Cheltenham Muscat and Knowledge Gate International School are both in Muscat, about 5 km apart. Both schools follow a British curriculum. Published annual fees are OMR 3,899 - 8,111 at Cheltenham Muscat and OMR 2,904 - 5,893 at Knowledge Gate International School, which puts Cheltenham Muscat roughly 37% higher. Both take pupils from 4 to 18. The two are similar in size, at around 700 and 765 pupils. Both keep typical class sizes around 20.
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Cheltenham Muscat
Muscat, Oman
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Knowledge Gate International School
Muscat, Oman
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year OMR 3,899 - 8,111 | Fees / year OMR 2,904 - 5,893 |
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Age range
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Age range 4 - 18 years | Age range 4 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type — | Type — |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum British Curriculum | Curriculum British Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils 700 | Pupils 765 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 20 | Typical class size 20 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened — | Opened — |
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Bus service
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Bus service — | Bus service — |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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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. | Location Knowledge Gate International School (KGIS) is located in Muscat, Oman, in the Al Hail South neighbourhood. The campus address is Way 2947, Al Marafah Street, Al Hail, Muscat. The area is a busy residential district with good road access in central Muscat, and the school is supported by a dedicated bus service that serves multiple neighbourhoods. The campus itself hosts modern facilities appropriate for a UK-applied international programme. |
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Stages
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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. | Stages KGIS operates from Kindergarten through Sixth Form, with divisions for Kindergarten, Primary School, Secondary School and Sixth Form. It offers Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels, alongside the Omani Bilingual GED as academic pathways, enabling progression to international or Oman-based higher education. |
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School type
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School type Cheltenham Muscat is a co-educational British international day school. | School type Co-educational day school. There are no on-site boarding facilities, but the school participates in Inspired Education Group arrangements that provide guaranteed entry to premium boarding schools and flexible overseas boarding options for some senior students. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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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. | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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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. | Additional learning support KGIS provides inclusive education with SEND support and Gifted & Talented provision. The school has dedicated facilities and resources for some learners needing additional learning support and works with families and professionals to assess suitability before admission. |
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Country affiliation
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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). | Country affiliation The school is a British international school in Oman and offers British curricula (IGCSE/A Levels) within Oman. It is part of Inspired Education Group, but it does not have a formal country affiliation beyond its Oman location and international curriculum offerings. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation is stated in official materials. | Religious affiliation The school operates with universal Islamic values embedded in its pastoral approach; it is not described as a faith-based school. |
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School day structure
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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. | School day structure KGIS follows term dates published for 2025/26, with Term 1 starting August 31, 2025, and Term 2 starting January 4, 2026; there are mid-term and other breaks outlined in the academic calendar. Exact daily start and end times are not publicly published. |
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Bus service details
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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. | Bus service details KGIS offers a School Bus Service with routes to multiple Muscat neighbourhoods. Bus routes include Al Hail South, Al Hail North, Al Khoudh, Al Mawaleh, Seeb, Al Khuwair, Madinat Sultan Qaboos, Bousher, Ghala, Azaiba, and Al Ghubra, among others. Bus fees are zone-based and published for the 2024–25 academic year; registration is via operations@kgis-edu.com, and a bus schedule is available through the school. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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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. | Fee details Application / Registration Fee - Initial registration fee: OMR 300 per student (one-time, non-refundable). Tuition and Related Annual Charges by Year Group (Academic Year 2025–26) Each entry lists: Material Fund (annual), Tuition Fee (annual, excluding material and cafeteria), Cafeteria Meals (annual), Total Annual Fee; followed by the three-term instalment amounts (July / November / March). - KG 01: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 2,519; Cafeteria OMR 275; Total OMR 2,904. Instalments: OMR 1,162 (July), OMR 871 (Nov), OMR 871 (Mar). - KG 02: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 2,544; Cafeteria OMR 275; Total OMR 2,929. Instalments: OMR 1,171 (July), OMR 879 (Nov), OMR 879 (Mar). - Grade 01: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 3,208; Cafeteria OMR 300; Total OMR 3,618. Instalments: OMR 1,448 (July), OMR 1,085 (Nov), OMR 1,085 (Mar). - Grade 02: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 3,375; Cafeteria OMR 300; Total OMR 3,785. Instalments: OMR 1,513 (July), OMR 1,136 (Nov), OMR 1,136 (Mar). - Grade 03: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 3,506; Cafeteria OMR 300; Total OMR 3,916. Instalments: OMR 1,566 (July), OMR 1,175 (Nov), OMR 1,175 (Mar). - Grade 04: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 3,511; Cafeteria OMR 300; Total OMR 3,921. Instalments: OMR 1,569 (July), OMR 1,176 (Nov), OMR 1,176 (Mar). - Grade 05: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 3,511; Cafeteria OMR 300; Total OMR 3,921. Instalments: OMR 1,569 (July), OMR 1,176 (Nov), OMR 1,176 (Mar). - Grade 06: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 3,992; Cafeteria OMR 350; Total OMR 4,452. Instalments: OMR 1,780 (July), OMR 1,336 (Nov), OMR 1,336 (Mar). - Grade 07: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 3,992; Cafeteria OMR 350; Total OMR 4,452. Instalments: OMR 1,780 (July), OMR 1,336 (Nov), OMR 1,336 (Mar). - Grade 08: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 3,992; Cafeteria OMR 350; Total OMR 4,452. Instalments: OMR 1,780 (July), OMR 1,336 (Nov), OMR 1,336 (Mar). - Grade 09: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 4,797; Cafeteria OMR 375; Total OMR 5,282. Instalments: OMR 2,112 (July), OMR 1,585 (Nov), OMR 1,585 (Mar). - Grade 10: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 5,037; Cafeteria OMR 375; Total OMR 5,522. Instalments: OMR 2,208 (July), OMR 1,657 (Nov), OMR 1,657 (Mar). - Grade 11: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 5,408; Cafeteria OMR 375; Total OMR 5,893. Instalments: OMR 2,357 (July), OMR 1,768 (Nov), OMR 1,768 (Mar). - Grade 12: Material OMR 110; Tuition OMR 5,408; Cafeteria OMR 375; Total OMR 5,893. Instalments: OMR 2,357 (July), OMR 1,768 (Nov), OMR 1,768 (Mar). Billing Schedule and Payment Terms - Standard annual billing is split into three instalments due in July, November and March. Instalment amounts by year group are listed above. - The material fund (OMR 110 per student) is payable annually with Term 1 (the July instalment). - A surcharge of OMR 20 applies where fees remain unpaid after the due date. Fees and stipends are non-refundable. Written notice of withdrawal is required with a minimum notice period of one full term (in advance). Tuition fees are subject to a published increase (5% applicable for the 2026–2027 academic year). Boarding Fees - Boarding is not applicable. Knowledge Gate International School operates as a co-educational day school; no boarding fees are listed. Other Costs and Compulsory Charges - Cafeteria/meals: Annual tuition totals shown above include the cost of daily school meals; a separate cafeteria charge is included in the fee breakdowns above and a cafeteria fee is compulsory for all students. - School transport: Available at additional monthly cost. Transportation fees range from OMR 60 to OMR 84 per month depending on area. - International examination fees: Mandatory for Grades 4 to 12 and typically approximately OMR 250–300 (paid in addition to the annual tuition). - AI & VR fees: OMR 21 for Grades 3–6; OMR 42 for Grades 7–11; OMR 21 for Grade 12 (annual). - Uniforms and overseas travel: School fees do not cover the cost of uniforms, transport (transport is additional) or overseas travel. Refund Information - School fees and stipends (including the material fund stipend) are non-refundable. The initial registration fee (OMR 300) is non-refundable. The school requires written notice of withdrawal and a minimum of one full term's notice. A late-payment surcharge is applied where applicable. Fee Payment Options - Accepted payment methods and arrangements are handled by the Admissions Office. Contact the Admissions Office by email at admissions@kgis-edu.com or by phone at +968 2407 3500 to confirm the currently accepted payment methods and to arrange payment. Notes - All amounts above are shown in Omani Rial (OMR) and reflect the published fee schedule for Academic Year 2025–26. The school publishes instalment amounts and the components of each grade's total as listed above. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements KGIS provides access to boarding opportunities through Inspired's network. Senior students can pursue guaranteed entry to premium boarding schools overseas. Flexible boarding options support relocation for personal reasons and cultural immersion, with staff at boarding locations and access to campus facilities. |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement — | Uniform requirement — |
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Food options
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Food options Healthy food choices are promoted as part of the Cognita Be Well Charter. | Food options Fresh and healthy meals are prepared daily. Cafeteria meals are included in the fees and available to all students. The meals offer balanced options with vegetables and fruit, and special dietary requirements can be accommodated upon request. |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership The school is part of the Cognita family of Schools. It is part of the Cheltenham College Family of Schools network. | Governance and ownership KGIS is an Inspired School. Inspired is a global group of premium international schools with more than 110 member schools, and is the only international premium education group operating in Oman. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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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. | Curriculum details The school provides a British curriculum that progresses from Kindergarten to Sixth Form. Academic pathways include Cambridge IGCSE, A Levels, and the Omani Bilingual GED. There is bilingual learning for native Arabic speakers. English-medium instruction is delivered by native English-speaking teachers. The school emphasises global perspectives and prepares students for higher education and international opportunities. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results In recent published results, 41% of A Level grades were A* to B; the Oman GED pass rate is 100%. These results reflect strong performance across the Cambridge IGCSE/A Level and GED pathways. |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression — | Higher education progression Graduates progress to leading universities worldwide, with many receiving Grade A scholarships. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented Specialist university counselling is available as part of the Inspired affiliation, and students have access to overseas exchanges and summer camps to support advanced study and broader opportunities. |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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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. | Social & emotional learning KGIS supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a comprehensive pastoral program underpinned by universal Islamic values in a safe, inclusive environment. A tutor-group, class-group, and year-group structure helps build small, supportive communities where students can seek help from peers and staff. Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) is delivered as part of the pastoral curriculum, and there is a Student Counselling Service available. A dedicated Safeguarding Team supports wellbeing and safety, with safeguarding training provided to staff annually. The school also emphasises inclusive education and provides SEND and Gifted & Talented provisions as part of its student-support framework. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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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. | Special educational needs (SEN) KGIS welcomes students with a range of learning needs and operates inclusive education with SEND and Gifted & Talented provision. Prior to placing a child, families are advised to speak with the Admissions Team to confirm the school's ability to meet the child's needs. The school can provide Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) and facilitates access to educational professionals if required, including sharing information from Educational Psychologists or speech, language, or occupational therapy reports. The admissions process outlines steps to assess and plan support in collaboration with families. KGIS is a mainstream international school with dedicated resources, but it is not described as a specialist SEN institution. |
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English as an additional language
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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. | English as an additional language KGIS supports English language development through instruction delivered by native English-speaking teachers across the school. The school emphasises English fluency as a foundation for learning and provides a bilingual dimension for native Arabic speakers within its British curriculum. This bilingual approach is part of the school's dual British-Omani education offering. Students benefit from extensive language instruction to support English proficiency and academic study in English. These provisions are publicly stated in the school's admissions and school-life sections. |
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Mental wellbeing
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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. | Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through the Student Counselling Service and the pastoral, PSHE-enabled curriculum, along with a safeguarding framework that protects student welfare. A tutor/group system and strong staff-student relationships are designed to help students feel safe sharing difficulties. The safeguarding policy includes annual staff safeguarding training to reinforce protective measures. The school promotes a caring, inclusive culture where mental and emotional development is part of everyday learning. |
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Safeguarding
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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 KGIS maintains a safeguarding policy with designated safeguarding leads and a safeguarding team. Staff and volunteers receive safeguarding training annually, and concerns can be directed to the Head of School or designated safeguarding leads. The Safeguarding Leads listed are Ian Lohan (Designated Safeguarding Lead), James O'Reilly (Deputy DSL), and Katie Dillane (Deputy DSL). The school emphasises a proactive, protective approach to safeguarding as part of its commitment to student welfare. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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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. | Facilities overview The campus in Muscat is newly built with spacious classrooms and state-of-the-art digital technology. The Early Learning division has exclusive access to the Early Learning Centre, an Early Learning Garden, and a Jungle Gym. The school operates a bilingual dual British and Oman education model. The facilities include a library, a drama studio, specialist music rooms, art studios, modern science laboratories, and ICT suites. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities — | Sports facilities The school has an on-site swimming pool and a multi-purpose sports court. These facilities support physical education and a wide range of sports programmes. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities — | Academic facilities The school provides a well-resourced academic infrastructure including a library, modern science laboratories, and ICT suites. These facilities support a bilingual British-Omani education model. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities — | Extra curricular facilities KGIS offers Oman's No.1 extracurricular activities programme. The school provides extensive opportunities in sports and arts, supported by dedicated spaces such as a drama studio, music rooms, and art studios. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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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. | History Knowledge Gate International School (KGIS) is a private international British school in Muscat, Oman, offering a British-style curriculum from Kindergarten to Sixth Form, with Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels or the Omani Bilingual GED. The school joined Inspired Education Group on September 15, 2019, becoming part of a global network of premium schools. It is described as an Inspired School and benefits from Inspired's international collaborations, including access to overseas summer camps and student exchanges. The Muscat campus is the first within Inspired's network to offer bilingual dual British and Oman education. In 2023, the British School Overseas (BSO) rated KGIS as Good with many outstanding features, reflecting strong provision, and COBIS accreditation is among its current international standards. |
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Community
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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. | Community Knowledge Gate International School describes a diverse, international community in Muscat, with English-medium instruction delivered by native English-speaking staff and a bilingual program that supports Arabic speakers. The campus hosts Open Days for prospective families, including Whole School Open Day on January 21, 2026 from 15:00 to 17:00, offering facility tours and interactions with staff. KGIS participates in Inspired's Global Camps and Global Exchange Programme, providing overseas student exchanges and international camps that connect families to a global network. Extra-curricular offerings include drama coordinated with the LAMDA program and participation in the International Duke of Edinburgh Award. |
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Parent teacher association
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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. | Parent teacher association Public information on the KGIS site does not publish a dedicated PTA page; however, parent involvement is supported through Open Day events, personalized tours, and general School Life communications. The Whole School Open Day on January 21, 2026 (15:00–17:00) offers a platform for parents to meet staff and discuss the program. Through Inspired Education Group, KGIS provides access to overseas student exchanges and summer camps that involve families in an international context. Inspired's university counselling and other resources also support parent engagement in planning students' futures. For detailed information about any formal PTA groups or committees, contact the school. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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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. | Academic & intellectual KGIS provides access to international competitions through Inspired Education. The school offers Cambridge IGCSE, A Levels, and the Oman Bilingual GED as core qualification pathways. Senior students receive Specialist University Counselling to support university applications in Oman and internationally. |
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Arts & creative
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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. | Arts & creative From Kindergarten to post-16, there is a holistic performing arts program with a specialist curriculum. Students study Music, Dance, Drama and Musical Theatre and may perform in school and inter-school productions. Qualifications include LAMDA and ABRSM certificates, with industry workshops and collaborations with organisations such as the Royal Opera House. Audition support and opportunities for school and inter-school productions are provided. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language — | Cultural & language KGIS offers bilingual dual British and Oman education. Bilingual learning is provided for native Arabic speakers. Native English-speaking teachers support fluent English language development. |
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Social & hobbies
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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. | Social & hobbies — |
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Community & service
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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. | Community & service The school is affiliated with the International Duke of Edinburgh Award. |
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Leadership & professional
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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. | Leadership & professional The International Duke of Edinburgh Award affiliations provide leadership and service opportunities. Specialist University Counselling supports students with admissions planning and university applications. Overseas exchanges and summer camps offer leadership and cultural immersion experiences. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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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. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Comprehensive student support creates a safe, inclusive environment underpinned by universal Islamic values. A pastoral curriculum includes Personal, Social and Health Education. There is a Student Counselling Service and a dedicated Safeguarding Team. Diversity is celebrated and education is personalised to meet individual needs. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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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. | Language provision English is the language of instruction across pathways; IGCSE lessons are delivered in English. KGIS has 100% native English-speaking teaching staff and language tuition to promote bilingualism. Arabic is taught as a subject, with the Oman Bilingual GED delivered in English and Arabic. Modern Foreign Languages offered include Arabic, Spanish, German, and French. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching KGIS offers bilingual learning for native Arabic speakers. The British curriculum is supplemented by bilingual education. KGIS is the first in Muscat to offer bilingual dual British and Oman education. Academic pathways include Cambridge IGCSE, A Levels, and the Oman Bilingual GED. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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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. | Admissions 1. Register your interest with us. The admissions team welcomes inquiries and applications from local and international candidates, and accepts students throughout the academic year. Knowledge Gate International School's admissions policy embraces diversity and does not discriminate based on nationality, ethnicity, or religion. The school provides a British-style global education and invites families to visit the campus to learn more. 2. Complete the Enquiry Form. Register your interest by completing the Enquiry Form and arranging a visit to the school if possible. The admissions team is available to answer questions and provide further information. 3. Submit an Application Form. All online applications must be submitted with a registration fee receipt. The registration fee is 300 OMR per child and is non-refundable and non-transferrable. Applications cannot be processed without the required documents, including birth certificate; parents' marriage certificate; copies of parent's passport and residence card (if available); child's passport; a recent passport-style photo; latest school report (if applicable); and a letter from the previous school confirming that no fees are outstanding. 4. Assessment. After receiving the application, the school will contact you to arrange English, maths and verbal reasoning assessments. Entry assessments may take place at the child's current school, and placement tests will be delivered by courier with costs borne by the parents. 5. Interview & Entry Assessment. Kindergarten entrants to the UK Foundation Stage are required to sit an entry assessment. Applicants for Grades 1-5 (UK Primary), Grades 6-10 (UK Secondary), and Grade 11 (UK Post 16, Year 12) are required to attend a short interview and undertake a Cognitive Ability Test, as scheduled by the school. The vast majority of teaching is conducted in English, so language fluency at an age-appropriate level is required. 6. Acceptance Offer. Successful applicants will receive an offer letter from the school. After you have accepted a place, you will be informed of your child's start date and additional enrolment details. 7. Admissions for SEND. The school welcomes students with SEND and staff are committed to educating all students in a common learning environment. Parents should share details of SEND, Individual Learning Plans (ILPs), and any Educational Psychologist, Paediatric, or other specialist reports before a place is offered so the school can arrange appropriate assessment and support; in very rare cases it may not be in the child's best interests. |
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Scholarships
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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. | Scholarships KGIS Elite Scholarships are offered for exceptional learners in academics or swimming. Benefits include tuition fee remission renewed annually, opportunities for advanced development, and recognition as ambassadors of excellence within and beyond the school. Eligible applicants are Students from 3 years onwards with exceptional ability in academics or swimming. Applications are submitted online to admissions@kgis-edu.com, and candidates showcase their talent via assessment or portfolio and attend an interview. The deadline for applications was 30 December 2025, with the announcement of selected scholars expected in February 2026. The scholarship process includes submitting the application, showcasing talent, interviewing, and receiving ongoing support if awarded. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
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