Ellesmere College Riyadh - Al Hamra Campus and Saud International School are both in Riyadh, about 15 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 40,000 - 58,000 at Saud International School, which puts Ellesmere College Riyadh - Al Hamra Campus roughly 18% higher. Both take pupils from 3 to 18.
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Ellesmere College Riyadh - Al Hamra Campus
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Saud International School
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year SAR 48,000 - 68,000 | Fees / year SAR 40,000 - 58,000 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 3 - 18 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 2,000 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size — | Typical class size 19 |
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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 — |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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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 Saud International School is located on Abi Al Abbas Al Shafei Street in the Hiteen District of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The central Riyadh location provides access to major roads and city amenities. The campus can be reached by phone at +966 920002877 or by email at enquiries@sis.edu.sa. |
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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 serves Preschool through Grade 12. The published divisions are Early Learning Stage (KG–Rec2), Elementary (Grades 1–5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12). |
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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 co-educational overall, with gender segregation implemented from Grade 4 onward. It operates as a day school. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix Nationalities represented: 25. Most common nationality is Arab (Saudi and other Arab nationalities). Local to international student ratio is about 30% local to 70% international. |
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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 Public materials do not list a dedicated SEN program. The program descriptions focus on Preschool–12 education with English/Arabic immersion and dual American/British curricula. For confirmation of any SEN provisions, contact the admissions team. |
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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 aligns with American and British curricula. It holds Cambridge International accreditation and Cognia accreditation. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation No explicit religious affiliation is stated for Ellesmere College Riyadh. | Religious affiliation The school has no explicit religious affiliation listed publicly. |
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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 The school day typically runs in the morning to early afternoon. Third‑party listings report start times around 6:45 AM and finish around 1:30 PM, and Saudi MOE regulations allow private/international schools to set schedules within defined guidance. |
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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 The public materials do not list a school bus service; independent listings indicate that a bus service is not offered. |
| 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 Annual tuition fees (published) - KG to Reception 2: SAR 40,000 per year. - Grades 1–6: SAR 48,000 per year. - Grades 7–9: SAR 53,000 per year. - Grades 10–12: SAR 58,000 per year. Note: All published tuition amounts are quoted in Saudi Riyal (SAR) and exclude VAT. Per-term fees - The school's public fee schedule provides only annual tuition amounts and does not publish per-term figures or an official per-term breakdown. The per-term figures below are simple arithmetic divisions of the published annual tuition by three terms and are provided only as an inferred illustration (they are not published by the school): - KG to Reception 2: SAR 13,333.33 per term (SAR 40,000 ÷ 3). - Grades 1–6: SAR 16,000.00 per term (SAR 48,000 ÷ 3). - Grades 7–9: SAR 17,666.67 per term (SAR 53,000 ÷ 3). - Grades 10–12: SAR 19,333.33 per term (SAR 58,000 ÷ 3). Application, registration, deposit and one-time fees - No application fee, registration fee, admission deposit, or other mandatory one-time fees are published on the school's public fee page or in the school's admissions policy documents. The admissions policy requires that necessary fees and deposits be paid as part of acceptance, but specific amounts or named one-time charges are not published in the public fee schedule. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school's public materials do not publish a detailed billing schedule or formal payment-terms table (for example: payment deadlines, penalties for late payment, or mandatory installment dates). Third‑party school listings indicate that installment payment options and booking/instalment arrangements may be offered, but those listings are not the school's official fee schedule. Boarding fees - Saud International School operates as a day school; no boarding program or boarding fees are published. Other costs and typical additional charges - No officially published amounts for uniform, transportation (bus), books, device charges, extracurricular activity fees, or examination fees appear in the school's public fee schedule. External school directories and guides note that a uniform requirement exists, but they do not supply an official uniform price set from the school. Any charges for transport, books, devices, uniforms or optional activities are not specified in the school's published fee page. Sibling discounts and concessions - Some third‑party school listings report sibling discounts (examples shown: 10% for the second eldest child and 15% for the third eldest), and some directories note that installment options are available; these are third‑party reports rather than a published schedule on the school's official fee page. Refund information - No refund policy or published refund schedule (for withdrawn students, deposits, or tuition already paid) is present in the school's public fee page or admissions policy documents. The admissions policy requires payment of necessary fees for acceptance but does not publish a refund table in the public materials. Fee payment options - The school's public fee page does not list accepted payment methods (for example: credit card, bank transfer, cheque). Third‑party listings reference booking and instalment arrangements, but the school's published materials do not state specific payment channels. Direct school contact details are published for enquiries and admissions. Summary - The only firm, published fee elements are the annual tuition amounts by grade range (KG–Reception 2 SAR 40,000; Grades 1–6 SAR 48,000; Grades 7–9 SAR 53,000; Grades 10–12 SAR 58,000). Other items commonly requested by parents (application/registration fees, published per-term billing schedule, explicit payment methods, uniform or transport prices, refund tables, and boarding fees) are not published in the school's publicly posted fee schedule or admissions materials. |
| 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 The school has a cafeteria on campus. |
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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 The school is owned and operated by Alawel Education Company (parent organization). |
| 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 Saud International School offers a dual-curriculum pathway from Preschool through Grade 12, combining an American-inspired elementary program with a British-style secondary framework. Preschool to Grade 5 emphasizes literacy and numeracy, inquiry-based learning, cross-curricular integration, and age-appropriate digital and hands-on experiences, with English and Arabic language immersion in the early years. From Grades 6–8, Middle School follows a British curriculum framework delivered by subject specialists, preparing students for IGCSE studies in Grades 9 and 10. Grades 9–10 offer the IGCSE program with core subjects and electives such as Business Studies, Economics, and ICT. Grades 11–12 transition to the A-Level program (AS and A2), with typical subject choices across Mathematics/Sciences, Business/Economics, and Languages/ICT, supported by academic counseling. Arabic Language and Islamic Studies are integrated in line with Saudi national requirements, and university/college guidance supports higher education progression. |
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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 — |
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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 Social and emotional learning (SEL) is integrated into Saud International School's Early Learning Stage through Personal, Social, and Emotional Development (PSED) as a defined learning area. The school provides dedicated homeroom teachers trained in child psychology and international early-learning methods to support SEL across the early years. The curriculum includes activities that foster emotional resilience, self-regulation, collaboration, and values-based behavior. There is a strong emphasis on home–school communication, with regular updates and opportunities for parents to participate in learning celebrations and classroom showcases. The preschool facility includes a dedicated early-years space called “The City,” which uses life-like role-play to develop social-emotional and cognitive skills. |
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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) The school describes an inclusive environment and a safe, nurturing school community, with a clear emphasis on educating the whole child (intellectually, emotionally, socially, spiritually, and morally). The available public materials indicate an inclusive ethos across grades, but there is no publicly disclosed detail about a dedicated SEN department, program, or specialist SEN centre. The school's Code of Ethics highlights respect for the uniqueness and diversity of students, reinforcing an inclusive approach. Public materials show inclusion as a core value, yet do not describe specific SEN provisions. The school thus does not publicly disclose information regarding Special Educational Needs (SEN) provisions beyond its inclusive, whole-child framing. |
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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 English Language Development (ELD) is listed as a core learning area in the Early Learning Stage, with components including phonics, vocabulary, and speaking and listening. The Early Learning Stage page explicitly notes English Language Development as part of the program, alongside other language and literacy work. Arabic is listed as a separate language offering in the curriculum for younger students, indicating bilingual learning within the school. There is no publicly described separate EAL department or standalone EAL program beyond the ELD framework. EAL support is described as embedded within ELD rather than as a distinct service. |
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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 Mental wellbeing is supported through the school's SEL framework, with PSED as a core early-years learning area that promotes emotional development and resilience. The The City preschool environment includes role-play spaces designed to develop social-emotional skills alongside cognitive growth. The curriculum emphasizes emotional resilience and social-emotional learning as foundational elements of the holistic approach to education. Home–school communication is used to monitor and support student wellbeing through regular updates and parent involvement. Overall, the school's emphasis on safe, values-based practices supports students' social and emotional 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 Health and safety provisions outline safeguarding-like measures: supervision rules require teachers to monitor students and never leave them unattended, and illnesses are handled with students taken to the office and potentially isolated in the clinic until a parent arrives. The campus uses CCTV surveillance and security guards to monitor safety, with a 24/7 security presence. Fire drills are conducted each term with clearly posted exit plans and teacher-led evacuation procedures. The security and safety infrastructure also includes facial recognition entry systems and smart locks to control access, along with 360° CCTV coverage. These measures collectively reflect the school's safeguarding and protective practices on campus. |
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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 Facilities that support learning and growth include an auditorium with high-quality acoustics and programmable lighting; separate science and technology labs for boys and girls; a library and an art room; and a range of security and technology features. The campus includes an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a dedicated toddler pool, indoor and outdoor football facilities, a full-sized basketball court, and a multi-sport gymnasium. The preschool space features 'The City'—an indoor, life-like early learning environment designed for role-play and social development. The buildings are air-conditioned and equipped with security cameras, fire alarms, and intercoms, with technology-enhanced learning supported by smart boards and a centralized network. The design emphasizes acoustics, lighting, and energy efficiency to create a comfortable and safe learning atmosphere. |
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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 Sports facilities include an Olympic-sized swimming pool (temperature-controlled) and a dedicated toddler pool. There is an indoor football field with FIFA-approved artificial turf and an outdoor natural turf football field. A full-sized indoor basketball court and a multi-sport gymnasium are available, with spaces for cardio, weight training, karate, gymnastics, badminton, and yoga, supporting year-round physical education. |
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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 Academic infrastructure includes separate, fully equipped science and technology labs for boys and girls. The Biology Lab, Chemistry Lab (with fume hoods and safe storage), Physics Lab (modern apparatus), and Computer Labs support practical science learning and digital literacy for both curricula (American and British) as part of the school's facilities. |
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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 Creative facilities include the auditorium for performances, an art room, and a library that support arts, literature, and clubs. A student lounge and cafeteria provide spaces for social interaction and meals. The preschool features 'The City' with miniature real-world setups to support early childhood role-play and social development, while the overall campus emphasizes spaces designed for social, cultural, and recreational activities. |
| 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 Founded in 1981, Saud International School began with a clear purpose to offer a world-class education rooted in strong values, academic excellence, and an unwavering commitment to developing capable, confident, and morally grounded individuals. Over the decades, the school has grown from a modest academic institution into one of Riyadh's most respected and enduring educational establishments. It serves Preschool to Grade 12, offering both the American and British curricula, and educates boys and girls in a dynamic and inclusive environment. The school is operated by Al Awael Education Company, as reflected in its footer. As Saudi Arabia advances Vision 2030, the school emphasizes alignment with national goals and continued evolution in technology, curriculum development, and teaching methods while upholding its values-based, holistic education. |
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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 school describes its community as diverse and rich, with students from across the globe representing multiple nations. The learner profiles and curriculum are designed to develop international-mindedness and integrate languages, Islamic studies, art, ICT, maths, sciences, and personal, social and physical education. Co-curricular opportunities include football, karate, volleyball, table tennis, music, and art, reflecting a broad activity-rich culture. The environment is described as safe and enjoyable for every learner. |
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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 A formal Parent-Teacher Association is not documented on the school site. Parent engagement is organized through the Parent Services portal and the ESchool digital gateway, which provides real-time access to grades, attendance, assignments, announcements, and direct communication with teachers. The platform also supports the academic calendar and direct messaging with staff to arrange meetings and discuss student progress. The school publishes articles and updates about community events and partnerships, indicating ongoing parent and community involvement. Parents are encouraged to participate in school activities and to engage with staff through these channels. |
| 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 — |
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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 — |
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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 — |
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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 — |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional — | Leadership & professional — |
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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 Physical education and well-being are central to the school's educational philosophy. The school has an Olympic-sized swimming pool and a dedicated toddler pool for early learners. An indoor football field (FIFA-approved) and an outdoor football field, together with a full-sized indoor basketball court and a multi-sport gymnasium, support a range of activities including karate, gymnastics, badminton, and yoga. The preschool facility features 'The City,' an indoor environment with life-like shops and services for role-playing to develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision — | Language provision English is taught as a core subject. Arabic Language is taught as part of the curriculum. Islamic Studies is included for Muslim students, in line with national expectations. The program emphasizes language development through Arabic and English. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
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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. Begin online admission by completing the Apply Now form. The Apply Now page directs applicants to the online registration portal at eregistration.sis.edu.sa. After submitting the form, a member of the admissions team will contact you with next steps. The school provides online access for submissions via the portal. 2. Schedule a campus tour through the Book a tour option to see the facilities and meet staff. The campus visit helps you understand the environment and allows you to ask questions directly. Tours can be arranged to fit your schedule. 3. If you need further guidance, use the Request a Call Back option or inquiries to connect with admissions for personalized information about enrollment. This provides direct access to admissions staff for questions and next steps. 4. Review the Academic Calendar and School Fees to plan enrollment. The calendar provides important dates and the fees page provides current tuition information. The curriculum follows a dual pathway: an American-inspired program through Preschool to Grade 5, and a British framework for Grades 6–12, with Arabic and Islamic Studies incorporated. |
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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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