No homework for 10 years: What UAE private schools have learnt about children's progress

The UAE Ministry of Education has recently eliminated traditional homework for pupils from Kindergarten to Grade 2, starting from the 2026-27 academic year. This policy applies to both public schools and private schools operating under the ministry's curriculum. Some UAE private schools have been reducing or eliminating homework for younger pupils for over a decade.

Arcadia British School in Dubai, for example, has had a no-homework policy for primary pupils since its opening in 2016. The school's Executive Principal, Giles Pruett, stated that the approach has coincided with improvements in academic attainment, with approximately 80% of primary students now making better-than-expected progress in English, Mathematics, and Science.

However, Pruett also noted that improvements in teaching quality, assessment, and monitoring of student progress have also played a significant role in the school's success. While the no-homework policy allows children more time with their families, opportunities to participate in sports and outdoor activities, and less academic pressure during their formative years, it also presents challenges, such as rising levels of learning-related anxiety during Years 7 to 10.

Pruett emphasized the importance of balancing academic expectations with strong pastoral and counselling support, ensuring that homework expectations remain age-appropriate and responsive to individual needs.

Brief written by urgent.news from Gulf News's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.