United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi
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The school offers a British Curriculum taught in an international context, with the UAE Ministry of Education syllabus incorporated into the structure. The Foundation Stage follows the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum (EYFS). The Primary curriculum follows the National Curriculum for England and uses a cross-curricular, skills-based approach. The Secondary School follows the National Curriculum for England, with a Design Thinking approach to learning and preparation for Key Stage 4.
Art and Music are part of the curriculum, with Art and Music listed as Foundation Subjects in Primary and as Specialist Subjects in Secondary. The school also offers enrichment through Extra-curricular Activities that extend learning beyond the classroom.
English is a core subject in Primary and Secondary. Arabic is offered as Arabic (for Arabic Speakers) and Arabic (for non-Arabic Speakers). Islamic Studies is provided for Muslim students, and French is offered as a Specialist Subject in Secondary. UAE Social Studies is also included in the curriculum.
Wellbeing and personal development are integrated across the curriculum. In Primary and Secondary, students have opportunities for leadership roles and external projects. PSHE and other wellbeing-related provisions are part of the program, supporting social and emotional development.
The school holds accreditations including The Alliance for Sustainable Schools (TASS), The Wellbeing Award for Schools (WAS) and British School Overseas (BSO), reflecting its focus on sustainability, wellbeing and international standards.
The curriculum uses a Design Thinking approach in learning, and there are leadership opportunities and access to guidance from school counsellors and subject leads for progression planning, including GCSE pathways. Information evenings and one-to-one guidance support students as they prepare for options ahead.
Wellbeing is a central focus, with a supportive ethos that values mental and emotional health. The curriculum includes Physical Education and other activities designed to promote physical health and overall wellbeing.
GEMS Founders School - Masdar City (GFA) offers the National Curriculum for England for students from FS1 to Year 10. Located in Abu Dhabi’s eco-friendly urban community, the campus integrates environmental responsibility directly into the student experience. A standout feature is the "Sustainnovation" program, which blends sustainability and innovation, teaching students to apply eco-conscious practices through hands-on projects and cross-curricular learning. The school operates with renewable energy sources and incorporates green spaces throughout. Students benefit from dedicated science laboratories, music rooms, and expansive outdoor play areas. Beyond core subjects, GFA provides an extracurricular program featuring robotics, coding, design challenges, and philanthropic activities. Leadership development is actively encouraged through roles like House Captains and the student council. By combining British educational standards with a unique focus on environmental stewardship, the school prepares students to be informed, earth-conscious citizens.