Applied Technology Schools-Umm Al Quwain Campus

The UAE school integrating AI, engineering, and sustainability into a project-based curriculum to empower workforce-ready graduates

Applied Technology Schools-Umm Al Quwain Campus-ATS-UAQ (ATS-AQ), a public secondary school in Fallaj Al Mulla – Umm Al Quwain, UAE, has integrated AI, engineering, and sustainability into its project-based curriculum to transform the way students are solving real-world challenges and learning crucial life skills to become workforce-ready. The rural desert region, approximately 30 km from the main city centre, is home to a community that is primarily Bedouin. With many students failing to complete their studies because of the remote nature of the area, some having to travel more than an hour to get to campus, the need to provide a more career-focused educational pathway required urgent action.

The teaching model focuses on preparing students for the industrial field through different “clusters” where students can explore areas such as engineering, health sciences, AI, or business. Each cluster includes practical workshops, brainstorming sessions, and hands-on learning experiences. This teaching approach centres around innovation and real-world application in classrooms where students engage in project-based learning, problem-solving challenges, and hands-on experimentation. From designing 3D-printed prototypes to developing fire detection systems, students are encouraged to explore, create, and refine their ideas. 

Through this model, learning extends beyond the classroom. Through internships and collaborative projects, students form partnerships with industry leaders and organisations to gain real-world work experience. This vocational and technical training, combined with a curriculum that blends core academic subjects, ensures graduates are accepted into top universities and thrive in careers directly related to their chosen cluster.

The ethos of innovation has become infectious and is now firmly ingrained as a foundational culture. The teacher retention rate is approximately 90%, and they receive ongoing training across emerging educational platforms. Every student uses a tablet or device to access coursework. Examination results show consistently high performance. Learners have been recognised in the national and international arena, with 282 students participating in various competitions. Two silver medals were won at Emirates Skills 2023-24, three winning teams were selected in the Sandok Al Watan iOS Design Challenge, and a student secured second place in WorldSkills Asia, with additional selections for the International Chemistry Olympiad and Informatics Olympiad. A student-led project in the medical sector has reduced emergency supply wait times by 40% and improved inventory tracking by 30%, showing the community impact of the learning model.