A British heritage and an
international perspective
Kings’ School Al Barsha
A British heritage and an international perspective
Kings’ School Al Barsha
learning
At Kings’ School Al Barsha, we treat every day as one step along a learning journey designed to inspire children to become effective, enthusiastic, independent and lifelong learners.
Our unique curriculum is based on the National Curriculum for England and Early Years Foundation Stage, but is influenced by current issues and local opportunities, and evolves to meet the specific needs and interests of our international community of children. Teaching takes a cross-curricular, theme-based approach, designed to immerse children in subjects and inspire them to make connections. There is a clear emphasis on teaching skills and concepts that challenge children at all levels. We also aim to inspire children with exciting hands-on learning experiences, imaginative teaching and educational trips.
The main curriculum is enriched by specialist teaching of French, Spanish, Arabic, PE, ICT, Swimming, Music and Islamic Education. Children also have access to an impressive level of technology, including iPads for all children, just one of the ways we equip and enthuse our pupils for lifelong learning.
Early Years
Foundation Stage (FS1 and FS2 | Ages 3-5)
Our Foundation Stage offers a warm, happy and nurturing start to school life for children aged 3 to 5. Based on the UK Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), our approach supports children’s learning through play, exploration and discovery, helping them to grow in confidence and independence.
Every child is recognised as unique. Teachers work closely with families to create an engaging, interest-led learning experience that supports children’s social, emotional and academic development. We believe that happy, confident and well-motivated children are successful learners. Our Foundation Stage provides a safe, secure and welcoming environment where children develop independence, confidence and a love of learning, laying strong foundations for the next stage of their education and beyond.
Our Guiding Principles within the Foundation Stage:
Primary
Our Primary School provides a stimulating and supportive learning journey for children aged 5 to 11, through Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2) and Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6). Learning is engaging, purposeful and carefully designed to build strong foundations in literacy, numeracy and wider curriculum areas.
In Key Stage 1, children are supported as they transition from the play-based learning of the Foundation Stage to more structured classroom routines. Learning remains creative and imaginative, with opportunities for collaboration, investigation and hands-on experiences that build confidence and enthusiasm for learning.
In Key Stage 2, there is a greater focus on independence, leadership and collaboration. Children are encouraged to think critically, take responsibility and develop resilience, while leadership opportunities help them grow in confidence and self-belief.
In the final two years, leadership is further developed, and children are expected to take on various leadership roles. The most prestigious and responsible are the elected positions of Head Boy, Head Girl, House Captain and Vice House Captain for each of the four Houses. These school leaders will play an integral role in the running of the school, planning and engaging in many events throughout the year.
Across all Primary years, learning regularly extends beyond the classroom through enriching experiences and real-world opportunities. Our Primary curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, nurture character and develop confident learners who are well prepared for the transition to Secondary School.
Secondary
Our Secondary School supports students aged 11 to 16 through Key Stage 3 (Years 7 to 9) and Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11). The curriculum is designed to be challenging, engaging and relevant, preparing students for academic success and life beyond school.
In Key Stage 3, students follow a broad and balanced curriculum that develops strong foundations across a wide range of subjects. Learning is concept-based and enquiry-driven, encouraging students to think deeply, make connections across subjects and develop curiosity and independence. Alongside academic learning, students are supported in developing personal, social and emotional skills, helping them grow into confident and responsible young people.
In Key Stage 4, students study a combination of compulsory and optional subjects in greater depth, leading to GCSE qualifications at the end of Year 11. Guidance is provided to help students make informed choices, including pathways that contribute towards the English Baccalaureate (EBacc), supporting future university and career aspirations.
Throughout the Secondary years, students are encouraged to think critically, take responsibility for their learning and develop the skills, resilience and confidence needed to succeed in an increasingly complex world.
Students can sit up to 10 GCSEs. It is also possible to gain qualifications that form the English Baccalaureate (EBacc), a performance measure recognising students with a C or Level 5 grade or higher across several core academic subjects: English, Maths, History or Geography, Sciences, Languages and Computer Science. The subjects have been identified by Russell Group universities in the UK as the preferred subjects for entry to degree courses.
Our Guiding Principles within the Secondary Stage:
Academic Excellence
Farhan Zeb Kabeel
Highest marks in the world Pearson Edexcel GCSE Combined Science
Sara Al Louzi
Highest marks in the world Pearson Edexcel GCSE Language A
Ryaan Saad Abdalla
Highest marks in the world Pearson Edexcel GCSE History
Petr Ivannikov
Highest marks in the UAE Pearson Edexcel GCSE Design & Technology
Sixth Form
Our Sixth Form curriculum is designed to prepare students for success at university and beyond. Students study a carefully selected range of A-Level subjects, enabling them to build depth in their chosen disciplines while keeping future options open. Many of these subjects are recognised by Russell Group universities in the UK as preferred subjects for entry to degree courses.
Teaching is subject-specialist and academically rigorous, developing independent study skills, critical thinking and intellectual confidence. Students are supported in making informed subject choices, ensuring their programmes align with university requirements and long-term aspirations.
Alongside academic study, students receive structured guidance throughout the university application process, including support with course selection, personal statements, admissions assessments and interviews, both in the UK and internationally.
Beyond the classroom, Sixth Form life places a strong emphasis on leadership, responsibility and student voice. Students take on meaningful leadership roles across the school community, acting as mentors and role models for younger pupils and contributing to wider school initiatives.
A broad enrichment programme supports personal development, encouraging students to engage in volunteering, community projects and wider co-curricular opportunities. These experiences help students build confidence, resilience and a strong sense of purpose, complementing their academic studies.
By the end of Sixth Form, students leave Kings’ School Al Barsha as confident, capable and well-rounded young adults, prepared for the demands of higher education and the opportunities that lie beyond school.
Our Guiding Principles within the Sixth Form:
Kings’ Alumni
Discover how graduates from across our schools are making an impact – leading innovative companies, advancing scientific breakthroughs, shaping the arts, serving communities, and inspiring the next generation. Their journeys are diverse, but they all share one thing in common: a foundation built at Kings’ that continues to guide their success.
Yasmin was Kings’ School Al Barsha’s Head Girl from the first Kings’ graduating cohort; class of 2019. Yasmin went on to graduate from Kingston University London with a first-class honours degree in Business Management. Following her graduation, Yasmin was offered a job as an associate at PwC in Dubai, within the Assurance Department.
In Yasmin’s words: “I feel extremely lucky to have a Kings’ education behind me and to have benefitted from such strong support from the academic team. I was fortunate enough to have been awarded a dual sports and academic scholarship that presented further developmental opportunities and pushed me to work to the best of my ability. I was always interested in business and relished the opportunity to establish the Kings’ Enterprise Club. I carry with me great memories and friendships from Kings’ that will remain with me and continue to shape me as an individual throughout my career, and my life.”
Yasmin Kubba
A Levels: Biology, Business, Maths
Michael Rizk
A Levels: Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Further Maths
Millie McElroy
A Levels: English Literature, History, Spanish
Juan Salazar
A Levels: Drama and Theatre Studies, English, Economics
From Student Leader to Global Entrepreneur
As a Head Girl at Kings’, Amira Hassan was known for her determination, empathy, and ability to inspire others. Today, she’s the founder of GreenRoots Africa, a social enterprise transforming rural communities in Kenya through sustainable farming practices. By training local farmers in eco-friendly techniques and creating direct trade opportunities, Amira has helped thousands of families improve their livelihoods. She credits Kings’ for teaching her the importance of leadership rooted in service.
From Student Leader to Global Entrepreneur
As a Head Girl at Kings’, Amira Hassan was known for her determination, empathy, and ability to inspire others. Today, she’s the founder of GreenRoots Africa, a social enterprise transforming rural communities in Kenya through sustainable farming practices. By training local farmers in eco-friendly techniques and creating direct trade opportunities, Amira has helped thousands of families improve their livelihoods. She credits Kings’ for teaching her the importance of leadership rooted in service.
From Student Leader to Global Entrepreneur
As a Head Girl at Kings’, Amira Hassan was known for her determination, empathy, and ability to inspire others. Today, she’s the founder of GreenRoots Africa, a social enterprise transforming rural communities in Kenya through sustainable farming practices. By training local farmers in eco-friendly techniques and creating direct trade opportunities, Amira has helped thousands of families improve their livelihoods. She credits Kings’ for teaching her the importance of leadership rooted in service.
