British School Muscat vs Downe House Muscat

	B British School Muscat Muscat, Oman	D Downe House Muscat Muscat, Oman
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year OMR 4,240 - 10,280	Fees / year OMR 3,470 - 7,500
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 700	Pupils 99
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location British School Muscat is in Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, central Muscat, Oman. The campus sits in the heart of the city near the Ruwi area and is easily accessible from most parts of Muscat. The mailing address is PO Box 1907, Ruwi 112, Oman.	Location Downe House Muscat is located in Al Bandar, Muscat, Oman. The campus is purpose-built in the western part of Muscat and includes a Performing Arts Centre, a STEM Centre, an Art and Design Centre and a Sports Academy. It opened in September 2022 as Oman's first premium British all-girls school and operates under a franchise agreement with the Oman Ministry of Defence Pension Fund.
Stages	Stages The school serves children aged 3–18, from Nursery through to Year 13, including a Sixth Form Centre. It offers a through-structure with Primary and Senior School divisions. The campus resources include facilities such as a 500-seat theatre and a Sixth Form Centre.	Stages As of the 2025–26 academic year, Downe House Muscat operates KG1–KG2 and Grades 1–12. KG1 and KG2 were introduced in 2025 to provide pre-school and Reception; these early years are planned to be co-educational from August 2025, while the senior grades remain girls-only. The curriculum combines the Cambridge International Curriculum (CIC) for IGCSE and A Levels with the Omani MOE requirements for Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies.
School type	School type The British School Muscat is a co-educational, not-for-profit international school that operates as a day school (no boarding is indicated). It is governed as a not-for-profit institution and welcomes boys and girls.	School type Downe House Muscat is a British international school for girls. From 2025, KG1 and KG2 will be co-educational, while Grades 1–12 remain girls-only. The school forms part of the Downe House family of schools and operates in Oman under Cognita.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The student body is multinational, with pupils from over 60 nationalities represented. The Primary School notes a vibrant, multicultural community of over sixty nationalities; there is no publicly published, exact local-to-international ratio.	Pupil nationality mix Downe House Muscat has a multi-national student body. The largest local representation is Omani, with international students making up a substantial portion as well; overall, about 70% local and 30% international students are reported.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school provides Learning Support across four areas—speech and communication, cognition and learning, emotional/behavioural, and sensory/physical. Support is offered within the classroom and in specialist sessions as needed, with links to external specialists such as speech therapists and educational psychologists. The admissions process considers individual learning needs and how they can be met within the mainstream curriculum.	Additional learning support The school offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Learning Support. EAL includes group and one-to-one tuition with progress monitored, and Learning Support provides Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students with mild to moderate SEN, with targeted, small-group or one-to-one interventions.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The institution operates as a British international school and follows the English National Curriculum. It presents itself as a British international school serving a diverse expatriate community.	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is stated; the school is a British international school operating in Oman and is part of the Downe House family and Cognita network.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation is not stated; the school is described as secular with no specific religious ethos published.	Religious affiliation No explicit religious affiliation is stated by the school.
School day structure	School day structure The School Day starts at 7:30am for Foundation Stage through to Year 13, with variations by phase. Foundation Stage 1 finishes at 12:30pm, FS2–KS1 finish around 1:30pm, KS2 finishes at 2:00pm, and Years 7–13 finish at 2:00pm. Drop-off begins as early as 7:00am (7:10am for Foundation Stage).	School day structure KG1–KG2 start with arrivals at 7:15am, 7:30am registration, with after-school activities from 2:00pm and collection by 3:45pm. Grades 1–2 follow a similar pattern with after-school activities ending around 3:00pm and collection at 3:45pm. Grades 3–12 begin around 7:15am with a 7:30am Community Time, then after-school activities to 3:00pm and collection at 3:45pm.
Bus service details	Bus service details A school bus service operates, including a route between Al Mouj and the British School Muscat. For details, contact the Primary or Senior Offices to discuss routes, timings, and costs.	Bus service details A dedicated school bus service is not publicly advertised. Families typically arrange transport. Muscat's public bus system (Mwasalat) is limited, and taxis are commonly used; consider private transport arrangements and local routes when planning visits or daily commutes.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and enrolment fees - Assessment fee: OMR 50, payable on or before the assessment day. - Reservation fee: OMR 300, payable once a place has been offered and due within 14 days of the offer; this amount is deducted from the first term's fees. If the offered place is not taken up the Reservation Fee is forfeited. - Refundable deposit: OMR 100, payable with the first term's fees; refundable when the student leaves provided one month's written notice before the end of the term of departure has been given, all books and resources are returned and all fees are paid up to date. Tuition fees (per term by year group and annual total) All tuition fees are payable in Omani Rials (OMR). - FS1 (age 3–4): Term 1 OMR 1,696; Term 2 OMR 1,272; Term 3 OMR 1,272; Annual total OMR 4,240. - FS2 (age 4–5): Term 1 OMR 2,120; Term 2 OMR 1,590; Term 3 OMR 1,590; Annual total OMR 5,300. - KS1 (Years 1–2, age 5–7): Term 1 OMR 2,282; Term 2 OMR 1,711; Term 3 OMR 1,711; Annual total OMR 5,705. - KS2 (Years 3–6, age 7–11): Term 1 OMR 2,368; Term 2 OMR 1,776; Term 3 OMR 1,776; Annual total OMR 5,920. - KS3 (Years 7–9, age 11–14): Term 1 OMR 3,262; Term 2 OMR 2,446; Term 3 OMR 2,446; Annual total OMR 8,155. - KS4 (Years 10–11, age 14–16): Term 1 OMR 3,664; Term 2 OMR 2,748; Term 3 OMR 2,748; Annual total OMR 9,160. - KS5 (Years 12–13, age 16–18): Term 1 OMR 4,112; Term 2 OMR 3,084; Term 3 OMR 3,084; Annual total OMR 10,280. Infrastructure fee (new-pupil levy schedule) - An infrastructure fee of OMR 300 per term is payable for each term for the first nine terms at the school (FS2 upwards), up to a maximum total of OMR 2,700. Infrastructure fee is payable termly with fees. The Infrastructure Fee is deferred for children entering FS1 until entry into FS2 and is assessed at the applicable rate for that academic year. - Family discounts on the infrastructure fee: for a third child the fee is reduced to OMR 225 per term (25%); for a fourth child the infrastructure fee is waived (Zero). The published payment schedule shows the termly breakdown and totals per child. Billing schedule and payment terms - All fees must be paid in full on or before the first day of term. Invoices are issued at least two weeks before the end of the previous term. - All fees are payable in OMR. The school states that if a student leaves before the end of term, no refund will be considered. - Discount: a 5% discount is applied for payment of the full annual tuition fees on or before the first day of Term 1. - Instalments: payment by instalments is possible only by prior agreement and incurs a 5% charge (to be agreed in advance). Late payment penalties and charges - 5% flat-rate penalty for late payment on the first occasion. - 10% flat-rate penalty for late payment on the second occasion. - 15% flat-rate penalty for late payment on the third occasion. Other charges and additional costs - Supplemental charges apply for school residential trips, some after-school activities and for external examinations (including GCSE, A/S, BTEC, A Levels); these charges may include postage and invigilation and may include additional postage costs for return of scripts, university admissions, and submission of Common Entrance papers. - Uniform: the school operates a uniform shop and BSM uniform is available to purchase from ZAKS; parents may also buy uniform from other retailers and a second-hand rail is operated with proceeds to the PFA. A Uniform Shop price list is published for items; costs for uniform items are separate to tuition and are charged to parents at purchase. - Transport, lunches and specific voluntary services or activities may carry separate charges (these items are commonly charged in addition to tuition where applicable). Supplemental activity and trip charges are specifically noted by the school as additional to tuition. Boarding fees - The British School Muscat operates as a day school; there are no boarding provisions or boarding fees. Refunds and forfeiture - The Reservation Fee (OMR 300) will be forfeited if an offered place is not subsequently taken up. - The OMR 100 refundable deposit is refundable on departure provided written notice (one month before the end of the term of departure) has been given, all books and school resources have been returned and all fees are paid up to date. - No refund is considered for tuition if a student leaves before the end of term. Fee payment options and processing - Credit and debit card payments are processed via third-party payment processors; the school's privacy and terms material makes clear the school does not itself store card details and that third-party processors handle card account information. - The school issues invoices in advance of each term; instalment arrangements may be agreed in advance (subject to the 5% instalment charge). Invoices and the school billing process are the mechanism used to instruct parents on payment. Notes on additional incidental charges - Costs for individual optional or variable items (example: extended extra-curricular programmes, optional trips, examination entry fees, instrument hire, private tuition, or special project materials) are charged separately and vary by activity; the school explicitly warns that such supplemental charges will apply where relevant.	Fee details Application, Assessment & Deposit - Application fee: OMR 150 (one-off, non-refundable). - Assessment fee: OMR 200 (applies to every applicant; refundable only if a place is not offered). - Place-holding deposit: a non‑refundable deposit equal to 40% of the first term's fees is required to secure an offered place; this deposit is deducted from the first term's fees and must be paid within the school's stated timeframe. Tuition fees (per term and total by year group) - KG 1: Term 1 OMR 1,388; Term 2 OMR 1,388; Term 3 OMR 694; Total OMR 3,470. (Founding offer shown in parentheses: OMR 1,040 / OMR 1,040 / OMR 520 = OMR 2,600 for 2025-26 only). - KG 2: Term 1 OMR 1,600; Term 2 OMR 1,600; Term 3 OMR 800; Total OMR 4,000. (Founding offer shown in parentheses: OMR 1,200 / OMR 1,200 / OMR 600 = OMR 3,000 for 2025-26 only). - Grade 1: Term 1 OMR 1,900; Term 2 OMR 1,900; Term 3 OMR 950; Total OMR 4,750. - Grade 2: Term 1 OMR 1,900; Term 2 OMR 1,900; Term 3 OMR 950; Total OMR 4,750. - Grade 3: Term 1 OMR 1,900; Term 2 OMR 1,900; Term 3 OMR 950; Total OMR 4,750. - Grade 4: Term 1 OMR 2,100; Term 2 OMR 2,100; Term 3 OMR 1,050; Total OMR 5,250. - Grade 5: Term 1 OMR 2,100; Term 2 OMR 2,100; Term 3 OMR 1,050; Total OMR 5,250. - Grade 6: Term 1 OMR 2,300; Term 2 OMR 2,300; Term 3 OMR 1,150; Total OMR 5,750. - Grade 7: Term 1 OMR 2,320; Term 2 OMR 2,320; Term 3 OMR 1,160; Total OMR 5,800. - Grade 8: Term 1 OMR 2,500; Term 2 OMR 2,500; Term 3 OMR 1,250; Total OMR 6,250. - Grade 9: Term 1 OMR 2,600; Term 2 OMR 2,600; Term 3 OMR 1,300; Total OMR 6,500. - Grade 10: Term 1 OMR 2,600; Term 2 OMR 2,600; Term 3 OMR 1,300; Total OMR 6,500. - Grade 11: Term 1 OMR 3,000; Term 2 OMR 3,000; Term 3 OMR 1,500; Total OMR 7,500. - Grade 12: Term 1 OMR 3,000; Term 2 OMR 3,000; Term 3 OMR 1,500; Total OMR 7,500. Billing schedule and payment terms - Billing cycle: tuition may be paid in full at the start of the academic year or in three instalments, each payable in advance of the corresponding term. - Re-enrolment and instalment timing: the school sets re-enrolment and installment deadlines in line with its published schedule; parents are required to meet the stated deadlines for re-enrolment fees and the first-term payment by the school's published dates. - Early‑payment discount: a 5% tuition discount is available for families who pay the full year's fees in a single payment at acceptance. This discount is applicable only when payment is made by bank transfer, cheque, or cash. - Sibling discount: a 5% discount is available for the third and subsequent child enrolled; this discount is only applicable if payment is made by bank transfer, cheque, or cash. Boarding fees - No boarding fees are listed; the published fee information identifies tuition and associated day‑school costs but does not include boarding charges. Parents should note there is no separate boarding fee schedule provided. Other costs and fees - Items not included in tuition: school lunches, transportation, educational trips, and extracurricular activities provided by external providers are charged in addition to tuition. These items will incur separate charges. - Uniform: the school requires a uniform and uniform costs are additional (uniform pricing is not itemised on the published fee schedule). - Additional optional or variable charges: fees for specific educational trips, some extracurricular programmes run by external providers, equipment, and individual exam fees (where applicable) are charged separately and are not included in the tuition totals. Refund information - Refunds are processed in accordance with Ministry of Education regulations. Tuition 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 - Payment methods referenced for discounts and sibling offers: bank transfer, cheque, or cash. Credit card acceptance or other electronic payment methods are not specified in the published fee summary. Parents should use the payment methods specified by the school when claiming the discount or sibling relief.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding is not offered at British School Muscat. The school operates as a not-for-profit British international school for pupils aged 3–18. There is no information about boarding facilities or options listed on the site.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement BSM has a simple uniform that changes slightly as pupils progress through the school. All students from Foundation Stage to Year 11 wear the school uniform; Sixth Form students follow the Sixth Form dress code. Uniform can be purchased from the ZAKS Uniform Shop (Al Muzn Mall near Al Mouj) or from other retailers; the Uniform Shop stocks a range of clothing including swimwear, bags, hats, sportswear and house shirts, and there is a second-hand rail.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options —	Food options Healthy food choices are promoted under the Cognita Be Well Charter.
House system	House system BSM uses a house system. The uniform includes house shirts, indicating house identity within the school. The site does not publish house names or competition details.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Governance is provided by a Board of Governors with representation from the business community, parents and staff; the President of the School is the British Ambassador, whose representative attends Board meetings. The school is a not-for-profit institution; there are no owners or shareholders receiving profits, and fee income is used to operate and develop the school.	Governance and ownership Downe House Muscat is part of the Cognita family of Schools.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details British School Muscat delivers the English National Curriculum from Foundation Stage (ages 3-5) through to Key Stage 5. Foundation Stage uses the English Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, and Key Stage 1–2 curriculum is the English National Curriculum adapted for an international context, with specialist lessons in PE, Swimming and Music, and language provision including French from Year 3–4 and Arabic introduced in upper KS2. In Senior School (Key Stages 3-5), the programme aligns with the National Curriculum, with GCSEs offered in Years 10-11 and a pathway to Post-16 study; the KS4 materials describe GCSE and Level 2 BTEC qualifications and a typical 9-subject load including core English and Maths plus a modern foreign language and three option subjects. Years 7–9 provide a broad KS3 curriculum across English, Maths, Science, MFL, PSHE, PE, and creative subjects such as Art, Computing, Drama, Design Technology, Geography, History and Music, all underpinned by High Performance Learning and a strong feedback culture. Post-16 options include A Levels and Level 3 BTECs, with entry typically requiring five GCSEs including Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above, and students usually studying four post-16 subjects.	Curriculum details Downe House Muscat is an all-girls British international school in Muscat that offers the Cambridge International Curriculum (CIC) alongside the Oman Ministry of Education curriculum for Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies. All teaching staff hold UK-recognised qualifications and deliver specialist subjects in an extended day to support a broad co-curricular program. The CIC pathway prepares students for IGCSE and Cambridge International A Levels, with IGCSE typically pursued in the later middle years and A Levels in the Sixth Form. In addition to CIC, Omani General Education Diploma (GED) is available as an alternative credential. The campus features a Performing Arts Centre, STEM Centre, Art and Design Centre, and a Sports Academy. The school serves ages 5–18 years.
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 Pastoral Care provides personal and pastoral support as a core element of SEL at British School Muscat. It covers personal and social development and well-being, helping students build self-esteem, interact effectively with others, and participate in society. The school aims for a broad and balanced curriculum to support these aims, and the British School Overseas inspection notes that students' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding. Learning Support complements SEL by addressing emotional/behavioural needs within a four-area framework and by monitoring progress with parental involvement. The school teaches in English and emphasizes inclusive support to enable all students to access the curriculum.	Social & emotional learning Downe House Muscat supports social and emotional learning through a comprehensive pastoral care framework. Dedicated teachers provide personalised care to guide each girl through her learning journey, helping her develop resilience and adaptability. Wellbeing is the foundation of learning, and every pupil is known, valued, and supported to reach her full potential. The Cognita Be Well Charter guides the school's wellbeing approach, promoting healthy choices and social engagement across the community. The Finding Balance programme, including regular yoga sessions, mindfulness coaching and meditation, supports balance in boarding life.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) BSM Learning Support covers four areas of learning: speech and communication, cognition and learning, emotional/behavioural, and sensory and physical. Support is provided within the classroom and in separate specialist classes as required, and English is the language of instruction. The Learning Support team works with specialists including speech therapists, educational psychologists and occupational therapists in Oman and overseas. Pupils' progress is carefully monitored with consultation and feedback to parents. The school notes that it cannot provide one-to-one full-time support for any pupil and may not be able to support pupils with significant difficulties or complex needs. When considering admissions, where there is evidence of additional educational need, discussions and appropriate assessments are carried out before an offer is made, and individual learning needs should largely be met within the mainstream classroom.	Special educational needs (SEN) Downe House Muscat provides a dedicated Learning Support Department offering support for mild to moderate Special Educational Needs (SEN). Every pupil requiring learning support has an Individual Education Plan (IEP), with specialist staff working closely with classroom teachers to integrate the plans into lessons. The school also offers an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme alongside Learning Support to help access the curriculum. Learning Support provisions include group or one-to-one lessons when needed. The school does not publicly disclose information regarding whether it is a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English is the language of instruction at British School Muscat. The Learning Support team is highly experienced in supporting children who speak two or more languages. Pupils receive support both within the classroom and in separate specialist classes as necessary. The approach is inclusive, with multilingual learners supported within the mainstream and through targeted assistance as appropriate. For new entrants to English, the Admissions policy states that children will be immersed in English throughout their day, and may need time to adjust to using English socially and academically.	English as an additional language Downe House Muscat provides comprehensive English as an Additional Language (EAL) support. The EAL provision includes group sessions, one-to-one tuition, and access to online resources and mentoring. Students receiving EAL support are regularly assessed to monitor progress and adjust interventions as needed. EAL support may be identified at admission or as a student progresses through the school. There are additional charges for specialist EAL tuition.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental health and wellbeing are addressed as part of the safeguarding framework at British School Muscat. If a staff member has concerns about a student's mental health, the concern is logged in CPOMS and escalated to the Safeguarding Team, which coordinates with the Pastoral Team to support the student via an Individual Support Plan. The Safeguarding Policy notes that the safeguarding and pastoral teams are supported by the school counsellor, Salma Ali, who can be contacted through the Primary or Senior School Office. The Wellbeing of pupils is supported through safeguarding processes and access to counselling where appropriate. The policy also provides a Wellbeing Button on the Student Portal to contact the pastoral care team.	Mental wellbeing Downe House Muscat prioritises mental wellbeing through the Cognita Be Well Charter, guiding wellbeing across the school. The wellbeing program 'Finding Balance' includes a structured approach to balance for boarding life. Regular yoga sessions, mindfulness coaching, and meditation are key components of Finding Balance. Pastoral care focuses on nurturing happy, resilient, and adaptable learners with dedicated teachers providing personalised care. Wellbeing is described as central to learning, with an aim to enable students to reach their full potential.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding British School Muscat is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils, with clear procedures in place to support children, families and staff. The Designated Safeguarding Persons (DSPs) at the school are: Saima Akhtar (Deputy Head of Primary School, Designated Safeguarding Lead), Robert Hughes (Deputy Head of Senior School, Designated Safeguarding Lead), Gemma O'Sullivan (Primary School Deputy DSL) and Chris Short (Senior School Deputy DSL). All staff receive safeguarding training on an annual basis. A member of the Board of Governors serves as safeguarding link between the school and the board. The Safeguarding Policy is dated September 2025 and is reviewed annually (next due September 2026).	Safeguarding Downe House Muscat has safeguarding measures to promote welfare and provide a safe environment. Safeguarding principles require all staff to understand categories of abuse and to act in the best interests of the child. The safeguarding framework includes universal responsibilities, empowering staff to protect children and to know the children well. All adults who work with the school are expected to be safe to do so. The safeguarding framework is applied across Cognita schools.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school has a campus in Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat. The campus features an award-winning facility that has been upgraded over the past decade. The complex includes a theatre/auditorium, a floodlit all-weather pitch with spectator grandstand, three large multi-purpose halls and two large sports halls. It also houses a dance studio, three swimming pools, a health centre run by professional nurses, large outdoor playgrounds and shaded lunch areas. Two well-resourced libraries, ten science laboratories and specialist facilities for art, design technology, drama, music, media and computing support teaching and learning.	Facilities overview Downe House Muscat is housed on a purpose-built campus in Al Bandar, Muscat, opened in September 2022. The Muscat campus consists of four interconnected buildings providing state-of-the-art teaching facilities. The facilities include a Performing Arts Centre with a theatre as its centrepiece, a STEM Centre, an Art and Design Centre, and a Sports Academy. The campus supports the Cambridge International Curriculum with an extended day to support co-curricular activities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school has a large floodlit all-weather pitch with spectator grandstand. There are two large sports halls. There are three swimming pools: a 25m x 8-lane pool, a 25m x 4-lane pool and a learner pool. A dance studio is available for movement and dance training. The facilities support a comprehensive physical education and sport programme from Foundation Stage through Sixth Form.	Sports facilities The campus includes a dedicated Sports Academy that anchors the school's physical education and sports programmes. There are additional sports facilities noted, including a six-lane 25m swimming pool, a double-sized indoor sports hall, a dance studio, a full-size hockey pitch, seven-a-side football pitch, and courts for netball, basketball, badminton, volleyball and tennis.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Ten state-of-the-art science laboratories. The campus includes a 500-seat theatre and a university-style Sixth Form Centre. Two well-resourced libraries. Specialist facilities for art, design technology, drama, music, media and computing.	Academic facilities STEM Centre and Art and Design Centre provide dedicated spaces for science, technology, engineering, arts and design. These facilities are housed within the four interconnected buildings that comprise the Muscat campus.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The school runs community clubs that take place at BSM. Examples include BSM Music Hub, BSM Marlins (swimming) and BSM Marlins Masters (adult swimming) and BSM Marlins Swim School. Hoops provides basketball for children aged 5–18, on Saturday mornings in the BSM Sports Hall. BAM Performance offers specialist dance training, and Muscat Flames provides netball for BSM students. BSM Marlins is an elite swimming squad with year-round training and multiple squads, including a development squad and a fitness squad.	Extra curricular facilities Co-curricular opportunities include sport, music, performing arts, dance and creative arts, supported by the school's co-curriculum offerings.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History British School Muscat originated as Muscat English Speaking School, opening in 1971 in the house of the BP Manager in Riyam with three children and one qualified teacher. It moved first to the old Consulate Club near the British Embassy and then to a new site in Darsait in 1972, as HM Inspectors visited that year to review British practice. Firms in the business community formed Subscribers who applied for a Royal Charter, which Sultan Qaboos granted on 3 May 1973, after which the school began welcoming pupils from many countries. In 1988 the 15th charter anniversary and the 10th anniversary of the present site were celebrated with the official opening of the new building by Sayyid Thuwainy bin Shihab. Since then the campus has expanded with key facilities including a swimming pool (1991), senior classrooms (1993), a nurse's room (1994), a Sixth Form Centre upgrade (1998; expanded 2017) and the Oryx Theatre (2020), while the school continues to operate as a not-for-profit British international school.	History Downe House Muscat opened in September 2022 as the first Downe House international campus and the first British all-girls school in Oman. The campus is purpose-built in Al Bandar, Muscat, and houses a Performing Arts Centre, a STEM Centre, an Art and Design Centre and a Sports Academy. It operates under a franchise agreement with the Oman Ministry of Defence Pension Fund. Downe House International (DHI) was established in 2015 to manage international partnerships for Downe House, including the Oman campus.
Community	Community BSM hosts a diverse international community, with students representing more than 60 nationalities. The school runs a broad enrichment program and after‑school clubs, including music, swimming, basketball, dance, martial arts, netball, languages and Model United Nations, with many opportunities open to the wider Muscat community. Dutch language and other partnerships run on site through external providers, integrating families into school life. The on‑site theatre, dance studios and multiple sports facilities support performances and community events that involve families and local residents.	Community Downe House Muscat sits within a global Downe House community that links Oman with sister campuses in the UK and other international sites. The campus is equipped for performing arts and cultural activities, including a 400-seat theatre, arts studios and dedicated spaces for music and drama. Public reports show student participation in community events such as the T Quiz League, illustrating active engagement with local schools and involvement in competitions. The Downe House Society provides a framework for alumni, parents and staff to connect through social and professional activities across the global Downe House network.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association An Association of Parents and Friends formed early in the school's history and assisted with moving furniture and equipment when the school relocated to the Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos site in 1978. This parent body evolved into a formal association that actively supports fundraising and community events. In 2018 the BSM community organized major charity events, including a 24-hour Run, Pink Day and the International Community Fair, with donations raised for local and international charities; reports record a total of nearly 13,000 Omani Rials raised. Proceeds supported organisations such as the Association for Early Intervention for Children and other Oman-based charities. Parents and staff volunteer at events and act as a liaison between families and the school, reinforcing a collaborative, not-for-profit approach to school life.	Parent teacher association Publicly available information describes parent engagement at Downe House Muscat as integrated into pastoral care and cocurricular programs rather than through a dedicated PTA. The Downe House Society functions as the global alumni network and includes current and former parents in its membership. The Downe House Society offers social and professional activities for its members, and its community numbers over 4,000 individuals including pupils, alumnae and parents. Alumni and parent events are organized through the Society, providing networking, mentorship and social engagement opportunities. Public information also notes cross-campus programs and internships that involve families and students, reflecting ongoing parent and family involvement in the Downe House network. Cocurricular and pastoral programs at Downe House Muscat support family engagement as part of the broader Downe House community.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual After-school clubs support academic development and intellectual curiosity. The programme includes Model United Nations, World Scholars Cup, and Languages, as well as Science, Computing, and Design Technology. Other options include Chess, Arts & Crafts, Dance, Music, Photography, Sailing, Speedstacks and Yoga.	Academic & intellectual Enrichment at Downe House Muscat extends learning beyond the classroom through a rich programme of activities, clubs, and opportunities within an extended school day. The programme includes lectures, workshops, master-classes, debates, trips, and cultural days that broaden intellectual horizons. These activities support emotional and social development as part of a holistic education.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Arts & Crafts, Dance, Music and Photography are part of the enrichment programme. The school provides opportunities to develop creative interests through performance and exhibitions.	Arts & creative Art, music, and drama are central to the creative offering. Art facilities include painting and ceramics studios, a kiln room, a photography studio, and a jewellery and product design lab, enabling hands-on creative work. Music opportunities include private lessons, ensembles, concerts, and a recording studio within a 450-seat theatre and a dedicated music academy with practice rooms. Drama develops communication and confidence, with a Performing Arts Centre and private lessons in music, dance, speech, and drama.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Languages clubs are included in enrichment, and global learning opportunities include Model United Nations and World Scholars Cup.	Cultural & language Enrichment includes cultural days that broaden students' intercultural understanding. The programme encourages engagement with the local Muscat and Seeb communities through projects and charity work. These activities complement the curriculum and help students develop a global perspective.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Board Games, Chess, Speedstacks, Yoga and other clubs form part of after-school activities alongside sport.	Social & hobbies Sports form a central part of life at Downe House Muscat, supported by a Sport for All ethos that promotes lifelong physical fitness. The campus features a six-lane 25m pool, a double-sized sports hall, a dance studio, full-size hockey and primary football pitches, and nets for netball, basketball, and tennis. A range of sports is offered for all ages, including hockey, netball, basketball, cricket, football, cycling, tennis, swimming, sailing and athletics.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service Enrichment includes opportunities to support the Muscat and Seeb communities through projects and charity work. Students are encouraged to contribute to community life as part of their personal development. These activities foster social responsibility and civic engagement.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is introduced in Years 7 and 8. It includes residential and Edventure trips and supports personal discovery, independence and community involvement.	Leadership & professional Leadership and professional development are supported through enrichment activities such as debates, lectures, workshops, and master-classes. Trips and cultural days provide real-world contexts for developing confidence, collaboration, and problem-solving. These experiences prepare students for future study, careers, and leadership roles.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport is central to the enrichment programme, with Swimming as a key activity in the curriculum and after school. The BSM Marlins offer elite squads and a Swim School open to the wider community, including adults and children of all levels.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport supports wellbeing through a Sport for All ethos that promotes lifelong physical fitness. Facilities include a six-lane pool, a double-sized sports hall, a dance studio, hockey and football pitches, and extensive netball, basketball, and tennis courts. The extracurricular programme also supports emotional and social development through arts, drama, music, and community activities.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the language of instruction and the English National Curriculum is followed. The school delivers English-language teaching; Arabic and French are taught as languages. In Year 3-4, specialist lessons include French, and Arabic is introduced; in Upper Key Stage 2 (Year 5-6), Arabic and French are taught by specialists. The school provides English language development and EAL support for students learning English as an additional language.	Language provision Arabic is taught as part of the core curriculum, with Arabic Language and Islamic Studies integrated. Specialist Arabic teaching is provided in Lower & Middle Junior School. In Grades 7 and 8, students study Arabic within the Cambridge Lower Secondary framework alongside Islamic Studies and Social Studies. An English as an Additional Language (EAL) program supports non-native English speakers with group sessions and one-to-one tuition, and a Learning Support Department provides Individual Education Plans for students needing additional help.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Children who are new to English at admission are immersed in English throughout their day. Learning Support provides targeted English language development and additional support as needed. Staff are experienced in supporting multilingual learners within an international context.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Applications are accepted at all points during the school year. The admissions team aims to keep the process straightforward. Campus visits can be arranged on request. Reach out if relocating to Muscat or moving within the city. 2. Before applying, read the Home School Agreement and Admissions Policy. To apply, complete the BSM Application Form and the BSM Medical Information form. Provide copies of the child's passport, Oman Resident Card, a passport photo, the latest school report, and copies of both parents' passports and Oman Resident Cards. 3. After submission, we check space for the preferred start date. If space is unavailable, the child is placed on the waiting list. You will be notified by email within 5 working days. The school reserves the right to withdraw an offer if an Oman Resident Card is not provided prior to starting. 4. Entry criteria include attitudes and values that match the BSM Learning Ethos, the ability to thrive in a high achieving environment, and a family engaged with the child's education and English language development. The school teaches on the English National Curriculum and all lessons are taught in English, with EAL and SEND support as available. New entrants to English are immersed in English and may need time to adjust.	Admissions 1. Make an Enquiry: Connect with our Admissions Team, who are dedicated to providing a personalised and seamless experience. They will reach out to understand your needs and guide you through the next steps toward joining Downe House Muscat. With limited availability in some year groups, families are encouraged to begin the process early to secure a place. This initial contact helps tailor the process to your family's circumstances. 2. Visit Downe House Muscat: Experience Downe House Muscat firsthand with a personalised campus tour. Explore our world-class facilities and meet our Leadership Team. Our Admissions Team offers daily tours at convenient times, giving you the opportunity to discover the exceptional learning environment and welcoming community that set us apart. Tours can be arranged to suit your schedule. 3. Submit your application: Complete our online application form and upload the required supporting documents to take the next step toward joining Downe House Muscat. The Admissions Team will review the submission and guide you through the next steps toward assessment. You will receive confirmation of receipt and information about the upcoming assessment by email. 4. Assessment & Offer: After submitting your application, we'll schedule an assessment date and keep you informed by email. If you're applying from overseas, a remote assessment can be arranged. You'll receive the results within a few days. 5. Secure your place: To confirm your child's place, accept the enrolment offer, submit the required documents, and complete the enrolment fee within the given timeframe. We look forward to welcoming you to the Downe House Muscat community. This final step completes enrollment and secures your place in Oman's leading British girls' school.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships 1. Celebrating Talent and Potential: At Downe House Muscat, we believe in recognising and nurturing exceptional talent. Our Scholarships Programme is designed to support students who demonstrate outstanding ability and potential in key areas of school life. Scholars are not only high achievers but also role models, setting the standard for excellence and inspiring their peers. 2. Scholarships are awarded in academics, sports, the arts, and leadership. Scholars receive mentoring, enrichment opportunities, and resources to help them excel. In return, they are expected to contribute actively to school life with dedication and a drive for continuous improvement. 3. How to Apply: Scholarships involve an application, interviews with members of the school's Senior Leadership Team, evaluation of previous school reports and accolades, and awards in a student's field of expertise. This is a prestigious opportunity for students eager to push boundaries and excel in their chosen fields. Details on eligibility and application requirements can be requested from the school's admissions team. Interested students should focus on developing their skills, achievements and leadership in their chosen discipline.
Waitlist	Waitlist There are waiting lists for some year groups. Status of waiting lists is discussed with admissions.	Waitlist —
	View full profile →	View full profile →