GNS Curriculum Overview

Welcome to GEMS Al Barsha National School, where our rigorous British curriculum is enriched by the vibrant cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates. Across each phase of our school, we emphasise academic excellence and integrity, ensuring a high standard of education for all our students.

Welcome to GNS, where our rigorous British curriculum is enriched by the vibrant cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates. Across each phase of our school, we emphasise academic excellence and integrity, ensuring a high standard of education for all our students.

Arabic and Islamic Studies

As a British school in the UAE, we celebrate and integrate Arabic language, Islamic studies, and local culture within our curriculum:

• Arabic Language: Required for all students, with tailored programs for native and non-native speakers.
• Islamic Studies: Mandatory for Muslim students, focusing on Islamic principles, history, and their relevance in today's world.
• UAE Social Studies: Essential for all students, covering Emirati history, culture, and modern society.
• Cultural Integration: Our curriculum infuses Arabic culture and Islamic values into subjects like Literature, Art, and History, providing a well-rounded perspective.

British Curriculum with Local Relevance

Our curriculum honors the UAE’s cultural context while following the British framework:

• Literature: Incorporates works by Emirati and Arab authors.
• History and Geography: Features key Middle Eastern topics.
• Science and Maths: Contextualszed with local and regional relevance.

Foundation Stage Curriculum Overview

In the Foundation Stage, we blend the British EYFS framework with the Ministry of Education standards in a dual-language approach. This stage focuses on play-based learning, nurturing each child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. Through a balance of English and Arabic, students build foundational language skills and cultural awareness, promoting confidence and academic readiness for Key Stage 1.

• Key Focus Areas:Communication and Language, Physical Development, Personal, Social, and Emotional Development.
• Specific Areas: Literacy, Maths, Understanding the World, and Expressive Arts and Design.

In addition, Foundation Stage students experience “Desert School,” where they explore nature, care for animals, tend to gardens, and engage with our environment.

Primary Curriculum Overview

The primary curriculum at GNS follows the English National Curriculum, enhanced by the Ministry of Education framework for a smooth transition to secondary school. We use renowned programs like Literacy Tree, Read Write Inc, White Rose, and Accelerated Reader to deliver an engaging, challenging, and culturally relevant education. Technology supports our learning goals, preparing students for a dynamic world.

Key Subjects:

• Core Subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Moral Education (from Year 2).
• Additional Subjects: Humanities, Physical Education, Performing Arts, Computing, UAE Social Studies, and Spanish (Year 6).

Our curriculum extends beyond academics, offering extracurricular activities like French Club, Cooking, Art, Technology, STEM, and a variety of sports.

Secondary Curriculum Overview

In secondary, students follow the English National Curriculum, culminating in GCSE exams in Year 11 and A-Levels or BTECs in Years 12 and 13. This curriculum is globally recognised, preparing students for higher education in the UK, UAE, and beyond.

Key Stages and Subjects:

•   Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9): Broad subject exploration.
•   Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11): GCSE preparation and exams.
•   Key Stage 5 (Years 12-13): A-Level or BTEC specialisation.

Core Subjects: English, Mathematics, Sciences, Arabic (First and Second Language), Islamic Studies (for Muslim students), and UAE Social Studies.

Additional subjects: Humanities, ICT, Modern Foreign Languages, Art, and Physical Education.

Secondary students benefit from activities like Model United Nations, STEM clubs, Arabic literature, cultural exchanges, and university and career preparation programs.

At GNS, our curriculum balances British educational excellence with local cultural integration, fostering a deep sense of identity and preparing our students to thrive as global citizens.