Secondary School
Secondary School

Secondary School

In our secondary school in Dubai, students follow a broad and balanced British curriculum that fosters aspiration, resilience and critical thinking. Following a personalised pathway through Year 7 to 11, they develop skills in academic subjects alongside holistic pastoral care. This approach nurtures confidence, integrity and respect, preparing them for future success in a globalised world.

Build a personalised curriculum

Secondary students thrive within a broad, balanced and inclusive curriculum that meets UK standards while reflecting Dubai’s rich cultural diversity. Here, they grow into confident, resilient learners, ready to lead with integrity, embrace global challenges and succeed at top universities worldwide.

Years 7 to 9 (Key Stage 3)

At our British school in Al Quoz, students follow a carefully structured Key Stage 3 curriculum, designed to build the knowledge, skills and understanding needed for future success. Each subject outlines clear concepts and expectations, helping students know what success looks like - and how to achieve it - as they prepare for GCSEs and life beyond school.

  • Maths
  • English
  • French
  • Spanish
  • Science
  • Arabic
  • Islamic Studies/Independent Studies
  • Humanities
  • Arts
  • Physical Education (PE)
  • STEAM
  • Computing
  • Social Studies
Years 7 to 9 (Key Stage 3)

Years 10 to 11 (Key Stage 4)

Students enter Key Stage 4 with a personalised IGCSEs and GCSEs pathway that reflects their strengths, interests and ambitions. Alongside core subjects - English, Maths, Science and Ministry subjects - they choose from a broad range of options, enabling both academic success and personal growth as they prepare for A Levels, university and beyond.

Core subjects:

  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Arabic
  • Islamic Studies / Independent Studies
  • Social Studies
Years 10 to 11 (Key Stage 4)

Optional subjects (KS4)

In addition to the core subjects, students have the opportunity to personalise their learning by selecting from a range of optional IGCSE and GCSE subjects, including:

  • Art and Design
  • Business
  • Computer Science
  • Drama
  • Economics
  • Design Technology
  • French
  • Geography
  • History
  • Media
  • Music
  • Physical Education (Academic)
  • Sociology
  • Spanish
  • Triple Science
Optional subjects (KS4)

Excellent academic results

At our International Secondary School in Dubai, students consistently achieve outstanding GCSE and A-Level results, reflecting our high academic standards and commitment to supporting every learner’s success year after year.

99%

Pass rate

GCSE

11%

Grade 9

GCSE

61%

grades between 9-6

GCSE

A typical day at school in our Secondary School

Every day at The English College in Dubai is filled with exciting learning experiences and discoveries for your child. While timetables vary across the year groups, here’s an example of what happens in our Secondary School.

Key Stage 3
Key Stage 4

Please note: On Fridays, the school day ends earlier at 12pm.

Please note: On Fridays, the school day ends earlier at 12pm.

Special programmes

STEAM THRIVE Programme Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award

STEAM THRIVE Programme

At our private British school in Dubai, students dive into STEM like never before with the new year-long STEM THRIVE Programme. From hands-on challenges to real-world competitions, field trips and expert partnerships, they develop key skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths - stretching beyond the classroom and preparing for future success.

Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award

Students from Year 10 onwards can take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award - a unique journey of self-development and achievement.

 

Through volunteering, learning new skills, staying active and embarking on adventurous expeditions, they grow into resilient, confident young adults. Whether navigating unfamiliar terrain or giving back to their community, students develop teamwork, leadership and communication skills.

 

Each stage of the Award, from Bronze to Gold, enhances their CVs and university applications, while shaping character and independence that last a lifetime.

Special programmes

Core learning pillars

At The English College, students are empowered to take ownership of their learning journey. Through our Secondary core learning pillars, they build a strong foundation in academic excellence, life competencies, multilingual proficiency and global exposure, preparing them for future success.

Academic achievement
Academic achievement

Enjoy personalised learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding

Life competencies
Life competencies

Gain essential skills to thrive in academics, as well as careers and personal lives

Multilingualism
Multilingualism

Develop proficiency in at least one world language, while being supported in home or first languages

International opportunities
International opportunities

Try global skill-building programmes and activities that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership

Life & career pathways
Life & career pathways

Benefit from personalised guidance for university and career choices, supporting your chosen path

Katarina Ballinger

EC truly feels like a supportive, vibrant community for both students and parents and we look forward to seeing how the school continues to grow and inspire students in the years to come.

Katarina Ballinger, Parent of Lily Year 9

When to enrol?

At The English College in Dubai, we offer flexible enrolment for our Secondary School throughout the academic year. Our admissions team is here to discuss your needs and guide you to select the right start date for your child.

Enquire now

Excel through a balanced, challenging curriculum and outstanding support, preparing confidently for future success worldwide.

Enquire now

Accreditations