Due to upcoming assessments for some students in the UAE after the autumn break, school administrators are urging parents to help children return to class prepared, rested, and ready to demonstrate their acquired knowledge.
For older grades, the break can be an opportunity to review material, while younger students will need time to adapt to the school routine.
Schools following the unified UAE academic calendar began a mid-first-semester break on October 12th, which will last until October 16th, with students returning on October 19th. Although some schools plan assessments shortly after the holidays, the schedule depends on the specific school, grade level, and curriculum.
Simon Crane, Director of Brighton College Dubai, reported that Brighton College Dubai has scheduled assessments after the autumn break, including for senior students. He noted that parents should expect a return to regular studies alongside the planned evaluations, which help understand student progress and determine where additional support or material complexity is required.
Directors emphasize that they encourage students to view these events as a chance to demonstrate their knowledge and understand the next steps. Crane advised parents to gradually restore regular sleep patterns and morning habits before the start of the academic year. For reviewing material, short, focused sessions with breaks are more effective than trying to learn everything at the last minute. Encouraging children to test what they have learned, complete practical assignments, and review difficult topics can improve preparation results.
At American School, Ajman, Director Marah Kadoura stated that the school ensured that students, especially those in senior grades, understood the assessment requirements in advance of the break. She stressed that preparation and communication were key moments for students to return with a clear understanding of the tasks, rather than feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of exams.
Kadoura urged parents to support their children during this transition period, rather than increasing stress. Her advice was to focus on support rather than pressure. Parents should encourage children to restore a regular sleep schedule, balance preparation with adequate rest, dedicate time to paying attention to their children, and acknowledge their concerns to build confidence and resilience.
In schools using the Indian curriculum, the academic schedule differs. CBSE and ICSE schools typically continue classes and conduct first-semester exams in October, aligning with their April to March academic year and curriculum requirements. Instead, schools usually provide several days off around Diwali.
At Credence High School, according to a statement from CEO and Director Dipika Tappar Singh, the first mock exams for grades 10 and 12 are scheduled for November 10th. Practical exams are expected around the second week of January, in line with CBSE recommendations. Singh previously mentioned that the schools are still awaiting the preliminary schedule for this year's board exams. She noted that last year, CBSE published a preliminary schedule on September 24th, and the final schedule in early December.
Meanwhile, she reported that students can use the latest CBSE sample papers and assessment systems to prepare for the exams. Teachers also use these materials to create mock tests and familiarize students with the expected format. Singh added: 'What is more important is that CBSE has already shared the latest sample papers with the assessment systems that will form the basis of this year's examinations. Our teachers use them to prepare mock tests, and parents must ensure that students complete them and carefully study the assessment system.'