Ages 3 to 18
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Open Day - 10 October 2025
Primary students, aged 5 to 11, achieve greater independence by engaging in hands-on learning experiences in a safe and happy environment. They focus on the English National Curriculum and benefit from an educational path that focuses on academic foundations and on developing skills tailored to life and learning in the UAE.
Students master core academic skills through our rigorous English National Curriculum, enriched with UAE cultural context and designed with meaningful cross-curricular connections.
Learners strengthen their English and begin to explore Spanish from year 3, while continuing to grow in their home languages, including Arabic, French, German and Russian.
Every children succeeds in our inclusive school through personalised learning, adapted resources and expert support - ensuring those with special educational needs achieve their full potential.
At our international primary school in Dubai, students build perseverance and creativity at the mini makers market, develop empathy through reading buddies and forge strong relationships by engaging confidently with their community.
In line with the MOE curriculum, all pupils engage deeply with Arabic language and UAE culture, while Muslim learners take Islamic studies classes exploring the rich history and values of Islam in Arabic or English, tailored to their needs.
Pupils thrive in musical theatre, band, our junior choir and composition through school productions, community events including BSME’s Desert Dance and personalised sessions led by DASH Music Academy.
Students learn and grow in our dedicated indoor and outdoor learning areas, enjoying hands-on experiences in our cooking room, technology lab and art studio.
Learners thrive in our breakfast club and after-school care activities, receiving nurturing care and engaging learning - seamlessly supporting busy families throughout the week.
Students take on leadership roles such as eco warriors, play leaders, library leaders, digital leaders and aerobics leaders driving sustainability, inclusion, reading, safe tech use and wellbeing.
At our British primary school in Dubai, children explore interests and discover new passions through a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including drama, sports and gardening, along with ISP's ILOS programmes and yearly trips.
The admissions process at Aquila is seamless and personalised, and includes multilingual support for international families.
At our international primary school in Dubai, students develop inquisitive, reflective and analytical skills through our tailored English National Curriculum, enhanced by UAE-focused cross-curricular learning. Arabic, Islamic and moral, social & cultural studies further deepen their educational experience.
Building strong reading and writing foundations
Children immerse in an active, dynamic and happy learning experience, developing writing, listening, reading and speaking skills through engaging lessons and meaningful discussions.
Daily structured phonics in years 1 and 2 build strong foundations in spelling and decoding, while writing activities focus on grammar and expanding vocabulary, adapting language style to various contexts.
Through the reading buddies sessions, students cultivate together a love of literature and reading.
Solving real-life problems with the four operations
Pupils gain a strong grasp of numbers and grow confident in maths through active and hands-on learning. They build fluency with numbers and the four operations by breaking real-world problems into manageable steps, learning to enjoy the challenge of finding solutions.
As they explore shapes, measurements and patterns, pupils learn to ask questions, express doubts, explain their thinking and use mathematical language with growing accuracy.
Exploring the world through hands-on learning
At our British primary school in Dubai, learners explore the wonders of science through fun experiments and hands-on learning. They are encouraged to ask questions, make observations and gain insight into scientific principles governing the world around them.
Engaging in our sustainable farm and animal care, children connect with nature and learn to observe and compare different animals and their features, while discovering a variety of plants and trees, developing a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Discovering technology and building new skills
Our young students start to use technology, learning simple digital actions to create and save digital work while exploring various tools on tablets and computers.
Through teacher-guided activities, learners develop safe and responsible habits, understanding how to protect their personal information and recognize online risks.
As students progress, they begin to use simple programmes and explore basic coding through hands-on activities that introduce them to various digital areas including robotics and engineering, sparking creativity and strengthening their problem-solving skills in a fun and interactive environment.
Painting ideas and expressing creativity
At our British primary school in Dubai, students explore colours, shapes, materials and different techniques, including drawing and painting, developing their creativity, imagination and improving self-expressions.
Through fun workshops, students build skills in art and design, learn to evaluate creative works and understand artistic techniques, discovering new talents and passions.
Children also learn about great artists and designers, discovering the differences and similarities between styles and tools.
Turning ideas into reality
In design and technology, they design, test and build products, drawing on knowledge from science, maths, art and computing, while in food technology classes, children learn to prepare and cook simple, nutritious and healthy dishes.
Through hands-on projects, students learn to take risks and initiative, think critically and gain the confidence and creativity to turn ideas into real outcomes.
Connecting local and global histories
Students develop a strong sense of chronology and learn to use historical vocabulary to describe and compare life across different periods and cultures. By placing people and events within a timeline, they build historical thinking skills and begin to understand why events happen and how things change over time.
By studying British, local and world history through engaging topics relevant to their lives in the UAE, students explore an amazing programme thoughtfully adapted to include global perspectives and local connections, exploring the past to better understand the world they live in today.
Cultivating global curiosity
At our international primary school in Dubai, students develop a lasting curiosity about the world and its people as they explore diverse places, environments and resources. They build knowledge of key physical and human processes, learning how landscapes form and change over time.
By studying global and local geography, children gain skills in using maps, diagrams and digital tools and understand the connections between people and their environments, growing as thoughtful and responsible global citizens.
Nurturing wellbeing and resilience
Pupils develop the knowledge, skills and attributes needed to keep themselves healthy and safe, manage their lives effectively and make informed choices. They strengthen resilience, self-esteem, teamwork and critical thinking by focusing on health, wellbeing and relationships.
Students learn about rights and responsibilities, economic awareness and sustainability. Through the Zones of Regulation framework, children understand and learn to identify, name and manage their emotions and behaviour, fostering respect for themselves and others and growing as strong, responsible individuals.
Exploring values, culture and communities
From year 2, Primary students explore their rights, responsibilities and role in shaping society. Through engaging lessons, they develop the confidence to participate in democracy, advocate for human rights and protect the environment - preparing them to thrive in a changing world.
By analysing social, political and economic systems, students uncover how history and culture impact today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities. They learn to navigate evolving values and communities with critical thinking and empathy.
Rooted in the UAE’s diverse heritage, students celebrate cultural identity while embracing tolerance, family values and respect - fostering both loyalty to their community and global citizenship.
Embracing Arabic language and heritage
All our students, whether native or non-native speakers, strengthen their Arabic language skills with the support of experienced teachers. Through active, engaging and relevant lessons in line with the MOE curriculum, they build confidence in listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Students explore Arabic using authentic materials including books, stories, newspapers and magazines. They are introduced to Arabic literature and calligraphy, helping them appreciate the language and deepen their connection to the UAE’s rich culture and heritage.
Immersing in Islamic studies
In line with the MOE curriculum, Islamic students deeply engage with the values, traditions and teachings of Islam through dynamic and inclusive bilingual lessons in Arabic for native speakers and in English for non-Arabic speakers. Their journey includes:
Our passionate teachers nurture both knowledge and spiritual growth, empowering students to connect Islamic principles with their daily lives.
Building a strong Spanish foundation
From year 3, students begin building a strong foundation in Spanish through engaging, play-based learning. They develop core grammar and vocabulary skills while practicing speaking, writing and listening through interactive activities like songs and games. As they progress, pupils begin to explore Hispanic culture and literature while gaining communication skills that enable them to confidently navigate everyday situations in Spanish-speaking environments. This foundation opens doors to future opportunities, including official language certifications, as students gain both linguistic skills and cultural appreciation.
Growing strong and healthy
At our private school in Dubai, children enjoy being active through our fun and engaging physical education programme. They try various activities and games, including athletics, gymnastic, dance, football and badminton, refining their teamwork and collaboration skills while staying healthy.
Through playing and friendly competitions, students understand game tactics and learn fairness and respect. By participating in regular physical activity, they grow strong and healthy, setting the foundation for a lifetime of active living.
Strengthening swimming techniques
Students build strong swimming skills through personalised, engaging weekly lessons - helping every child swim with confidence.
From mastering basic techniques like floating and breath control to refining advanced strokes, our programme develops skilled, confident swimmers in a supportive environment.
Expressing through sounds
At The Aquila School in Dubailand, students develop a strong foundation in rhythm, melody and musical expression through singing, instrument playing and creative composition. They explore diverse musical styles and cultures, learning to listen deeply, perform confidently and express themselves through sound. From percussion and tuned instruments to composing original pieces, they build essential skills in teamwork, creativity and communication while growing in confidence through regular performances and class showcases.
Every day at Aquila is filled with safe and happy learning experiences for all students. Classes end at 2.45pm from Monday to Thursday and at 11.40am on Fridays - giving students time to rest, reflect or take part in extended care activities.
7.30am - 7.38am
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A calm and cheerful morning arrival, where children are greeted by their teachers on the school field before lining up for the National Anthem at 7.38am and then head confidently to their classrooms, while Year 1 learners proceed directly to class from 7.30am.
7.40am - 8.10am
Morning learning activities and assemblies begin and set a positive tone for the day.
8.10am - 9.30am
Meaningful, stimulating and hands-on morning lessons start, sparking curiosity and fostering critical thinking.
9.30am - 10am
A joyful mid-morning break offers children time to enjoy a snack in class and to play with friends -outdoors, on the astro, field or courtyard or indoors, in the sports hall, library or wellbeing room.
10am - 12pm
The day continues with enriching sessions and stimulating activities in our dynamic learning areas.
12pm - 12.40pm
Lunchtime and playtime provide a relaxed pause, with year 1 eating in class, years 2 and 3 in the auditorium and years 4, 5 and 6 in the canteen, followed by the freedom to choose where to play, both outdoors or indoors.
12.40pm - 2.40pm
Meaningful lessons and dynamic activities continue in the afternoon, taking place across our vibrant learning spaces.
2.45pm
A calm and orderly end to the day sees year 1 and 2 children greeted by their parents or carers at their classroom doors, while pupils in years 3 to 6 make their way to designated pick-up points or board the school buses. Throughout, teachers stay nearby and assist with all last-minute questions.
2.45pm - 3.25pm
Extra-curricular activities help students grow beyond the classroom and explore interests and talents.
At our British primary school in Dubai, students grow in independence and curiosity, engaging in a happy, safe and international learning environment that nurtures academic progress and lifelong skills.
Enjoy personalised learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding.
Gain essential life skills to thrive in academics and personal lives.
Fast track English and Arabic language skills and grow in German, Spanish, Russian and French as home or first languages.
Try global skill-building programmes and activities that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership.
Students’ achievements both inside and outside the classroom are regularly highlighted and celebrated with families through various class activities and rewarding ceremonies.
Their progress is carefully monitored and shared through parent-teacher reports and meetings, building a strong and supportive partnership between home and school.
Pupils sit for GL assessments in English, math and science to track their own progress against curriculum standards, ensuring consistency and supporting steady growth.
From year 2 onwards, students complete the New Group Reading Test (NGRT) assessment three times a year to strengthen and monitor their literacy development. Through external assessments such as the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) and the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), they evaluate their reading skills and measure their understanding of maths and science.
Students develop critical life skills - perseverance, resilience, creativity and empathy - through hands-on challenges that encourage curiosity, collaboration and bold thinking.
Real-world opportunities bring these skills to life:
• At the mini makers market, young entrepreneurs design, pitch and sell creations, gaining practical business experience.
• The World Scholar’s Skittles event transforms public speaking into an engaging competition, building confident communicators.
• Friday leadership time empowers every student to teach their passions, fostering peer-led learning and initiative.
Together, these experiences create a supportive community where students grow as leaders, thinkers and innovators.
At our international primary school in Dubai, students thrive in an English-immersive environment supported by both national and international educators, with specialised English Language Learning (ELL) support available for those developing fluency.
Beginning in Year 3, students expand their linguistic horizons by building foundational Spanish skills. All learners continue to study Arabic to connect with the UAE's cultural heritage and the broader Middle Eastern context, while our home language programme ensures native speakers of French, German, Spanish or Russian and have the opportunity to maintain proficiency in their mother tongues.
This comprehensive approach cultivates confident multilingual communicators who appreciate cultural diversity while remaining rooted in their own identities.
Primary students enjoy a rich variety of learning experiences across the UAE, with all trips thoughtfully planned within the country. Each school year, they participate in at least three day trips - visiting museums, local farms, the Sharjah Desert Park, the Dubai Safari Park, Expo Dubai and the Dubai Aquarium. They also take class trips to the Burj Khalifa to explore architecture and engineering. They learn through hands-on activities beyond the classroom, including experiments in crafting volcanic structures at the Metaf Lab.
Starting from Year 3, students also take part in exciting overnight residential trips to destinations including Hatta, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Jebel Jais, gaining a deeper exploration of their academic knowledge while fostering independence.
Additionally, learners benefit from ISP’s International Learning Opportunities for Students (ILOS), gaining access to inspiring global opportunities including ISP Virtual Exchange, ISP Scientists and ISP Artists. Through these enriching programmes, children connect with peers worldwide, broadening their horizons and nurturing a strong international mindset.
Urban farm
At our private school in Dubai, students dive into hands-on learning in our urban farm, nurturing fruits, vegetables and herbs in small garden areas. Through planting seeds, watering and tending their crops, they uncover the essentials of plant growth while building responsibility and teamwork.
As they trace the journey from seed to plate, students make real-world connections between science, nutrition and sustainability. These experiences spark curiosity about nature and foster a lifelong respect for the environment.
Hydroponics farm
In our hydroponics farm, students cultivate fresh fruits and vegetables - like peppers, lettuce and tomatoes -using innovative, resource-efficient techniques. By replacing soil with nutrient-rich water, they learn sustainable farming methods that save water and space while maximising growth.
Through hands-on exploration, students bridge science, technology and environmental stewardship, gaining real-world insights into sustainable food production and their role in protecting the planet.
They also care for farm animals - including fish, rabbits, birds and parrots - developing responsibility, empathy and respect for all living creatures as part of their daily learning.
The Aquila School is a truly special place where children thrive through curiosity, creativity and confidence. Lessons are engaging, meaningful and linked to real life, inspiring pupils to ask questions, take risks and celebrate their individuality.
Amal Botan, Primary class teacher
At The Aquila School, admissions are open throughout the entire academic year. Get in touch with our admissions team and get all the support you need to select the right start day for your child in primary school.
Empower your child's future at The Aquila School, where our renowned English National Curriculum lays the foundation for academic excellence and essential life skills.
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