The education sector continues to grow, adapting to diverse student needs and shifting global standards. Language acquisition is key in shaping academic success, particularly for learners in multilingual environments. Schools worldwide implement structured language support to help students overcome barriers and enhance their proficiency.
Integrating technology, innovative teaching methodologies, and culturally responsive strategies has further strengthened language education. As institutions refine their approaches, they focus on creating inclusive classrooms where students can confidently express themselves. These advancements underscore the importance of equipping students with the necessary skills to thrive in a progressively interconnected world.
Mable Maria Newton, Head of ELL (English Learning Language), brings a student-focused approach to language education. Her leadership is defined by inclusivity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of diverse learning needs. With experience spanning multiple educational settings, she prioritizes empathy and cultural sensitivity in her teaching methodologies. Mable believes in developing confidence among students by bridging their prior knowledge with new learning experiences. Her ability to implement effective strategies ensures that learners acquire language skills and build self-assurance in their academic journey. Through collaboration with educators and curriculum refinement, Mable continues to shape a supportive and engaging learning environment.
GEMS Founders School—Al Mizhar remains committed to delivering high-quality language education through a structured and inclusive approach. The institution strongly focuses on developing comprehensive English language learning programs catering to students from diverse backgrounds. The school enhances instruction and personalizes learning experiences by integrating research- based methodologies and digital tools. Collaboration among faculty members ensures that students receive consistent support tailored to their proficiency levels. With a dedication to academic excellence, the school creates an environment where students are encouraged to embrace challenges and develop essential language skills that will serve them throughout their education and beyond.
Let’s explore Mable’s language development strategies for inclusive education:
Empowering Learners Across Continents
Mable’s inspiration to pursue teaching was deeply rooted in early interactions with students in India. Observing their boundless curiosity and creativity in primary classrooms was profoundly impactful. The joy of seeing children grasp new concepts, build confidence, and develop a love for learning solidified a passion for this profession.
Over the years, this inspiration has served as a guiding force. Teaching has become more than a career; it is a mission. Whether nurturing young minds in India or transitioning into secondary education in Qatar and now in Dubai, Mable’s belief in the power of education has only strengthened. Each phase of the journey, from teaching younger students to helping older students overcome language barriers, has been shaped by this early calling to inspire and empower learners.
Prioritizing Empathy and Cultural Sensitivity
Teaching across CBSE and British curriculums in multicultural environments has shaped Mable’s inclusive and adaptive teaching philosophy. Working in India, Qatar, and the UAE exposed Mable to diverse educational expectations, learning styles, and cultural perspectives. This diversity taught Mable to approach education with a global mindset.
For example, transitioning from CBSE’s structured methodology to the British curriculum’s focus on critical thinking required Mable to reframe instructional strategies. Similarly, engaging with students from varied linguistic and cultural backgrounds made Mable prioritize empathy and cultural sensitivity in teaching.
Mable realized the importance of building bridges between students’ prior knowledge and new learning, encouraging them to see their diverse backgrounds as assets rather than barriers. These experiences have enriched Mable’s practice and enabled the creation of classrooms where all students feel valued and motivated to succeed.
Recognized for Excellence in Education
The most rewarding aspect of her role is witnessing students’ transformations as they overcome language barriers and gain confidence in their abilities. As a non-native English speaker, Mable empathizes with their challenges and feels immense satisfaction in empowering them to thrive academically and socially. Seeing students flourish in their academic journeys is incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, Mable takes pride in developing and implementing effective ELL strategies that benefit individual students and influence the school’s overall approach to language instruction. The recognition of Mable’s work, such as the ‘Excellence in Education Award’ and ‘Gems Core Value Award,’ is gratifying. Still, the students’ daily victories truly validate the efforts.
Prioritizing Time Management in Education
Balancing leadership responsibilities with Mable’s passion for personalized instruction requires thoughtful prioritization and time management. As Whole School Head of ELL (English Learning Language), Mable oversees program implementation and collaborates with teachers to ensure effective language support. At the same time, Mable maintains direct involvement in classroom activities to stay connected with students’ needs.
She allocates specific times for classroom observations, mentoring teachers, and conducting workshops while also dedicating time to interact with students individually.
Strategies for Differentiated Instruction
Engagement among students from diverse backgrounds begins with creating an inclusive and supportive environment. Mable prioritizes the following strategies:
- Differentiated Instruction: Tailoring lessons to accommodate varied proficiency levels ensures all students can access and engage with the curriculum.
- Cultural Integration: Incorporating students’ cultural backgrounds into lessons helps them feel represented and valued. For instance, using literature and examples from different cultures enriches discussions and promotes inclusivity.
- Integration of Technology: Using technology and digital tools to enhance ELL (English Learning Language) students’ learning while providing personalized learning experiences.
- Scaffolded Support: Gradual progress is ensured by breaking down intricate tasks into manageable steps and providing language scaffolds, such as sentence starters or visual aids.
- Feedback and Encouragement: Constructive feedback and consistent encouragement build confidence and motivate students to persevere. These strategies help students improve their language skills and develop a sense of belonging and self-assurance in the classroom.
Encouraging Cross-Departmental Coordination
Collaboration is central to Mable’s leadership style. She believes that a cohesive and well-supported team is essential for achieving shared goals and feels fortunate to work alongside outstanding colleagues at GEMS Founders School—Al Mizhar. As the Head of ELL (English Learning Language), Mable encourages collaboration through regular team meetings, cross-departmental coordination, professional development, and open communication. Mable ensures that collective efforts lead to meaningful student outcomes by focusing on teamwork and shared responsibility.
Strategies for Work-Life Balance
According to Mable, maintaining a work-life balance requires planning and self-discipline. She prioritizes tasks by setting clear goals and timelines, ensuring that essential responsibilities are addressed efficiently. Delegating tasks and trusting colleagues allows Mable to focus on high impact areas without becoming overwhelmed. Mable dedicates time to personal interests and family to recharge and maintain perspective. Activities such as cooking, traveling home, or spending quality time with loved ones help Mable stay energized and grounded.
Additionally, Mable views cultural and language learning initiatives as extensions of a passion for education and personal growth, making them a source of fulfillment.
Adapting Global Trends to School Context
Staying current with educational trends involves a combination of ongoing learning and professional networking. Mable actively participates in conferences to gain insights into emerging practices and innovations. Engaging with online communities and research journals and attending professional development courses informs Mable about the latest methodologies.
Additionally, Mable facilitates knowledge-sharing sessions to encourage a culture of learning within the team. By staying attuned to global trends and adapting them to the school’s context, Mable ensures that the ELL curriculum remains relevant and impactful.
Building Trust and Rapport with Students
Mable believes creating a positive and inclusive learning environment begins with empathy and respect for students’ experiences. She advises educators to build relationships that establish trust and rapport with students by showing genuine interest in their lives and aspirations. She also believes in celebrating diversity by recognizing and honoring each student’s unique cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
Encourage a growth mindset by motivating students to embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and personal growth. Promote collaboration by creating opportunities for students to learn from and with one another, developing mutual respect and understanding. By adopting these practices, educators can create classrooms where all students feel empowered to achieve their full potential.
Vision for Excellence in Language Education
Mable’s vision for the ELL program at GEMS Founders School is to establish it as a model of excellence in language education. Mable aims to develop comprehensive resources and support systems to cater to a broader range of language learners, integrate technology, and use digital tools to enhance instruction while providing personalized learning experiences.
With the support of the GFM Senior Leadership Team, Mable aspires to strengthen teacher training and equip educators with strategies to support multilingual learners effectively. Additionally, Mable aims to prepare students to excel in an increasingly interconnected world by promoting intercultural communication skills.
In the long term, Mable envisions the program empowering students to excel academically and become confident, empathetic individuals who contribute meaningfully to society. By instilling a love for language and learning, limitless opportunities for their future success can be unlocked. Witnessing these students flourishing in their education and personal growth reaffirms Mable’s belief that language is not just a tool for communication but a bridge to opportunity and success.
Credit: insightssuccess.com
