Are you considering a new chapter in your life, one that involves moving to the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi? Whether you’re drawn by career opportunities, cultural richness, or year-round sunshine, relocating to Abu Dhabi can be a transformative journey.
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is rapidly evolving into a global hub for business and education. Expats from around the world are drawn to this dynamic city, making it a popular destination for families seeking a high-quality education for their children. In this guide, we will explore the schooling options in Abu Dhabi, including the education system, how to choose the right school, and important considerations for nurseries and pre-schools.
The Education System
Public vs. Private Schools: Abu Dhabi offers both public and private schools, with private schools accounting for the majority (90%) of the education sector. Private schools often follow international curricula from countries such as the US, UK, France, Russia, and India.
Curriculum Diversity: There are 247 private schools in Abu Dhabi offering 17 different curriculums. When choosing a school, consider a curriculum that aligns with your child's potential future educational path.
Competitive Admissions: Demand for top schools is high, and many have long waiting lists. Admission is typically on a first-come, first-served basis, with admission tests used to determine grade levels.
Public Education: Public education is free and mandatory for Emirati children up to secondary level. However, state schools are gender-segregated and primarily teach in Arabic, making private schools a popular choice for expat children.
Enrolment Age: All children in Abu Dhabi must be enrolled in school from the age of 6.
Choosing the Right School
Research: Make a list of schools that match your child's educational needs and preferences.
Curriculum: Choose a curriculum that suits your child's potential future plans and make appointments to visit the schools that offer it.
Important Questions: During school visits, inquire about exam success rates, extracurricular activities, class sizes, staff turnover, and any specific support for special needs students.
Application Process
Online Application: Complete the school's online application form.
Required Documents: Provide the necessary documents as requested by the school, schedule an assessment, and pay any application fees.
Offer Letter: Once accepted, you'll receive an offer letter. Sign it and pay a deposit to secure your child's seat. Waitlisted candidates often have a chance as well.
Admission Test
Grade and Curriculum-Based: Admission tests vary depending on grade levels and curricula. They typically cover subjects like math, science, and English.
First-Come, First-Serve: Tests help determine the child's grade level and are used for admissions on a first-come, first-served basis.
Nurseries / Pre-School:
Age Range: Nurseries are available for children aged 3 months to 4 years, but they are recommended from 12 months onwards.
Curriculum Options: Choose a nursery with a curriculum that aligns with your preferences.
Age of Enrolment: In Abu Dhabi, children can start nursery as early as 1.5 months, but most nurseries accept children from 4 months old.
Program Focus: Nurseries in Abu Dhabi emphasise purposeful play and individualised learning, offering activities like sports, music exploration, creative arts, and storytelling. Some nurseries also integrate STEM learning into their curriculum.
Top 5 Nurseries (approx. fees):
Discovery Nursery, Al Bateen - AED 32k
Redwood Montessori Nursery, Al Sa’Diyat - AED 45k
LadyBird Nursery, Al Zaabi - AED 26k
Falcon British Nursery, Saif Gubbash - AED 27k
Odyssey Nursery, Al Mushrif - AED 30k
Top 5 Schools (approx. fees):
British International School - AED 53k
Aldar Academies, Al Yasmina Academy - AED 43k
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi School - AED 65k
Aldar Academies, The Pearl Academy - AED 42k
Raha International School - AED 40k
Additional Considerations:
Employer Support: Some employers in Abu Dhabi offer assistance with schooling fees for dependents. It's worth exploring this potential benefit when negotiating your employment package.
By considering these factors and following the steps outlined, you can make an informed decision about your child's education in Abu Dhabi and ensure a smooth transition to this vibrant city.
Comentarios