Every pupil is an individual, and each family’s experience at Hiba tells a unique story of learning and development. Today, we are joined by Elin Winberg, a Hiba parent. Ms Winberg is from Sweden and has a background in education. Here, she reflects on joining the Hiba community and how her family has benefited from our unique blend of Eastern and Western teaching.
First Impressions
Ms Winberg remembers being drawn in straightaway by our school’s red-brick buildings and modern facilities—a blend of British tradition and forward-thinking learning spaces. Artwork and project displays by pupils fill the corridors, and there’s a real sense of energy throughout the campus, from the swimming pool to the sports halls. For Ms Winberg, it all made the place feel open, lively and welcoming. She admits she was curious if her children would feel the same. But after their first look around, the decision was easy: “Mum, this is the one.”
A Diverse Community
“In my children’s class, there are pupils from Singapore, Brazil, Kazakhstan and more. So they quickly made friends. The steadily improving English skills of their Chinese classmates gradually bridged the gap between them.” On International Day, pupils from different backgrounds share performances, play games and discuss history, all of which help develop broader perspectives and mutual understanding.
Educational Insights
Having worked as a teacher in Sweden, Ms Winberg was interested in how Hiba motivates its pupils. “In Sweden, the focus is on equality, and we tend to avoid singling out individuals. Here, my children are regularly recognised for their achievements. I did wonder if this would encourage healthy competition or unnecessary comparison.”
She found that Hiba’s approach strikes a good balance. The school’s assessment system recognises a wide range of achievements—academic, artistic and sporting—and encourages pupils to find their strengths. Ms Winberg was particularly impressed by the Co-Curricular Activities programme, which offers over a hundred activities to help pupils explore new interests and develop as individuals.
Growth and Independence
For Ms Winberg, Hiba is more than just a school—it is a vibrant community where every child is truly seen and valued. The school’s rich diversity, expansive curriculum and commitment to personal growth empower her children to flourish and pursue their passions with confidence. It’s a school where individuality is not only embraced but celebrated, and each pupil is empowered to discover their unique talents—whether in the classroom, on stage, or on the sports field. It is this nurturing environment that makes Hiba a place where every child can become the very best version of themselves.