Gerard just returned from an extended trip to the UAE where Dynamis trained approximately 150 staff in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai institutions in our approach to Positive Handling — tailored specifically to the UAE environment, drawing on our almost 10-year training history in the emirates.
Schools came from outlying areas such as Ruwais, Ras al Khaima, Al Ain and beyond to benefit from the training, alongside the many staff from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
📊 By the numbers: 150+ staff trained across 15+ schools in two major UAE cities — Abu Dhabi and Dubai — with participants travelling from as far as Ruwais and Ras al Khaima.
Training Tailored to the UAE Context
Our approach was built on a foundation of UAE-specific legal frameworks: UAE labour law, the penal code relating to use of force, and the requirements laid down by ADEC for private schools.
To maximise the value of each in-person visit, we developed an online training resource to “flip the classroom” — allowing staff to arrive prepared for hands-on practice with our innovative Positive Handling tactics and decision-making matrix.
Overlaid on these tactics were recommended verbalisation strategies designed to capitalise on experienced teachers’ own unconscious competencies — turning their learned strategies into honed, practical tools.
Culture, Policy, and Lasting Impact
We not only talked tactics but indeed are learning much about how Arab virtues and ethics, mixed with the socio-cultural milieu present in the UAE, all drive certain behaviours — and how schools can leverage these powerful forces in creating safe and secure learning environments.
The project was a great success and we have made the first positive steps towards professionalising Positive Handling practice in the UAE school systems.
Policy development and best-practice advice was a hot topic for many attendees — in such a young and rapidly developing place as the UAE, schools are eager to establish robust frameworks for staff safety and student wellbeing.
What’s Next
The sessions went extremely well and there is already talk about next year’s refresher training for the schools.
This training follows hot on the heels of our trip to Qatar, where we delivered a 3-day intensive Positive Behaviour Management programme. Gerard discusses that experience in the video below:
✅ Learn more: Our International School Offering is outlined on the Positive Handling website — including bespoke training programmes for schools across the GCC and beyond.