Al Salam Private School is located in Al Nahda, Dubai. It provides education for both girls and boys, from ages 3 to 18. It currently has just over 1158 students (up 60 on the last academic year), one in five of whom are from local, Emirati families. Arab nationals as a whole make up one in two students. Pakistanis account for almost one-third of the student body.

The school has 88 teachers and 25 support staff. Turnover among staff is low. The school’s principal, Susan Patricia Johnston, has been in the role for 25 years, since the school was founded, making her one of the most enduring school heads in the country. The KHDA report describes her leadership as “visionary” (2012 report) and “dedicated” (2013 report) – very strong words for the KHDA. Nb: The record for tenure is currently held by Sister Samira Ayoub Botrus at Al Rashidschool (in the position for 30 years). Both are anomalies in a country where a three to five year tenure is closer to the norm.

The school curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage at KG level. At later phases the school follows the English National Curriculum (Cambridge Board Certified) with students entered for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) at the end of the secondary phase and AS Level examinations at the end of the post-16 phase.

The school offers core IGCSE subjects: English, Math, General Science (from Year 7 – Biology, Chemistry & Physics are taught separately), History, Geography, Social Studies and Computer Studies. In addition, the school offers Arabic as a first or second language, Religion, French, Music, Sports and Art. The school does not publish which AS ‘Levels it offers. One complaint from students concerns the range of options for study.

The school achieved excellent results in its 2013 GCSE examinations with no student achieving lower than a C grade. 32% of students achieved an A* grade, 30% a A grade, 30% a B, and 8% a C.

Equally impressive results were achieved at AS Level, with 25% of grades achieved being A, 34% of grades, B; and 21% of grades C.

Comprehensive results achieved, dating back to 2009, may be foundhere.

The school has a rating of Good from Dubai’s education regulator, the KHDA which notes a “number of important strengths”, including good attainment and progress in Islamic Education, Arabic as a first language, and Arabic as an additional language and English in all phases.

Arabic and Islamic studies are normally weak points for private schools.

Other key strengths include students’ positive attitudes, behaviour, cultural awareness and understanding of Islamic values; outstanding provision for health and safety across the school; and outstanding support for students, including those with special educational needs..

Students with special educational needs are identified and well supported by specialists and teaching assistants.

Academic progress and attainment are Good pretty much across all stages of the school. However this year (2014) the school has moved up some ratings. It has Outstanding attainment and progress in English at the secondary and post-16 stages, and in mathematics at the post-16 stage. Its Foundation Stage is now rated Good across the board, save for attainment in science which is still Acceptable.

Both parents and teachers are largely very positive about the school, students slightly less so – although still broadly very positive. Which School Advisor has so far received very limited response from parents regarding the school. We encourage parents to complete the survey. It may be found here.

The school does not publish a list of its facilities.