DUBAI // The world’s largest professional network for teachers is coming to the UAE to help tackle the shortage of qualified educators and improving standards.
Tes, previously known as the Times Education Supplement, will be officially launched in Dubai at next week’s Global Educational Supplies and Solutions conference.
“Tes is delighted to be expanding its partnership with schools and teachers in the Middle East by opening an office in Dubai,” said Rob Grimshaw, its chief executive.
“The UAE, like many of its neighbours, has seen improvements in its education system over recent years, with student performance improving across educational indicators.”
Tes works with schools to support their plans of attracting more teachers of a higher quality, he said.
The company will link the UAE, which relies on expatriates for almost all teaching positions, with staff from the UK, Australia, Canada and the US.
Data from the International Schools Consultancy shows 47 per cent of full-time teachers in the UAE are from the UK and 13 per cent from the US.
It is becoming increasingly important for schools to make sure they have reliable access to teachers as the student population continues to grow, Mr Grimshaw said.
Student numbers in the region are expected to increase to about 15 million in 2020.
Tes can also support teacher training and professional development.
The Tes Institute plans to offer an International Postgraduate Certificate in Education, giving teachers in the GCC the opportunity to gain a master’s degree from a leading UK university.
nhanif@thenational.ae
