Abu Dhabi: School bags must not exceed 10 per cent of student’s body weight, says ADEK

The Department of Education and Knowledge in Abu Dhabi (ADEK) has emphasized that schools must adhere to the maximum weight limits for school bags and ensure that parents are informed of this policy. It stated that a student’s school bag, when packed, must not exceed 5–10 per cent of the student’s body weight, taking into account individual factors such as overall health, physical strength, and any existing medical conditions, to avoid adverse effects on the spine or body.

In a clarification of its health and safety policy, published on its official website, ADEK outlined the following maximum bag weights:

• KG1, KG2, Grades 1 and 2: not to exceed 2 kg

• Grades 3 to 5: not to exceed 3 to 4.5 kg

• Grades 6 and 7: not to exceed 6 to 8 kg

• Grades 9 and 10: not to exceed 10 kg

ADEK also noted that the majority of schools across the UAE have advised parents against sending their children to school with wheeled (trolley) bags for the upcoming academic year. These recommendations cite health concerns and practical considerations for student safety.

Some parents have already received circulars urging them to reconsider their school bag choices, even before they began shopping for supplies during the summer break.

Notification system to keep parents informed

As part of a policy now in effect—and which all schools are expected to comply with by February 1, 2026—ADEK mandates that schools must establish notification systems capable of quickly relaying information to parents. Acceptable methods include SMS, public address systems, or mobile apps, especially for use during emergencies.

Schools are also required to offer psychological support to students and staff after any major incident affecting the whole school, in accordance with ADEK’s Student Mental Health Policy and the Integrated Staff Safety Policy.

Each school must establish and manage an on-site clinic that meets Department of Health (DoH) requirements and standards. Schools must obtain a healthcare facility license and employ a full-time licensed school nurse, ensuring the nurse meets all qualification and performance criteria.

Medical emergencies

ADEK stressed that schools must be able to administer medications, respond to accidents and medical emergencies, and provide individual healthcare plans for students with additional educational needs. Schools are also required to allow access to DoH-appointed healthcare providers and facilitate school immunization programs. All services—medications, health screenings, vaccinations, and outcomes of any medical interventions—must be recorded confidentially in the student’s medical file.

Regarding routine health screenings, schools must conduct regular comprehensive checks. They are also required to employ a full-time Health and Safety Officer (HSO) who may take on related responsibilities as needed. An alternate HSO may be appointed from among the Health and Safety Committee members to cover short absences, but there must always be one HSO present on school premises during school hours. A single HSO cannot serve multiple campuses.

The HSO must receive adequate training to implement health and safety policies, meet baseline requirements, and respond to additional needs. Current officers who do not yet meet the full criteria may continue in their roles but must comply with all requirements by February 1, 2026. Schools must also conduct emergency drills to ensure preparedness.

ADEK unveils 'School Performance Boards'

In parallel, ADEK has revealed details of the newly approved School Performance Boards, which will be prominently displayed at the entrances of all private schools in the emirate.

These boards will provide parents, students, and school visitors with clear, up-to-date insights into the latest results from the Irtiqa’a inspection program and the National Identity Mark, reinforcing ADEK’s commitment to educational excellence and transparency.

According to information published on ADEK’s website, the boards are more than just evaluation tools—they reflect each school’s commitment to academic excellence and fostering national identity among students. By highlighting key performance indicators, they aim to encourage schools to continuously improve.

The performance boards summarize two main indicators:

1. Irtiqa’a Evaluation, which includes six core performance standards:

• Quality of student achievements

• Quality of personal and social development and innovation skills

• Quality of teaching and assessment

• Quality of curriculum

• Quality of student protection, care, guidance, and support

• Quality of school leadership and management

2. National Identity Mark

School bags and emergency medical services: key student needs

ADEK supervises the provision of school bags and emergency medical services in Abu Dhabi schools, aiming to ensure a safe and healthy learning environment for all students.

School bags:

ADEK determines the contents of school bags according to students’ needs at different educational levels. Typically, bags include essential school supplies such as books, notebooks, and stationery, as well as other items that may vary by school and curriculum. The goal is to provide high-quality, health-conscious, and environmentally appropriate school bags.

Emergency medical services:

Abu Dhabi schools are required to offer emergency medical services for incidents that occur on campus. This includes employing qualified nurses or paramedics, equipping a first-aid room, and preparing emergency response plans for various situations.

ADEK collaborates with relevant health authorities to ensure students receive the highest level of care during emergencies.

Role of ADEK:

• Sets policies and procedures for school bags and emergency medical services.

• Monitors implementation to ensure quality and effectiveness.

• Provides support and guidance to schools in delivering these services.

• Raises awareness among students and parents about the importance of health and safety in schools.

School bags and emergency medical services are essential components of a safe and healthy learning environment in Abu Dhabi schools. ADEK is committed to ensuring these services meet high standards through clear policies, ongoing oversight, and direct support for schools.