9 Factors to Consider in Choosing Private School Education for Your Child in the UAE
Weighing their child’s educational options is an exciting journey for parents. Public school? Private school? Homeschooling? It’s a tough decision. At the core of it, there’s always that one gnawing concern: ‘How will my child’s education shape their future?’
A child’s education has a profound impact on their growth and development. While there are various avenues of learning, private schools stand out as a compelling option. Private schools offer an environment where personalized attention, rigorous academic standards, and a strong sense of community converge to provide students with unique educational experiences.
Additionally, several private schools now offer a broad range of academic scholarships in the UAE to encourage students from different backgrounds to join their institutions. This means families can have access to first-rate education without the financial strain of costly tuition fees.
So, with that in mind, let’s examine nine considerations parents make when choosing private school education for their children in the UAE:
1. Class Sizes
Private schools usually afford their students smaller class sizes. This holds tremendous value for both students and teachers.
For students, having fewer people in the classroom means they can comfortably express their opinions. They can also ask questions, join group discussions, and engage in hands-on projects more easily.
For teachers, smaller class sizes mean they can give more focused attention to individual students, customize their teaching styles, and develop meaningful relationships with learners.
2. Parental Involvement
Private schools prioritize open communication between parents and the administration. They actively involve parents in the school community through regular parent-teacher meetings and social events like sports days and trips.
These activities enable parents to interact with teachers and administrators directly and have a say in their child’s education.
3. Academic Standards
In general, private school students outperform their public school peers on standardized achievement exams.
The reason behind this is that private high schools implement stricter learning standards than public schools, requiring the completion of extra coursework.
As a result, graduates from private institutions exhibit higher test outcomes, improved written, verbal, and mathematical abilities, and a better grasp of their college-level curriculum.
4. Choice of Curriculum
The flexibility to choose from a variety of curriculums is a major draw for private school education.
As per KHDA: Knowledge & Human Development Authority, there are approximately 17 curriculums available in Dubai alone. Some examples are the International Baccalaureate (IB), British National Curriculum (BNC), American and others.
These schools are internationally accredited, and they undergo regular audits and inspections to ensure they adhere to the guidelines of their regulatory boards.
With so many great options, parents can pick the curriculum that fits their child’s interests and passions.
5. Extracurricular and After-School Programs
Academia is the main focus for a majority of private schools. However, many of them also emphasize the value of holistic education. So, they foster student interest in activities like art, music, social clubs, sports, and competitions.
And unlike public institutions, private schools have greater financial flexibility and autonomy. As a result, they can provide various after-school programs. These programs help students explore their talents and express themselves.
6. State-of-the-Art Facilities
Modern facilities are yet another check mark on the list of advantages private schools offer.
From modern classrooms equipped with multimedia projectors and interactive whiteboards to expansive sports fields, music rooms, science labs, and libraries – private schools provide students with a wealth of resources to enhance their learning experience.
7. Professional Training and Development for Teachers
Private schools hire knowledgeable educators with rich experience in their subject areas, stellar educational backgrounds, and outstanding interpersonal skills.
They also receive ongoing professional development to stay updated on emerging pedagogical tools and educational practices.
8. Cultural Diversity
Private schools are home to students hailing from different cultures and backgrounds.
This diverse environment encourages students to develop an open-minded attitude toward other cultures and perspectives, cultivate a sense of empathy, learn tolerance, and grow into global citizens.
9. College Preparedness
As mentioned before, private schools provide students with rigorous coursework and high academic standards. This allows them to develop the necessary skills, knowledge, and habits to make their college transition smoother.
AP classes, guidance counseling, test preparation, and essay writing workshops are a few perks available in private high schools designed to help students get ready for college applications.
Enrol Your Child in a UAE Private School
If you’re searching for the best schools in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, or any other emirate, consider private educational institutions. They provide world-class education designed to equip your child with the skills and knowledge they need for a promising future.
But whatever your final decision, ensure you research the curriculum of your prospective school and factor in your location and budget. More importantly, consider your child’s interests and goals in your decision-making.
