CARL ROBERTS

Executive Principal/CEO

DR. VIJAYAKUMARI SATHYAN

Head of School/ Deputy CEO

Dear Colleagues,

Welcome to the updated 2024–2025 edition of the Staff Handbook. Within these pages, you will find comprehensive guidance on the day-to-day operations of The Westminster School, Dubai. Whether you are new to our school or a long-standing member of the team, I encourage you to take the time to familiarise yourself with its contents, as it is designed to support you in your role and help us all maintain the highest standards of professionalism and care.

At The Westminster School, Dubai, we hold a clear and powerful vision, to deliver an education that not only stretches our students academically but also supports their emotional wellbeing, nurtures their social development, and prioritises their health, safety, and happiness. With the right balance of ambition and support, we firmly believe every student has the potential to become a confident, compassionate global leader—while also leading a happy, fulfilling life.

This same philosophy extends to our staff. We are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and equitable working environment where everyone’s voice is heard and valued. Every member of our community, teaching and non-teaching, plays a vital role in nurturing this positive culture. Together, we must continue to model the values we seek to instil in our students.

We make no apologies for setting high expectations—both for our students and for ourselves. We aim for academic excellence, but we also recognise that true education encompasses far more than exam results. As educators, our goal is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and character they need to thrive in all aspects of life. That is what great teachers do.

If ever you are uncertain about a decision, I offer a simple guiding principle, treat every student at TWS as you would wish your own child—or a close relative—to be treated. We call this the “Acid Test”. For me, this has always been a clear compass. If it is not good enough for my daughters, then it is not good enough for other people’s children.

I am confident that this year will be both enjoyable and successful for you. Thank you for your continued commitment, and I look forward to working together to ensure our students receive the outstanding education they truly deserve.

Wishing you all the best for the academic year ahead.

Warm regards,

Carl Roberts كارل روبرتس
Executive Principal/CEO
and Brand Ambassador for GEMS Westminster Schools المديرالتنفيذي

Welcome to The Westminster Team

Welcome to The Westminster School, Dubai (TWS)—a dynamic and inclusive community. With over 5,000 students representing more than 60+nationalities, supported by over 300+ teaching staff and 150+ support staff, TWS is a truly diverse and vibrant place to learn and grow.

This handbook has been carefully designed to support you in your role as an educator at TWS. It brings together essential policies, procedures, guidelines, and resources to help you navigate the expectations and responsibilities of working within our school. It provides a clear overview of how we operate and what we value, serving as a reliable point of reference throughout your professional journey with us.

Whether you are joining us for the first time or are a longstanding member of our community, we encourage you to use this handbook as a guide and companion. While it may not cover every situation, it highlights the key principles and practices that will enable you to succeed and thrive.

At the heart of everything we do is our unwavering commitment to the well-being, development, and success of our students. As part of The Westminster Team, you play a vital role in shaping confident, capable, and responsible global citizens.

Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we will continue to make The Westminster School an exceptional place for learning, growth, and excellence.