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The Aquila School is a British curriculum school in Dubai for students aged 11 to 16, covering Years 7 to 11. Our campus is in Wadi Al Safa 5, in the heart of Dubailand, close to The Villa and Villanova. Secondary provision began in 2019 with Year 7, and it earned an Outstanding British Schools Overseas rating in that very first year, then again in 2025. The school itself opened in 2018 as part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), a global family of 121 schools in 25 countries, and Aquila families come from more than 90 nationalities.
The IB curriculum is gaining popularity among Dubai families, and Aquila’s position is simple. An IB-inspired approach to learning runs right through the school, from Early Years all the way to Sixth Form. In Years 7 to 11, that means enquiry-based, student-centred teaching building towards the National Curriculum for England’s GCSEs, BTEC Level 2 and LAMDA qualifications; after Year 11, in Sixth Form, that same approach leads into four formally examined Post-16 routes, including the IB Diploma.
The essentials in one place, for families comparing secondary schools in Dubai and shortlisting the best secondary schools in Dubai for their child.
Ages
11 to 16 years
Year groups
Year 7 to Year 11
Location
Wadi Al Safa 5, Dubailand, Dubai, close to The Villa and Villanova communities
Launched
Secondary opened in 2019 with Year 7; the wider school opened in 2018 as part of ISP
Inspections
Good from Dubai’s KHDA, with inclusion and wellbeing rated Very Good (2024). Outstanding in all areas from BSO, both at Secondary’s launch in 2019 and again in 2025
Community
More than 90 nationalities. Secondary Team of the Year, 2023
Core subjects
English language and literature (or an ESL pathway), mathematics, science, environmental management, Arabic, Islamic Studies, moral, social and cultural studies, and physical education
GCSE electives
Spanish, business, geography, history, psychology, computer science, IT, separate sciences, digital technology, art, music, drama, performing arts and sports
Industry qualifications
LAMDA speech and drama, and Level 2 BTECs in sport, IT, business and performing arts
UAE Ministry of Education subjects
Arabic language for all students; Islamic Studies for Muslim students; moral, social and cultural studies for everyone, with a dedicated reflection session for non-Muslim students
Languages
Taught in English; Arabic is taught throughout; home language groups for French, German, Spanish and Russian speakers
Inclusion
Fully inclusive, with targeted support and adapted exams through the Hemam Learning Support Centre. SENDIA award holder
School day
7:25 AM to 3:30 PM, with enrichment activities to 4:15 PM. Timings on Fridays and during Ramadan vary and are subject to KHDA approval
Assessment
GCSE and Level 2 BTEC external examinations at the end of Year 11; CAT4 cognitive assessment used on entry and to track progress
Admissions
Open all year round, subject to availability. New students complete a CAT4 assessment and meet the Head of Secondary as part of induction
Tuition fees
KHDA-approved school fees for every year group are published in full on our tuition fees page
Scholarships and discounts
Merit-based ISP scholarships (Academic Excellence, International Learner and Tomorrow’s Leaders), sibling and corporate discounts. Full details on our scholarships and tuition fees pages
Accreditations and memberships
BSME, AoBSO, Cambridge, AQA, Oxford AQA, Pearson, LAMDA, ISEB, ASDAN, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and IB World School status for the Sixth Form
About the school
Curriculum
A private British international school in Dubai, located in Dubailand, delivering the British curriculum through an IB-inspired approach from Early Years through to Post-16. In Years 7 to 11, we offer GCSEs, BTEC Level 2 and LAMDA; the IBDP, IBCP and BTEC follow in Post-16 Pathways (Years 12 and 13)
English National Curriculum, enriched with UAE cultural context and taught through ISP’s Learning.First™ approach
There are more answers to common questions about admissions, transport and school life on our FAQ page.
Confident global learners
Students in Key Stage 3 master core and advanced skills through our globally adapted English National Curriculum, building confidence for Key Stage 4 in both UAE and international contexts.
Preparing for GCSEs
Key Stage 4 pupils advance to GCSEs, selecting electives alongside core subjects to deepen expertise in literature, arts, sciences, humanities, languages, finance and technology.
At our international secondary school in Dubai, students boost their learning by pursuing LAMDA qualifications in speech and drama or Level 2 BTECs in sport, IT, business and performing arts - developing creative expression, technical skills and real-world experience.
Arabic & Islamic studies
Learners immerse themselves in Arabic language and UAE cultural heritage, while Islamic Studies classes, taught in Arabic or English, explore Islam’s history, values and traditions in line with the Ministry of Education's Islamic Studies curriculum for Dubai and the UAE.
Life skills
Pupils strengthen their critical thinking, communication, research, self-management and social skills through various extra-curricular activities such as BSME debate, BSME film competition and First Lego League.
Multilingual learning
Students thrive in an English-speaking environment while mastering Arabic to engage with UAE culture. Through the home language programme, they preserve their cultural heritage and pursue additional language qualifications.
Outstanding results
Students achieved impressive results, earning strong passes in GCSEs, securing five or more GCSEs including English and Maths, gaining Distinction or Distinction* in BTEC and passing 100% of BTEC courses.
Leadership opportunities
Students learn to lead with responsibility and kindness by taking on challenging roles that have an impact on the whole community, such as Aquila ambassadors, student sports coaches and model united nation organisers.
Inclusive environment
Pupils advance confidently in our inclusive school, empowered by targeted support and adapted exams to ensure every child achieves meaningful progress.
Performing arts
Performing arts students excel through LAMDA, BTEC and GCSE Drama, starring in workshops, BSME Desert Dance and school productions.
Career guidance
Students benefit through personalised career programmes and GCSE guidance, supported by our dedicated career advisor and Unifrog’s digital platform. From Year 10, they explore pathways via industry guest speakers and workplace visits.
Extra-curricular programmes
Learners explore passions, develop skills and thrive through diverse extracurriculars - from sports and arts to global programmes like Duke of Edinburgh, TEDx and ISP's ILOS.
Friendly admission process
The admissions process at Aquila is seamless and personalised, and includes multilingual support for international families.
Students at The Aquila School achieve excellent GCSE results across various subjects.
31%
of grades achieved 9–7
87%
of grades achieved 9–4
100%
BTEC pass rate
70%
achieved Merit or better in BTEC
overall GCSE & IGCSE pass rate
97%
achieved grades 9–4 in English
85%
achieved grades 9–4 in Mathematics
achieved grades 9–4 in Physics
80%
achieved grades 9–7 in Physics
65%
achieved grades 9–7 in Biology
100% pass rate
in LAMDA Speaking in Public exams with most awarded Merit and Distinction.
Gold medal
in LAMDA Speaking in Public exams earned by students from The Aquila School in grades 5 to 8.
Our Secondary students engage in a dynamic programme that blends the National Curriculum for England with UAE Ministry of Education requirements. Led by expert teachers, they deepen learning through enquiry, problem-solving and collaborative projects.
At our international curriculum school in Dubai, learners progress with an ambitious and inclusive curriculum and focus on expanding vocabulary, encouraging debate and making cross-curricular inferences in subjects of these areas -
Pupils continue their journey with advanced classes in the following mandatory subjects, ensuring they have strong foundations for their next steps:
Students personalise their learning by selecting three options from a variety of elective subjects that align with their passions and goals, including:
At our international secondary school in Dubai, every student engages in Arabic lessons that develop speaking, reading, writing and listening skills, fostering a genuine connection to the UAE’s culture and heritage.
Muslim students follow the Ministry of Education's Islamic studies curriculum, delivered in Arabic for Arab nationals and in English for non-Arab students, gaining a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of Islam. Non-Muslim students benefit from dedicated sessions for personal reflection and self-study.
All students, regardless of faith, explore how Islamic values shape life in the UAE through tutor time, assemblies and moral, social and cultural studies (MSC). This approach encourages our learners to become confident, respectful and globally-minded individuals empowered to understand and discuss democracy, human rights and universal values including tolerance and respect.
Secondary students move between subject educators and specialist rooms all day, with time built in for a proper break and lunch. Timings on Fridays and during Ramadan vary and are subject to KHDA approval.
Morning drop-off
7:25 AM to 7:40 AM
Everyone arrives and heads to form rooms.
Form time
7:30 AM to 7:50 AM
Registration and a settled start to the day.
Morning lessons
7:50 AM to 10:30 AM
The day’s first block of subject lessons.
Morning break
10:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Time to eat, socialise and reset.
Lessons continue
11:00 AM to 1:20 PM
The second teaching block of the day.
Lunch
1:20 PM to 1:50 PM
A proper break with a nutritious meal.
Afternoon learning
1:50 PM to 3:30 PM
Lessons continue across the school’s subject-specialist spaces.
School day ends
3:30 PM
Everyone is dismissed or moves on to clubs.
Enrichment
3:30 PM to 4:15 PM
Extra-curricular activities and clubs run beyond the taught day.
At our international IB school in Dubai, students take increasing ownership of their learning journey, strengthening academic foundations while developing independence and curiosity.
Academic achievement
Enjoy personalised learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding.
Life competencies
Gain essential life skills to thrive in academics, as well as careers and personal lives.
Multilingualism
Develop proficiency in at least one world language, while being supported in home or first languages, including German, Spanish, Russian and French.
International opportunities
Try global skill-building programmes and activities that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership.
Life & career pathways
Benefit from personalised guidance for university and career choices, supporting your chosen path.
Learners undertake formal assessments based on previous GCSE exam papers in their core subjects twice a year, building confidence and exam readiness ahead of year 11, while non-core subjects are assessed through regular classroom activities.
Taking part in external assessments including the CAT4 and the New Group Reading Test (NGRT), they assess their cognitive skills and evaluate reading, while through the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), students measure their math and science skills against international standards.
At our international secondary school in Dubai, each month ends with group assemblies celebrating students’ achievements with teachers and families. At the end of the year, an awards assembly and a special year 11 celebration recognise their successes.
Pupils master ‘learning how to learn’ by developing essential Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills - critical thinking, communication, self-management, research and collaboration. This cultivates adaptable learners who transfer knowledge across disciplines and real-world challenges.
Through leadership roles like peer mentors, editors and council members, they hone confident communication and grow as articulate leaders.
These skills also shine in collaborative projects including our Annual school productions, where students apply creativity and teamwork to bring performances including Matilda and We Will Rock You to life, further building confidence and school pride.
Students grow into confident global communicators in our vibrant English-speaking environment, while staying deeply connected to their roots. They master Arabic to engage with the heart of UAE culture and the wider Middle East and can choose Spanish as an elective.
For our multilingual learners, we celebrate every mother tongue. Through our home language programme, pupils fluent in French, German, Spanish or Russian keep their language alive while enriching our diverse community. Students also take the Arabic benchmark test and earn qualifications in languages including Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Italian and Greek – with literature studies available too.
Learners participate in a variety of international school trips to destinations such as Nepal, Austria, Kenya, Turkey and Greece, gaining immersive cultural and adventurous experiences beyond the classroom. They explore locations including Ski Dubai, Jubail Mangrove park, Etihad museum, the green planet and took a residential trip to Oman, where they kayaked and camped in the wild.
By participating in TEDx, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and the Model United Nations (MUN), learners meet with peers from all over the world and strengthen resilience, debate skills and persuasive communication abilities.
Through exciting events including the BSME debate competition, BSME film competition, the World Scholar’s Cup challenge and the First Lego League, students improve problem-solving and time management while experiencing a fun, stimulating and competitive environment.
Pupils also take part in ISP’s International Learning Programmes (ILOS), including ISP Artists, ISP Chess Masters, ISP Changemakers and ISP Street Child United, enjoying collaborative experiences and cultivating a global mindset.
In The Aquila School, students design their futures. With one-on-one support from dedicated career advisors and Unifrog’s powerful platform, every learner discovers their strengths and chooses electives that truly align with their aspirations.
Beyond the classroom, students connect with industry professionals through guest talks and workplace visits, getting firsthand insights into different careers. They also benefit from our Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IDP Education Dubai, gaining expert support with university admissions, career planning and language testing. The journey becomes real in year 10 through structured work placements, where they test-drive careers, grow confidence and start shaping their professional paths.
Students take charge of their learning as they pursue their General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) qualifications at the end of year 11, by mastering a broad range of subjects and tackling both exams and coursework.
Learners own their achievements, earning qualifications that open doors to further study and exciting opportunities in the UK and around the world.
At our UK curriculum school in Dubai, pupils enrich their academic learning with practical skills and real-world experience through Level 2 BTEC work-related qualifications in sport, IT, business and performing arts.
Bringing together hands-on experience and essential theory, students acquire valuable industry knowledge, versatile skills and positive behaviours to confidently continue their educational journey.
Students master vocal control - perfecting diction, projection and confidence -while learning to captivate audiences through creative self-expression.
Through the LAMDA programme, they refine these skills to excellence, culminating in powerful performances that showcase their public speaking and poetry talents, reflecting both their artistic growth and dedicated practice.
Students benefit from Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network (ASDAN) programmes and explore activity-based courses that boost their confidence, resilience and ambition. They develop core skills in teamwork, communication, problem-solving, research and self-management through a flexible, engaging curriculum that supports their personal growth and future goals.
Students are at the heart of our Performing arts programme, where LAMDA, BTEC and GCSE Drama pathways empower them to cultivate confidence, creativity and a strong stage presence. Guided by expert instructors, students refine expressive performance skills, master vocal technique and engage with a diverse repertoire of dramatic works.
From preparing for school productions and international qualifications to participating in renowned events such as BSME desert dance, students connect passion with purpose while developing technical excellence, confidence and creativity for lifelong success.
Students take an active role in managing our urban farm, growing a range of fruits, vegetables and herbs in an outdoor garden.
They apply their knowledge of science and environmental management to monitor growth, manage resources and explore sustainable farming.
Our learners then use the produce in food technology lessons, giving real purpose to their work and linking outdoor and hands-on learning with cross-curricular experiences.
At our private British school in Dubai, students gifted in the performing arts can win performance-based scholarships as part of the ISP scholarship programme. These scholarships can cover up to 75% of tuition fees and are awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding ability, passion and commitment in areas such as drama, dance, music and theatre production.
I’m excited to welcome our secondary students to the 2025–26 year at The Aquila School. Each day brings new adventures and opportunities, and together we’ll continue building our reputation as one of Dubai’s best schools. I look forward to seeing our students and meeting parents soon.
Yasmine Dannawy, Head of Secondary
Admissions are open all year round, subject to availability in the year group. The process is simple: apply online, complete a CAT4 assessment, then meet the Head of Secondary. Most families also start with a tour of the campus, and merit-based scholarships are available for eligible students each year.
In Secondary, students at the Aquila School study the British curriculum with the possibility of GCSE, BTEC Level 2 and LAMDA qualifications in Years 10 and 11. The teaching is based on IB-inspired enquiry, and students develop deep understanding rather than a superficial recall. Through the work of dedicated subject teachers, a good structure of revision support and a strong pastoral care system, all students will sit their GCSE examinations feeling well prepared, confident and capable of achieving their personal best.
Secondary students develop leadership and personal skills through a variety of opportunities, including:
These experiences build confidence, leadership, critical thinking and emotional intelligence.
The Aquila School’s secondary education is from Year 7 to Year 11, which is the age range 11 to 16. Years 7-9 offer a wide and balanced curriculum in all core and foundation subjects such as Drama, Dance, PSHE and Arabic. Students select their GCSE or BTEC Level 2 options in Years 10 and 11, based on their strengths and aspirations. This is a structured pathway to ensure a seamless transition to Post-16 study, including the IB Diploma Programme (Years 12 and 13).
The Aquila School is open to new secondary students all year long. All new arrivals have a personalised induction; this involves a cognitive assessment (CAT4) and a meeting with the Head of Secondary to gain an understanding of their background and needs. High-achieving learners are challenged through enrichment opportunities, leadership experiences and deeper inquiry projects.
The Aquila School offers a wide range of activities that support personal development beyond academics, including:
These opportunities help students develop resilience, confidence and a strong sense of identity.
Start your child’s next stage at The Aquila School, where academic rigour builds towards GCSEs, BTEC and LAMDA success, and every Post-16 route stays open. Our admissions team would be glad to hear from you.
