News and events

From arriving in Dubai as newlyweds to watching their own children grow up at JESS, Andy and Beth have spent more than a decade immersed in the moments that make this school special – in classrooms, on sports fields, in rehearsal rooms, on international adventures and so much more.

Here’s their JESS story.

In 1975, a 26‑year‑old architect helped turn a remote patch of desert into what would become JESS.

Today, Brian Johnson reflects on designing our very first school building in Jumeirah and the vision that sparked 50 years of growth and innovation. His story highlights how a bold vision and child‑centred, thoughtful design laid the foundations for the JESS we know today.

Katie reflects on a childhood at JESS filled with laughter and culture. Her sister, Sarah, was among the school’s very first cohort in 1975, and together they experienced an education that thrived on warmth and global friendships.

From diving for bricks in pyjamas to meeting Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on a school trip to India, Katie’s memories spotlight the teachers and moments that made a lasting mark.

Having spent nearly 30 years of combined service supporting the growth and direction of JESS, former Board Members Marco Caporilli and Robin Padgett reflect on what drew them to take on this volunteer role, and the joy of serving a not‑for‑profit school.

Across countless discussions and decisions, it always came back to one question: Is this right for the student?

“I hope our students leave Jess with more than academic success. To know that character counts, kindness matters, and true success is found in giving your best and supporting others.”

For Stephen Green, being Secondary Headteacher at JESS is more than a role, it’s a privilege. In this week’s 50 Faces of JESS episode, he reflects on the power of belonging, the joy of learning, and the culture of care that defines our school.

Having joined the JESS family in 1997, Alison Jaap is JESS’s longest-serving current teacher with 28 years of incredible memories. From assemblies and dress-up days to sports galas and lifelong friendships, Alison has seen the school grow while staying true to its heart: a place where everyone works hard and has fun doing it.

Rachel joined JESS in 2008 as a management accountant and left in 2021 as Head of Finance and Property. Over 13 years, she witnessed incredible growth from a small accounts team to a thriving school community, while ensuring every decision put students first.

Shaheen first joined JESS at age seven, graduating in 1986. Her own children have since walked the same grounds she once did. From handmade costumes for Topical Nights to singing under the stars at Christmas, Shaheen’s memories reflect the heart of JESS: a caring community that has grown with Dubai while holding on to its warmth.

Carolyne Palmer has been part of JESS since 1999, dedicating over two decades to supporting students through learning development and inclusion.

From the early days of small classes and limited resources to today’s thriving community, Carolyne has witnessed incredible growth while the school’s ethos has remained beautifully consistent.

For Assia, JESS is more than a school, it’s family. Since joining in 2017 as both a parent and an Islamic teacher, Assia has watched her five children thrive in a community built on care, connection, and shared values.

From proud graduation moments to witnessing JESS make history at Rosslyn Park, her journey reflects what makes our school special: academic excellence, creativity, sports, and a spirit of belonging.

Meet the Arabian Ranches Primary Head Students for JESS’s 50th year! Harry, Zeina, Teddy, and Aria share what makes JESS special, from friendships and unforgettable events to dreams for the future.

As they lead us through this milestone year, their message is clear: JESS is more than a school, it’s a place where everyone belongs.

Sapna Verma has been part of the JESS family since 2012. As a parent and Vice Chair of the Board of Governors, she reflects on a community where children thrive, parents connect, and opportunities abound.

Her advice for other JESS parents? Get involved early, every contribution makes a big difference.

Tom and Zhineh walked the same halls at JESS years apart, never knowing their paths would cross in the most extraordinary way. Their story is one of sports, creativity, and strength. When Zhineh needed a kidney transplant, Tom turned out to be her perfect match in more ways than one.

From a speculative visit in 1998 to headteacher, Darren Coulson’s JESS journey is a testament to our school’s spirit of care, ambition, and enduring connection.

As a father, teacher, and Head, Darren reflects on what makes JESS special: excellence driven not by pressure, but by kindness and respect.

Sonya Coates looks back on her time at JESS Jumeirah from 1979 to 1983, filled with swimming galas, school trips, and friendships that stood the test of time.

She met her closest friend Helen at just seven years old – now, decades later, their bond remains as strong as ever.

Claire Quinn joined the Arabian Ranches Primary team when it first opened in 2005. She fondly remembers staff meetings in Costa and wearing hard hats onsite as the vision of a new campus came to life.

Her reflections span memorable school trips, cherished community traditions, and the shared joy of learning – all part of what makes JESS special.

An ever-present figure at JESS since 2002, Liz Morris can be found by the courtyard welcoming the children of Arabian Ranches Primary with a smile every morning.

From class teacher to Assistant Head and over two decades of JESS memories, it’s no surprise that one of the words Liz chooses to describe our school is “family”.

Jessica and Xavier’s JESS story began in the 1990s – trading stickers at lunchtime and cheering for House Saker on Sports Day.

Years later, they return to JESS Jumeirah not only as alumni, but as a married couple with a child of their own. For them, it was a place to grow, a place to belong, and as it turns out – a place to meet the love of your life.

Kim Owen’s story at JESS Jumeirah began in the late ’80s as a little girl, having moved to the UAE from Holland with her family. Decades later, she’s both a JESS parent and dedicated LSA. Her journey beautifully captures the spirit of JESS – joyful memories and values that stand the test of time. Kim now helps guide today’s early years students with the same warmth she once received.

David Bell attended JESS Jumeirah in the 1980’s, when Dubai felt like a village compared to the global hub it is today.
He recalls topical nights, sports days, navigating sabkha tracks in the rain, and the steady presence of the Headmistress Rita Biro (nee Lane) – all hallmarks of a close-knit school life in an emerging city.

Having joined Arabian Ranches Primary as Deputy Head in 2007, Lizzie’s reflections remind us that while campuses grow and traditions evolve, the essence of JESS remains unchanged – where integrity, community, and student-centred learning shine through every chapter.

Alex first stepped into the JESS community in 2000 as a curious four-year-old. More than two decades later, she’s come full circle and is now inspiring the next generation as a member of our PE team.

In 1975, Rupert arrived in Dubai as a two-year old with his family. JESS quickly became their home away from home. His father, a founding governor, helped to plant the seeds of what would become one of the world’s leading schools.

As a JESS parent since 2013 and board member since 2019, Ali Alsayegh reflects on a school that not only educates but listens, evolves, and nurtures a vibrant, inclusive community.

Alumni sisters Anna and Sarah Cluett share fond memories of JESS in the early ‘90s, when getting to school was a daily adventurous journey across sweeping sand dunes.