Safa British School: A Comprehensive Overview
Safa British School is a British curriculum school in Dubai that offers high-quality education to children of various nationalities. The school was founded in 2004 and has grown into a global family of over 1400 students from over 70 nationalities and cultures. The school follows the UK National Curriculum and has a low student-teacher ratio 12:1.
Safa British School is known for its excellent academic programs, highly trained staff, and state-of-the-art facilities. The school offers various extracurricular activities, which include sports, music, and drama, to help students in forming their skills and interests. The school fees are updated regularly and are competitive compared to other British curriculum schools in Dubai.
The admissions process at Safa British School is straightforward and welcomes children of all nationalities, ethnicities, genders, and religions. The school requires certain documents, fees, and assessments to be completed before admission. Safa British School is a great choice for parents looking for a British curriculum school in Dubai that offers high-quality education, a diverse student body, and excellent facilities.
School Overview
History and Development
Safa British School Dubai was founded 2004 by Knowledge Venture LLC. The school has increased since its establishment and moved to a new campus in 2020. It is a private and co-educational school located in Al Safa, Dubai. Safa British School follows the UK National Curriculum and offers education to children from the Foundation Stage through to Key Stage 3.
Vision and Ethos
Safa British School’s vision is to provide an outstanding education that inspires students to be lifelong learners and responsible global citizens. The school’s ethos is based on the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, which are integrated into the curriculum. Safa British School aims to provide a nurturing and inclusive learning atmosphere that supports the individual needs of each student.
Ownership and Governance
Safa British School is owned by Knowledge Venture LLC and governed by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The school has been rated as “Outstanding” by KHDA in the past and currently holds a “Very Good” rating. The brand-new campus provides state-of-the-art facilities for students to learn and grow.
Academic Framework
Curriculum Overview
Safa British School follows England’s British and National Curriculum. The framework provides academic rigor and prepares students for future education and careers. The school strongly focuses on teaching and learning, and students are urged to develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Early Years Foundation Stage
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is designed for children aged three to five. The curriculum focuses on developing children’s communication, language, literacy, and numeracy skills. The EYFS also includes learning through play, which helps children to develop their creativity and social skills.
Primary Education
Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 form the primary education phase at Safa British School. Key Stage 1 includes Year 1 and Year 2, while Key Stage 2 covers Year 3 to Year 6. The curriculum includes English, mathematics, science, history, geography, art, music, and physical education. Students are also encouraged to develop their social, moral, spiritual, and cultural development.
Secondary Education
Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 form the secondary education phase at Safa British School. Key Stage 3 includes Year 7 to Year 9, while Key Stage 4 covers Year 10 and Year 11. The curriculum includes English, mathematics, science, history, geography, art, music, and physical education, along with modern foreign languages. Students are also urged to develop their critical thinking as well as problem-solving skills.
Key Stage Breakdown
The curriculum at Safa British School is based upon the National Curriculum for England. Students in Key Stage 3 stick to a timetable that covers multiple subjects before making option choices for Key Stage 4 during Year 9. The Key Stage 4 syllabus is based on the GCSE program, which is internationally recognized and prepares students for further education or employment. The school has a student-teacher ratio 12:1, ensuring students receive personalized attention and support.
Admissions
Admission Process
Safa British School is a renowned British Curriculum school in Dubai. The admission process is straightforward and transparent. Parents are required to submit a copy of their child’s passport, residency visa/UAE entry stamp, Emirates ID for child and both parents, two recent passport photographs, and copies of their child’s last two school reports for all children entering Year 1 and above.
After submitting the required documents, students are assessed to determine their academic level and suitability for the school’s programs. The school’s admission policy considers all children, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, gender, or religion. Families are welcome to audition for Safa British School, and the Registrar is available to answer any individual queries regarding admissions.
Fee Structure
Safa British School’s annual fee average ranges from AED 42,000 to 65,000. The school offers multiple payment options, including monthly, quarterly, and annual payments. The fees cover tuition, books, and other academic materials. The school also offers multiple extracurricular activities, which may incur additional charges.
Parents are advised to contact the school’s administration to inquire about the fee structure and payment options. The school’s administration is always available to answer any questions or concerns regarding the school’s fee structure.
In conclusion, Safa British School offers a transparent and straightforward admission process, and the school’s administration is always available to answer any questions or concerns regarding the admission process or fee structure.
School Leadership
Principal’s Message
Ms. Zara Harrington leads
Safa British School, awarded the Top Schools Award for Best Principal in the United Arab Emirates in 2021-22. Ms. Harrington has a wealth of experience in education, having previously worked as a teacher, head of department, and deputy headteacher in the UK. She is passionate about providing a high-quality education that prepares students for the challenges of the future.
Ms. Harrington’s message to the students and parents of Safa British School is one of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. She believes that every student has the potential to succeed and that the school is responsible for providing them with the tools they need to achieve their goals. Ms. Harrington also emphasizes the importance of community, encouraging students and parents to get involved in school life and work together towards a common goal.
Teaching Staff
Safa British School has a team of highly qualified and experienced teachers from various nationalities. The main teacher’s nationality is British, ensuring the school can deliver the UK National Curriculum to a high standard. In addition to the main teaching staff, the school also employs several teaching assistants who provide support in the classroom.
One of the key members of the teaching staff at Safa British School is Louise McGeever, who is the Head of Primary. Ms. McGeever ensures that the school’s youngest students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for future challenges. She is passionate about providing a nurturing and supportive environment where students can thrive.
Overall, the teaching staff at Safa British School are committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for future challenges. They are passionate about their work and are dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential.
Student Life
Student Body Diversity
Safa British School boasts a diverse student body, with over 70 nationalities and cultures represented among its 1,400 students. This creates a rich cultural environment where students can learn from each other and gain a global perspective. The school is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity, and students are encouraged to celebrate and appreciate different cultures.
Wellbeing and Support
The wellbeing and support of students is a top priority at Safa British School. The school has a team of dedicated counselors who support students in need. Additionally, the school offers mindfulness sessions to help students regulate stress and improve their mental health. Students of determination are also provided with individualized support to guarantee they can fully participate in school life.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Safa British School offers multiple extracurricular activities to fulfill the interests of its diverse student body. Students can participate in sports such as netball, basketball, swimming and other activities such as music, drama, and art. These activities allow students to develop skills, make new friends, and have fun outside the classroom.
Overall, Safa British School provides a supportive as well as inclusive atmosphere where students can thrive academically and personally. The school’s commitment to diversity, wellbeing, and extracurricular activities ensures that students have a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in the future.
Facilities and Location
Safa British School is in Al Safa 1, Jumeirah, Dubai. The school’s location benefits families in Al Safa and neighboring communities. Residents of the following communities can easily send their children to SBS: Al Quoz, Umm Suqeim, and Jumeirah.
Campus Features
Safa British School boasts a brand new campus that was celebrated in 2020. The campus has modern facilities catering to students’ needs from FS1 to Year 13. The school has various outdoor facilities to support the holistic development of students. There are two temperature-controlled swimming pools, one for primary students and the other for secondary students. The school also has an outdoor football pitch, a basketball court, and a running track.
Inside the campus are advanced science labs, art studios, music rooms, and a well-stocked library. The school also has a dedicated ICT lab and a STEAM lab, which is equipped with the latest technology and equipment to support the school’s STEAM curriculum.
Accessibility and Area
Safa British School is easily accessible from all parts of Dubai. The school is located on Al Wasl Road, a major road connecting to Sheikh Zayed Road. The school is just a few minutes’ drive from Umm Suqeim and Sheikh Zayed Road, making it easily accessible to parents who work in Dubai’s business districts.
The school’s location is also convenient for parents who live in Al Safa 1, Jumeirah, and neighboring communities. The school is located in a safe and secure area, and the campus is surrounded by lush greenery, providing students with a peaceful and conducive learning environment.
In conclusion, Safa British School is a modern and well-equipped school that offers multiple facilities to support the holistic development of students. The school’s location is easily accessible from all parts of Dubai, making it a convenient choice for parents who live or work in the city.
Community and Values
Safa British School is a diverse community that celebrates cultural inclusivity. Its curriculum and extracurricular activities reflect the school’s core values of tolerance, consideration, and responsibility.
Cultural Inclusivity
Safa British School’s commitment to cultural inclusivity is reflected in its diverse student body and faculty. The school welcomes students of all nationalities and backgrounds and encourages them to embrace their unique identities while fostering a sense of community and shared values.
Responsibility and Leadership
Safa British School instills a sense of responsibility and leadership in its students through its curriculum and extracurricular activities. Students are urged to take ownership of their learning and to formulate the skills and knowledge necessary to become leaders in their respective fields.
The school also emphasizes the importance of social responsibility, encouraging students to give back to their communities through service projects and other initiatives. By instilling these values in its students, Safa British School is preparing them to become responsible and engaged citizens of the world.
In conclusion, Safa British School is an international school that values cultural inclusivity, responsibility, and leadership. Through its curriculum and extracurricular activities, the school prepares its students to become leaders in their respective fields while instilling a sense of social responsibility and a commitment to their communities.
Language and Cultural Studies
Safa British School strongly emphasizes language and cultural studies, recognizing the importance of effective communication and understanding in today’s global society. Students at the school can study Arabic and Islamic education alongside their other subjects.
Arabic and Islamic Education
The school’s Arabic and Islamic education program is designed to help students develop a strong understanding of the language and culture of the UAE. The program covers various topics, including Arabic grammar, reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students also learn about Islamic history, culture, and values.
The school’s approach to Arabic and Islamic education is designed to be inclusive and respectful of all students, regardless of their background or beliefs. The program is taught by experienced and qualified teachers passionate about helping students develop their language and cultural skills.
Overall, Safa British School’s language and cultural studies program is an important part of its commitment to presenting a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in the modern world. By emphasizing effective communication and cultural understanding, the school is helping to create global citizens ready to impact the world positively.
Early Development
Foundation Stage Focus
Safa British School strongly emphasizes early development, recognizing the importance of providing children with a solid base for future academic and personal success. The school’s Foundation Stage (FS) is designed to meet children’s learning, development, and care needs from birth to five years old.
FS1 and FS2 are the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) stages at Safa British School. During these stages, the school focuses on the children’s physical, personal, social, emotional, and literacy development.
Physical development is an important aspect of early development. Safa British School provides children ample opportunities to engage in physical activities and formulate their gross and fine motor skills. The school has a range of facilities, including outdoor play areas, swimming pools, and sports fields, which promote physical development.
Personal, social, and emotional development is another key focus of the school’s Foundation Stage. Children are urged to develop positive relationships with their peers and teachers and to learn to express their feelings and emotions healthily and constructively.
Literacy development is also a priority at Safa British School, and the school uses a range of teaching methods and resources to promote reading, writing, and communication skills in its young students. Children are introduced to phonics, letter recognition, and basic reading and writing skills in a fun and engaging way.
Overall, Safa British School’s Foundation Stage provides children with a nurturing and stimulating environment to learn and grow, setting the stage for a successful academic and personal journey.
Performance and Recognition
Inspection and Ratings
Safa British School has been inspected by Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The most recent inspection report was conducted in 2020, and the school was rated “Very Good.” The school has consistently maintained this rating since 2015.
The KHDA inspection report highlighted the school’s strengths in various areas, including teaching, learning, and assessment quality, students’ personal development, and the school’s leadership and management. The report also commended the school for its inclusive approach to education, which supports students with special educational needs and disabilities.
Safa British School has also received recognition for its academic achievements. The school follows the UK National Curriculum and prepares students for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. In 2020, 100% of Safa British School’s IGCSE students achieved passes in five or more subjects, with 80% achieving passes in seven or more subjects.
Besides academic achievements, Safa British School has also been recognized for its commitment to promoting its students’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development. The school has been awarded the UK’s prestigious SMSC quality mark, making it the first school outside Great Britain to receive this recognition.
Overall, Safa British School’s performance and recognition demonstrate its commitment to providing high-quality education and supporting the holistic development of its students.
School Timings
Safa British School follows a set schedule for school timings. The school operates from Sunday to Thursday. The weekly schedule for the school is as follows:
Weekly Schedule
- Sunday to Thursday: 7:15 AM to 3:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday: Closed
The school timings vary based on the student’s year group. The morning drop-off timings for all year groups are between 7:15 AM to 7:40 AM. The pick-up times vary for each year’s group. For example, the pick-up timings for FS1 and FS2 are 1:00 PM and 2:15 PM, respectively. The pick-up timings for Years 1-3 are 2:30 PM, and for Years 4-6, the pick-up timings are 2:40 PM.
It is important to note that the school timings are subject to change, and parents are advised to check with the school administration for updates. Additionally, as announced by the school, the school is closed on all public holidays and other days.
On Wednesdays, the school operates on a slightly different schedule. The school timings are from 7:15 AM to 1:30 PM for all year groups. This allows students to participate in extracurricular activities or attend after-school programs.
Overall, Safa British School has a well-structured schedule that ensures students receive ample time for learning and growth. The school timings are designed to cater to the needs of each year group, and the school administration ensures that the timings are followed strictly to maintain discipline and punctuality.
Parental Engagement
Safa British School believes that parental involvement is essential to the success of their students. They recognize that parents, carers, and other outside agencies within the community play a vital role in achieving their aims. The school strives to work in partnership with them to provide quality education for every child.
Communication Channels
The school has established several communication channels to inform parents about their child’s progress. These channels include:
- Weekly newsletters: The school sends out weekly newsletters to parents, providing them with updates on school events, achievements, and upcoming activities.
- Parent-teacher conferences: The school holds regular parent-teacher conferences to discuss their child’s progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Online portals: Parents can access their child’s progress reports, attendance records, and other information through the school’s online portals.
Safa British School recognizes the importance of communication and language in promoting parental engagement. They strive to create an open and welcoming environment where parents feel comfortable discussing their child’s progress and providing feedback.
In conclusion, Safa British School values parental engagement as essential to their students’ success. They provide several communication channels to keep parents informed and involved in their child’s education.
Demographics and Statistics
School Size and Ratios
Safa British School is a British international school in Al Safa 1, Dubai. As of 2022, the school has a population of around 1600 students, ranging in age from FS1 to Year 11. The school has a teacher-to-student ratio 1:12, which ensures that students receive individual attention and support from their teachers.
The school’s primary phase is slightly larger than the average primary phase in Dubai. The school’s current capacity is 1700, more than double that of students from early 2020 when the previous KHDA inspection occurred. The school has a diverse student population, with students from over 70 nationalities.
Regarding class sizes, the school maintains an average of 25 students per class. This ensures that students receive personalized attention from their teachers and have ample opportunities to participate in class discussions and activities.
Overall, Safa British School is committed to providing high-quality education to its students, and its student body and teacher-to-student ratio reflect this commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the tuition fees for different year groups at Safa British School?
Tuition fees at Safa British School vary depending on the year group. For the academic year 2024-2025, the fees range from AED 51,000 for FS1 to AED 91,000 per annum for Year 13. The school also charges an additional registration fee of AED 5,000 for new students.
What is the salary range for teachers at Safa British School?
The salary range for teachers at Safa British School varies depending on their qualifications and experience. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a teacher at Safa British School is AED 8,500 monthly.
How do Safa British School salaries compare with other international schools in Dubai?
Safa British School salaries are competitive with other international schools in Dubai. According to a survey conducted by Dubai-based recruitment agency Teachanywhere, the average salary for a teacher in Dubai is AED 10,000 per month.
What are the most recent reviews and ratings for Safa British School?
The most recent KHDA inspection report for Safa British School was conducted in 2020 and rated the school as “Very Good.” The report praised the school’s leadership, teaching and learning, and students’ personal and social development.
What career opportunities are currently available at Safa British School?
Safa British School regularly posts job vacancies on its website, including teachers, teaching assistants, and administrative staff positions. Interested candidates can check the school’s website for current job openings.
Who is the current principal of Safa British School, and what is their educational philosophy?
The current principal of Safa British School is Mr. Simon O’Connor. Mr. O’Connor has over 20 years of experience in education and has worked in schools in the UK, UAE, and Qatar. His educational philosophy is centered on providing a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment that fosters the holistic development of students.
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