Ethraa Department (Special Educational Needs & Support Learning)

Ethraa is an Arabic word meaning enrichment. At Mashrek International School, Ethraa Department reflects our belief that every child can learn, grow, and thrive when supported with understanding, care, and the right strategies. Ethraa supports students with additional learning needs as well as those who benefit from academic or language enrichment, helping each child reach their highest potential by building on their strengths and emerging skills.

Our Philosophy

Ethraa is grounded in a strong belief in inclusion. We are committed to ensuring that all students feel valued, supported, and fully included in school life.
Our team works collaboratively with teachers, parents, and specialists to:

-Remove barriers to learning
-Strengthen existing skills
-Adapt learning experiences thoughtfully and flexibly

We approach every child with gentleness, kindness, and empathy, while maintaining high expectations and a deep respect for individual differences. Our goal is to provide equitable learning opportunities, ensuring each student receives the support they need to succeed. 

Working Within the IB Framework

Mashrek International School offers all three IB programmes (PYP, MYP, and DP), and the Ethraa Department works in alignment with IB principles.

Through appropriate accommodations and modifications, students are supported to:

- Develop IB skills, attitudes, and learner profile attributes
- Participate meaningfully in classroom learning alongside peers
- Engage in inquiry, collaboration, and critical thinking

Support is delivered through collaboration among classroom teachers, specialists, and the Ethraa team, rather than isolating students from the learning environment.

Our Services:

Inclusive Educational Needs Programme

A dedicated, multidisciplinary team assesses each child holistically and develops an individualized support plan tailored to their specific needs. Support may include:

1. Academic support in Languages, Mathematics, and Science

2. Supporting Learning mentor or shadow

3. Targeted intervention within or alongside the classroom

4. Occupational Therapy:
o Led by a qualified occupational therapist, this service supports students with sensory, physical, or cognitive challenges by developing skills needed for daily functioning, learning, and independence.

5. Speech Therapy:
o Delivered by a certified speech and language pathologist, this service supports students with communication needs by strengthening speech, language development, and social communication skills.

6. Behavioral management support

7. Assessment accommodation for external exams for eligible students:
o Eligible students may receive approved assessment accommodations for the MYP e-Assessments and IB Diploma Programme external examinations.
o These accommodations ensure fair access while maintaining the integrity of IB assessment standards.