Brighton College Al Ain proudly hosted more than 180 educators from across the UAE for the inaugural Al Ain Conference for Teachers (AACT). Held on 4th October in collaboration with Abu Dhabi University, the event brought together teachers, school leaders and Emirati trainee teachers from Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah to explore innovative approaches to teaching and learning that can make a tangible difference in classrooms today.
Centred on the power of collective efficacy, the conference harnessed the shared passion, creativity and expertise of the UAE’s education community. Sessions covered a wide range of themes, including maths anxiety, English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, technology in connected classrooms, classroom management, data analysis, and creative approaches to Islamic lessons – all offering practical strategies that educators could apply immediately in their own contexts.
Commenting on the success of the conference, Mr Oliver Bromley-Hall, Head Master of Brighton College Al Ain said: “AACT reflects our belief that real progress in education happens when teachers are empowered to lead the conversation. It was inspiring to see educators and leaders from across the Emirates engaging in such meaningful dialogue, and I am looking forward to seeing how these ideas will shape classrooms in the days and months ahead.”
Leisa Grace Wilson, Editorial Director of Teach Middle East Magazine,delivered the keynote, ‘Empowering Educators in the Age of AI,’ describing artificial intelligence as a ‘frenemy’, a powerful accelerator when used wisely, but never a substitute for human critical thinking. Dr Mohammad Fteiha, Director of Al Ain Campus and Director of the Centre for Faculty Development and Learning Innovation at Abu Dhabi University, followed with ‘Innovative Teaching Practices for Inclusive Learning,’ reminding attendees that inclusivity is a mindset, not a policy. Cat Chowdhary, Senior Deputy Head at Taleem – Whole School Improvement, and author, closed the keynote series by reflecting on what makes an “unforgettable teacher,” highlighting the transformative impact of professional collaboration.
Dr Mohammad Fteiha, Director of Al Ain campus and Director of the Centre for Faculty Development and Learning Innovation at Abu Dhabi University, said: “AACT showcased how purposeful teaching design can raise quality and equity at the same time. The conversations moved beyond rhetoric to practical models that institutions can adopt now. Together, we’re building a bridge between innovation and implementation, ensuring that what works in one context can be adapted and scaled across many.”
Educators also took part in practical workshops spanning ethical leadership, inclusion, technology, curriculum innovation, and pastoral care. From AI in assessment and connected classrooms to maths anxiety and supporting students of determination, sessions were designed to be forward-thinking and directly relevant to teachers’ everyday practice. The day concluded with a panel discussion on ‘Future-Ready Classrooms: Teaching, Learning and Wellbeing,’ moderated by Brighton College Al Ain.
Richard Brashier, Deputy Head, Teaching & Learning, Digital Strategy and Sustainability at Brighton College Al Ain and Organiser of the conference, said the passion and creativity on display were exceptional. He highlighted collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to lifelong learning as the defining themes of the day.
The Al Ain Conference for Teachers is an educator-led initiative by Brighton College Al Ain designed to connect, inspire and empower educators across the UAE. By translating evidence-informed practices into tangible classroom strategies, it provides a platform for shaping the future of education together.
