Returning to In-Person Learning

A message from our Principal

At Horizon English School, our focus remains firmly on the wellbeing, safety, and continued progress of every child.

During this challenging period, I would also like to acknowledge and sincerely thank our parents for their support, trust and partnership. Your understanding and collaboration have been invaluable, and quite simply, we could not have navigated this period in the way we have without you.

We are delighted to welcome children back to school for in‑person learning. This return has been carefully planned to ensure a safe, positive, and well‑supported experience for our whole community. Being back on campus allows students to benefit fully from face‑to‑face teaching, daily routines, pastoral care, and the social interactions that are central to learning and development.

As part of this return, teachers will work quickly and thoughtfully to re‑establish each child’s learning and wellbeing following their time away from school. Through observation, check‑ins, and ongoing assessment, staff will ensure continuity of academic progress, address any areas requiring reinforcement, and provide appropriate support. Careful attention will also be given to children’s emotional wellbeing, helping them to settle back into school life with confidence.

We recognise that for a small number of families, returning to campus may not yet be possible. In these cases, alternative arrangements are in place to support continuity of learning until students are able to rejoin us in person.

Above all, we remain committed to ensuring that every child feels known, supported, and able to thrive.

This page provides key information for families about in‑person learning at Horizon English School, including practical guidance, expectations, and frequently asked questions.

Martin Cole
Principal

In-Person Learning

In-person learning represents a return to our usual school setting, delivered in a clear, measured and carefully managed way to support the wellbeing, safety and experience of all students.

Working closely with the KHDA, approval has been granted on the basis of the measures, checks and procedures we have put in place to support a safe return for students and staff. These arrangements are designed to provide a calm, structured and well-supported environment in which learning can continue with confidence.

Alongside high-quality teaching and learning, we remain focused on pastoral care and clear communication. We recognise that students will be returning with differing starting points, both academically and pastorally, and there will be an attentive focus on student readiness to ensure a smooth and supported transition back into school life.

Families can use the link below to read the school procedures and practical guidance for in-person learning, including how the school responds and communicates during periods of national alert.

Remote Learning Provision

For students who are currently overseas or not yet able to return to campus, online learning will continue as part of this transition.

Delivered and overseen by the school, this provision ensures continuity of curriculum, teaching approaches and connection to familiar staff. Rather than simply streaming classroom lessons, students follow a dedicated, purpose-built online programme, led by teachers and designed specifically for effective remote learning.

Designed to provide flexibility, continuity and care, this model is further supported by the strength and expertise of the wider Cognita group, helping to maintain consistency of quality and provide additional capacity where needed. It has also been developed, as far as possible, to respond to the needs of families working across different time zones.

We will continue to review this provision regularly and keep families updated as this period progresses.

Why is the school now offering both in-person and online learning?

The school is now able to welcome students back to campus for in-person learning, following approval based on the measures, checks and procedures put in place to support a safe return. At the same time, online learning continues for students who are currently overseas or not yet able to return, ensuring continuity of education for all families during this period.

Has the return to in-person learning been formally approved?

Yes. Working closely with the KHDA, approval has been granted on the basis of the measures, checks and procedures the school has put in place to support a safe return for students and staff.

What does this mean for families who are ready to return to campus?

Students who are ready to return can attend school in person and resume learning on campus within a structured, well-supported environment. The school has clear arrangements in place to support safety, communication and the smooth running of daily school life.

What if my child is not yet able to return to school?

Students who are currently overseas or not yet able to return to campus can continue learning online through the school’s established provision, so that their education continues with structure, consistency and support.

Will students returning to campus follow normal lessons?

Yes. Students attending school in person will continue to receive high-quality teaching and learning on campus, supported by the routines, structure and pastoral care expected as part of daily school life.

What happens if there is a national alert during the school day?

In the event of a national alert, the school will follow a clear and rehearsed procedure to keep students and staff safe. Students and staff will remain inside the school buildings until the situation is declared safe, and communication with parents will be prompt and clear throughout.

Horizon English School

Admissions:+971 (0)4 342 2891