'School-in-a-box': UAE education provider launches model for future-ready classrooms

In a move set to reshape how schools are built and run around the world, a UAE-based education provider has launched a new initiative that brings world-class learning to communities through a complete, ‘ready-to-go’ school solution.

The new venture, GEMS School Management (GSM), offers its partners a comprehensive package that covers everything from school design and curriculum development to teacher recruitment, training, daily operations, technology integration, and student safety.

Rapid launch of new schools

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At the heart of GSM is the ASPIRE model — a flexible, plug-and-play “school-in-a-box” approach developed by GEMS’ leading educators.

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It is designed to fast-track the launch of new schools or elevate existing ones to meet top international standards while staying responsive to local culture and community needs.

Working in partnerships with governments, investors, developers, school groups, and communities worldwide, GSM is already in advanced talks with clients across eight international markets.

From premium schools in capital cities to affordable community schools in underserved areas, it aims to offer flexible models and custom contracts tailored to meet specific regulations, cultures, and educational goals.

Each model includes curriculum plans, architectural guidance, recruitment and training, technology infrastructure, and hundreds of pre-developed operational systems and processes.

At the virtual global launch of GSM on Monday, Robert Tarn CBE, Managing Director of GEMS School Management, said, “We’re working with partners who want more than just good schools – they want schools that set benchmarks. GSM brings the full force of the GEMS ecosystem to the table – from outstanding educators and global best practice to fully costed, turnkey models.

“Whether you’re a government, a developer, or a school group seeking to scale or improve outcomes, we are ready to help you deliver.”

He added, “Our partners often have the vision, the site, and the capital – what they need is deep educational expertise. That’s where GSM comes in. We’ve done the thinking, built the model, and can be ready to open a high-impact school – with the right team, systems and students in as little as 12 months.”

Adapting to local needs

Partners can select from multiple curriculum-aligned models – from premium British or American schools to mid-market Indian or IB schools – each customisable to the social, regulatory, and financial landscape of the location.

Beyond setting up new schools, customised enhancement contracts for existing institutions and education systems will also be provided. These services are intended to help schools expand, improve operations, and take advantage of GEMS’ procurement strength and cost efficiencies.

Other members of the senior leadership reiterated that ‘there is no one-size-fits-all’ solution. While proven systems can be implemented, success depends on adapting these frameworks to local needs and leadership styles.

Hardik Shah, Commercial and Financial Director, GEMS School Management, said, “The approach is going to be very different for different schools, whether we are dealing with a mid-market school, mid-market plus or a premium school, and we are dealing with different geographies as well. We are dealing with anywhere in between the Middle East, South America so on and so forth. So, the approach would be very unique and different for each investor, and the fee would depend on that as well.”

Supporting children with special needs

Meanwhile, this model also prioritises supporting children with special educational needs.

Tarn added, “We have a huge team and capacity. The systems and processes to support children with additional needs, particularly the most vulnerable children...That will be in the front and centre of the school-in-a-box model. So, everything from that training for staff around the waves of intervention, and the provision mapping for children will be something that we're proud to cover, and something that's very personal and a passionate thing for a number of members of my team.”

Sunny Varkey, Chairman and Founder of GEMS Education, added, “Every child deserves access to world-class education, no matter where they are. GSM is how we share our legacy, our expertise, and our belief in education’s power to change lives with partners who share our vision. Together, we will build schools that shape not only futures, but nations.”

Nandini Sircar

Nandini Sircar has a penchant for education, space, and women's narratives. She views the world thro...Read More

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