Arbor School in Al Furjan has been shortlisted in the Curriculum Initiative of the Year category at the prestigious TES Awards for International Schools 2025, honouring institutions that are redefining learning on a global scale. This is the British curriculum school’s second international recognition this year, following its recent title as the World’s Best School for Environmental Action. The achievement further strengthens Arbor’s reputation as one of the UAE’s leading innovators in sustainable and values-driven education.
Celebrating the Integrated Greening Curriculum
Arbor’s shortlisting celebrates its Integrated Greening Curriculum, a whole-school approach that weaves sustainability and ecoliteracy through every subject from Foundation Stage to Sixth Form. Students learn not only about the environment but also in it and for it, connecting classroom learning with real-world action across science, the arts, and community projects. This approach develops the ‘head, heart, hands and spirit’ of each learner.
Gemma Thornley, Principal of Arbor School said,
“Being recognised by TES alongside some of the world’s most forward-thinking schools is a real honour. Our nomination tells the story of who we are: a school where learning is lived as much as it is taught, and where ‘Enough for all, forever’ is not a slogan but a daily practice woven through our entire curriculum. This achievement reflects the creativity, commitment and collaboration of our students and staff, and aligns closely with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future.”
Empowering Students to Drive Global Change
Arbor’s curriculum empowers young people with the knowledge, empathy and critical-thinking skills needed to drive positive change beyond the classroom. From restoring marine ecosystems with Emirates WWF to developing carbon-reduction solutions through its Global Impact Certificate, the school demonstrates what a truly future-focused British curriculum can achieve.
TES Awards Celebrate Global Excellence
TES International Editor and Chair of the Judges, Dan Worth, said:
“A huge congratulations to all the schools and individuals shortlisted for these awards. The volume of entries we received, coupled with the depth of quality, meant it was no easy task for our judges to create the shortlist we are now proud to share. We look forward to celebrating the winners next month and saying thank you to educators everywhere for the amazing work they do day-in, day-out.”
The TES Awards for International Schools 2025 celebrate outstanding schools, teachers and leaders around the world. Winners will be announced on 9 December in an online ceremony.
For more information about Arbor School and its unique curriculum, visit