Al Sahwa Schools and Cheltenham Muscat are both in Muscat, about 25 km apart. Both schools offer British programmes, and Al Sahwa Schools also offers IB and Omani. Published annual fees are OMR 2,250 - 4,750 at Al Sahwa Schools and OMR 3,899 - 8,111 at Cheltenham Muscat, which puts Cheltenham Muscat roughly 72% higher. Both take pupils from 4 to 18. Al Sahwa Schools is the larger school, with around 1,100 pupils to Cheltenham Muscat's 700. Typical class sizes are 9 at Al Sahwa Schools and 20 at Cheltenham Muscat.
|
A
Al Sahwa Schools
Muscat, Oman
|
C
Cheltenham Muscat
Muscat, Oman
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
|
Fees / year
|
Fees / year OMR 2,250 - 4,750 | Fees / year OMR 3,899 - 8,111 |
|
Age range
|
Age range 4 - 18 years | Age range 4 - 18 years |
|
Type
|
Type — | Type — |
|
Curriculum
|
Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Omani Curriculum | Curriculum British Curriculum |
|
Pupils
|
Pupils 1,100 | Pupils 700 |
|
Typical class size
|
Typical class size 9 | Typical class size 20 |
|
Instruction language
|
Instruction language English, Arabic | Instruction language English |
|
Opened
|
Opened — | Opened — |
|
Bus service
|
Bus service — | Bus service — |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
|
Location
|
Location Al Sahwa Schools are located in Muscat, Oman, in the Shatti Al Qurum area near the diplomatic district. The campus sits in the Al Sarooj area with access to major roads and local amenities. The postal address is House 592, Way 3052, Shatti Al Qurum, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. | Location Cheltenham Muscat is located in Al Bandar, Muscat, Oman. The campus sits on a 45,000 square metre site within the Al Bandar Masterplan, a large mixed-use development near residential areas. It is in close proximity to Muscat International Airport and City Centre Muscat, with straightforward road access. |
|
Stages
|
Stages The school provides Kindergarten to Grade 12. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) covers KG to Grade 5, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) covers Grades 6 to 10, and Grades 11–12 combine the Oman General Education Diploma Programme (GED) and the IB Diploma Programme (DP). | Stages The school is structured in three bands: Pre-Prep (KG1–Grade 2), Prep (Grade 2–Grade 8), and Senior (Grade 8–Grade 12). This progression covers early years through to the end of secondary schooling. |
|
School type
|
School type The school is co-educational. Instruction is in English and Arabic, and the staff comprises multiple nationalities. | School type Cheltenham Muscat is a co-educational British international day school. |
|
Pupil nationality mix
|
Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix Enrollment is reported around 700–800 pupils with representation from about 50–60 nationalities. The most common nationalities are Omani and British. The international mix reflects the school's British international profile and its location in Muscat. |
|
Additional learning support
|
Additional learning support Support for Learning (SfL) provides inclusive provisions for students with mild to moderate learning and language needs. Support may be delivered in class, in small groups, or one-to-one; English language support (ELL) and Arabic language support are offered for language learners. | Additional learning support The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and a Learning Support Department. Pupil needs are addressed through EAL group and one-to-one provision, and every learner in need receives an Individual Education Plan (IEP) with opportunities for tailored, small-group support; some specialist EAL tuition may incur additional charges. |
|
Country affiliation
|
Country affiliation No formal country-specific affiliation is stated. The school operates as an IB World School in Oman. | Country affiliation The school is affiliated with the United Kingdom through the Cheltenham College family of international schools and offers a British curriculum (IGCSEs, A Levels, or GED). |
|
Religious affiliation
|
Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated. Public materials describe the school in the context of Oman's culture and IB World School status rather than a religious program. | Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation is stated in official materials. |
|
School day structure
|
School day structure Timings vary by program. Kindergarten runs from 7:30 to 12:30, Primary (Grades 1–5) from 7:30 to 14:00, and MYP/GED from 7:30 to 14:10. The IB Diploma Programme (DP) runs from 7:00 to 15:10, with some DP students having additional periods outside the standard day. K-10 typical start is 7:25 with homeroom; DP can start at 7:00 and end at 15:10. | School day structure KG1–Grade 2 start at 7:15am with 7:30am registration; collection is at 2:00pm, with after-school activities or paid academy options. Grades 3–12 start at 7:15am with 7:30am registration; collection is at 3:45pm, with optional after-school activities from 4:00pm onward. |
|
Bus service details
|
Bus service details Bus transport is provided through a partnership with eMushrif. Buses have trained drivers and supervisors and are equipped with live tracking. | Bus service details A school bus service operates for KG1 through Grade 12. Routes cover areas across Muscat including Al Mouj, Mawaleh, Al Hail, Mabella, Bawshar, Al Ansab, Qurum, Khoud, Al Athaiba, Ghubra, and Al Khuwair. A bus-tracking application allows parents to monitor journeys and request absences; for more info, contact the transport team. |
| Fees | Fees | |
|
Fee details
|
Fee details Tuition fees by year group (annual and two-term breakdown) - KG1 (Kindergarten 1): OMR 2,250.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 1,125.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 1,125.000 (due in February). - KG2 (Kindergarten 2): OMR 2,300.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 1,150.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 1,150.000 (due in February). - Grade 1: OMR 3,450.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 1,725.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 1,725.000 (due in February). - Grade 2: OMR 3,500.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 1,750.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 1,750.000 (due in February). - Grade 3: OMR 3,500.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 1,750.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 1,750.000 (due in February). - Grade 4: OMR 3,750.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 1,875.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 1,875.000 (due in February). - Grade 5: OMR 3,750.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 1,875.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 1,875.000 (due in February). - Grade 6: OMR 3,850.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 1,925.500 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 1,925.500 (due in February). - Grade 7: OMR 4,100.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 2,050.500 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 2,050.500 (due in February). - Grade 8: OMR 4,100.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 2,050.500 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 2,050.500 (due in February). - Grade 9: OMR 4,400.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 2,200.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 2,200.000 (due in February). - Grade 10: OMR 4,600.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 2,300.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 2,300.000 (due in February). - Grade 11: OMR 4,750.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 2,375.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 2,375.000 (due in February). - Grade 12: OMR 4,750.000 per year — 1st payment OMR 2,375.000 (due in September); 2nd payment OMR 2,375.000 (due in February). Application and registration fees - Registration fee (non‑refundable): OMR 200. - Re‑registration fee for the next academic year: OMR 200. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual tuition is shown with a two‑installment billing schedule: 1st payment due in September and 2nd payment due in February. Each grade's per‑term amounts are listed above. Additional costs and program/consumable fees - Breakfast (annual): OMR 200. - Chromebook (issued from Grade 4): OMR 185. - Educational consumables (annual): OMR 70. - IB / programme fees by year group: - PYP Program (KG and Grades 1–5): OMR 35. - MYP Program (Grades 6–9): OMR 50. - MYP5 Program (Grade 10): OMR 205. - DP1 Program (Grade 11): OMR 115. - DP2 Program (Grade 12): OMR 395. - Pamoja (DP1 elective): OMR 525. - Pamoja (DP2 elective): OMR 550. School transport (bus) fees and provider - School bus service is provided through E‑Mushrif (SAR) company; published contact numbers and the provider website are included in the school's fee documents. Boarding fees - No boarding fees are listed in the published fee schedule; no boarding charges are published for the 2025/2026 schedule. Refund information - The registration fee is explicitly non‑refundable (OMR 200). No other refund terms or a broader refund policy are published in the 2025/2026 fee schedule. Fee payment options - The published fee schedule does not specify accepted payment methods (for example, credit card or bank transfer) within the 2025/2026 fee document. (Fees shown are the published amounts for the 2025/2026 academic year.) | Fee details Overview (academic year 2025–26) - All fees below are charged in OMR and apply to the 2025–26 academic year. Application, assessment and deposit - Application fee (new pupils): OMR 150 — one-off, non-refundable. - Assessment fee (per applicant): OMR 200 — refundable only if a place is not offered. - Place-holding deposit to secure an offer: 40% of the first term's fees, non-refundable and payable within 10 working days of the offer; the deposit is deducted from the first term's fees. Tuition fees by year group (per term and annual total) — Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior - KG 1: Term 1 OMR 1,560; Term 2 OMR 1,560; Term 3 OMR 779; Total per year OMR 3,899. - KG 2: Term 1 OMR 1,783; Term 2 OMR 1,783; Term 3 OMR 890; Total per year OMR 4,456. - Grade 1: Term 1 OMR 2,005; Term 2 OMR 2,005; Term 3 OMR 1,003; Total per year OMR 5,013. - Grade 2: Term 1 OMR 2,005; Term 2 OMR 2,005; Term 3 OMR 1,003; Total per year OMR 5,013. - Grade 3: Term 1 OMR 2,005; Term 2 OMR 2,005; Term 3 OMR 1,003; Total per year OMR 5,013. - Grade 4: Term 1 OMR 2,207; Term 2 OMR 2,207; Term 3 OMR 1,103; Total per year OMR 5,517. - Grade 5: Term 1 OMR 2,228; Term 2 OMR 2,228; Term 3 OMR 1,114; Total per year OMR 5,570. - Grade 6: Term 1 OMR 2,419; Term 2 OMR 2,419; Term 3 OMR 1,209; Total per year OMR 6,047. - Grade 7: Term 1 OMR 2,450; Term 2 OMR 2,450; Term 3 OMR 1,226; Total per year OMR 6,126. - Grade 8: Term 1 OMR 2,640; Term 2 OMR 2,640; Term 3 OMR 1,319; Total per year OMR 6,599. - Grade 9: Term 1 OMR 2,725; Term 2 OMR 2,725; Term 3 OMR 1,363; Total per year OMR 6,813. - Grade 10: Term 1 OMR 2,725; Term 2 OMR 2,725; Term 3 OMR 1,363; Total per year OMR 6,813. - Grade 11: Term 1 OMR 3,244; Term 2 OMR 3,244; Term 3 OMR 1,623; Total per year OMR 8,111. - Grade 12: Term 1 OMR 3,244; Term 2 OMR 3,244; Term 3 OMR 1,623; Total per year OMR 8,111. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition may be paid in full at the start of the academic year or by three instalments payable in advance of each term. - A 5% tuition discount is available for families who pay the full year's fees in a single payment at acceptance; this full-payment discount is only applicable when paying by bank transfer, cheque, or cash. - Re-enrolment fee for the 2026/27 academic year is due before the end of Term 2 (March 2026); the first term's payment for 2026/27 is required by June 2026 (re-enrolment/payment timetable described in the school's fee policy). - Failure to pay the required deposit or fees within the stated deadlines may result in an offer being withdrawn. Boarding fees - Cheltenham Muscat does not list or operate a boarding programme for pupils; there are no boarding fees published for this school. Other costs and additional charges - Tuition fees do not include school lunches, school transportation, educational trips, or extracurricular activities run by external providers; these items are charged separately. - School bus service is available for KG1 to Grade 12; routes cover a wide range of Muscat areas and transport fees and timings are published/managed through the school's transport team (transport is a separate charge). - Uniform: uniform items for Cheltenham Muscat are supplied through a specialist school uniform provider; uniform costs are separate from tuition and are purchased directly from the supplier. - Extra charges may apply for certain external-provider extracurricular programmes, optional trips, examination fees, and other services not included in tuition. Sibling discounts - A 5% discount is available for the third and subsequent child enrolled at the school; this sibling discount is applicable only when payment is made by bank transfer, cheque, or cash. Refunds and refund conditions - Refunds are processed in accordance with Ministry of Education (MoE) regulations in Oman. Tuition fee refunds are subject to specific conditions and timelines with deductions based on the length of enrolment. Deposits are non-refundable except in exceptional cases. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods referenced in the school's fee policy include bank transfer, cheque and cash. The 5% full-payment and sibling-discount conditions specify those three payment methods as qualifying options for the discounts. (Parents should use bank transfer, cheque or cash where discount eligibility is required.) Notes - All fee figures and policies above are presented in OMR and have been approved by the Ministry of Education (MoE). Fees are reviewed annually and may be adjusted with MoE approval. Payment of tuition fees confirms acceptance of the school's terms and conditions. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
|
Boarding arrangements
|
Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
|
Uniform requirement
|
Uniform requirement Uniform is compulsory for all students. Kindergarten: boys wear grey long trousers with a white shirt; girls wear grey pinafore with a white shirt. From Primary upwards, boys wear white dishdasha and kummah (with trainers or sandals) and girls' uniforms transition by year group (navy blue trousers with a blue tunic dress in Primary; in later years, short navy dress for MYP1–MYP4 and a long navy dress for MYP5–Grade 12). | Uniform requirement — |
|
Food options
|
Food options The cafeteria is operated in partnership with Sodexco to provide healthy, balanced meals daily. The menu rotates on a four-week cycle and is reviewed regularly; parents can opt in or out of the service and fees are adjusted accordingly; there are separate menus for Primary/Secondary and for KG. | Food options Healthy food choices are promoted as part of the Cognita Be Well Charter. |
|
House system
|
House system Al Sahwa Schools use a four-house system named after Oman's iconic animals: Eagles (Yellow), Oryx (Blue), Wolves (Green), Leopards (Red). Students are assigned to a house and participate in cross-age activities, performances, and competitions that foster belonging and school spirit. | House system — |
|
Governance and ownership
|
Governance and ownership Al Sahwa Schools were established in 1993 on land donated by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos and were originally owned by the Royal Office and the Royal Oman Police Pension Funds. The school is governed by a Board of Trustees that includes representatives from the Royal Office, Royal Oman Police, and the Ministry of Education, reflecting government involvement. | Governance and ownership The school is part of the Cognita family of Schools. It is part of the Cheltenham College Family of Schools network. |
| Academics | Academics | |
|
Curriculum details
|
Curriculum details Al Sahwa Schools in Muscat, Oman is a bilingual IB World School offering a K-12 IB pathway: Primary Years Programme (PYP) from KG to Grade 5, Middle Years Programme (MYP) from Grade 6 to 10, and high school options of the Oman General Education Diploma (GED) or the IB Diploma Programme (DP) for Grades 11–12. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) uses the IB framework and covers Arabic, Islamic Studies, Omani Social Studies, English, Mathematics, Science, Personal, Social and Emotional Education, Physical Education, Visual Art, and Music, guided by a transdisciplinary Programme of Inquiry. In Middle School (Grades 6–10), Al Sahwa follows the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) with eight subject groups: Language and Literature (English and Arabic), Language Acquisition (English), Individuals and Societies (Business Management), Mathematics, Sciences, Arts (Music, Visual Art), Design (Digital Design, Product Design, Coding), and Physical and Health Education; Service Learning and the Personal Project are integrated, and an Interdisciplinary Unit approach is used. In Grades 11–12, students may pursue the GED under Oman's Ministry of Education or the IB Diploma Programme (DP); the GED spans Grades 11–12 with eight subjects (five compulsory and three optional) and external MOE exams in the final year, and the DP requires the DP Core (TOK, Extended Essay, CAS) plus a selection from six subject groups. The school operates as a bilingual environment with instruction in English and Arabic across programs. Support for Learning provides inclusive education, including English language support for ELL students and Arabic language support. | Curriculum details Cheltenham Muscat delivers a British-style education that blends Cheltenham College UK heritage with the Cambridge International Curriculum, adapted for Oman. The Pre-Prep covers KG1–KG2 (Pre-school and Reception) with the Curiosity Approach, and Grades 1–2 follow the Cambridge Primary Programme; classes are small and teaching includes specialist Arabic, Islamic Studies, PE and Swimming. The Prep School (Grades 3–8) uses the Cambridge International Primary Programme with a subject-specialist approach; core subjects are English, Arabic, Maths, Science, Islamic and Social Studies (for Arabic speakers), alongside Art, Music, PE, Geography, History, French and Spanish. The Senior phase (Grades 9–10) pursues IGCSEs and offers either a 2-year or a 3-year pathway, with a full range of subjects including Business Studies, Art, Music, Drama, PE, Computing, ICT, History, Geography, Philosophy, French and Spanish. The Sixth Form (Grades 11–12) provides A Levels or the Omani GED, with university guidance support and access to Cheltenham College UK colleagues for further career and university planning. |
|
Student teacher ratio
|
Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
|
Exam results
|
Exam results — | Exam results — |
|
Higher education progression
|
Higher education progression — | Higher education progression — |
|
Gifted and talented
|
Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
|
Academic calendar
|
Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
|
Social & emotional learning
|
Social & emotional learning Al Sahwa Schools implement Social and Emotional Learning through the Personal and Social Education (PSE) programme, designed to help students feel safe, connected and to build positive relationships, with explicit bilingual delivery and support from school counsellors, pastoral care leads, and a safeguarding team. | Social & emotional learning Pastoral care at Cheltenham Muscat focuses on nurturing happy, resilient, and adaptable learners, with dedicated teachers providing personalised support to each pupil. The school applies Cognita's Be Well Charter to promote wellbeing and social engagement, described as a six-pillars framework. Safeguarding measures ensure a safe and secure environment for pupils to thrive. Be Well emphasizes healthy food choices and regular physical activity, embedded in daily routines. The Sparkle Foundation partnership enables students and families to participate in meaningful giving and volunteering activities. |
|
Special educational needs (SEN)
|
Special educational needs (SEN) The school does not publicly disclose information regarding SEN provision or whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution. | Special educational needs (SEN) Cheltenham Muscat offers Learning Support for mild-to-moderate Special Educational Needs (SEN). Each pupil requiring support has an Individual Education Plan (IEP), and specialist staff work with classroom teachers to integrate strategies into lessons. Support can include individual or small-group sessions and targeted interventions to access the curriculum. The site describes EAL separately but indicates that SEN support exists; it does not describe the school as a specialist SEN institution. |
|
English as an additional language
|
English as an additional language The school provides a bilingual environment with instruction in English and Arabic, but explicit EAL programs are not described in public materials. | English as an additional language Cheltenham Muscat provides an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme to support pupils learning in a non-native language. EAL includes group sessions, one-to-one tuition, and access to online activities and mentoring, with regular progress assessments. EAL support may be identified at admission or as a pupil progresses, and specialist EAL tuition incurs additional charges. |
|
Mental wellbeing
|
Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through the PSE programme, counselling sessions, and a safeguarding team. | Mental wellbeing Cheltenham Muscat follows Cognita's Be Well Charter, a six-step framework for lifelong physical and mental wellbeing, and wellbeing is embedded in daily life across the school. Global Be Well Day is observed within the Cognita network to highlight wellbeing across schools. The Be Well Charter uses a Voice of the Student Survey to capture student perceptions of wellbeing and drive improvements. Digital wellbeing is addressed through Be Well Digital resources, and the Sparkle Foundation partnership broadens wellbeing through community service and volunteering. |
|
Safeguarding
|
Safeguarding A dedicated safeguarding team works with stakeholders to raise awareness, educate, and guide leadership on safeguarding. | Safeguarding Cheltenham Muscat follows Cognita safeguarding principles, which apply to all Cognita schools and promote the welfare of every child. Staff are educated to recognise abuse and to act in the best interests of the child. The safeguarding framework requires that every adult who works with pupils is safe to do so, and to uphold universal safeguarding standards. The Cognita Safeguarding Specialist Team develops safeguarding policies and ensures implementation across Cognita schools. |
|
Safeguarding policy
|
Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
|
Facilities overview
|
Facilities overview Al Sahwa Schools is located in the heart of the diplomatic district in the area of Al Sarooj. The campus has a separate Kindergarten facility, a shaded communal area, and playgrounds for boys and girls. It includes sports pitches, a gymnasium, and a swimming pool. It features science laboratories, an innovative library area, design and technology suites, specialist spaces for the performing arts, and a large auditorium. | Facilities overview The campus sits on a purpose-built 45,000 square metre site in Muscat. Inside, the facilities include modern classrooms, state-of-the-art science laboratories, creative arts studios, and a theatre-in-the-round. The school provides comprehensive academic and creative spaces, including libraries, a STEM centre, an Art and Design centre, music and drama classrooms and practice rooms, and IT laboratories. Sports facilities comprise extensive outdoor pitches, an indoor gym, sports halls, and a competition-standard swimming pool (25m x 6 lanes) with an additional learner pool. The campus is designed to support a continuous learning journey from early years through to sixth form with a broad co-curricular offering. |
|
Sports facilities
|
Sports facilities The campus includes sports pitches and a gymnasium to support physical education and sports activities. | Sports facilities — |
|
Academic facilities
|
Academic facilities Science laboratories, an innovative library area, and design and technology suites form part of the academic facilities. Specialist spaces for performing arts are available, and the campus includes a large auditorium. | Academic facilities — |
|
Extra curricular facilities
|
Extra curricular facilities There are 75 extracurricular activities offered. | Extra curricular facilities — |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
|
History
|
History Al Sahwa Schools are a bilingual IB World School located in Muscat, Oman. The school was established in 1993 under the ownership of the Royal Office and Royal Oman Police Pension Funds, on land donated by the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to provide high-quality international education rooted in Oman's heritage. On opening day, 1993, it comprised one class each for Kindergarten 1 through Grade 11 with about 300 students, following the British National Curriculum alongside Omani MOE programs. Over three decades, the school has grown to more than 1,100 students and about 200 staff from 31 nationalities, and it earned Council of International Schools accreditation in 2018, becoming an accredited IB World School. In 2013 the school gained authorization to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and subsequently expanded to include the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and IB Diploma Programme (DP) by 2020–2021, while also offering the Oman General Education Diploma (GED) alongside the DP. | History Cheltenham Muscat is the first overseas school in the Cheltenham College family of schools. It sits on a purpose-built 45,000 square metre campus in Muscat and provides an education grounded in the Cheltenham College tradition of more than 175 years of experience. Cheltenham Muscat opened for admissions in September 2021 and held its formal launch at a ceremonial event on 7 March 2022. The school is partnered with Cheltenham College UK, whose history dates back to 1841, and the Cheltenham College family upholds similar standards of scholarship, community, and continuous excellence. Cheltenham Muscat is part of the Cognita family of Schools. |
|
Community
|
Community Al Sahwa Schools maintain a diverse and international community, with around 1,100 students and 200 staff representing 31 nationalities. New families are welcomed through planned orientations and a buddy system to support their transition from kindergarten through secondary. The school uses a House System with four houses named after Oman's iconic animals (Eagles, Oryx, Wolves, Leopards) to foster belonging, teamwork, and leadership. Cultural and community events, including National Day celebrations and Open Day experiences, are part of the school's yearly calendar. | Community Cheltenham Muscat places community at the heart of its ethos, guided by the Cheltenham Values which foreground Curiosity, Creativity, Character, Community, and Continuous Excellence. The value of Community emphasises belonging, responsibility, service, teamwork, and engagement in global initiatives. Public communications show active parent and community engagement through events such as a Meet & Greet coffee morning for parents on 21 January 2026 and the Festival of the World on 24 January 2026. In 2023, Cheltenham Muscat and Oman Sail undertook a Guinness World Records project—the Largest Plastic Bottle Sentence—as part of Project Earthlings, illustrating broad community outreach. |
|
Parent teacher association
|
Parent teacher association The Parents Association is established by Al Sahwa Schools' Board of Trustees to give parents and the school's professional leadership a regular opportunity to collaborate in support of the students, school goals and guiding statements through monthly meetings. The structure includes representation from Kindergarten, Primary Years (Grade 1–5), Middle Years (Grade 6–10), General Education Diploma (Grade 11–12), and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Membership runs for two years, enabling continuity and ongoing engagement across cohorts. The association represents alumni and current parents, reflecting a cross-section of the Al Sahwa community. Rafif Abdullah Al.Taie serves as the PA Chair for the 2024–2025 academic year. Upcoming events include MYP5 English LA-Oral Exams, House Event: Board Game Blitz for MYP1-3 Boys, and GED1 Mid Year Exams. | Parent teacher association The school maintains a Parent Teacher Association (PTA) as part of its Parent Essentials offerings. Public communications show a Meet & Greet coffee morning for parents on 21 January 2026, providing a forum for dialogue with senior staff and discussion of school ethos and pathways. The Festival of the World, scheduled for 24 January 2026, is promoted as a major family event with ticketing and opportunities for involvement. In 2025, Cheltenham Muscat announced inter-school activities such as the Gold Cup competition and an Academic Scholarship Programme, reflecting active parent–school collaboration and extended opportunities within the Cognita network. The PTA page is listed in the Parent Essentials section of the site, underscoring ongoing parent engagement and participation in school life. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
|
Academic & intellectual
|
Academic & intellectual The school offers a complete IB pathway from Primary Years Programme (PYP) to Diploma Programme (DP) and includes the Oman General Education Diploma (GED) for Grades 11–12. The Middle Years Programme (MYP) is offered for Grades 6–10 and emphasizes inquiry, creativity, critical thinking and global perspectives. The IB accreditation and CIS membership underpin a high-quality international education. | Academic & intellectual The Academic Extension Programme invites pupils to explore subjects in greater depth, fostering intellectual curiosity beyond the classroom. The programme includes society meetings, debating, educational trips, and visits. These experiences not only instil a lifelong love of learning but also strengthen university applications. They prepare pupils for future academic success. |
|
Arts & creative
|
Arts & creative The campus provides specialist spaces for the performing arts and a large auditorium, with an innovative library and dedicated Design and Technology facilities. Arts integration is part of the IB framework and the overall learning environment. | Arts & creative Pupils participate in a performing arts programme that encourages creativity and self-expression. They have opportunities for individual music lessons, instrumental ensembles, choir performances, and annual school productions. Pupils are encouraged to explore their talents, express themselves, and ignite their imagination. They build confidence and develop a lifelong love for the arts. |
|
Cultural & language
|
Cultural & language The school is a bilingual IB World School. English language support and Arabic language support are available to help students access the curriculum. The learning pathway emphasizes both Omani heritage and international perspectives. | Cultural & language — |
|
Social & hobbies
|
Social & hobbies Facilities include sports pitches, a gymnasium, a swimming pool and extensive outdoor spaces for recreation. The school offers a broad range of extracurricular activities, supporting social development and interests beyond academics. | Social & hobbies Sports for All is a core feature, with Cheltenham Muscat upholding the Cheltenham tradition of competing in over fifteen sports. The school embraces an inclusive ethos, ensuring pupils of all abilities can participate, develop, and compete. State-of-the-art facilities provide a platform to discover potential, whether they are aspiring athletes or simply active participants. Through expert coaching and competitive fixtures, pupils develop teamwork and a lifelong love of physical activity. |
|
Community & service
|
Community & service Service learning and community engagement are embedded in the Diploma Programme through the CAS component. Handbooks and programmes for service learning and community projects are available as part of the school resources. | Community & service Pupils are actively encouraged to support the local Muscat and Seeb community, engaging in charity work and outreach projects. Sustainability is a core value, with purpose-built school facilities designed to maintain a low carbon footprint. Through hands-on projects, pupils learn to be environmentally responsible and to make a meaningful impact. |
|
Leadership & professional
|
Leadership & professional The Diploma Programme includes TOK, Extended Essay (EE) and CAS, fostering leadership, research skills and personal development. Careers guidance supports subject choices and university pathways aligned with students' goals. | Leadership & professional Leadership initiatives are part of the extra-curricular programme. Pupils have opportunities to develop leadership skills through these activities. The programme fosters teamwork, initiative, and responsible citizenship. |
|
Lifestyle & wellbeing
|
Lifestyle & wellbeing The campus includes a gym, swimming pool, shaded communal areas and ample outdoor spaces to support physical activity and social interaction. The IB framework emphasizes balanced wellbeing as part of a holistic education. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport and the extensive co-curricular programme promote physical activity and wellbeing. The programme supports a lifelong love of physical activity and teamwork. State-of-the-art facilities enable active participation across sports and clubs. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
|
Language provision
|
Language provision Arabic and English are taught as languages. In the Primary Years Programme (KG to Grade 5), Arabic language and English are included as core subjects. The school offers the IB pathway (PYP, MYP, GED and DP) for Kindergarten through Grade 12. The school is IB-accredited for the PYP, MYP and DP, and is a CIS-accredited institution. | Language provision Languages taught include English, Arabic, French, and Spanish. English and Arabic are core subjects, while French and Spanish are studied as part of the curriculum. English as an Additional Language (EAL) provides group and one-to-one support with regular progress assessments; specialist EAL tuition may incur additional charges. Learning Support is available with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and offers individual or small-group lessons integrated into classroom learning. |
|
Bilingual teaching
|
Bilingual teaching The school is bilingual. | Bilingual teaching — |
|
Immersion programs
|
Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
|
Awards
|
Awards null | Awards — |
|
Accreditations
|
Accreditations The school is a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS) and an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, authorised to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). CIS accreditation is also in place. The PYP was re-authorised in 2023, and the MYP and DP are in ongoing review cycles. | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
|
Admissions
|
Admissions 1. Stage 1 – Online Enrolment Form: Complete the Online Enrolment Form and upload documents, including the applicant's passport and the last year's school report if applicable. This step starts the enrolment process and gathers essential information for the applicant. 2. Stage 2 – Entrance Test & Document Collection: Applicants reaching Stage 2 are invited to complete a series of entrance tests. A non-refundable administrative charge of OMR 20 is required to register for these tests. 3. Stage 3 – Offer of Place: Applicants reaching Stage 3 receive an official offer letter. To accept, return the offer letter within two weeks and pay a non-refundable deposit of OMR 200 to the Accounts Office. Bring the following documents: the applicant's father's passport or national ID card, the applicant's mother's passport or national ID card, the applicant's birth certificate, the applicant's medical vaccination card (Red Card), and a recent passport-style photo. | Admissions The school uses an easy 5-step admissions process. 1. Make an enquiry: the Admissions Team provides a personalised and seamless experience and guides you toward joining Cheltenham Muscat. 2. Visit Cheltenham Muscat: there are personalised campus tours, opportunities to meet the Leadership Team, and daily tour availability. 3. Submit your application: complete the online application form and upload the required supporting documents. 4. Assessment and offer: after submitting the application, an assessment date is scheduled; remote assessment can be arranged for overseas applicants, with results provided within a few days. 5. Secure your place: accept the enrolment offer, submit the required documents, and pay the enrolment fee within the specified timeframe. Limited availability in some year groups means families are encouraged to begin the process early to secure a place in Oman's leading British international school. |
|
Scholarships
|
Scholarships — | Scholarships The scholarships and bursaries programme recognises exceptional talent and potential in key areas of school life. Scholarships are awarded in academics, sports, the arts, and leadership, and scholars receive mentoring, enrichment opportunities, and resources to support their development. Bursaries provide financial assistance to families in need, ensuring access to a Cheltenham Muscat education for students with exceptional potential. The application process involves an application, interviews with senior leaders, evaluation of previous school reports and achievements, and awards in the student's field of expertise. Details on eligibility and requirements can be requested from the admissions team. |
|
Waitlist
|
Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
Comparing more schools, or want notes and ratings of your own? Build your own compare board.