Oryx International School vs Qatar International School

	O Oryx International School Doha, Qatar	Q Qatar International School Doha, Qatar
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year QAR 34,000 - 47,000	Fees / year QAR 29,543 - 50,978
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, BTEC Qualification, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,520	Pupils 2,148
Typical class size	Typical class size 10	Typical class size 13
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2016	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Mesaimeer Campus, Barwa City Street, Mesaimeer, Doha, Qatar. The campus is in the Mesaimeer/Barwa City area and is accessible via Barwa City roads, with the site designed to serve families working with Qatar Airways and its approved subsidiaries. The address is Mesaimeer Campus - Barwa City Street, Mesaimeer, Doha, Qatar.	Location Qatar International School is located on United Nations Street in the Al Dafna district of Doha, Qatar. The campus address is United Nations Street, Doha, Qatar, PO Box 5697. The school moved to Al Dafna in 2001.
Stages	Stages Oryx International School serves boys and girls from age 3 through 18, with a structure that includes Primary and Secondary sections. The curriculum combines the English National Curriculum framework with UK IGCSE/GCSE offerings.	Stages QIS offers Early Years Foundation Stage, Primary (Years 1–6), Secondary (Years 7–13) and a Sixth Form. The school provides education from Early Years up to Year 13, including a dedicated Sixth Form.
School type	School type Co-educational day school. It operates exclusively for the children of Qatar Airways employees and approved subsidiaries. There is no boarding facility offered for any year group.	School type QIS is a private, English-speaking day school located in Doha.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The student body comprises more than 90 nationalities. The school describes itself as globally diverse, but the most common nationality and the local-to-international student ratio are not publicly published.	Pupil nationality mix The student body is international, with representation from over 70 nationalities. The site does not publish a single most common nationality or a precise local-to-international ratio.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and has received ALFRI accreditation for EAL provision. An Inclusion Team supports SEND and EAL needs, and the school holds a SENDIA Inclusion Award for inclusive education. There are ongoing parent-facing EAL initiatives, including parental language classes.	Additional learning support The school provides Learning Support to help students access the curriculum, with in-class support and targeted interventions. There are dedicated roles such as an Early Years Learning Support Practitioner and an Arabic Learning Support Teacher as part of the provision.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is stated; the school offers a British curriculum and is part of Qatar Airways and Orbital Education.	Country affiliation QIS follows the British educational system, broadly adhering to the national curriculum of England (a British-patterned international school).
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is indicated.	Religious affiliation There is no explicit religious affiliation stated for QIS. Islamic Studies is included as a subject in the curriculum for Muslim students as part of Qatar's national framework.
School day structure	School day structure School days run Sunday to Thursday from 07:15 to 14:00, with morning gates opening at 06:50 and registration from 07:15–07:30. After the regular lessons, after-school activities run from about 14:05 to 15:00.	School day structure School timings show that the day begins with lessons at 6:50 a.m. and ends at 12:45 p.m. for Early Years, 1:00 p.m. for Years 1–6, and 1:15 p.m. for Years 7–13. The Administration Office operates 6:20 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sunday to Thursday.
Bus service details	Bus service details New Image Building Services provides the school's dedicated bus service with routes across Doha. Parents arrange seats directly with New Image; the school notes that Qatar Airways Education allowances can be used to pay for bus costs. For 2025–26, there are designated transport contacts (transport coordinator, payment/contract contact, transport manager) and enrolment documents are available on the Parent Zone.	Bus service details A daily school bus service is not publicly published in QIS materials. The fees note transport for school excursions, and for specifics on regular transport arrangements, contact the Admissions team.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Admissions Fees - Application fee: QAR 450 (non-refundable) payable prior to any assessment. - Registration fee: QAR 3,190 (non-refundable) payable once an Offer Letter is issued to secure the place; one-off payment. - Annual seat reservation fee: QAR 2,000, charged each year to confirm re-enrolment and deducted from the first term's tuition invoice for the forthcoming academic year. Tuition fees by year group (2025/26) — per term and annual total - FS1: Autumn term QAR 13,600 · Spring term QAR 10,200 · Summer term QAR 10,200 · Annual total QAR 34,000. - FS2: Autumn term QAR 13,600 · Spring term QAR 10,200 · Summer term QAR 10,200 · Annual total QAR 34,000. - Year 1: Autumn term QAR 14,400 · Spring term QAR 10,800 · Summer term QAR 10,800 · Annual total QAR 36,000. - Year 2: Autumn term QAR 14,400 · Spring term QAR 10,800 · Summer term QAR 10,800 · Annual total QAR 36,000. - Year 3: Autumn term QAR 14,400 · Spring term QAR 10,800 · Summer term QAR 10,800 · Annual total QAR 36,000. - Year 4: Autumn term QAR 15,600 · Spring term QAR 11,700 · Summer term QAR 11,700 · Annual total QAR 39,000. - Year 5: Autumn term QAR 15,600 · Spring term QAR 11,700 · Summer term QAR 11,700 · Annual total QAR 39,000. - Year 6: Autumn term QAR 15,600 · Spring term QAR 11,700 · Summer term QAR 11,700 · Annual total QAR 39,000. - Year 7: Autumn term QAR 15,600 · Spring term QAR 11,700 · Summer term QAR 11,700 · Annual total QAR 39,000. - Year 8: Autumn term QAR 15,600 · Spring term QAR 11,700 · Summer term QAR 11,700 · Annual total QAR 39,000. - Year 9: Autumn term QAR 15,600 · Spring term QAR 11,700 · Summer term QAR 11,700 · Annual total QAR 39,000. - Year 10: Autumn term QAR 18,000 · Spring term QAR 13,500 · Summer term QAR 13,500 · Annual total QAR 45,000. - Year 11: Autumn term QAR 18,400 · Spring term QAR 13,800 · Summer term QAR 13,800 · Annual total QAR 46,000. - Year 12: Autumn term QAR 18,800 · Spring term QAR 14,100 · Summer term QAR 14,100 · Annual total QAR 47,000. - Year 13: Autumn term QAR 18,800 · Spring term QAR 14,100 · Summer term QAR 14,100 · Annual total QAR 47,000. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition fees are invoiced termly. The Autumn term invoice for 2025/26 is due by 31 August 2025. The Spring term invoice is due by the first day of Term 2 and the Summer term invoice is due by the first day of Term 3. - The school reserves the right to apply a 10% surcharge to late payments. No reduction in fees is made for temporary absence or illness, or for early withdrawal. - When a student joins during the first half of a term the full term fee is payable; when joining in the second half of a term a 50% term fee is charged. - The annual seat reservation fee (QAR 2,000) is deducted from the first term's tuition invoice. Registration and application fees are charged separately and are non-refundable. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable; fees published are for day pupils and there are no boarding fee schedules. Other costs and items excluded from tuition - Included in tuition: academic textbooks, student journals, exercise books and some stationery. - Not included in tuition (examples of additional costs parents should expect): school uniforms, bus transportation, educational trips, extra special needs requirements, fees charged by external after-school activity providers, BYOD requirements for Secondary students, IGCSE and A‑Level examination fees, before- and after-school care, one-to-one learning support/shadow teacher costs, and canteen/lunch purchases. - School uniform purchasing and bus service payments are handled separately and are chargeable in addition to tuition. Refund and non-refund information - The Application fee (QAR 450) and Registration fee (QAR 3,190) are non-refundable. No reduction in tuition is made for temporary absence, illness, or early withdrawal. The school may apply its published surcharge for late payment. Fee payment options and bank details - Accepted payment methods: bank transfer or cheque. Credit card facilities are not available. Cheques may be dropped at the school security gate for handover to the Finance Department; bank transfers must include the child's first and last name as the payment reference. - Bank details for transfers: Account Name: Oryx International School · Account Number: 4580-585935-001 · IBAN: QA87 CBQA 0000 0000 4580 5859 3500 1 · Bank: Commercial Bank of Qatar · Swift Code: CBQAQAQA. Payment from outside Qatar should be made by bank transfer.	Fee details Application and assessment fees - Assessment (one‑off): QAR 214 per student. There is no assessment fee for students entering FS1 or FS2. - Registration (one‑off): QAR 3,213 per student (non‑refundable). A separate deposit to secure a place (QAR 2,000) is requested and is deducted from Term 1 fees; the deposit is not refundable. Tuition fees by year group (per term and per year) - Pre‑School (FS1): Per term QAR 9,633 — Per year QAR 28,900. - Pre‑School (FS2): Per term QAR 9,633 — Per year QAR 28,900. - Primary (Year 1 to Year 6): Per term QAR 10,868 — Per year QAR 32,606. - Secondary (Year 7 to Year 9): Per term QAR 14,329 — Per year QAR 42,989. - Secondary (Year 10 & Year 11): Per term QAR 15,900 — Per year QAR 47,700. - Sixth Form (Year 12 & Year 13): Per term QAR 16,350 — Per year QAR 49,050. Consumable/stationery levy (per term and per year) - FS1 (Pre‑School): Per term QAR 214 — Per year QAR 643. - FS2 (Reception) to Year 6: Per term QAR 428 — Per year QAR 1,285. - Year 7 to Year 13: Per term QAR 642 — Per year QAR 1,928. (This levy covers art, science and DT consumables, photocopying and transport for school excursions.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoicing frequency: Fees are invoiced termly at the beginning of each term. Parents are invoiced for the full term if the student joins at the start of that term. - Invoice / term start dates for the 2025–2026 academic year: Term 1 — Sunday 31 August 2025; Term 2 — Wednesday 24 December 2025; Term 3 — Tuesday 24 March 2026. Fees are payable on or before the first day of each term. - Late / non‑payment: The school may restrict access to portals and reports, suspend participation in activities or place the student on a hold list for re‑enrolment if payment remains pending (actions may include termination of enrolment consistent with the school's policy). The full fees for each term become a legal obligation after one month from the due date. Boarding fees - Not applicable: there are no boarding or boarding fee lines in the official fee schedule or admissions/fee documents for the 2025–2026 fee schedule. No boarding accommodation or boarding fees are listed. Other costs and fees - External examinations and certain textbooks: Charges for external examinations (e.g., IGCSE, A‑levels) and books for Arabic and Qatari History are invoiced separately and are not included in the tuition figures above. - Uniforms: Uniform items must be purchased externally (suppliers include Zaks and Uniform Mart); uniform costs are paid to those suppliers and are not included in tuition. - Excursions and consumables: The consumable/stationery levy covers art, science and DT consumables, photocopying and transport for school excursions; additional extracurricular or optional activity fees may be invoiced separately as required. Refund information - Registration fee (QAR 3,213): not refundable under any circumstances. - Assessment fee (QAR 214): not refundable under any circumstances. - Term fees: partially refundable only as follows — the full fees for each term become the school's right and a legal obligation on the parent after one month from the due date; if a student withdraws before the end of the first month of a term, fees are charged for the number of days attended. The deposit paid to reserve a place is deducted from Term 1 fees and is not refundable. Fee payment options - Accepted methods: cash, credit/debit card, or bank transfer. Payment in person by card or cash at the administration building during working hours is accepted. - Bank account (for transfers): Account name: Qatar International School; Account number: 4090 719971 001; SWIFT: CBQAQAQA; IBAN: QA51 CBQA 0000 0000 4090 719971 001.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements Qatar International School is a private day school in Doha. Boarding is not offered. There are no on-site housing facilities or dormitories provided by the school.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are supplied by Noble House Trading and a uniform brochure is available. All items should be clearly labelled, and the school operates a No Name - No Claim policy for lost items. House Kits with colours Blue (Saturn), Red (Mars), Yellow (Jupiter), Green (Venus) and Orange (Mercury) are allocated when a child starts and are used for house competitions; plain black leather shoes are required and trainers are not permitted.	Uniform requirement Uniform is required for all students. Uniform items are available from ZAKS or Uniform Mart in Doha, with online ordering options available.
Food options	Food options Newrest Gulf Catering provides meals for the school. EYFS to Year 2 may bring packed lunches or use the Classroom Delivery Service; Years 3 to 6 have access to an onsite canteen with hot and cold options, and Years 7 to 13 have onsite catering with rotating menus. The school maintains a Nut Free policy and uses a Canteen Card system for purchases.	Food options School meals are provided by Grand Central Bakery across Primary and Secondary canteens. A range of healthy hot and cold options is offered, including sandwiches, hot meals, pastries, salads and fresh fruits. A cashless payment system is used for all meals.
House system	House system Pupils are allocated to one of five houses: Saturn (Blue), Mars (Red), Jupiter (Yellow), Venus (Green) and Mercury (Orange). House Kits with the house colours are used for House Competitions and Activity days, and a house is allocated to a child when they start at the school.	House system Students are allocated to one of six Houses: Aspiration, Collaboration, Diversity, Integrity, Loyalty, and Perseverance. House points are tracked monthly, with Class Dojo used in Primary and achievement points recorded in SIMS in Secondary; monthly assemblies declare the winner.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Qatar Airways owns Oryx International School and Orbital Education manages the school. The school is described as owned by Qatar Airways and operated by Orbital Education, and is part of the Orbital Education group.	Governance and ownership Qatar International School is privately owned by Sheikh Khalid bin Ali bin Ahmad Al Thani. It is governed by a six-member Governing Board responsible for strategic leadership, policy oversight and school improvement; the Chairman is Sheikh Khalid bin Ali bin Ahmed Al-Thani and the Principal is Deane Baker. The leadership is described as being led and managed entirely by British professionals.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Oryx International School follows a modified English National Curriculum for its international student body, with Early Years Foundation Stage (ages 3-5) and Primary (Key Stages 1 and 2) delivered through a topic-based approach that integrates literacy, numeracy, and creative subjects. In Secondary (Key Stage 3, ages 11-14), students follow a variant of the English National Curriculum, progressing to International GCSEs in Years 10-11 (ages 14-16) and then Sixth Form (Years 12-13, ages 16-18) offering A Levels or Level 3 Diploma/Subsidiary Diploma. Core IGCSE subjects include mathematics, English, and at least one science, with Arabic for Arab passport holders and Islamic Studies, plus complementary subjects such as Core PE, PSHE, and Qatar History. Language programmes include EAL support, Modern Foreign Languages (French and Spanish) from KS1, Arabic First Language for eligible students, Arabic as a Second Language after school, and home-language GCSE/A-Level options (Italian, Portuguese, Urdu, Sinhala) depending on availability. Regular assessments with personalised targets and parent reporting support progress across all stages, and IGCSE/A-Level syllabuses are UK-based (JCQ) and regulated by Ofsted.	Curriculum details Qatar International School follows the British educational system, broadly adhering to the English national curriculum, with Qatar MOEHE subjects (Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Qatar History) integrated into the programme; instruction is in English. Early Years Foundation Stage (Foundation Stage 1 to 5) uses the British EYFS framework, emphasizing prime areas and development across literacy, numeracy, and understanding of the world. QIS Primary (Foundation Stage to Year 6) delivers a thematic England-based curriculum with specialist lessons in Arabic A, Islamic Studies, PE, Music, and French, with phonics taught in Years 1–2. In Secondary (Years 7–9, Key Stage 3), students study English, Mathematics, Science, Arabic, Islamic Studies (Muslim students) or Qatar History, IT, Art & Design Technology, Geography, and History, with Non-Muslim students offered French; Year 9 selects IGCSE options. Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11) leads to IGCSE in each subject, with BTEC qualifications available; subjects include Arts, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, English First Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Physics, and more, with ESL and Arabic as a Foreign Language available as optional IGCSE. Key Stage 5 (Years 12–13) offers AS/IAS courses across a wide range of subjects, with exams run by CAIE, Edexcel, and AQA; Year 12 may re-sit IGCSEs and can continue AS to A Level in Year 13.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Oryx International School supports Social and Emotional Learning through a planned wellbeing program and events that promote emotional, physical, and mental health. Wellbeing Week engages pupils and staff in a range of activities designed to strengthen connections, resilience and self awareness, with World Mental Health Day alignment. The school has earned the Wellbeing Award for Schools from Optimus Education, which recognizes sustained emphasis on mental health and wellbeing for students and staff. The safeguarding framework underpins SEL, with staff training and a designated safeguarding lead to handle concerns confidentially and promptly. Staff undergo background checks and annual safeguarding training, and leaders and safeguarding staff are trained to standard levels to ensure a safe school environment.	Social & emotional learning QIS provides a holistic approach to social and emotional learning (SEL) through a staff-wide focus on wellbeing, a formal pastoral care system, and an embedded PSHE program. The school states that professionally staffed services support students' social, emotional and physical wellbeing, with all staff playing an active role in this support network. Pastoral care is organized via a year-group tutor system, led by a head of progress for each year, emphasising the responsibility of the whole community for student welfare. The Primary PSHE curriculum permeates the whole curriculum and includes weekly lessons on health and wellbeing, relationships, and living in the wider world, alongside dedicated mental health content for Years 1–6. School counselling is available with fully qualified staff who provide counselling, assess learning and behaviour, and liaise with external agencies to support students' wellbeing.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Oryx International School has the SENDIA Inclusion Award, recognizing inclusive education for children with special needs and/or disabilities, and is the first school in Qatar to receive this award. The inclusion award demonstrates a formal commitment to supporting students with SEND within the mainstream school setting. Public information does not itemize the specific kinds of Special Educational Needs the school can support. The school indicates it pursues inclusive education principles and supports students with SEND within the regular school environment. The English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision is listed separately as part of the school's language programme, and is delivered by specialist staff; this reflects a broader approach to supporting multilingual learners.	Special educational needs (SEN) QIS provides learning support to help students access the curriculum within a mainstream education framework. Where needed, external agencies can be engaged to aid with assessments, and an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and a Pupil Passport are created to set targets and track progress. A BPS Registered Test User is on staff to enable access arrangements for KS4/KS5 examinations when required. School counselling is available to support academic, personal/social and behavioural needs, with services that include assessment and liaison with external agencies. The school emphasises that all students access mainstream education and is not described as a specialist SEN institution; SEND support operates within the general school structure.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language An English as an Additional Language programme is provided to develop non English speaking students and is delivered by specialist teachers. In addition to EAL, the school offers Modern Foreign Languages including Arabic, French and Spanish. The school is working toward accreditation by The Bell Foundation ALFRI for exceptional EAL provision. The school notes the student body includes many nationalities, and EAL support helps students access the curriculum. The school also offers parent EAL classes to support families in using English to engage with the curriculum.	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) is described within the English Department as English as a Second Language (ESL). The department states that English is an integral subject and includes ESL, with the curriculum also offering a Speaking and Listening qualification. ESL/ESL provision is described as part of the English Department rather than as a separate, standalone EAL program.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing Week in October 2025 focused on emotional, physical, and mental health with themes such as connections and self care. The event involved students and staff across Primary and Secondary with activities designed to promote wellbeing and self awareness. Oryx International School holds the Wellbeing Award for Schools from Optimus Education, recognizing ongoing emphasis on mental health and wellbeing. Public information does not specify the staffing of mental health professionals, such as counsellors. The school emphasizes wellbeing initiatives as a core aspect of school life.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through the PSHE program, which includes annual focus on health and wellbeing, relationships, and living in the wider world, and specifically includes mental health lessons for Years 1–6. The school emphasises personal, social and emotional development as a core part of its ethos and PSHE curriculum. Fully qualified school counselors provide counselling, assess learning and behaviour, and liaise with external agencies to support students' wellbeing. Pastoral care reinforces a whole-school commitment to wellbeing, with tutors and heads of progress supporting students daily.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is supported through a formal program with staff background checks before engagement with students. All staff undergo annual safeguarding training and the school has a Designated Safeguarding Lead to manage referrals. Senior leaders and key staff are trained to Level 3 safeguarding standard. The safeguarding policies are based on UK statutory guidance and Qatar expectations. Concerns are raised and addressed through official channels, with confidentiality and appropriate escalation.	Safeguarding QIS has a formal safeguarding framework, including Safeguarding Policy, E-Safety Policy, Anti-Bullying Policy, Behaviour Policy and Clinic Policy. Staff receive safeguarding training and there are designated safeguarding leaders to whom concerns should be reported. The school promotes a climate where students and adults feel confident about sharing concerns, and anyone with concerns can speak to designated safeguarding leaders. Contact details and safeguarding resources are listed on the safeguarding page, including procedures for reporting concerns.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The Campus in Mesaimeer opened in September 2018, providing a five-star environment for teaching and learning. It has state-of-the-art facilities for science, technology and robotics, including laboratories for physics, biology and chemistry as well as food technology and resistant materials. Classrooms are equipped with interactive smart screens, and students have access to Chromebooks, Apple Macs and other computers as needed. The Sixth Form has a dedicated area with break-out rooms, a lecture theatre, a large study area and a social space with its own kitchen facilities. Performing arts spaces include music, drama and dance classrooms, audio-visual and music recording studios with a school radio station, and the auditorium seats over 400 people.	Facilities overview QIS has a Primary Library and a Secondary Learning Resource Centre. The Secondary Learning Resource Centre provides private and group study spaces, comfortable reading areas, a Maker Space, and computer access, and opens from 6:30 am each morning. Reading Cloud manages the library catalogue, enabling 24/7 online access to resources. Pastoral care and wellbeing are supported by a school counselling service and a dedicated Learning Support department.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school has a six-court sports hall with a fully equipped training gym, and an indoor 25m swimming pool with a teaching splash pool. Outdoor facilities include basketball, netball and tennis courts, an athletics track and a full-sized 4G football pitch with FIFA standard floodlights.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The school has science laboratories for physics, biology and chemistry, plus labs for food technology and resistant materials. Classrooms are fitted with interactive smart screens, and students have access to Chromebooks, Apple Macs and other computers as needed. The Sixth Form is served by a designated area with break-out rooms, a lecture theatre, a large study area and a social space with its own kitchen facilities. There are well-equipped fine art and design classrooms, music and drama classrooms, and AV and music recording studios. The auditorium seats over 400 people.	Academic facilities QIS follows the national curriculum for England as a British International School. Examinations are taken at GCSE, IGCSE and A Levels; IGCSE is offered through Cambridge Assessment International Examinations and Pearson Edexcel, while AS and A Levels are offered through CAIE, Pearson Edexcel and AQA. Key Stages are taught across Early Years to Year 13, with Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9), Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11) and Key Stage 5 (Years 12–13). Six Form offers 20 AS and A Level courses, including ICT, Computer Science, Business and Art & Design. In 2022, Year 12 AS results included 85% achieving three AS grades A–E (37% A–B) and Year 13 achieved 98% with 60% at A–B; graduates typically apply to universities worldwide, with representation at over 77 universities. The school also offers BTEC International Level 2 & 3 as part of its Sixth Form offerings.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Performing arts spaces include exclusive music, drama and dance classrooms, as well as audio-visual and music recording studios with a school radio station. Fine art and design classrooms are well equipped. The auditorium seats over 400 people and is used for school productions, music and drama recitals, assemblies and other events with state-of-the-art sound and lighting. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is part of the school's extra-curricular programme.	Extra curricular facilities QIS provides a broad range of extra-curricular opportunities, including Student Senior Leadership, Prefects, Experience Ambassadors, Model United Nations (MUN), International Award (IA) and World Scholar's Cup (WSC). An official Secondary Extra Curricular Activities Handbook is published. The Sixth Form emphasizes extensive extra-curricular opportunities and leadership development.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Oryx International School opened in January 2016 as a Qatar Airways initiative, established in partnership with Orbital Education to provide a British-style education for the children of Qatar Airways staff. It joined the Orbital Education family in 2016 and moved to a purpose-built Mesaimeer campus in 2018. In 2021 the school launched the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award for its Sixth Form, and in 2023 it earned Council of International Schools (CIS) accreditation and ALFRI accreditation. The school is owned by Qatar Airways and operated by Orbital Education. In January 2024 the school was awarded the IEnvA Stage 2 Compliance Certificate.	History Qatar International School (QIS) was founded in 1977 by Sheikh Ali bin Ahmed bin Thani Al Thani, with Joyce Griffin serving as the first Principal. The school began in a modest setting and moved to its current Al Dafna site on United Nations Street in 2001. It grew into one of Qatar's largest international schools, now welcoming around 2,000 students under the leadership of British professionals, including Executive Principal Deane Baker, who joined in 2013. In 2020, QIS achieved two major international accreditations: British Schools Overseas (BSO) Outstanding in all categories and Council for International Schools (CIS) accreditation via a fast-track process; it became the first school in the world to receive CIS accreditation through that route and later became the only school in the Middle East to deliver OLEVI training from the UK.
Community	Community The Oryx community brings together staff and families from over 90 nationalities, with more than 70 languages spoken, reflecting a diverse international environment. An active PSA coordinates volunteering opportunities and provides a two-way line of communication between staff and families. Within the PSA, Parent Class Representatives and Parent Contact Representatives support class-level involvement and help welcome new families. The community organizes events such as Pink Day, the School Fair, International Day, sports days, and school productions, with notable celebrations including the Oryx Fair and TEDx events. Parent involvement is supported through English as an Additional Language (EAL) classes for parents and wellbeing initiatives, including a monthly event calendar and parent workshops.	Community The student body is international, with over 70 nationalities represented. Parent involvement is supported through direct teacher–parent engagement and learning events, with parents invited to progress meetings and to engage in curriculum discussions. The school hosts community events and competitions, including Eco Code initiatives, a Sheikh Faleh bin Nasser Al Thani Quran Memorization Competition, and the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest. Annual trips, sports days, and art exhibitions are part of school life and provide opportunities for families to participate.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The PSA is the school's Parent Staff Association, bringing together parents, teachers and staff to plan and facilitate school events. The PSA coordinates volunteering opportunities and provides a two-way link between families and school life. Within the PSA, Parent Class Representatives and Parent Contact Representatives support class-level involvement and help welcome new families. Parents can express interest in joining by completing an Expression of Interest Form and contacting psa@oryxschool.qa. PSA activities include coordinating events such as school productions, International Day, Pink Day and the School Fair. The school supports ongoing parent involvement through EAL classes for parents and a monthly event calendar and wellbeing-focused communications.	Parent teacher association QIS does not publish a separate PTA on its official pages; parent involvement is described through engagement channels rather than a named PTA. Parents are invited into progress meetings and learning events to discuss student progress and curriculum. The Extra-Curricular Activities program involves a wide range of activities and clubs, with opportunities for parental participation and support. Families may contribute to school life by volunteering or supporting events and activities such as Eco Code initiatives, Quran memorization competitions, and art contests. QIS emphasizes a collaborative culture and regular communication with families, reflecting its ABC motto: Aspiring to excellence, Building futures, Celebrating diversity.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school follows a modified version of the English National Curriculum for England and Wales to suit its international student body in Doha. The curriculum is balanced, including academic work as well as music, drama and sports. A personalised target setting approach uses baseline assessments with regular monitoring and reporting to parents; the Secondary School (11-18) progresses from KS3 to IGCSE and A Levels with externally assessed examinations.	Academic & intellectual The school follows the British educational system, broadly adhering to the national curriculum for England. It operates at all key stages from Early Years through Year 13 and uses GCSE/IGCSE and A Levels for examinations. The school also offers BTEC qualifications as of 2019.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The curriculum includes time for music, drama and sports. A comprehensive programme of extra-curricular and after-school activities includes sports, arts, languages and expeditions. The facilities are designed to support growth across subjects including the creative arts.	Arts & creative —
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Language programmes include Arabic 1 and Arabic 2, French and Spanish delivered by specialist staff, along with an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme. The Bell Foundation ALFRI accreditation is being pursued for exceptional EAL provision. Regular provision includes Spanish and French for all students; Arabic is mandatory for Arab nationals, and Arabic as a first language is available at GCSE; Home languages such as Italian, Portuguese, Urdu and Sinhala are provided at GCSE level where feasible; Arabic 2 is offered as an after-school activity.	Cultural & language —
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The school provides a comprehensive programme of extra-curricular and after-school activities including sports, arts, languages and expeditions. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is offered at Oryx International School. Expeditions and other activities broaden student interests beyond the classroom.	Social & hobbies —
Community & service	Community & service The school is described as a school at the heart of the community. It is supported by the Parent Staff Association and has forums for parent involvement; EAL classes for parents are available to support families. The wellbeing and community environment is reinforced through student support and safeguarding practices.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Sixth Form offers leadership opportunities and enrichment programmes, with a more flexible timetable, a personal tutor and dedicated study spaces. The Head of Sixth Form and University Counsellor guide students through future career and university decisions. There are three Sixth Form pathways: A Level, A Level Diploma or Subsidiary Diploma.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing and mental health are prioritized: the school promotes positive mental health and wellbeing for pupils, staff and parents and uses a whole-school approach to support resilience. A Wellness Committee organizes events, fitness challenges and other activities; the school counsellor is available to staff and students. Safeguarding and staff training are in place, and a child protection policy supports the school community.	Lifestyle & wellbeing —
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Arabic 1, Arabic 2, French and Spanish are delivered by specialist staff, and an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme supports non-English-speaking students; the school is working towards ALFRI accreditation. Regular provision includes Spanish and French for all students, while Arabic (First Language) is compulsory from FS1 to Year 12 for students with Arabic passports. Home Languages are offered at GCSE level (and potentially A Level) including Italian and Portuguese, with Urdu (to be confirmed) and Sinhala; availability depends on staff. Arabic 2 is offered as an after-school activity once per week.	Language provision Qatar International School is a British International School that follows the national curriculum of England and serves students from Early Years through Year 13 (ages 3–18). The Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum underpins the foundation stage, with seven areas of learning and development, including three Prime Areas and four Specific Areas. In Secondary, Year 7–9 study English, Mathematics, Science, Arabic, Islamic Studies (Muslim students), Qatar History, Information Technology, Art & Design & Technology, Geography, and History; Non-Muslim students may study French. In Years 10–11, the IGCSE programme is pursued across a broad range of subjects, with English First Language, English Literature, French, Arabic First Language, and Arabic as a Foreign Language available as IGCSE options. In Years 12–13, the school offers AS and A Level courses (about 20 subjects are available), with strong university progression, including a history of applying to around 77 universities worldwide.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards None specified for students here.	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations COBIS Beacon School Status ( Primary ); The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award program is part of school activities.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions The school serves children aged 3 to 18 years, covering Foundation Stage 1 to Year 10 and Year 12 for Sixth Form. It is open to local and expatriate students. At least one parent or guardian must be a full-time employee of Qatar Airways or one of their approved subsidiaries. Admissions are currently open for the 2024/25 academic year for FS1 and FS2 applications. Applications are submitted via the online admissions portal after completing the Application Form, and a non-refundable 450 QAR application fee applies. January starters are accepted in most year groups with the exception of Years 10–13. Tours for prospective parents can be booked online. The admissions process consists of six steps: Step 1 Eligibility (must be a full-time Qatar Airways employee or approved subsidiary); Step 2 Submit an Enquiry & Visit Us; Step 3 Submit Your Application via the online Admissions Portal (the portal remains open for the duration of the admissions journey and editing after submission is not possible); Step 4 Assessment (FS1–Year 2 are assessed via Soft Assessments; Year 3–Year 13 complete a formal CAT4 assessment); Step 5 Offer & Acceptance (an Offer Letter and Admissions Enrolment Agreement are issued; a non-refundable Registration Fee of 3,190 QAR must be paid by the stated deadline, typically 7 days); Step 6 Welcome to Oryx International School (the Academic Administration Team provides further information after joining). Mandatory documentation includes attested report cards (Year 2 and above), MOEHE registration requirements, and health-related certificates. For arrivals, health certificates (Fit to Join) must be obtained from a local health centre, and new students must meet MOEHE health and paperwork requirements. Sixth Form admissions require prior English National Curriculum background and completion of I/GCSEs where applicable. The school is managed by Orbital Education and coordinated by the Admissions Team. Tours or enquiries can be made via the Admissions pages, Online Application, or Enquiry pathways.	Admissions The school follows the English National Curriculum and operates from Early Years through Year 13. Admissions priorities are given to siblings already in the school, applicants with an excellent English background, and students with outstanding previous school reports. All applicants must have a valid Qatar Residency Permit before starting school in Qatar, and the most recent school report must be attached (reports not in English require translation). The pre-application form is free of charge, and applicants should ensure the attached report is in pdf/png/jpg format; if no report is attached, the submission will be rejected. The school is currently full, so names are placed on a waiting list until a place becomes available.
Scholarships	Scholarships Sixth Form students have received university offers and scholarship opportunities. A May 2025 news post highlights that Sixth Form students secured offers to top universities worldwide, including instances of unconditional offers and scholarship opportunities. Examples include a Kyushu University offer with a full scholarship (including monthly living allowance and return flights) and scholarships to Massey University and the University of Canterbury. The article notes a substantial number of offers to Russell Group universities and other leading institutions, illustrating that students benefit from university-level opportunities through the school's Careers & Guidance Counsellor and Sixth Form leadership.	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist The school does not publish information on any existing waitlist.	Waitlist There is a waiting list for admissions when vacancies are not available. Your child's name will be on the waiting list until a place becomes available.
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