Creating Global Citizens Through High Performance Learning at Nadeen School

Excellence in Education Leadership 2024 – a series where we shine a spotlight on the heads of schools and universities in Bahrain. In this series, we uncover the ideas, aspirations, and strategies driving these leaders to shape the future of education – whether it’s their vision for their institutions, their insights on the transformative role of technology and AI in education, or the innovations they employ to foster enriching learning experiences for children.

In this exclusive interview, we speak with James Batts, Principal of Nadeen School as we uncover the school’s focus on High Performance Learning and its Thrive Centre.

What, in your opinion, is the role of an education leader?

An education leader’s role is multifaceted but fundamentally to me it is about serving a learning community and creating a place of belonging and a range of learning experiences where ‘We all Can’. Primarily, an education leader must:

Develop and communicate a clear vision and strategic direction for the school that aligns with its mission and values.

Create and nurture a supportive and inclusive school culture that encourages collaboration, innovation, and growth.

Provide ongoing professional development, support, and resources for staff to ensure they can effectively meet the needs of our learning community.

Build incredible relationships with learners, parents, and the broader community to ensure that our provision and policies are responsive and inclusive.

Focus on strategies and a curriculum that ensures every learner feels confident and empowered, addresses diverse needs and promotes high standards of learning and well-being.

How has your experience in education shaped your leadership style and what brought you to Nadeen School in Bahrain?

My experience in education has profoundly shaped my leadership style and I am grateful for those inspirational mentors, coaches and wonderful characters that I have been lucky to have spent time with. Over the years, I’ve learned that effective education leadership requires adaptability, empathy, resilience and a commitment to continuous development.

My journey has involved working in diverse educational settings, which has taught me the importance of understanding and responding to the unique needs of different communities both in the UK and Internationally. This experience has helped me develop a collaborative and inclusive approach, where input from all stakeholders is valued and used to drive positive change.

I was drawn to Nadeen School in Bahrain because of its reputation for inclusivity and innovation but also meeting the Ambassador and Owner, Ms. Shanee, who is certainly an inspirational and fun character. We share a very aligned vision and passion for Nadeen and education in general. The school’s commitment to high-performance learning (HPL) and its focus on creating an environment where every learner can thrive aligns with my own educational philosophy. The opportunity to contribute to such a dynamic and forward-thinking school is both exciting and inspiring.

How does the school’s ‘High Performance Learning’ framework benefit every learner?

The ‘High Performance Learning’ (HPL) framework benefits every learner by:

It sets ambitious goals for all learners, fostering a culture of excellence and resilience.

The framework supports personalised learning pathways that cater to each learner’s strengths and needs, ensuring they are challenged and supported appropriately.

It emphasises the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing learners for future challenges and opportunities.

HPL incorporates aspects of emotional intelligence, helping learners build self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills that are crucial for success in and out of the classroom. #GlobalCitizens

Can you describe a recent learner success story from your institution?

In February 2024, a team of learners who are part of our Planet Protector Team attended the Bahrain annual Eco-Summit for Schools. These learners spoke publicly with other learners from schools across Bahrain about their concerns with regard to sustainability issues that are pertinent locally in Bahrain. Their biggest concern was with plastic waste and following the summit, the Planet Protectors led an assembly for learners at Nadeen about this issue. They campaigned across Nadeen School about ways to reduce plastic. They were instrumental in the placement of the recycling bins and also the recycling cages for staff and parents to use.

During snack and lunch times, these learners took it upon themselves to patrol and ensure their peers were using the recycling bins provided to dispose of plastic and other waste. Moving forward, this team of learners have plans to set up composting at Nadeen and they are excited to attend the summit again this year to share their commitment to sustainability in Bahrain and the wider world. 

What specific services, programs, and resources are available at the school’s Thrive Centre?

The Thrive Centre at Nadeen School offers a range of services and programmes designed to support learners with diverse and complex needs but ultimately we want learners to have a sense of belonging where they can flourish.

Speech and Language Therapy: Provides individualised support for learners with communication challenges.

Psychology Development Services: Offers support and training for teachers and assessments and interventions to support learners’ cognitive and emotional development.

Specialised Learning Programmes: Tailored learning designed to meet the specific needs of learners who require additional support.

Family Support Services: Provides guidance and resources to families, helping them navigate their child’s educational journey.

Collaborative Partnerships: Works with external specialists and organisations to ensure comprehensive support for learners.

Could you highlight the initiatives or programs that enhance community engagement and inclusiveness at Nadeen School?

Nadeen School is dedicated to fostering community engagement and inclusiveness through several key initiatives. These are some of the integral aspects of creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every member of the Nadeen community feels valued and engaged. We regularly host events and workshops that bring together learners, parents, and community members to discuss and promote community, enrichment and inclusivity. The school collaborates with local and international organisations to provide additional resources, support and opportunities for our learners and families.

We encourage active participation from parents and community members in school activities, decision-making processes, and enrichment provision. Our curriculum reflects and respects diverse cultures and perspectives, promoting a global outlook and understanding among learners.