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Martin Clark, Senior Director - GEMS Education Ventures said:
"GEMS schools embrace a philosophy of preparing students for the world and the challenges of the future. The GEMS Education approach to learning focuses not only on academic excellence but also in enabling students to develop character and creativity so that they achieve their full potential as human beings. This education venture with World Challenge gives our students the opportunities to take part in hands-on activities that challenge them to seek solutions, make informed decisions, demonstrate tenacity, and to express themselves confidently."
Claire Ellaway, Regional Director, World Challenge explains, "With 22 years of experience, World Challenge offers an unrivalled range of expeditions geared to the education of young people. We provide a level of safety and service second to none. We are proud of this partnership with GEMS Education and are looking forward to seeing the development and success of all future GEMS students who take part in these exciting award opportunities. "
Adventure Quest
In order to celebrate the beginning of the partnership, over 170 GEMS students from Cambridge International School and Al Khaleej National School are participating in an Adventure Quest. The quest has students taking part in team building activities which emphasize team work, allows them to enhance leadership skills, problem solving skills, communication skills and develop self-confidence in challenging situations.
The Adventure Quest activity is a part of the GEMS Leadership Challenge Awards created especially for GEMS students. Once completed, the quest allows students to receive the GEMS Ruby award, which is the first tier in this progressive award programme. GEMS students will work their way from the GEMS Ruby Award to the GEMS Emerald Award and finally to the GEMS Diamond award, which is recognized by Universities.
The Leadership Challenge Award is linked directly to the GEMS core values of World Citizenship, Universal Values, Leadership and Forward Thinking. In order to ensure all GEMS students have access to these life changing opportunities the programme has been designed with a variety of options.
GEMS Ruby Award
A student can earn the GEMS' Ruby Certificate by completing three ½ day 'Adventure Quest' sessions, based at two sites in Dubai. The activities include; 'Giants Ladder', 'Leap of Trust', climbing wall and ground based practical leadership and team tasks to encourage the development of team work, leadership and communication skills as well as caring for others and problem solving.
GEMS Emerald Award
The GEMS' Emerald Award is achieved after completing a one or two week expedition to Asia, Africa or Europe. Students will explore new cultures and environments, learn how to communicate more effectively and bond as a team, take manageable risks, overcome fears and make their own decisions - all essential lesson for the future. Students can also gain a Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) Level 3 (equivalent to a GCSE grade B) if a portfolio of evidence is provided.
GEMS Diamond Award
The Diamond Award can be gained by completing an expedition similar to the Emerald Award but for three or four weeks. This Award has a more in-depth community/service element which fits in well with International DofE Award and for the CAS element of the IB diploma. An ASDAN Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) Level 2 (equivalent to 70 UCAS points) can also be gained if students provide a portfolio of evidence. Students automatically gain the ASDAN University Award.
Posted by Nadeen El Ajou
