Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision. With so many schools in Abu Dhabi offering different curricula, facilities and approaches to learning, knowing what to look for can feel overwhelming. In addition to practical factors such as tuition fees, location, and transportation, it is also important to consider other key aspects like academic quality, school culture, student wellbeing, and future progression opportunities.
The right school should support your child academically, socially and personally, while giving them the confidence and skills they need for the future. Here are six key things to consider when comparing schools in Abu Dhabi.
1. Curriculum and academic opportunities
Start by considering which curriculum best suits your child and your family's plans for the future. Abu Dhabi has schools offering British, IB, American and other international curricula.
Look at the qualifications available as your child progresses through school, as well as the subjects and pathways offered in the later years. If you are an international family, consider how easily the qualifications will transfer if your child eventually studies in another country.
2. Check the school's ADEK rating
When choosing a school in Abu Dhabi, it is important to understand its latest ADEK inspection rating.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) evaluates private schools through its Irtiqa’a inspection framework, looking at areas including student achievement, teaching and assessment, curriculum, student wellbeing and support, and leadership and management. Schools are rated from Outstanding to Very Weak, with Good considered the minimum standard.
While an ADEK rating is an important indicator of school quality, it is also worth reading the inspection report to understand the school's individual strengths and areas for development.
3. Consider student wellbeing
Academic success is important, but so is your child's happiness and wellbeing.
Find out how the school supports students' emotional wellbeing, builds positive relationships and creates a sense of belonging. When visiting, look at whether students seem happy, confident and comfortable around their teachers.
A strong pastoral programme should be part of everyday school life, helping students feel supported as they grow and develop. At The British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi), wellbeing and pastoral care are embedded throughout the student experience, ensuring every child feels known, valued and supported.
4. Explore opportunities beyond the classroom
School is about more than lessons and exams. Sport, music, performing arts, creative activities, leadership opportunities and community projects can help children discover new interests and develop confidence.
Ask about the range of extracurricular activities available and whether students have opportunities to try something new, regardless of their previous experience.
5. Look at the school community and values
Every child is different, so consider how the school supports individual learning needs, abilities and backgrounds.
For families moving to Abu Dhabi from overseas, it can also be important to ask about English language support and how new students are helped to settle into school life.
You may also want to consider the diversity of the school community. Learning alongside students from different cultures and backgrounds can help children develop a global outlook and a greater understanding of the world around them. At BIS Abu Dhabi, students learn within a vibrant international community representing more than 90 nationalities.
6. Visit the school
Finally, whenever possible, visit the schools you are considering.
A website can tell you about a school's curriculum, facilities and achievements, but visiting allows you to experience its atmosphere for yourself. Speak to teachers, meet students and ask questions about your child's individual needs.
Most importantly, consider whether it feels like a place where your child can belong, grow and thrive.
Finding the right school for your child
There is no single school that is right for every family.
The right school is one where your child feels safe, supported, and excited to learn every day.
The British International School Abu Dhabi offers a British education from Early Years to Senior School and has been rated Outstanding by ADEK since 2021. As part of the Nord Anglia Education family, students benefit from personalised learning opportunities and global collaborations that enrich their educational experience.
Whether your family is relocating to Abu Dhabi or already calls the city home, BIS Abu Dhabi provides an inclusive environment where every learner is supported to achieve their ambitions and create their future.
Enquire now to discover how BIS Abu Dhabi can support your child's journey and help them reach their full potential. Contact our Admissions Team at admissions@bisad.ae.
