The new academic year began with a warm welcome to our dedicated staff, led by Head Teacher Ms. Agnes Nathaniel. Her welcoming address set an uplifting tone for the year ahead, bringing everyone together with renewed energy, enthusiasm, and a shared commitment to learning, growth, and excellence.

Our newest members of the Excel family were warmly welcomed and introduced to the team, marking the beginning of an exciting new journey together.

The lucky number draw brought plenty of excitement as the winning numbers were revealed, celebrating our fortunate winners and adding a memorable moment to the day.

AJ Group of Schools Chairman Mr. Arshad Sharief warmly welcomed everyone back and shared an inspirational message, setting an encouraging and purposeful tone for the new academic year.

AJ Group of Schools CEO Mr. Zahid Sarosh shared valuable insights on nurturing a positive learning environment, emphasising the importance of supporting, developing, and empowering staff in the journey from Extraordinary to Exceptional.

Principal Mr. Leonard Murphy shared key insights into the six essential elements needed to make a performance system effective, purposeful, and successful.

Rooted in Identity, Empowered by Innovation Ms. Agnes Nathaniel, Head Teacher, led an engaging academic session exploring the importance of strengthening identity while embracing innovation as a catalyst for educational development, continuous improvement, and meaningful progress.

Math Kickoff: Charting Success Ms. Ghanaya Shabaz, HOD Mathematics, led a focused professional development session with the Math Department, exploring effective strategies, setting clear goals, and establishing a strong direction for the year ahead.

Roadmap to Success With a clear vision for the year ahead, Ms. Noha Mahmoud, HOD Arabic, guided the Arabic Department through a focused professional development session, exploring key priorities, strengthening collaboration, and setting a clear direction for continued progress and success.

Inclusion Policy Ms. Rddhi Boajraj, Head of Inclusion, led a focused professional development session on the Inclusion Policy, exploring key priorities and strengthening the commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every learner is valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. ;

Leadership in Action Principal Mr. Leonard Murphy met with the HODs to discuss key priorities, strengthen collaboration, and align efforts for a successful academic year ahead.

Mental Health Matters Ms. Mica Palma, CU Guidance Counselor & Inclusion Teacher, led an insightful professional development session on Mental Health, promoting greater awareness and understanding while highlighting the importance of supporting positive mental well-being across the school community.

Nurturing Excellence Every Day Ms. Lourdes Joseph, Assistant Head Teacher, led an inspiring professional development session focused on nurturing excellence, strengthening professional practice, and encouraging staff to uphold high standards while creating meaningful opportunities for student success.

Ready to Inspire. Ready to Lead. Ready for Excellence. Ms. Reena Mysore, Phase Coordinator, led an engaging professional development session exploring the power of inspiration, leadership, and excellence, encouraging staff to embrace the year ahead with purpose, confidence, and a commitment to continuous growth.

Nurture. Inspire. Grow. Ms. Rafeka Baka, Early Primary Phase Supervisor, led a meaningful professional development session focused on building strong foundations for lifelong learning, highlighting the importance of nurturing young learners, inspiring confidence, and supporting their growth from the earliest stages.

Cultural Consideration Policy Ms. Najma Banu, Social Studies & National Identity Coordinator, and Ms. Sara Talaat, HOD – UAE Social Studies and Related MOE Subjects, led a meaningful professional development session focused on cultural awareness, respect, and understanding, highlighting their importance in creating an inclusive and culturally responsive learning environment.

Behaviour Policy & Merits and Demerits Ms. Yasmin Abdrabou, Social Worker, led a focused professional development session on positive behaviour management, exploring clear expectations and effective approaches to promoting responsibility, respect, and positive choices.