The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has recently made Arabic education mandatory in all private schools, emphasising the importance of bilingual education. Green Grass Nursery (GGN) has long recognized the value of early language development by integrating Arabic language learning and culture into the curriculum since it’s founding in 2013.
The nursery has been incorporating daily Arabic classes into its curriculum, ensuring that young learners develop strong language skills from the start. In 2018, the nursery took a further step by becoming fully bilingual, seamlessly integrating Arabic and English into daily learning experiences. From the very start, the nursery understood that the Arabic language serves as a window to its culture and community. This proactive approach sets GGN apart as a pioneer in early childhood bilingual education.
Arwa Naccho, Green Grass Principal and CEO said "Language has always been, and will always remain, more than just a subject; it's an integral part of culture and community. KHDA’s new policy approach has not only enhanced language skills but has also nurtured a deeper appreciation of the region’s rich heritage among our students.”
At Green Grass Nursery, young learners participate in one-hour-a-day preschool intensive Arabic programs designed to help children not only acquire language skills but also appreciate the culture of the UAE. These are more than educational programs; they encourage individual identity. The nursery’s vision resides on the idea that learning goes beyond the four walls of a classroom; they have included the Reggio Emilia approach as well as the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. This nurturing framework enables children to discover, learn, and develop their skills and creativity in a supportive setting.
“Learning multiple languages at an early age enhances communication skills, boosts cognitive development, and aids cultural appreciation. By immersing children in both Arabic and English, Green Grass Nursery prepares them for academic success and a globally connected,” added Arwa Naccho.
The Green Grass Nursery bilingual blueprint empowers future generations through innovative Arabic and English play-based learning. By 2025, it aims to expand the team of Arabic specialists and introduce a new bilingual Primary Key Stage 1 and 2 program for children aged 5 to 7 years. They are also exploring opportunities to join a larger educational organisation to share and scale our unique bilingual model.
Green Grass Nursery's multifaceted strategy combined with steadfast and persistent devotion has set the benchmark in early childhood education. Now as Dubai begins this new journey with a change in educational policy, Green Grass Nursery remains a lighthouse of quality showing how Arabic education can be meaningful and enjoyable. Also, for those who are looking for more information regarding their new bilingual programs, their website www.greengrassnursery.com gives a sneak peek at a realm where culture and language intertwine.