Cognita, a prominent global network of schools, has announced the inclusion of Al Ain English Speaking School (AAESS) in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, UAE, into its worldwide community. This expansion marks Cognita’s inaugural presence in Al Ain. Founded in 1978, AAESS has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and caters to a diverse student body ranging from Nursery to Sixth Form. With 2,000 students and a staff of 250, the school now becomes part of Cognita’s network, which comprises over 100 schools across 16 countries and serves more than 90,000 students. Cognita’s growing presence in the Middle East includes six schools in Dubai, one in Abu Dhabi, and one in Kuwait, making AAESS the ninth Cognita school in the region.
AAESS has evolved from its modest start in a local villa to a sprawling campus with cutting-edge facilities. The school takes pride in its British-based curriculum, which is adapted to cater to its diverse international student body, ensuring that each student excels academically while remaining globally competitive and culturally informed. With a tradition of growth and innovation, AAESS is dedicated to developing future leaders within its vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic learning environment. The entire school community fosters personal development, mutual respect, collaboration, and, above all, a love for learning.
Cognita’s leadership in the region is guided by David Baldwin, Chief Executive Officer for the Middle East. David brings a wealth of experience in global education and governance, with over a decade spent in the UAE. He also has a background in supporting Cognita’s schools in the United Kingdom, having served as Director of Education.
Speaking about this recent development, David Baldwin said: “It gives me great pleasure to announce the inclusion of Al Ain English Speaking School into our global family of schools. This marks a significant milestone for Cognita, as AAESS is the first school we’ve partnered with in Al Ain. We are eager to collaborate in delivering a world-class educational experience, advancing pedagogy and empowering our students, staff and families to thrive in our rapidly evolving world".
Mr Mohammed Al Ghussein, Chairman of Al Ain English Speaking School, shared the enthusiasm for this new chapter, expressing, ”We share a collective mission to enrich the educational journey of our students, ensuring they are well-equipped for success and contribute positively to the world. Whilst Cognita deeply value the unique identity and traditions of the school, they now open our classrooms to the collective wisdom of over 100 schools globally. It is exciting for the school to be part of something much bigger as it heads towards its 50th anniversary".
By becoming a member of the Cognita family, AAESS educators and students now belong to a global network that offers a wealth of knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. School leaders and teachers will also benefit from advanced, tailored training programs, including those created in collaboration with the renowned IOE – Faculty of Education and Society at University College London.
