Frequently asked questions  

Curious about life at our international school in Abu Dhabi? Explore our FAQs for clear, practical answers to the questions families most often ask about learning, wellbeing and everyday life in our close-knit community.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, our team is here to help – simply get in touch and we’ll be happy to support you. 

Curriculum and Academic Structure

A British school follows the English National Curriculum, providing a structured and internationally recognised education pathway. Students typically progress from Early Years (FS1 and FS2) through Primary and Secondary.

A Levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB) are both respected post-16 pathways, but they suit different learning styles:
 
A Levels allow students to specialise, usually studying 3 subjects in depth, is exam based and does not have any formal services or extra curricular requirements
 
The IB Diploma Programme offers a broad and balanced curriculum, with students studying six subjects alongside core components such as the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Assessment is based not only on final examinations but also on coursework completed over the two-year programme, supporting the development of well-rounded, reflective and independent learners.

Teaching, Languages & Learning Support

Our classroom teachers are all native English speaking, primarily from the UK and Ireland. We also have our specialist teachers delivering the Ministry of Education’s Arabic, Islamic and Social Studies curriculum.
 
 

Arabic is taught from Nursery onwards as part of the MOE curriculum. Spanish is taught to children from Year 3 onwards. French and Spanish are available as additional language options for GCSEs.

Yes. All children in EYFS receive 4 Arabic lessons a week, from Year 1 they are split into native and non-native for Arabic and will receive 3-5 Arabic lessons per week.
 
 
We support all children through quality first teaching and by immersing children in a language-rich curriculum.
 
 

We request parents to inform the school at application stage regarding any additional learning support requirements for their child. We may request copies of external documents such as professional assessments, individual learning plans, and one to one learning requirements which will be reviewed by our Head of Inclusion. Based on these, we offer a range of inclusive provision to support students with additional learning needs. This includes three dedicated Oasis classes designed to provide specialised support for students with more complex needs. In addition, we welcome and support students with additional needs within mainstream classrooms, with adjustments and individual support provided with or without a learning assistant, depending on each child’s individual requirements. Our approach ensures that every student is supported in a way that enables them to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

Our teachers are always available for a quick word at the start and end of each day and parents can always make an appointment if a longer discussion is needed. We ensure that families are fully informed of what their child is learning in school through Class Dojo and Google Classroom. We also make sure families know how they can help at home through weekly newsletters and termly meetings. We also have regular family workshops in all areas of the curriculum.
 
 
 

Admissions & Orientation

Parents applying for admission are required to submit the following documents with their application: end-of-year school reports, a copy of the child’s Emirates ID or passport, and medical reports (if applicable).

Once a child has been accepted, additional registration documents will be requested. These include parent Emirates IDs, passport copies, birth certificates, and equivalence certificates, where required.

Once an application is submitted, we may invite the child for a class observation. This is to help us understand the child’s learning style, social interaction and support needs. The observation allows us to make the most appropriate class placement and ensure the right resources and support are in place to help each child settle confidently and succeed from the start.

Families are welcome to come and visit admissions team anytime during the school day- Monday to Friday. Family Information Meetings are held at the start of each academic year to warmly welcome parents and help them settle into school life. Throughout the year, we also host a range of family workshops tailored to different age groups, equipping parents with practical tools and insights to confidently support their child’s learning journey.

Our uniform shop is located in the admin building upstairs from reception.

School Identity & Network

Aspen Heights British School has been part of ISP since its inception in 2017. It was one of the first schools in the UAE owned by ISP.

We are located in Al Bahya, Abu Dhabi, near Emirates Park Zoo https://goo.gl/maps/sQzJz2K6Dxr
 
We are proud to be part of International Schools Partnership (iSP), a global community of 80+ schools across 22 countries with a shared purpose of growing the world’s most curious, confident minds.
 
We champion a transformative approach to learning that goes beyond the classroom.
 
By igniting our students’ curiosity and growing their self-confidence, our students thrive throughout their time at school and beyond.

Daily Life at School & Fees

The school day starts at 7.45am for all children. Children in Nursery and FS2 finish at 2pm. Children in Year 1 upwards finish at 2.20pm. ECA activities run for children in Year 1 upwards until 3.30 pm. All children have a mid-morning break for a snack and play and a lunch break for snack and play.

Football, Netball, Basketball, Swimming, Padel, Badminton

A range of both free and paid ECAs are available from Year 1 upward four days a week (children can choose 2 a week). This includes a range of recreational and educational activities such as sports clubs, chess, drama, maths club, athletics and Eco Club.

Yes, we have two swimming pools. Each dedicated for Junior and Senior students and swimming is an important part of our physical education curriculum

Yes, our students are required to wear a uniform. Our uniform is smart and contemporary in style and it helps create a sense of belonging and pride, promotes equality among students, and reflects the school’s values of community and respect.

Yes, our students are required to wear a uniform. Our uniform is smart and contemporary in style and it helps create a sense of belonging and pride, promotes equality among students, and reflects the school’s values of community and respect.

Our Parent Council, Friends of Aspen, plays an important part in school life by strengthening the partnership between families and the school. Through collaboration, support and community-led initiatives, they help enrich the student experience, foster a strong sense of belonging and support events and activities that bring our Aspen Family together.

Aspen Heights British School caters to children from approximately age 3 (Nursery) through age 18 (Sixth form). Fees starts at AED 38,080 up to AED 65,290.

Parents may make payments at the school premises, via our Zenda payment app, by bank transfer, or by cheque.

Please feel free to book a tour with our Admissions team any time between Mon - Thu 8:00 am - 3:30 PM

Our current fee schedule, and detailed information about the different components and payment schedules, can be found on our Fees page. Aspen Heights British School's fees are normally paid termly, though we do offer a monthly payment plan.
 
 
Yes, we offer discounts to Etihad families and to Fazaa, Homat Al Wotan Card Holders. A discount is also available to Al Reef residents. If none of these apply, we offer sibling discount.
 
 
Class sizes are up to 20 in Nursery, up to 25 in FS2 and up to 30 in Year 1 upwards, though most are nearer 20. Nursery to Year 2 have teaching assistants and from Year 3 upwards share teaching assistants.
 
 
We offer a bus service from/to the following areas. Fees are 5,000 AED per year, as per ADEK policy.
 
Al Bahya, Al Falah, Al Reef 1&2, Al Shalila, Al Rahba, Al Raha Beach, Al Samha, YAs Island, Al Shamkha, Hydra Village, Khalifa City A, Shahama, Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi Island.
 
 
No – all of our classrooms have a cabinet of ipads/chromebooks for use by the children. In Secondary, all children are given their own chromebook for use within school.
 
 
In EYFS and Primary no stationery is required. In Secondary, students should come to school everyday with their own stationary.
 
 

Aspen Heights British School is rated 'Good' with 'Very Good' and 'Outstanding' elements for our curriculum design, leadership, wellbeing and safeguarding of students.

Aspen Heights is a truly international school in Abu Dhabi with children from 65+ different nationalities.
 
 

Our uniform shop is located in the admin building upstairs from reception.

We recognise that many children have busy lives. They will work hard while at school, so we will not be setting excessive amounts of homework. We expect all children to read at home regularly to develop a love of reading. Any homework given will be relevant and meaningful.
 
 
Our school offers two impressive astro-pitches, an indoor gymnasium, a padel court, two swimming pools, each dedicated for junior and senior students, multi-sports (MUGA) court, hydroponics greenshouse as well as shaded well-equipped playgrounds with cushioned flooring. All classrooms have smart boards and access to our large stock of Google Chromebooks. We have a well-stocked library, a music room and break-out areas. Our eco-friendly environment also includes a hydroponics greenhouse and animals including tortoises, turtles, fish and chickens.
 
 
P.E and Swimming are an integral part of the curriculum. We ensure that the importance of both physical and mental health are taught to the students. We also have a number of community events over the year such as Healthy Week and House Days to celebrate physical wellbeing.
 
 
We actively promote healthy eating at school, recognising that nutritionally balanced food helps children stay energised, focused and engaged in their learning. Our catering partner is carefully selected to provide nutritious and appealing meals for students, and we run a ‘Fruit and Vegetable of the Week’ initiative to encourage families to include more fresh, wholesome foods in lunchboxes. To support a healthy and safe school environment, nuts, sweets and fizzy drinks are not permitted in packed lunches.
 

Food Nation- our catering company serve hot and cold meals to children in Year 3 upwards in our canteen. There is also a cafe in the reception area for families to use.

Positive relationships permeates all aspects of the Aspen Heights school. We use a positive approach to behaviour management. Every member of our community embraces the Four Cs -Courtesy, Consideration, Common sense and Co-operation.

Yes from Year 1 for Islamic and from Year 2 for Social Studies for Arabic Speaking muslims. Non-native Islamic classes are available for non-native speakers.
 
 
Yes, we have separate prayer rooms for males and females.
 
 
For older students, we offer IGCSEs in Year 11 and the IB Diploma Programme in Year 13. From Year 7 onwards, students sit internal end-of-year examinations to monitor progress and inform next steps in learning. In our Primary school in Abu Dhabi, students are assessed using GL Assessments, alongside ongoing classroom assessment, to support their academic development.
 

We support gifted and talented students through a combination of challenging classroom provision and enrichment opportunities designed to extend learning beyond the curriculum. Teachers differentiate lessons to provide appropriate challenge, encourage higher-order thinking and promote independent learning. In addition, students are offered enrichment workshops, specialist programmes, and educational trips and competitions that allow them to explore their strengths, deepen subject knowledge and develop confidence.

A high level of pastoral care is on offer to all children. In our Secondary school in Abu Dhabi, students have pastoral time with form tutors including PSHE and moral education. Children have golden time activities, and we have a School Counsellor available.
 
 
Aspen Heights British School offers a range of Sixth Form pathways designed to suit different learning styles, strengths and future aspirations. Students can choose between the IB Diploma Programme and BTEC pathways.
 
The IB Diploma Programme provides a broad, academically rigorous curriculum that develops independent, globally minded learners through a balance of subjects and core components. Our BTEC pathways, including Business, IT and Sport, offer a more practical, coursework-based route with a strong focus on applied learning, real-world skills and career readiness.
 
These pathways allow students to follow a route that best supports their interests and prepares them for university, further education or future careers.

Performing Arts FAQs

Aspen Heights British School offers excellent facilities to support creativity and performance, including a dedicated Performing Arts Hall, a Dance Studio, a Podcast Studio, a specialist Art Room and dedicated Music Rooms for both Primary and Secondary students. These purpose-built spaces provide inspiring environments for rehearsing, performing, composing and creating.

Yes. Students have opportunities to explore and develop their musical skills through curriculum lessons and enrichment opportunities. Our programme encourages confidence, creativity and enjoyment in music-making.

In Secondary, students continue developing their skills in Performing Arts and Visual Arts. Visual Arts is offered as an option at GCSE and can also be studied as part of the IB Diploma Programme, allowing students to refine their artistic practice and build strong portfolios.

Yes. AHBS offers a range of Performing Arts and Visual Arts ECAs for both Primary and Secondary students. Primary pupils take part in initiatives such as Drama Workshop Week, while Secondary students have opportunities to perform in a full school production. These experiences allow students to develop their skills, creativity and confidence beyond the classroom.

Student achievements are celebrated through performances, productions, Drama Workshop Week showcases, the Secondary production and art exhibitions throughout the year. These events give students the opportunity to share their talents with the wider school community and build confidence presenting their work.

Students can take part in collaborative Performing Arts activities and ensemble opportunities through ECAs and school productions, encouraging teamwork, creativity and stage confidence.

Yes. Visual Arts is embedded within the curriculum, with students able to continue their studies at GCSE and through the IB Diploma Programme in Secondary School.

Accreditations

Partner placeholder IB World British Schools Overseas Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study T4 Best Schools to Work Mentl Awards
PISA
BSME
GL Assessment