Quick summary of key school information
School details
| Number of students |
750 |
| Number of nationalities represented in the school |
50+ nationalities |
| Most common nationality |
Saudi Arabian |
| Ratio of local students to international students |
30% local
|
| Native English speaking teachers |
Yes |
| Language support for students not fluent in English |
Yes |
| Additional language classes offered by the school |
Arabic (French and Spanish via extra-curricular activities) |
| Max. number of students per class |
23 |
| Average number of students per class |
20 for Pre School and Reception
|
| Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
| Use of technology in the classroom |
Our computing curriculum prepares pupils to live safely in an increasingly digital British/Saudi society where pupils can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems. |
| Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online during emergencies) |
Yes |
| Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
Our Muslim children take Islamic Studies lessons as per MOE requirements. Beyond that, we teach that all students should respect all religions. |
| How does the school accommodate non-religious students or students of a different religion? |
See above |
| External examinations or assessments available |
N/A |
| Results in these examinations |
The school has been open for three years and teaches children from Pre School to Year 5. There are no student examination results to publish at this stage. |
| Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes |
| Approximate hours of homework given |
There is a graduated response from Reception to Year 5; 5-10 mins, Key Stage 1 approximately 60 mins per week, lower KS2 approximately 90 mins and Upper KS2 Y5 approximately 120 mins. |
| Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
At King’s College Riyadh, we are committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive. Through our English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Learning Support programmes, we provide personalised assistance that helps each student access the curriculum, develop confidence and reach their full potential. |
| Learning support offered |
As an international school, we understand that many of our students are learning in a language that may not be their own. Our EAL programme is designed to help them build fluency, confidence and a deep understanding of English, allowing them to participate fully in all aspects of school life. Support may include group sessions, one-to-one lessons and access to additional learning resources. Progress is closely monitored, ensuring that each student receives the right level of challenge and encouragement. EAL support may be identified during the admissions process or as a student’s learning journey develops. |
| The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
Our staff passionately believe that every single child can achieve academic success and live a life full of opportunity and fulfilment regardless of their starting point. |
| Student access to education psychologist |
Yes |
| Entry evaluation for students |
Yes |
| Brief description of entry evaluation required |
For Pre-School and Reception: We invite all Pre-School applicants to attend a ‘Stay & Play’ visit where they will meet the staff; this will help us and parents assess whether King’s College Riyadh is the right environment for their child, and one in which they will be happy and thrive. For Year 2 onwards: Children wishing to join King’s College Riyadh in Reception, Year 1 or Year 2 will be invited to visit the school prior to entry, as and when places arise. They will meet a member of the Senior Leadership Team and the Learning Support Coordinator and spend time with prospective classmates. During the visit, we will seek to establish overall academic potential through predominantly skills-based, teacher-led assessments. (for children undertaking an assessment for Y2 to Y4, this will be a Rising Stars assessment. For Year 5 upwards, this will be a CAT 4) |
| Waiting list |
There is currently a waiting list for most of our year groups. These change based on demand for school places. |
| Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
There is a rolling programme for registration. Our Admissions Team will be on-hand throughout all year round (including school holidays) to manage enquiries and assessments. |
| Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes |
| School start time |
7.30am |
| School finish time |
1.45pm - for Preschool and Reception classes 2.35pm - for Year 1 to Year 7 |
| Supervised care before/after school |
Yes |
| School bus service available |
No |
| School provided lunches |
Yes, a healthy lunch delivery service. Parents have a choice of paying for this service or sending their child to school with a healthy lunch and snack. |
| Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Our food delivery service caters for all dietary requirements. As a school we have a strict policy on children not sharing food or parents bringing in food for other pupils. |
| Uniform required |
Yes |
| Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
At King’s College Riyadh, education extends far beyond the classroom. We believe that true learning happens not only through lessons, but through the experiences, challenges and adventures that shape character and spark curiosity. Our students are encouraged to explore their passions, embrace new challenges and develop the confidence to achieve more. Through an exciting and diverse range of activities in sport, music, art, drama and academic enrichment, every student has the chance to discover their strengths and pursue what inspires them most. From Gymnastics and Ballet in the early years to Science Club, Art Club and The World Scholar’s Cup in the Prep School, life beyond lessons is full of energy, creativity and teamwork. Each term brings new opportunities for students to grow in courage, develop leadership and build friendships that last a lifetime. These experiences are not optional extras; they are an essential part of a King’s education. Every activity is designed to nurture curiosity, independence and resilience, helping students to become confident young people ready to make their mark on the world. At King’s College Riyadh, we encourage every student to find their passion, take on challenges with confidence and discover the joy of learning in every sense. |
| Sports activities included |
These include - Football, Basketball, Tag Rugby, Yoga, Ballet, Dance, Swimming, Athletics, Gymnastics, Parkour, Mini Tennis, Rounders. |
| Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
Yes |
| Facilities at the school |
We have an audotorium, science lab, ICT suite, library, music, art and dance room and Arabic department. |
| Sports facilities at the school |
Astro turf football pitch and two multi use indoor sports halls. |
| Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
For over 140 years, King’s College UK has nurtured young people to grow in confidence, curiosity, and character. At King’s College Riyadh, we bring this proud British heritage to the Kingdom, blending academic excellence with a deep respect for Saudi culture and traditions. Our Diriyah campus welcomes boys and girls from Pre-School to Year 7 (ages 3–13). With small class sizes, specialist teaching from the earliest years, and a curriculum that balances academics, sport, music, and the arts, every child is encouraged to thrive. |
| Teaching approach of the school |
We aim to be “the best we can be in pursuit of excellence” At King’s College Riyadh, we provide an exceptional British education that inspires curiosity, creativity and confidence. Rooted in the excellence of King’s College UK, our curriculum combines the rigour of the English National Curriculum with the warmth and inclusivity that define a King’s education. Students follow a seamless learning journey designed to stretch and support them at every stage. Specialist teaching, small class sizes and personalised pathways ensure every child is known, valued and encouraged to achieve their very best. Our curriculum celebrates both British educational excellence and the cultural richness of Saudi Arabia. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central to our programme, helping students to grow with a strong sense of identity, heritage and global perspective. |