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Overview

The education at the Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai is based on our UK school’s curriculum with some adaptations for life in the UAE. We offer our pupils a happy, well-ordered and stimulating environment in which they can reach their full potential. Our curriculum maintains a balance between ‘what’ is to be learnt and ‘how’ it is learnt.

Our curriculum has clearly defined knowledge and skill expectations underpinned by rigorous academic standards. It is aligned with the English National Curriculum and includes Arabic and Islamic Studies as core elements.

The RGSGD Learning Habits

Central to a life-long love of learning, and interwoven throughout each pupil's curricular and co-curricular experiences, the RGSGD Learning Habits are the characteristic behaviours and attributes which students develop in order to thrive as they progress through school, university and beyond. The six Learning Habits are:

• Organisation
• Engagement
• Imagination
• Perseverance
• Aspiration
• Reflection

Organisation
As an RGSGD learner, I am punctual and well prepared so that I can make the most out of every opportunity. I manage time effectively and meet deadlines. My work is clearly and systematically ordered.
Engagement
As an RGSGD learner, I work in partnership with others, test their ideas, demonstrate empathy and look towards their wellbeing. I am an active listener who is well engaged in learning; I notice and learn from what others do well. I fulfil my role within a team or group to the best of my ability.
Imagination
As an RGSGD learner, I combine my existing knowledge and skills with intellectual curiosity and creativity to successfully plan and achieve things in unfamiliar situations, of which I am proud.
Perseverance
As an RGSGD learner, I am tenacious when facing adversity or suffering setbacks. I will understand and learn from both my mistakes and those of others, and resolve to try again.
Aspiration
As an RGSGD learner, I aim to go beyond my current successes. I enjoy making the most of the opportunities presented to me, both inside and outside of the classroom, irrespective of the outcome.
Reflection
I recognise and celebrate my achievements and those of others. I look back at the progress I have made and seek feedback so that I can refine and improve targets for my future development. I have a sense of perspective, rationally test claims of truth and take responsibility for my own wellbeing.

Early Years (age 3 - 5)

Excited minds love learning in the early years.

Children in the Early Years love coming to school, looking forward to having fun, learning and making friends. We provide a safe and welcoming environment where every child develops confidence and independence.

Our beautifully designed early years classrooms and outdoor learning spaces provide a stimulating environment where young children can explore, enquire and create. Our highly trained Early Years team use the English National Curriculum as the basis for planning and assessment. Teaching assistants provide support in every classroom, and specialist teachers deliver music and physical education programmes, as well as an informal approach to Arabic learning.

Young children connect learning and exploration, and our enquiry-based approach allows concept development that applies across subject domains. Our teachers balance the demands of the Early Years curriculum with planning led by the interests of the children.

The Royal Grammar School Guildford, Dubai (RGSGD) Early Years curriculum is a two-year programme based on the English Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum.

There are seven areas of learning:
• Personal, social and emotional development
• Communication and language
• Physical development
• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Expressive arts and design
• Understanding the world

Teachers focus on the three characteristics of learning and reflect these in their practice and assessment processes:
• Playing and exploring: pupils investigate and experience things, and ‘have a go’.
• Active learning: pupils concentrate and keep on trying if they encounter difficulties, and enjoy their achievements.
• Creating and thinking critically: pupils develop and make links between ideas, and develop strategies for doing things.

Key Stage 1 (age 5-7)

Having the time and space to question, collaborate and explore underpins lifelong learning. In Key Stage 1, we go beyond the acquisition of knowledge to develop the skills of investigation and enquiry, as well as a more structured approach to learning. Our Key Stage 1 classrooms and dedicated outdoor learning spaces provide a stimulating environment for young learners.

Children in Key Stage 1 have daily lessons in English and mathematics aligned with the English National Curriculum. The curriculum includes the following elements:
• Core subjects: English, mathematics, science, Arabic and Islamic studies (for Muslim pupils).
• Foundation subjects: history, geography, art, design technology, computing, music and physical education (PE).
• Specialist teachers deliver Arabic, Islamic Studies, computing, music and PE.

A unique feature is our bespoke Riyada curriculum, which incorporates UAE Social Studies, Moral Education, Wellbeing and Leadership Development. We believe that every child can learn how to be a leader from a young age.

Teachers plan enquiry units that bring together different aspects of learning. We do this because, when our children enter the world of work, they will need to be flexible learners, able to draw on a diverse body of knowledge to solve complex problems. We embed this way of working from an early age because we believe that children can continuously astound us with their ability to explore, innovate and solve problems.

At this stage, we introduce our children to the use of digital devices in the classroom. Children use either iPads or PC laptops, and we make effective use of a range of educational apps and platforms, fully embedding digital learning as part of our curriculum.

Key Stage 2 (age 7 - 11)

Our pupils build on the strong foundations laid out in Early Years and Key Stage 1. We focus on the development of the ability to self-evaluate and self-regulate through an ongoing focus on our six Learning Habits.

In Key Stage 2, pupils use a range of specialist facilities to develop higher levels of independence. These facilities include our library, art room and technology room. Pupils learn how to use technology safely and develop key communication and collaborative skills. Pupils in Key Stage 2 have dedicated, daily lessons in English and mathematics, aligned with the English National Curriculum.

• Core subjects: English, mathematics, science, Arabic and Islamic studies (for Muslim pupils).
• Foundation subjects: history, geography, art, design technology, computing, music and physical education (PE).
• Specialist teachers deliver Arabic, Islamic Studies, library, computing, music and PE.

A unique feature is our bespoke Riyada curriculum, which incorporates UAE Social Studies, Moral Education, Wellbeing and Leadership Development. We believe that every child can learn how to be a leader from a young age. In Prep, all pupils will undertake an annual leadership project to bring their Riyada learning to life.

Teachers plan subject-specific units that might focus on scientific enquiry, as well as other units that bring together content from a combination of subjects to solve a problem. We do this because, when our children enter the world of work, they will need to be flexible learners, able to draw on a diverse body of knowledge to solve complex problems.

Our expectations of pupils in Key Stage 2 are high because we believe in them. We want them to develop opinions and views so that they can be active and engaged learners. Our highly qualified teachers use a wide range of techniques to ensure that our pupils are actively engaged in learning.

At this stage, we introduce our pupils to the use of a 1:1 digital device as a learning tool. We utilise the Microsoft platform and a range of accompanying apps. We fully embed digital learning in our curriculum, teaching our pupils to use them independently and responsibly.

Senior

The Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai (RGSGD) is currently accepting applications from FS1 to Year 8. The school will grow year by year, catering for pupils aged 3-18.
Our curriculum in the senior school is based on the English National Curriculum with UK- based examinations (GCSE and A-Level).

In Years 7 – 9, the curriculum is broad with all pupils studying a wide range of subjects. Alongside academic learning, pupils will benefit from our bespoke Riyada curriculum.

In Years 10 and 11, pupils will prepare for and sit GCSE examinations. Most pupils will study for nine GCSE subjects, including six compulsory subjects: mathematics, English language, English literature, biology, chemistry and physics, and three optional subjects. The core curriculum is designed to ensure that no decisions made in Year 10 will restrict university, alternative pathways or career opportunities. However, there will still be flexibility within this framework to allow for a certain amount of specialisation relating to the interests and expertise of individual pupils. Arabic language is compulsory at GCSE for all native Arabic speaking pupils.

If the school, in partnership with parents and pupils, believes that an alternative to a full GCSE suite would be beneficial, then this will be offered. The school offers a range of ASDAN qualifications alongside GCSEs.

We plan to offer three different pathways:
• Full A-Level offer
• Reduced A-Level offer alongside selected BTEC qualifications
• Only BTEC qualifications

The pathway will be agreed with the pupil and parents based on a range of information. It will take account of learning and assessment preferences, career/higher education aspirations and interests.

The standard A-Level pathway is three A-Levels. Alongside A-Level studies, most pupils will study for an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).

Enrichment

We have high expectations for our pupils at the Royal Grammar School Guildford, Dubai (RGSGD) because we know that they will constantly surprise us with their incredible talents and aspirations. We want every pupil to have a dream and passion.

Naturally, we want our pupils to make excellent progress in the core subjects of the academic curriculum. However, our curriculum is enriched in a range of areas to ensure breadth and depth in learning.

A fabulous library is at the heart of our school as we want pupils to develop a love of reading and literature. All pupils visit the library weekly and take part in lessons that support independent learning. Pupils in Key Stage 1 upwards are taught how to use our library management system to encourage independence. Pupil librarians support the running of the library.

We integrate computing and digital learning into all aspects of the curriculum. Computing education teaches pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and make a positive impact on the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science and design technology and our pupils use digital devices from the Early Years upwards, quickly becoming digitally literate. As well as using interactive programs, children learn basic skills and appropriate terminology.

From the start of Key Stage 1, pupils have a weekly dedicated computing lesson. Our whole-school[CD1] programme guides teaching. The use of digital devices is integrated into many other areas of the curriculum so that pupils can apply their learning in a range of contexts.

There is a strong integration of technology in the Key Stage 2. There will be times when pupils will be required to use devices, times when they are not permitted to use a device, and opportunities for pupils to choose the most appropriate way to learn for themselves.

Music is central to the life of the RGS in the UK. At RGSGD, we value the contribution that music makes to the curriculum and the enjoyment of the pupils. Our dedicated music staff help pupils gain confidence and music skills, as well as nurture a love of music. Our music curriculum is wide and varied. In addition to taught music lessons, pupils can join the choir, instrumental groups and various music-based clubs.

We believe that performing, whether alone or in a group, builds confidence and brings joy. From the Early Years, music is taught weekly by one of our specialist teachers. Pupils can learn a musical instrument and benefit from a range of visiting specialists.

Sport features heavily in the RGS in the UK. At RGSGD, we have a team of highly trained and motivated physical education (PE) specialists. Our PE curriculum is based on the English National Curriculum and follows a progressive programme throughout the school.

We subscribe to a ‘sport for all’ ethos and provide a diverse range of sporting opportunities, ensuring each pupil can enjoy sport at their capability level and gain the expertise to continue that sport in later life.

We have excellent sporting facilities on campus, including a full-size football pitch, 25m indoor swimming pool, learner pool and sports hall.

Arabic

Arabic is the fifth most spoken language in the world. In the UAE, Arabic is a core subject at school from Year 1 to Year 9. At the Royal Grammar School Guildford, Dubai (RGSGD), our pupils learn Arabic from the Early Years onwards.

There are two curricula for Arabic:
1. Native Arabic speakers
2. Non-native Arabic speakers

We aim to ensure that all our pupils view the learning of Arabic as a positive experience. For native Arabic speakers, this is a core link to their heritage and culture, as well as a rich linguistic skill. For non-native Arabic speakers, we see Arabic as a valuable second language that will give them a competitive edge.

Our Arabic teachers take an active role in the life of the school. Within Arabic learning, we integrate the RGSGD Learning Habits.

In Nursery (FS1), we introduce the children to Arabic through play. An Arabic teacher will play alongside children, familiarising them with the basic sounds of the language.

In Reception (FS2), the children will learn simple Arabic songs and stories, and teachers will introduce basic phonic work.

In Year 1, Arabic learning becomes more formal. In Years 1 and 2, pupils will focus on the sound and lettering of the alphabet, using a range of resources to help them increase familiarity in written and oral forms. Pupils who are native Arabic speakers will receive additional and specialised teaching.

In Years 3 to 6, pupils will learn a wider range of vocabulary and how to read and write words. Pupils who are native Arabic speakers will receive additional and specialised teaching.

Islamic Studies

The UAE Ministry of Education mandates that all Muslim pupils attend Islamic Studies classes from Year 1. We teach our Muslim pupils a broad curriculum, including knowledge and faith. Pupils who speak Arabic as a first language are taught separately to native English speaking children.

Our Islamic Studies teachers take an active role in the life of the school. Within Islamic Studies, we integrate the RGSGD Learning Habits. Our school is equipped with dedicated facilities for ablution and prayer.

Riyada

The Royal Grammar School Guildford, Dubai (RGSGD) runs a unique ‘Riyada’ curriculum. Aside from the clear value of the academic aspects of learning, we know that success in life depends on so much more. Many global thinkers and influential organisations point to the importance of educating our young people to ‘think big’, supporting them to understand some of the significant challenges in the world and how they can use their education to make a difference. This is the essence of our Riyada curriculum.

Riyada, meaning ‘leadership’ in Arabic, is at the heart of an RGSGD education.

The curriculum includes:

• UAE Social Studies
• Moral Education
• Wellbeing
• Leadership Development
• Personal, Social and Health Education

Our bespoke curriculum brings these aspects together to develop the leadership skills of our pupils proactively and intentionally. It is important to note that we do not say that our pupils have the potential to be leaders; graduates from RGSGD will be leaders.

The leadership strand of our curriculum has three distinct elements:
• Leading ourselves
• Leading others
• Leading for good

Through developing the leadership skills of our pupils, we want them to be able to use their education, their privilege and their learning to make a difference to others. Leadership learning will take place throughout the year. Each year, from Key Stage 1, each pupil will take part in an annual leadership challenge. As pupils get older, the scope of this challenge increases in scale.

• In FS1 – Year 2, the challenge will be in the classroom or at home.
• In Years 3 – 5, the challenge will be at school or home.
• In Years 6 – 8, the challenge will be in the local community.
• In Years 9 – 13, the challenge will be in the community or on a global scale.

Cognita Enrich ME

Unparalleled Opportunities in Football & Swimming

Cognita ENRICH ME brings market-leading enrichment provisions to support each school's curriculum, leading to a broader, higher-quality learning experience for our students. Designed exclusively to empower students enrolled at the Cognita family of schools in the Middle East, the ENRICH ME programme combines expert coaching as well as inclusive and unparalleled opportunities in football and swimming.

Our unique and bespoke programme allows us to expand learning beyond the school day, providing an engaging learning experience for our children, and supporting high-performing students to achieve professional results.

ENRICH ME Football is a professional football programme designed by Cognita, exclusively for Cognita schools and students in Dubai. It offers extensive wrap-around support, including training and match analysis, testing, screening, and strength and conditioning. All of this data will be compiled into an Athlete Management System to build a profile of each player, which will be used to tailor the delivery of lessons by our highly experienced coaches.

Designed exclusively by Sean O’Shea, ex-Assistant Manager of top division Swedish club AIK Stockholm, the football programme provides Cognita students in the Middle East with unmatched pathways to professional sport and will support them to excel in all that they do. The programme’s founding ambassador, Beth Mead, is a truly inspirational sporting figure known around the world as an integral member of the England women’s football team who won the UEFA Women’s Euro Cup for the first time in history earlier this year. Beth’s involvement with the programme provides Cognita students with a true role model and gives them direct access to the sporting hero’s expert coaching and advice

ENRICH ME Swimming is an all-round integrated swimming programme. Our dedicated and experienced instructors support all students within their curriculum swimming lessons, as well as beyond the school day where they coach the squads and lead the extracurricular sessions.

We are proud to announce that the internationally recognised Swim England framework is being implemented across all our curricular and extracurricular swimming lessons. Students have the wonderful opportunity to explore a variety of aquatic disciplines and learn the vital skill of swimming. We aim to provide all our Cognita students a pathway to become 'aquatics for life.'

Come and meet us

Register for a meeting with our School Leadership Team and visit our incredible campus.

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Come and meet us

Register here to attend our next virtual meeting with our wonderful Head of Prep, Mrs Clare Turnbull. The Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai is bringing 500 years of academic innovation to the UAE. We are pleased to invite you to our next virtual meeting. The event will take place from the comfort of your home and will be the perfect opportunity to meet the community and have all your questions answered. We look forward to speaking with you soon.

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Admissions: +971 58 951 2021
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