At OWIS Riyadh we believe in educating students to be lifelong learners and well informed and productive community members who are active, engaged, and responsible citizens for both the local and global community.
Our students and staff at OWIS set high standards every day, not only for academic success but also social, emotional, and behaviour success as well. Parent and community commitment is key to our success at OWIS Riyadh and we welcome your feedback and involvement throughout the school year. My door is always open. Welcome to the OWIS Riyadh family.
| Number of nationalities represented in the school |
We have over 40 different nationalities represented at OWIS Riyadh |
| Native English speaking teachers |
Educators at OWIS are native speakers of English and/or Arabic language. |
| Language support for students not fluent in English |
At OWIS additional support will be provided to all students based on their language proficiency. |
| Additional language classes offered by the school |
We offer Arabic and French. |
| Max. number of students per class |
The maximum number of students in each classroom is 24. |
| Average number of students per class |
The average number of students will not exceed 24 students. |
| Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
There will be teaching assistants in all kindergarten classes as per need |
| Use of technology in the classroom |
As the first Apple Distinguished School in Saudi Arabia, we are recognized for reimagining education through purposeful technology integration that empowers students to learn, design, and innovate. |
| Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online if the school is closed, e.g. during COVID-19 closures) |
If the Ministry of Education makes an official announcement pushing schools to online learning in times of emergencies, our teachers will be fully prepared to run online learning. |
| Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
OWIS is a multicultural school promoting inclusivity despite nationality, religion, race and ethnicity however; Islamic classes are taught in Grades 1 and above per the Ministry of Education requirements for our Muslim students. |
| How does the school accommodate non-religious students or students of a different religion? |
When practicing Muslim students are taking their Islamic classes, our non-religious students or students of a different religion have the opportunity to take our Global Mindfulness class. |
| External examinations or assessments available |
Students from G3 and above sit the NWEA Map Testing three times a year that gauges their strengths and areas for improvement against the expected grade level learning outcomes based on the American Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards. All students from G1 and above have internal assessments for spelling, as well as ongoing formative and summative assessments tied to their PYP units of inquiry. |
| Results in these examinations |
Vary per student |
| Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Learning at home opportunities are shared with the parents through our Toddle app on a weekly basis directly from each homeroom/subject specialist teacher. |
| Approximate hours of homework given |
Depending on the grade level of the students, learning at home opportunities/engagements should take 15-30 minutes per day. |
| Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
Almost all students who attend pursue higher education opportunities at distinguished universities around the world. |
| Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
OWIS Riyadh is an all inclusive school and therefore, we do have an Inclusion Lead who supports and runs programs for children with special learning needs. |
| Learning support offered |
If needed, the Inclusion Lead will inform parents of the need of shadow teachers. Students will also have learning support from the Inclusion Lead through push in and pull out classes as needed. |
| The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
Our Inclusion Lead as well as other OWIS teachers observe students and always seek to identify gifted and talented students. Once these students are identified and evaluated, we provide extra curricular opportunities for them to continue to pursue their high interests/abilities. |
| Student access to education psychologist |
Yes |
| Entry evaluation for students |
Yes. |
| Brief description of entry evaluation required |
For our PreKG-KG2 students we have oral interviews/initial screenings on numeracy and phonics. For our G1 and above, we have students sit a math, reading and writing assessment. |
| Waiting list |
We currently do not have a wait list. Please contact our admissions offices for more information. |
| Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
At OWIS Riyadh, our registrations are on-going throughout the school year. |
| Students can join after academic year begins |
At OWIS, we have made swift arrangements for mid-year admissions under the guidelines of the Ministry of Education. |
| School start time |
PreKG-KG2 Sunday-Wednesday 7:30am-1:00pm, Thursday 7:30am-12:00pm Grade 1 and above - Sunday-Wednesday 7:30am-3:00pm, Thursday 7:30am-12:00pm |
| School finish time |
PreKG-KG2 Sunday-Wednesday 7:30am-1:00pm, Thursday 7:30am-12:00pm Grade 1 and above Sunday-Wednesday 7:30am-3:00pm, Thursday 7:30am-12:00pm |
| Supervised care before/after school |
Our school gate opens only 30 minutes before the start of school and students are supervised all the time. |
| School bus service available |
Our OWIS Riyadh campus does provide school bus service to students. |
| School provided lunches |
We have a tuck shop on campus that offers a selection of healthy snacks for students. |
| Uniform required |
Yes, students are required to wear the OWIS branded uniforms. |
| Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
Kids Yoga, Football Academy, Art Workshop, Bakerspace Club, Robotics Club, Ballet, Gymnastics, Readers' Theatre, Choir, French Club, and many more. |
| Sports activities included |
Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball, Badminton, etc. |
| Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
Yes |
| Facilities at the school |
Library, Food and Design Technology Lab, Music studio, Art and Design studio, Black box, Atriums, Science labs, Makerspace, Performing Arts studio, etc. |
| Sports facilities at the school |
Soccer field, basketball court, tennis court, and running track. |
| Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
OWIS Riyadh offers a well-rounded international education built on strong academic foundations and a culture of kindness and respect. We offer the IB Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) from Pre-KG to Grade 5 and the American curriculum from Grade 6 onwards. Students learn in a multicultural environment with experienced educators and modern learning spaces, including technology-enabled classrooms and specialized labs. As the first Apple Distinguished School in Saudi Arabia, OWIS integrates technology into learning while maintaining a strong focus on character development, global awareness, and responsible citizenship. |
| Teaching approach of the school |
At OWIS Riyadh, our teaching approach focuses on building strong academic foundations while encouraging curiosity, independence, and responsible learning. In the early years and primary grades, learning is guided by the IB Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), where students explore concepts through inquiry, collaboration, and real-world connections. From Grade 6 onwards, the American curriculum provides a structured academic pathway that strengthens subject knowledge, analytical thinking, and practical application. Our educators use a variety of teaching strategies including project-based learning, discussions, and hands-on activities to support different learning styles. |
Kindergarten education at OWIS is modern, stress-free, and completely centered around wellbeing and holistic development. While we prioritize academic excellence, we also support your child’s personal growth. Students learn to collaborate and work in teams, further developing their sense of responsibility, cultural awareness and open-mindedness.
We offer the best kindergarten program in Riyadh, taught by dedicated, caring and enthusiastic teachers who will encourage your child to develop a sense of responsibility, self-confidence and independence from a young age. Our educators are trained and continually expand their knowledge and skills, for meeting our high standards of learning.
As an IB PYP school offering an American Curriculum, OWIS Riyadh follows inquiry-based education to explore the depths of learning and inspire students to be curious, innovative and passionate learners in their primary grades.
Through various cultural awareness initiatives and a non denominational approach to education, our students learn how to better appreciate other cultures and different points of view. With kindness, diversity and inclusivity, your child becomes part of a safe, healthy and truly international school community built on mutual trust and respect.
Primary education at OWIS Riyadh is a balance of traditional and technology-driven environment. Through new-age platforms and latest methodologies, our experienced teachers shape your child into being inquisitive learners with the right skills and academic bent.
Transitioning into Middle Grades is a crucial time for students, where they encounter new subjects, instructors, and social dynamics, while also taking up greater responsibility and independence. As they prepare for the academic rigor of the American curriculum, including Common Core and NGSS standards, we’ve tailored a specialized curriculum for Grades 6 to 8. Rooted in the American education framework the curriculum is thoughtfully adapted to meet the needs of our diverse student body.
Through initiatives like the National Junior Honor Society, OWIS Shark Tank Competition and weekly After School Activities students are encouraged to excel academically, demonstrate leadership qualities, and engage in community service, fostering a culture of excellence and altruism.
High school at OWIS Riyadh follows an American curriculum aligned with the California Common Core State Standards. Students work toward an accredited American High School Diploma while studying core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, World Languages, Physical Education, and Visual and Performing Arts.
In addition to these subjects, students can choose electives like Business, Entrepreneurship, Accounting, Computer Science, Coding and Robotics, and Design and Technology, helping them explore their interests and future career pathways.
Students who are ready for a greater academic challenge can also take Advanced Placement (AP) courses such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, and AP Calculus AB, which offer university-level learning and can strengthen university applications.
An important facilitator for better learning among students is the right balance activities provided by the school. The campus facilities allow a right balance of indoor and outdoor activities which will allow students to have a well-balanced physical and cognitive development.
We’re delighted that you’re considering One World International School, Riyadh for your child’s education.
Please call or email our Admissions team, with any questions.
We’re looking forward to answering all of your questions and welcoming your family to our school.
