.

Signature practices

  • Our five foundational principles upon which the curriculum is built – Culture, Wellness, Play, Innovation and Community are rooted in Islamic values, building on Emirati cultural heritage and identity.
  • Leadership as a through-school thread of experience woven into our academic journey.
  • Our curriculum design is transdisciplinary and uses real life experiences, drawing on the vision and centennial plans for the UAE.
  • Learning is co-created with students, educators, technology and the natural world.
  • We foster environmental stewardship – exploring the questions that will allow us to restore and repair our world.
  • Our blueprint of assessment is designed to measure what we treasure – building a portfolio of micro-credentials and assessments that engender student agency.
  • A through-school approach to play based pedagogy – pulling play all the way up.
  • A research based approach informs all practices within the organisation
  • Curated professional learning opportunities for all staff with access to organisations and practitioners from around the globe

Why we joined the Next Big 10

We wanted to innovate in a safe and collaborative space. Having read the case studies of the previous cohorts and having heard the excitement of members of our team when they spoke of the changes taking place on the ground in real schools, we knew we had to try and be a part of this.
Claire Crew, Principal of Girls
As a school, our culture and our approach to any of our initiatives is driven by research - so it makes sense that we are able to speak to others who are on the same journey and be part of the Rethinking School project. While time differences and localities may differ, the essence of what we are trying to achieve - a better experience of learning for all our students - draws us together.
Sam Pyper, Assistant Principal for Curiosity, Creativity & Innovation

Rashid & Latifa School's Change Team

Claire Crew

Principal of Girls

Samantha Pyper

Assistant Principal Curiosity, Creativity & Innovation

Scott Brown

Assistant Principal - Academic Performance

James Batten

Assistant Principal Digital

Jimmy Hodgson

Assistant Principal - Early Years & Lower School (Boys)

Immi Akhtar

Culture & Community

Ben Parnell

Vice-Principal Boys

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