Dubai Scholars Private School
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Dubai Scholars Private School: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Welcome to the most comprehensive guide to Dubai Scholars Private School (DS). With a rich history dating back to 1976, Dubai Scholars has established itself as one of the most reputable and enduring British curriculum schools in Dubai. This guide provides an in-depth, independent review designed to give prospective parents and students all the information they need to make an informed decision.
Our goal is to cover everything from academic performance and curriculum details to the nuances of campus life and the admission process, helping you understand why DS remains a top choice for families in Dubai.
Overview & Verdict
Dubai Scholars Private School is a well-regarded, family-oriented institution located in Al Qusais that offers the National Curriculum for England. It has a long-standing reputation for delivering strong academic results at an affordable price point, making it excellent value for money.
- Key Strengths: Strong academics, excellent value proposition, a warm community feel, and a proven track record of success.
- Areas for Consideration: Its location in Al Qusais is more convenient for families in “old Dubai” and Sharjah.
The Verdict: Dubai Scholars Private School is an excellent choice for families seeking a best, traditional British education that prioritizes academic achievement within a supportive community. It represents one of the best value-for-money private schools in Dubai.
KHDA Rating & School History
- KHDA Rating: Consistently rated Good for over a decade, with many “Outstanding” features noted in recent reports.
- BSO Accreditation: Fully accredited by British Schools Overseas (BSO), meeting UK Department for Education standards.
- History: Founded in 1976, DS is one of Dubai’s pioneering schools. It is part of the respected Scholars International Group.
Curriculum Deep Dive: From FS1 to A-Levels
Dubai Scholars follows the National Curriculum for England throughout the school.
- Foundation Stage (FS1 & FS2): A play-based, inquiry-led EYFS approach with specialist lessons in Arabic, Music, Dance, and PE.
- Primary (Years 1-6): Core subjects are enhanced by humanities, UAE studies, art, ICT, and a second language (French or Hindi from Year 4).
- Secondary (Years 7-11): A broad curriculum leading to International GCSE (IGCSE) examinations.
- Sixth Form (Years 12-13): AS and A-Level qualifications with popular subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Business.
Academic Results & University Destinations
This is a key strength of Dubai Scholars. The school consistently produces excellent examination results that are significantly above UK national averages, empowering students to access the world’s best universities.
- IGCSE & A-Level Results: A history of exceptional performance, with over 90% of students typically achieving grades A*-B at IGCSE.
- Prestigious University Destinations: 100% acceptance rate to internationally accredited universities, including elite institutions like the University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, UCL, University of Toronto, and more.
A Day in the Life at Dubai Scholars
- Early Years (FS1 & FS2): A day from 8:15 AM to 12:10 PM filled with structured play, phonics, numeracy, and specialist lessons.
- Primary (Years 1-6): A 7:10 AM start focusing on core subjects, collaborative learning, and specialist classes.
- Secondary & Sixth Form (Years 7-13): The day runs from 7:10 AM to 2:10 PM (3:30 PM for Sixth Form), focusing on specialized subjects and independent study for exams.
School Fees & Value for Money
Dubai Scholars is known for its highly competitive fee structure, offering exceptional value.
These fees place Dubai Scholars in the “affordable” to “mid-range” bracket, making it one of the best-value British curriculum schools in the UAE.
Campus & Facilities
Situated on a 200,000 sq. ft. campus in Al Qusais, the facilities are designed to support a well-rounded education.
- Academic: Well-resourced libraries, dedicated labs for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, and ICT labs.
- Sports: Swimming pool, multi-sports field, basketball courts, and zoned playgrounds.
- Arts: An auditorium for productions, plus dedicated art and music rooms.
The Admission Process: How to Apply
Admissions are based on an assessment to ensure students can engage effectively with the school’s academic program. Apply early as demand is high.
- Step 1: Complete the online enquiry form on the school’s website.
- Step 2: Undertake an age-appropriate entrance assessment.
- Step 3: Submit required documents (school reports, Emirates ID, etc.).
- Step 4: Receive an offer of admission upon successful assessment.
Parent & Student Reviews: The Real Story
Community & Parent Partnership: A Cornerstone of Success
A standout feature of Dubai Scholars, and one frequently praised by families, is its deeply ingrained sense of community. This is not just a school, but a partnership where parents are welcomed as active participants in their child’s educational journey.
- Active Parent Engagement: The school fosters a vibrant parent community through regular communication and the Parent Progressive Forum.
- A Welcoming ‘Second Home’: The strong bond between long-serving staff, students, and parents creates a genuine “family feel.”
- Celebrating Together: Annual concerts, sports days, and cultural festivities bring the community together to build lasting connections.
Extracurricular Activities & School Life
DS offers a wide range of activities to ensure a well-rounded experience.
- Sports: Strong tradition with teams for football, basketball, swimming, and cricket, plus a weekend Sports Academy.
- Clubs & Competitions: Participation in Model United Nations (MUN), robotics, reading clubs, and success in events like the Chevron Readers’ Cup.
- Performing Arts: Annual concerts and productions showcase student talents in drama, music, and dance.
Inclusion & Support for Students of Determination
Dubai Scholars is an inclusive school praised for its compassionate and effective support for Students of Determination (SEND).
- Dedicated Team: A well-resourced inclusion department with specialist teachers and learning support assistants.
- Personalized Plans: Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) outline specific goals and support strategies for students.
School Transportation
- Coverage: The service covers most areas of Dubai and also extends to key residential areas in Sharjah.
- Safety: All buses are equipped with GPS tracking, CCTV, and have a dedicated bus monitor.
- Contact: transportation@dubaischolars.com
Leadership & Contact Information
- Head of School: Ms. Sapna Changrani
- Location: Al Qusais 1, near Stadium Metro Station, Dubai, UAE.
- Contact Number: +971 4 706 9000
- Admissions Email: admissions@dubaischolars.com
- Website: dubaischolars.com