British International School Abu Dhabi British International School Abu Dhabi British International School Abu DhabiBritish International School Abu Dhabi
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FAQs

FAQs | BIS Abu Dhabi - FAQ page block

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

  • What is your average class size?

    At every stage in their education, your child will learn in small class sizes that give them an exceptional personalised learning experience.

    Our early years children (ages 3-5) learn in a maximum class size of 20. They’re supported by their class teacher and two assistants.

    At primary level (ages 5-11), our students study in an average class of 24. They’re supported by one teacher and one assistant.

    Our secondary students (ages 11-18) learn in a variety of class sizes, which depend on the subject being taught. Typically, however, the average class is between 15 and 20 students.

  • What curricula do you teach?

    We teach the very best in British and international curricula. This includes the English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). These pathways set the standard for global education and open doors to the world’s leading universities.

    Early Years (ages 3-5): Early Years Foundation Stage

    Primary (ages 5-11): English National Curriculum

    Key Stage 3 (ages 11-14): English National Curriculum

    Key Stage 4 (ages 14-16): Cambridge IGCSE

    Senior School: (ages 16-18): International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)

  • Do you focus on academic success?

    Of course. Our students get superb academic results. In 2021, 63% of our IGCSE students got A* or A grades – more than double the UK average. Our 2022 IBDP cohort exceeded the global average, too, with seven of our students placed in the world’s top 10%.

    While academic excellence is an absolute priority, we know there’s more to a well-rounded education. Our exceptional teachers will nurture your child’s growth, supporting them to do what they love, excel in new areas, and be ambitious. We want your child to leave us with the social, personal, and academic skills they need to succeed, and become a culturally aware, socially responsible global citizen.

  • Do you provide pastoral care?

    Yes, your child’s wellbeing is our top priority. We know that children who feel safe, supported, and included thrive – both personally and academically. 

    All our students follow our Personal, Social and Moral Education curriculum. Supported by our highly qualified pastoral team, they learn about healthy lifestyles and develop the tools they need to look after their physical and emotional wellbeing. We also have a comprehensive safeguarding programme that ensures our school community is looked after.

  • How do you personalise learning?
    In small class sizes, our teachers get to know each child individually. They’ll identify your child’s strengths, encourage them to do what they love, and help them to overcome any challenges. Our teachers work hard to understand how each child learns best, too, and nurture personal and academic growth.
  • What support programmes do you offer?
    We run a successful English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme for students who need extra help with their English. Our expert EAL team offer support in class and organise bespoke sessions. Our Additional Educational Needs (AEN) team create tailored learning programmes for students who need extra support.
  • Do you organise clubs and enrichment activities?
    Our students can choose from more than 100 co-curricular activities and clubs, which take place at lunchtime and after-school. There’s something for everyone and the list of activities changes each term. Clubs range from Lego robotics, coding and Minecraft to basketball, badminton and dance. 
  • What excursions and trips do you offer?
    Learning outside the classroom is a vital part of our students’ development. Your child will go on adventures in the UAE desert, mountains, and along the coast. They’ll explore the world on once-in-a-lifetime expeditions to Tanzania and Switzerland. And they’ll learn in different ways through day trips to galleries, museums, and mosques.
  • What are the school's hours?
    Our school hours are between 7:40 am to 3:00 pm Monday to Thursday and 7:40 am to 12:30 pm on Fridays. 
  • Is the school open to everyone?

    At BIS Abu Dhabi, we welcome all nationalities. We’re extremely proud of the diversity of our school community. Right now, students, parents, and teachers from more than 90 countries call our school home. We’re also an open enrolment school, which means we welcome students of all abilities.

  • Do you accept applications all year round?
    Yes, your child can join us at any time during the school year (places permitting). If a year group is full, we'll add your child to our waiting list.
  • Will my child need to take a test before they enrol?

    Yes, your child will sit an assessment as part of our admissions process. This ensures we can meet their learning needs and offer the right blend of challenge and support. Our assessments and interviews vary depending on the age of the child, but may include class observations and English speaking, writing, and cognitive ability tests. 

    All our lessons are taught in English, which is why it’s so important that your child is sufficiently fluent. Our expert English as an Additional Language (EAL) team will help students who need extra support.

  • What's included in your fees?
    Your child’s fees include school materials, most of our co-curricular activities, and secondary exams.
  • I have younger children, too - do siblings get priority?
    Yes, we prioritise siblings of current students. 
  • What is your parent community like?
    We’re incredibly proud of our inclusive international community, which is home to students, parents and teachers from more than 90 countries. Everyone is welcome here and our Community Group is very active. From welcome coffee mornings to workshops and themed get-togethers, you’ll quickly settle into our family-orientated community. Parents can also join our fitness classes and learn Arabic.
  • How do you communicate with parents?
    We’ll keep in touch with you in a variety of ways. These include our newsletter, social media, emails, and our parent app. Our teachers will update you on your child’s progress through communications books, parents’ evenings, and meetings. We also use an online platform, Seesaw, in primary school.