Quick summary of key school information
School details
| Number of students |
500 |
| Number of nationalities represented in the school |
Over 60 nationalities across Africa, Asia, and Europe, among others |
| Most common nationality |
Ugandans and East Africans |
| Ratio of local students to international students |
Approximately 5: 1 |
| Native English speaking teachers |
Our main language of instruction is English. We have expert teachers who are native speakers of English, and many other experts and teachers from Uganda for whom English is a second language. |
| Language support for students not fluent in English |
Yes, we have a robust learning support department that includes ESL teachers who support students for whom English is a second language. |
| Additional language classes offered by the school |
French, German, Chinese, Spanish, Turkish, Swahili. |
| Max. number of students per class |
We have two streams per class. For example, Year 4 A and Year 4B. Each stream has a maximum capacity of 25 students. |
| Average number of students per class |
About 20 students per stream. |
| Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes, it does. Each stream has a main teacher and a teaching assistant. |
| Use of technology in the classroom |
Teachers use whiteboards during classes. Students have supervised use of computers and Ipads during class time. |
| Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online during emergencies) |
Yes, we do. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we successfully ran classes throughout the pandemic. On several other occasions, we have managed to use online classes, including when a student is unable to come to school but can log in for the lesson. |
| Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
Our school does not subscribe to any particular religion. We believe that the responsibility of imparting spirituality lies with the parents and family of students. However, we welcome students from all religious backgrounds. |
| External examinations or assessments available |
Cambridge Primary Checkpoint: at the end of Year 6.
|
| Results in these examinations |
GISU follows the Cambridge International curriculum, with students progressing through Cambridge Primary Checkpoint, Cambridge IGCSE, and AS & A Level examinations. Student performance is assessed using Cambridge’s established grading systems at each stage. The school focuses on academic progress, examination readiness, and helping students achieve their individual potential. Specific examination results and grade distributions can be provided upon confirmation of the latest school performance data. |
| Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes, they do. Mostly for the weekends and longer breaks. |
| Approximate hours of homework given |
Depends on the subject and grade level. |
| Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
99% |
| Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes, we do. We have a robust learning support department with specialised teachers to deal with neurodivergent students. As well as a wellbeing department. |
| Learning support offered |
Yes. GISU has dedicated Learning Support Specialists. We provide individualized learning support to help students with diverse learning needs access the curriculum, develop essential skills, and reach their potential. Support is delivered in collaboration with classroom teachers to promote inclusive learning, student well-being, and academic progress. |
| The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
GISU supports gifted, able and talented students through opportunities for academic enrichment, talent development, and practical, student-centred learning. Students are encouraged to participate in academic competitions and Olympiads, including World Scholars, MatheMania, and other subject-based challenges. The school also provides opportunities through extracurricular activities, leadership, service learning, educational trips, and creative pursuits to nurture individual strengths, critical thinking, confidence, and well-rounded development. |
| Student access to education psychologist |
GISU does not have an educational psychologist on site. However, access to an educational psychologist can be arranged on an as-needed basis to provide specialized assessment, guidance, and recommendations to support students’ individual learning and developmental needs. |
| Entry evaluation for students |
Yes. GISU conducts entry assessments to understand each prospective student’s current academic level, strengths, and areas requiring additional support. These assessments are primarily used to guide appropriate placement, identify learning needs, and inform strategies to help each student thrive and achieve their full potential. |
| Brief description of entry evaluation required |
The evaluation includes entry assessments in relevant academic subjects, one-on-one interactions with the respective Sectional Coordinator, and consultations with the Learning Support Specialist and Well-Being Coordinator, where appropriate. This process helps the school understand each student’s academic abilities, learning needs, and well-being to guide placement and identify the support needed for a successful transition into GISU. |
| Waiting list |
Not really, unless the school is at full capacity. |
| Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
We don't have a set date. It depends on the circumstances at the time. |
| Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes, we do, depending on the assessments done and the plan for support agreed upon with the school and parents to enable the student to transition smoothly. |
| School start time |
8:00 am |
| School finish time |
3: 35pm |
| Supervised care before/after school |
We provide after-school programs for students, including language classes, sports, and academic support. From 3: 35 pm to 4: 45 pm. |
| School bus service available |
Yes |
| School provided lunches |
Yes |
| Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes. GISU accommodates special dietary requirements, including vegetarian and halal diets, as well as food allergies. Arrangements are discussed and agreed upon during the admission process, depending on the student’s needs and the kitchen’s capacity to provide suitable alternatives. |
| Uniform required |
Yes |
| Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
GISU offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities and clubs, including robotics, chess, hoverboarding, skating, ballet, dance, music, poetry, public speaking, mechanics, taekwondo, hairdressing, jewellery making, cookery, football, basketball, swimming, and debate. The school also considers introducing additional activities based on student interest and demand. |
| Sports activities included |
Football, basketball, swimming, volleyball, among others. |
| Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
Yes, we do. We have an elaborate sports calendar that schedules students to play among themselves during PE and club time. In interhouse competitions and against other schools routinely. |
| Facilities at the school |
Conference hall for assemblies, 3 libraries, 4 STEM laboratories, language rooms, 2 art rooms, 4 ICT laboratories, Cimea hall, table tennis lounge, reading rooms, media rooms, wellness centre for medical emergencies) among others |
| Sports facilities at the school |
Swimming Pool
|
| Grades/ages available for boarding |
From Year 7 to Year 13 |
| Boarding facilities at the school |
GISU’s boarding facility is designed in a home-like style to provide students with a warm, comfortable, and welcoming environment away from home. Boarders benefit from dedicated residential supervision, with approximately one boarding staff member for every ten students, as well as access to well-being and learning support where needed. The school also provides meals and opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, fostering a sense of belonging while supporting students’ safety, independence, and overall development. |
| Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
Galaxy International School Uganda (GISU) offers a contemporary, holistic international education in a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment. We empower students to become creative, respectful, confident, and morally responsible individuals who think critically, embrace diversity, and use their skills and knowledge to make a positive difference in the world. Through student-centred learning and a strong focus on academic excellence, well-being, and personal development, we prepare learners to thrive as responsible global citizens. |
| Teaching approach of the school |
GISU follows a student-centred teaching approach within the Cambridge International curriculum, promoting active learning, inquiry, and practical, project-based learning. Lessons encourage critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, with teachers guiding students to take ownership of their learning. Through continuous assessment, individualised support, and a focus on real-world application, the school aims to meet diverse learning needs and equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in an evolving world. |