Ellesmere College Riyadh - Al Hamra Campus and King's College Riyadh are both in Riyadh, about 19 km apart. Both schools offer British programmes, and Ellesmere College Riyadh - Al Hamra Campus also offers American. Published annual fees are SAR 48,000 - 68,000 at Ellesmere College Riyadh - Al Hamra Campus and SAR 52,784 - 79,175 at King's College Riyadh, which puts King's College Riyadh roughly 14% higher. Ellesmere College Riyadh - Al Hamra Campus takes pupils from 3 to 18, and King's College Riyadh from 3 to 12.
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Ellesmere College Riyadh - Al Hamra Campus
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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King's College Riyadh
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Fees / year
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Fees / year SAR 48,000 - 68,000 | Fees / year SAR 52,784 - 79,175 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 3 - 12 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type — |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum British Curriculum, American Curriculum | Curriculum British Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils — | Pupils 525 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size — | Typical class size 22 |
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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 No | Bus service — |
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Location
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Location Ellesmere College Riyadh operates on two campuses in Riyadh: the Al Hamra campus at 6591, Khoufafa Al Tamimi Street, Alhamra District, Riyadh 11211, and the Salwa campus at 13454, Al Rimal, Riyadh. The Al Hamra address is listed by the British Council as Khoufafa Al Tamimi, Alhamra District, Riyadh 11211. Both campuses are situated in central Riyadh and are accessible by the city's major roads. | Location The Diriyah campus of King's College Riyadh is located in Diriyah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It sits near major routes, including King Khalid Road, making it accessible by car from central Riyadh and surrounding neighbourhoods. The campus is purpose-built for the school and reflects its British-international identity. |
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Stages
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Stages The school serves pupils aged 3–18. It offers Early Years (Pre-nursery, Nursery, and Reception), Primary Years (Years 3–12) under the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years (Years 11–16) under the Middle Years Programme, and Diploma-level study (Diploma Programme, American Diploma, and IGCSE Programme) for ages 16–19. | Stages The school currently serves Pre-School to Year 7 (ages 3–13) and plans to extend progressively to Year 13 (up to age 18). |
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School type
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School type The school is co-educational and operates as part of the Ellesmere College international network. Boarding facilities are not publicly described for the Riyadh campuses. | School type The school is fully co-educational, welcoming both boys and girls. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix Public data indicate about 523 students across roughly 41 nationalities, with Saudi Arabian as the most common nationality; local and international students are represented in roughly a 50/50 balance. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support Pupil wellbeing is a stated priority and safeguarding is in place. Specific provisions for Additional Learning Needs/SEN are not publicly disclosed for the Riyadh campuses. | Additional learning support The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and Learning Support, including Individual Education Plans, with group or one-to-one sessions as needed and integration with daily lessons. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation Affiliation with the United Kingdom; Ellesmere College Riyadh is part of a British international school network offering British-style curricula. | Country affiliation The school is affiliated with the United Kingdom as part of King's College UK and is the first British private school to open in Saudi Arabia; it is part of the Cognita family of schools. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation No explicit religious affiliation is stated for Ellesmere College Riyadh. | Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation; Islamic Studies is included as a central component of the curriculum alongside Arabic and Social Studies. |
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School day structure
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School day structure Exact start and end times for the school day are not publicly published. The school does publish term dates and admissions information relevant to day-to-day planning. | School day structure School days start at 7:30am. Pre-School and Reception finish at 1:45pm; Year 1–7 finish at 2:35pm. Breakfast club runs from 6:30am, with after-school activities (ECAs) for Pre-School/Reception until 2:30pm and for Year 1–7 until 3:30pm. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details No in-house bus service for the Riyadh campuses is publicly listed. Families typically arrange private transport or may inquire about transport options via admissions. | Bus service details King's College Riyadh does not publicly publish a dedicated school bus service on its materials. Riyadh has a city-wide Riyadh Bus network launched in 2023, with routes including King Saud University Station to the Diplomatic Quarter; public transport information and tickets are available via the Riyadh Bus system. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Overview of published fees (academic year 2024/2025) - Pre‑KG (annual): SAR 50,000. Based on the school's three‑installment payment option, this equates to approximately SAR 16,666.67 per installment (50,000 ÷ 3). - KG 1–3 (annual): SAR 48,000. Based on the school's three‑installment payment option, this equates to SAR 16,000. - Grade 1–6 (annual): SAR 55,000. Based on the school's three‑installment payment option, this equates to approximately SAR 18,333.33 per installment (55,000 ÷ 3). - Grade 7–9 (annual): SAR 61,000. Based on the school's three‑installment payment option, this equates to approximately SAR 20,333.33 per installment (61,000 ÷ 3). - Grade 10–12 (annual): SAR 68,000. Based on the school's three‑installment payment option, this equates to approximately SAR 22,666.67 per installment (68,000 ÷ 3). Application / seat reservation fee - A seat reservation fee of SAR 5,000 is required; this amount is deducted from the total tuition fee. The seat reservation fee is refundable if enrollment is withdrawn at least two weeks before the start of the academic year. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school publishes an option to pay tuition in three installments; the first installment is due at the start of the academic year. The school also offers the option to pay the full tuition amount up front. - A 5% discount applies for full payment of tuition in advance. Sibling discounts are published as 0% for the first child, 10% for the second child and 15% for the third child; a 15% partner referral discount for certain corporate/embassy partners is also published. The maximum combined discount that may be applied is 20%. Tuition fees are stated as exclusive of VAT. - Consequences for late payment are published: if payment is not made within two weeks of the start of any term (or a student's file remains incomplete), the school reserves the right to revoke the student's admission; outstanding payments must then be settled immediately. Discounts may be rescinded after 15 days past the scheduled payment date. Boarding fees - No boarding fees are published. The school's published fee pages and admissions materials list day tuition by year group and do not publish any boarding provision or boarding rates. Other costs and additional charges - Tuition is described as covering the standard educational programme; additional costs explicitly excluded from tuition include textbooks, uniforms, extracurricular activities, field trips and specialised learning materials. Uniforms are required by policy, though the school's public materials do not publish uniform price lists. - Some items or programmes (for example, special programmes or optional activities) may be charged separately and may be non‑refundable. Refund and withdrawal policy (published schedule) - Withdrawal and refund rules are published on a term‑by‑term timetable. The school's stated schedule is: withdrawal during the first week of the term incurs payment of 30% of that term's tuition; withdrawal during the second week incurs 40% of that term's tuition; withdrawal during the third week incurs 75% of that term's tuition; withdrawal in the fourth week or later requires payment of the full term's tuition. Certain fees (for special programmes) are stated as non‑refundable regardless of timing. Fee payment options and notes on methods - The school publishes two core payment structures: full payment of tuition upfront (eligible for the 5% advance payment discount) and a three‑installment plan. Details on any other payment mechanisms (for example, which card types, online payment gateway, or bank transfer details) are not published in the fee schedule or admissions policy made available with the tuition figures. Key published notes - Tuition figures above are the school's published annual fees for the 2024/2025 academic year and are stated as exclusive of VAT. The school indicates a detailed schedule of fees and further financial information is maintained by the admissions/finance office. | Fee details Application, Assessment and Enrolment Fees - Application fee: SAR 550 (one-off, non-refundable). - Assessment fee: SAR 1,100 (one-off; refundable only if a place is not offered). - Registration (enrolment) fee: SAR 3,800 (one-off, non-refundable, payable after an offer is made). - Place deposit: 50% of the first term's fees (non-refundable; deducted from the first term's fees). Tuition fees by year group (amounts per term and annual totals) - Pre-School: - Term 1: SAR 18,360 - Term 2: SAR 18,360 - Term 3: SAR 9,179 - Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 45,899 - Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 52,784. - Reception: - Term 1: SAR 18,360 - Term 2: SAR 18,360 - Term 3: SAR 9,179 - Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 45,899 - Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 52,784. - Year 1: - Term 1: SAR 20,654 - Term 2: SAR 20,654 - Term 3: SAR 10,328 - Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 51,636 - Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 59,381. - Year 2: - Term 1: SAR 20,654 - Term 2: SAR 20,654 - Term 3: SAR 10,328 - Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 51,636 - Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 59,381. - Year 3: - Term 1: SAR 25,244 - Term 2: SAR 25,244 - Term 3: SAR 12,623 - Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 63,111 - Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 72,578. - Year 4: - Term 1: SAR 25,244 - Term 2: SAR 25,244 - Term 3: SAR 12,623 - Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 63,111 - Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 72,578. - Year 5: - Term 1: SAR 25,244 - Term 2: SAR 25,244 - Term 3: SAR 12,623 - Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 63,111 - Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 72,578. - Year 6: - Term 1: SAR 25,244 - Term 2: SAR 25,244 - Term 3: SAR 12,623 - Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 63,111 - Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 72,578. - Year 7: - Term 1: SAR 27,539 - Term 2: SAR 27,539 - Term 3: SAR 13,770 - Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 68,848 - Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 79,175. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition may be paid in full at the start of the academic year or in three instalments payable in advance of each term. All fees are payable in advance of the start of each term. - Indicative invoice/payment dates: Term 1 re-enrolment invoice issued 4 May (payment by 3 June); Term 1 balance payment by 8 July; Term 2 invoice issued 12 October (payment by 7 December); Term 3 invoice issued 8 February (payment by 8 March). - Re-enrolment fee for the next academic year: 20% of the annual tuition fee for the year group; deductible from the first term's fees and non-refundable. The child's place is not guaranteed until the re-enrolment fee is received. - Late payment charge: SAR 2,000 per month (or part thereof) for overdue fees. Post-dated cheques may be accepted by arrangement to avoid late fees. - Notice to withdraw: written notice must be given at least one full term in advance via the school's Leaver's Form; if no notice is given, the fees for the following term are payable. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. The school is operating for pupils from Pre-School through Year 7 and there is no boarding provision for these year groups. Other costs and additional charges - Tuition does not include school lunches, transportation, educational trips, or extracurricular activities provided by external providers; those items are charged separately. - Typical additional charges include: breakfast club, after-school care, late room, learning support, EAL support, private music lessons, holiday camps, academy activities and certain co-curricular programmes. - Educational trips: a minimum school bus charge applies (minimum SAR 50 per trip) plus any entrance or activity fees; residential trip charges are higher and communicated in advance. - Public and external examination fees (where applicable) are payable by parents; this includes music exams, LAMDA, IGCSE and other external exam charges plus related administrative/postage fees. - Uniform: all uniform items must be purchased through the school's approved uniform provider except items specifically noted as parents' responsibility on the uniform list. Specific uniform prices are communicated by the school/uniform supplier. Refunds and deposit policy - Deposits are non-refundable except in exceptional circumstances. - If fees have been paid annually in full before the due date, a refund of remaining term(s) will be given provided one term's written notice of withdrawal is supplied in advance; the 5% annual payment discount will not be applied to any refund. - No refund is given for casual absence, sickness, holidays, periods of exclusion or other similar circumstances. Refunds are processed in accordance with Ministry of Education regulations and the school's fee policy. Fee payment options and conditions - Preferred method: online bank transfer (include invoice number and child's full name; provide remittance to the Finance Department). - Direct payment at the school is accepted by credit and debit card (Visa, MasterCard, Mada and American Express). - Post-dated cheques are accepted by arrangement with the Finance team. - Discount conditions: the 5% discount for full-year payment and the 5% sibling discount are only available when payment is made by bank transfer or cheque; cash and debit/credit card payments are not accepted for discounted fees. - For payment queries or to confirm payment details, contact the school's Finance or Admissions teams as listed on official communications. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement Uniforms must be worn daily, using the official Ellesmere College Riyadh uniform. A PE kit is required for physical education, with changing rooms provided before and after PE. The policy allows seasonal variations for heat or cold and requires outerwear to be neutral in color and style, with changes communicated in advance . | Uniform requirement — |
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Food options
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Food options — | Food options — |
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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 — | Governance and ownership — |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details Ellesmere College Riyadh offers an IB continuum across its divisions, with Primary Years (grade 1–5) pursuing the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years (grade 6–10) the Middle Years Programme, and the Diploma Programme (ages 16–19) alongside alternative senior qualifications. In Primary Years, the curriculum is inquiry-based under the PYP, with English, Mathematics, Science, and Humanities taught inhomerooms; Arabic and Spanish are offered at Language & Literature and Language Acquisition levels, with Arabic Social Studies (Saudi History) and Islamic Values, plus specialist PHE, drama, STEM, and the arts. In Middle Years, students follow the MYP with balanced subjects including English, Mathematics, Sciences, PHE, drama, STEM, and arts; Arabic/Spanish are available at Language & Literature and Language Acquisition levels, alongside Arabic Social Studies (Saudi History) and Islamic Values. For the senior phase, the Diploma Programme includes Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay, and CAS, with six subject groups spanning Language & Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals & Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and The Arts or Electives. Also available are the American Diploma (AD) for grades 11–12, described as a pre-university programme with cross-curricular research and a service-learning portfolio, and the IGCSE Diploma for grades 11–12, described as an IGCSE-based curriculum. | Curriculum details King's College Riyadh delivers a distinctive British education rooted in King's College UK, using the English National Curriculum adapted for Riyadh. The school serves Pre-School to Year 7 (ages 3–13) now, with growth planned to Year 13; Early Years to Prep follow the English National Curriculum with specialist teaching in Arabic, Music and PE from age 3, and from Year 5 all subjects are taught by specialist teachers. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central to the programme. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio Small class sizes. |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results The school offers an outstanding British education from EYFS to Year 8, with Arabic language outcomes rated Very Good by ABT. |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression Higher education progression is supported through IB DP and AD offerings, both described as pre-university or university-preparatory tracks designed to prepare students for higher education and future careers. The DP emphasizes university readiness via TOK, Extended Essay, and CAS, while the AD program positions students for higher education and professional pathways. The IGCSE Diploma serves as another pathway in the senior years. These tracks align with Ellesmere College Riyadh's stated aim of preparing students for higher education globally. | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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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 The school does not publicly disclose information regarding Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) provision, staff, or initiatives; however, campus life emphasizes a supportive, inclusive, and safe environment and a broad co-curricular programme that supports personal growth. | Social & emotional learning — |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) The school does not publicly disclose information regarding Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision, staff, or whether it is a specialist SEN institution. | Special educational needs (SEN) — |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose information regarding English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision. | English as an additional language — |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported by a campus described as supportive, inclusive, and safe, which fosters student well‑being. | Mental wellbeing — |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding Safeguarding is a top priority; the campus has security measures, staff trained in safeguarding protocols, and safeguarding professionals on hand. | Safeguarding — |
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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 Ellesmere College Riyadh operates across two campuses, Al Hamra and Salwa, providing advanced learning environments for pupils aged 3-18. The Salwa Campus has opened to expand space for academic, sport and creative activities. The facilities include science laboratories, STEM spaces, and a library to support research and study. Classrooms and other learning spaces are described as state-of-the-art to support IB, American Diploma and IGCSE programs. The facilities also include an auditorium for assemblies and performances, and a sports complex with a gym, swimming pool and multi-purpose spaces. | Facilities overview King's College Riyadh has a purpose-built campus in Diriyah. The campus includes two indoor sports halls, a mixed-use outdoor sports pitch, a multi-use central atrium, science laboratories, a dedicated library, an IT lab, art and music studios, and specialist Early Years play areas. The school is a premium British International School, fully co-educational, delivering an all-round British curriculum. Arabic language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central components of the curriculum, and Arabic is offered from Pre-School and delivered by specialist teachers. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities The sports facilities include a dedicated gymnastics area, versatile multi-purpose sport halls, paddle courts and a swimming pool. The swimming facility is described as a central feature of the campus, used for skill development and potential tournaments. A fully equipped gym supports physical education and personal fitness. The pool and gym are complemented by other indoor and outdoor areas that support a healthy, active lifestyle. | Sports facilities The campus features two indoor sports halls and a mixed-use outdoor sports pitch for physical education and fixtures. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities Science laboratories are equipped with modern equipment to enable hands-on experiments and critical thinking. STEM laboratories are available to support technology-enabled learning. A library provides resources for research and study across the school's programs. Classrooms are part of the teaching spaces designed to support IB, American Diploma and IGCSE delivery, with emphasis on modern resources and technology. The school describes its facilities as state-of-the-art and conducive to a range of learning approaches. | Academic facilities The curriculum is rooted in the English National Curriculum in the Pre-Prep years. From Year 5 onwards, all subjects are led by specialist teachers, including Arabic, Music and Physical Education. Arabic language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central components of the curriculum. Arabic language is offered from Pre-School and delivered by specialist teachers. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Art and Music Rooms provide dedicated spaces for creative work and performances. The auditorium seats 300 and hosts student performances and events. Co-Curriculum programs are part of campus life, offering extracurricular opportunities beyond core academic subjects. The sports facilities support a range of activities, including swimming and other team or individual events, with paddle courts and gym facilities available. | Extra curricular facilities Co-curricular activities run after school and include Gymnastics, Ballet and Art Club in Pre-Prep; in Prep, options include the World Scholar's Cup, Science Club and rehearsals for music and drama productions, along with additional sports fixtures. An After School Care programme is available. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History Ellesmere College Riyadh was established through a partnership between Ellesmere College UK and the Glory & Princeton International Schools Group, announced in April 2024. The Riyadh campus opened to its first pupils in September 2024, starting with Kindergarten and early years as part of the initial rollout. The Glory Group, founded in 2003 by Dr Hamdi Abel Razek Ahmed and his wife, operates multiple schools in the region and is developing a university in New Mansoura, underpinning the international expansion. The Riyadh site operates two campuses, Al Hamra and Salwa. In November 2025, Ellesmere College Riyadh hosted its first immersion group from Riyadh visiting Ellesmere College UK, signaling ongoing cross‑campus exchanges. | History King's College Riyadh is part of the Cognita family of Schools and carries the King's College UK heritage, with over 140 years of educational tradition. It was the first British private school to open in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Diriyah campus serves boys and girls from Pre-School to Year 7 (ages 3–13) and is planned to grow year by year to Year 13. The King's approach blends British education with Saudi culture and traditions. |
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Community
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Community The school describes its community as focused on leadership and entrepreneurial development through team sports, the Combined Cadet Force, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, with public speaking as a key activity. Students in Ellesmere's sports academies have gained international recognition, including representations at county and national levels in rugby, swimming, sailing, canoeing, tennis, and shooting. The two Riyadh campuses—Al Hamra and Salwa—support a broad and diverse local and international student body within a single Ellesmere network. The educational approach integrates High Performance Learning principles across the curriculum, reinforcing a culture of high expectations and practical skill development. | Community The Diriyah campus supports a broad, inclusive school community with a focus on balanced development in academics, sport and the arts. The parent community, Friends of King's, organizes events, celebrations and initiatives that strengthen the community and create lasting connections, working closely with school leadership. The school's heritage is linked to the King's family of schools and to Cognita, reinforcing cross-school connections and shared values. Arabic language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central to the programme, helping students connect with Saudi culture while engaging with a global perspective. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association The site lists an Ellesmere Club as the primary parent-community organization, appearing in the site navigation as the dedicated channel for family involvement. The partnership with the Glory Group emphasizes family involvement and staff–family collaboration as central to the school's international expansion. Co‑curricular offerings such as the Combined Cadet Force, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, team sports, and public speaking form core elements of community life and involve families through events and showcases. In November 2025, the Ellesmere UK campus hosted the first immersion group from Ellesmere College Riyadh, illustrating ongoing cross-network engagement between families and pupils. The Riyadh campuses operate in Al Hamra and Salwa, with communication channels open to families. | Parent teacher association Friends of King's is the school's parent community at the heart of the school's culture. This group of parents meets regularly with the leadership team to plan activities that bring families together, support key projects and celebrate the shared spirit of the school. They organize events, celebrations and initiatives that strengthen connections and contribute to a warm, inclusive and supportive atmosphere for King's College Riyadh. Involvement by parents enriches their children's educational experience and helps sustain a collaborative school environment. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual The school offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 3 to 12. The PYP focuses on the development of the whole child and connects subjects through inquiry-based learning across transdisciplinary themes. The school is an official IB candidate school for the PYP. | Academic & intellectual King's College Riyadh provides an extensive range of academic enrichment beyond classroom lessons. In the Prep School, students participate in Science Club and Art Club, and The World Scholar's Cup is part of the program. Early years include Gymnastics and Ballet to support physical development, while sports, music and drama accompany the core curriculum. These experiences are an essential part of the King's education. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Specialties include drama and the arts. The co-curricular programme includes music and the arts among its offerings. | Arts & creative Arts and creative pursuits are a core part of life beyond lessons. Students engage in music and drama, and Art Club provides ongoing opportunities for creative expression. The program emphasises collaboration, performance and visual arts as outlets for imagination and communication. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language Arabic and Spanish are taught at Lang&Lit level for native speakers. Arabic and Spanish are offered as additional languages (Lang Acquisition) for learners. Arabic Social Studies (Saudi History) covers Islamic Values. | Cultural & language — |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies The co-curricular programme offers a wide range of activities beyond the classroom. Students can participate in sports, music and arts, along with clubs and community service. The programme is designed to enrich student life and foster personal growth. | Social & hobbies Beyond the classroom, students engage in activities that foster energy, creativity and teamwork. A diverse range of sport, music, art and drama offers opportunities to grow in courage and leadership, while building friendships. These experiences help pupils develop social confidence and collaborative skills that support their overall growth. |
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Community & service
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Community & service The co-curricular programme includes clubs and community service. It provides opportunities to engage with the local community and develop a service orientation. | Community & service Wellbeing and social responsibility are integral to school life. The Cognita Be Well Charter guides healthy choices and regular physical activity, and the Sparkle Foundation partnership enables giving and community involvement for students and families. Pastoral care supports emotional wellbeing and safeguarding, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional — | Leadership & professional Leadership development is built into the co-curricular program. Each term offers opportunities to take on responsibilities, develop leadership, and collaborate with peers. The World Scholar's Cup and other activities provide platforms for teamwork, public speaking and enterprise. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports are part of the co-curricular programme. The provision supports wellbeing through physical activity and creative engagement. | Lifestyle & wellbeing The Cognita Be Well Charter supports wellbeing with six pillars, including healthy eating and regular physical activity. Pastoral care focuses on happy, resilient learners and safeguarding ensures a safe environment. The Be Well framework aims to keep students active, socially connected and mentally balanced. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision — | Language provision The school follows a British curriculum based on the English National Curriculum. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central components of the programme, and Arabic is taught from Pre‑School by subject specialist teachers. From Pre‑Prep, specialist teaching in Arabic, Islamic Studies, Music, PE and Swimming is provided. From Year 5, all subjects are taught by specialist teachers. English as an Additional Language (EAL) supports learners in accessing the curriculum, with progress monitored and Learning Support offers Individual Education Plans when needed. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching The school delivers a British curriculum with Arabic language alongside English and supports Arabic language through specialist teaching; Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central to the curriculum. |
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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 1. Initial Application Review. Submit the online admission form with all required documents. The admissions team reviews the submission to ensure the application is complete and meets basic entry requirements. This step confirms that the applicant and family meet the school's initial criteria for movement to assessment. It signals readiness to proceed to the evaluation stage. 2. Admissions Exam. All applicants complete an entrance examination designed to assess academic ability in key subject areas. The exam results help determine whether the student is eligible for unconditional acceptance or will require conditional acceptance. If results indicate the student does not pass or achieve a low score, the school may offer conditional acceptance and develop an educational plan. Parents are expected to follow the plan and may need to arrange additional tutoring. 3. Interviews. Following the assessment, students and parents may be invited to an interview with the admissions team and, in some cases, with key academic staff. The interview provides an opportunity for the school to learn more about the student's interests, goals, and fit with the school community. The process may be used to confirm information gathered during the exam and review the student's readiness for the programme. 4. Conditional Admission. Based on assessment and interview, admission may be offered conditionally. Conditions may include attending additional support classes or engaging in enrichment activities to address identified needs. Parents are responsible for meeting the conditions and for arranging any recommended tutoring or supports. The school will communicate the conditions and the educational plan. 5. Finalization of Admission. Finalization occurs once all conditions have been met and financial obligations have been satisfied. This includes official registration in the school system and the creation of a comprehensive student file. The process formalizes the student's entry into Ellesmere College Riyadh. 6. Formal Registration within the School System. Formal registration within the school's system is completed. This step confirms the student's enrollment in the school database. All necessary documentation and approvals are stored in the student's file. 7. Ministry Authorization and Certificates. The school requires authorization from the Ministry of Education and submission of the required sequence of certificates. This step ensures compliance with national education requirements. The family provides the necessary certificates as part of enrollment. 8. Noor System Printout. A printout from the Noor system of the student's previous school is obtained. The Noor record is necessary for transferring student records. 9. Financial Obligations and Policies. Fulfillment of all financial responsibilities and adherence to the school's policies. The policy covers seat reservation, tuition, payment plans, and refunds. A seat reservation fee of SAR 5,000 is required and is deducted from tuition; payments can be made in 3 installments; there are refunds schedules and VAT applies. Scholarships are available for eligible applicants. | Admissions 1. Make an Enquiry. The Admissions Team provides a personalised and supportive admissions experience. Enquiries are submitted via the Enquiry Form or by contacting the team directly. Availability is limited in some year groups, so families are advised to begin the process early to secure a place. 2. Visit King's College Riyadh. Experience life at King's through a personalised campus tour. Tours are available throughout the week at convenient times. You can meet the Leadership Team during your visit. 3. Submit your application. Complete the online application form and upload the required documents. The Admissions Team will assist if needed and will help you prepare for next steps. Submission moves forward once the online form is submitted. 4. Assessment & Offer. An assessment is arranged to understand your child's learning needs and potential. For families applying from overseas, remote assessments can be organised. Assessment outcomes are shared within a few days, and successful applicants receive an offer of a place. 5. Secure your place. To confirm your child's place at King's College Riyadh, accept the offer, provide the requested documents and complete the enrolment fee within the given timeframe. The school looks forward to welcoming your family into the community. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships Scholarship Programs: Ellesmere College Riyadh offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships and financial aid packages based on need and merit. Scholarships recognize exceptional academic, artistic, or athletic talents and contribute to the student's education. Details and eligibility are outlined in a separate document available from the admissions office. | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
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