Raffles International School

Owned by Emaar Education, Raffles International School is managed as a joint venture with Raffles Education Singapore. Raffles is one of the best British curriculum schools in Dubai offering classes from FS2 to Year 13. It is a co-education school and has mostly British teachers. 

Raffles International School (RIS) has been a proud part of the Innoventures Education group of schools and nurseries since 2011.

• Location: Umm Suqeim
• School Fee: AED 32,430 to AED 85,923.
• Curriculum: National Curriculum of England
• KHDA rating: Very Good
• Years Offered: FS - Year 13

Residential areas near the school include:

• Al Quoz
• Al Manara
• Al Barsha

Al Quoz is a large community offering a mix of commercial and residential properties. Al Manara is a popular residential neighbourhood in western Dubai. It offers villas for rent and sale. Families residing in residential buildings on Sheikh Zayed Road can also access the school easily.

Those looking to live near Raffles International School can consider:

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Enjoying a prime location in Umm Suqeim 3, Raffles International School has a 315,000 sq. ft. purpose-built campus that overlooks the iconic Burj Al Arab. The school can easily accommodate over 2,000 students.

The campus has three large atriums and open Astroturf areas that can be used as play areas. These can also be used for PE sessions during winter and coaching purposes. The central building is surrounded by two buildings. The central area is commonly used for assemblies. One can also find a library besides an indoor play area and canteen.

Raffles International School's south campus is located on 20th street in Umm Suqeim.

For eight years, Raffles International School secured a Very Good rating from the KHDA. The school is known to offer quality education. Most teachers at the school are British and have an outstanding track record. Rigorous in-service training sessions are held regularly to help them keep pace with the evolving teaching and learning methods and global trends.

The teaching process is also evaluated periodically by international governing bodies and educational authorities. This ensures that high teaching standards are maintained across the school. The school has a qualified support staff for ICT, Science, library, learning support and Physical Education (PE) to assist the hard-working teachers.

Since its launch, Raffles International has followed its vision of being a ‘parent-centric’ school. It makes all decisions in the best interest of students, and one can see the excellent outcomes in the form of outstanding results in the final exams. Those graduating from the school have secured spots in some of the best international colleges and universities.

RIS Dubai collaborates closely with students and parents to enhance the educational experience across all phases. The school's core values include Collaboration, Integrity, Respect, Achievement and Responsibility at all levels.

The school is committed to maintaining each student's emotional, physical and social well-being. Raffles International School Dubai offers optimum support to help students unlock their true potential. A pastoral care system is designed to prepare students for life after school.

Raffles International School in Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, is equally beneficial for gifted and talented students as well as those with learning difficulties. Students with SEND (Special Education Needs and Disabilities) are also welcomed at the school.

Most students are Arabs, so the school also offers a programme where English is taught as an Additional Language. Fluency in English is not a requirement for entry/admission until Year 9 and most students develop their language skills after joining the school.

Raffles International School offers counselling services so that students achieve their academic goals without compromising on their emotional health.

In addition to this,  Raffles International School Nursery offers early childhood education to little ones. They have multiple branches across the city.

RIS Dubai classes are divided into the following sections:

EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE

The EYFS framework covers the content taught during the Foundation Stage. It is based on the following seven areas of learning:

• Personal, emotional and social development
• Communication and language
• Physical development
• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Art and Design
• Understanding the world

The Montessori section has a supportive learning environment and is supervised by qualified Montessori staff. The teaching techniques aim to produce well-rounded individuals. Students can perform basic functions such as tying a shoelace, pouring a drink or sharpening a pencil independently. This independence is critical in building the confidence of the young students.

General subjects taught at the Montessori level include an introduction to mathematical concepts. Students can recognise numbers and quantities. Plus, they also teach simple mathematical functions such as addition and subtraction during these Montessori classes.

A phonic approach to teaching is used so that young kids get a grasp of the language. Students are also made familiar with the basics of reading and writing.

PRIMARY YEARS

The primary school includes Year 1 and Year 6. RIS Primary school is based on The National Curriculum for England. The UAE Ministry of Education guidelines supplement the curriculum and include Arabic and Islamic Education.

The curriculum is designed to encourage students to become independent learners, creative thinkers and problem solvers. It identifies and concentrates on individual strengths and areas for student’s development. From Year 3 onwards, language options for students include Mandarin and French besides the compulsory Arabic language course.

RIS updated the primary curriculum to facilitate a broader understanding of subjects including English, Science, Mathematics, IT, Art and Physical Education. Primary students can communicate confidently. Following the National Curriculum of England, learners develop first language competency in English as well as cross-cultural understanding.

For both native and non-native Arabic speakers, RIS follows the Ministry of Education program. Islamic Studies is also compulsory for Muslim students, as per the Ministry of Education guidelines.

For additional subjects such as Physical Education, Music and the Arts, the school follows the English National Curriculum.

SECONDARY SCHOOL (Year 7 to Year 11)

Years 7 until 11 are included in the secondary school. The school follows the National Curriculum for England. Year 7 students can explore the different IGCSE options to pursue in Year 10 and Year 11. Students in RIS must take English, Mathematics, and Science courses for IGCSE and Arab students must pick Arabic as a part of their course.

Students graduating from RIS meet all internationally recognised academic standards.

Optional subjects at this level include Additional Mathematics, Art and Design, Computer Science, Business Studies, EAL, Economics, French, ICT and Physical Education. Numerous language options are also included in the curriculum for secondary school students.

SIXTH FORM (Year 12 and Year 13)

Based on the education system of England, Wales and Ireland, the Sixth Form system is for Years 12 and 13. Students are groomed in a way that they play a major role as school leaders and academic models for other younger students.

Students can choose 3 to 4 subjects for A-LEVEL or a single BTEC Business Studies option. Both courses are designed for 2 years. However, BTEC is not recognised as an entry qualification for UAE nationals willing to apply in government universities in the UAE. Universities only accept grade-based applications. Therefore, students must choose the Sixth Form subjects after careful consideration. Some courses also have special requirements such as Medicine and Engineering.

Subjects for Sixth Form include Arabic, Art & Design, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Economics, Extended Project Qualification, Geography, ICT, Mathematics, Physics and History.

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) helps private schools in Dubai provide quality education. The authority rates all private schools based on several parameters including curriculum, facilities, extra-curricular activities and leadership. The rating ranges from ‘Outstanding’ to ‘Very Weak.’

Raffles International School KHDA rating for the academic year 2022 - 2023 is 'Very Good'.

According to the Raffles International School KHDA Rating and report, students’ progress in all subjects in all phases is good. The progress in Arabic and English as additional languages in primary and secondary school has improved. Students in the secondary phase, primary phase and post-16 phase have attained and improved in Science. Students in the lower primary are supported in reading through the phonics programme.

Students display a positive and responsible attitude towards learning. They have self-discipline and were found to be supportive of their teachers. RIS Dubai students have a sense of responsibility and show involvement within the school and in the wider community.

Learning skills and teaching quality have improved in both primary and secondary phases. Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) students have outstanding learning skills. The use of assessment data to support essential needs during lessons is appreciable.

Several positive changes have been made in the school’s curriculum. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) operates alongside the existing Montessori programme in FS2. Primary and Secondary students follow the National Curriculum for England.

A nurturing and caring learning environment is provided at RIS so students can develop personally and academically. New appointments and restructuring of leadership specifically in the primary section had a positive impact on the school.

Overall, the school’s performance is improved through leadership changes, restructuring and focused training. Parents are well-informed regarding their children’s progress. The school governance uses resources effectively and fulfils its key role of holding leaders accountable.

According to the inspection report, leaders are improving the progress of students. The school maintains a well-developed partnership with parents that is found to be very effective. RIS Dubai pays special attention to developing students’ attitudes, environmental awareness and social responsibilities within the context of UAE’s Islamic values. The school exceeds expectations by achieving the UAE National Agenda.

Raffles International School calendar is available on their official website.

For more information, visit the Raffles International Calendar on the website.

Raffles International School welcomes admission applications from students belonging to different nationalities. Students who have studied different curriculums previously can also apply for admission. Raffles International School admission begins at the start of the new academic year in September. However, subject to availability, admissions are open throughout the year.

Students applying from emirates other than Dubai are advised to contact the admission team to get the required guidance and support regarding the documentation process as per the UAE authorities.

Parents can book a scheduled school tour before the start of the admission process. Also, parents have the option to attend an open house for FS2 until Sixth Form. These open houses allow parents to interact with the academic team and admission staff. They publish dates and timings of the open houses on the school website.

Documents required with the application form include:

• One copy of the student’s and parents' current valid passport
• One copy of a valid residence visa of both parent and student
• One copy of the Emirates ID of both parent and student
• One copy of the student’s birth certificate either in English or in Arabic
• One copy of the student’s previous school report only in English
• Three passport photographs of student
• Copy of student’s Immunisation
• Original Transfer Certificate which is signed and attested by all the bodies.
• One copy of the student's school reports for the past two years in English

After submitting all the documents and application forms, the applicant receives a receipt. The admission team contacts parents to arrange an assessment/interview of the applicant (for FS2 to Year 13 applicants). Assessments are scheduled between 10:00 am to 12:00 pm from Sunday to Thursday.

Applicants have to pay a non-refundable fee of AED 1,000 on the day of assessment. Students who need additional support can also get admission if the school is confident that it can offer the required support and the fact that students can benefit from learning in a mainstream classroom.

Assessment Procedure

Each applicant will have to appear for assessment. Local applicants have to go through an assessment within the premises of the school. Students based outside the UAE can take assessments online under the supervision of a qualified teacher.

Assessments for FS2, Year 1 and Year 2 include English and Numbers. However, non-verbal clues may also be used. For Year 3 and above, CAT4 digital testing is conducted online.

The following documents are required at the time of assessment:

• Photocopies of the birth certificate, passport, visa and the Emirates ID card
• Full school reports or transcripts for the last two years.
• Transfer Certificate from the previous school. If the student was based outside the UAE, the certificate must be attested as per the requirements of the KHDA.
• Photocopy of Immunisation records
• Passport photos
• Upon enrolment, the Emirates IDs of the student and Parent must be electronically swiped at the admission office for the mandatory registration with the KHDA. Once this registration is approved by the KHDA, parents will be invited to electronically sign the Parent School Contract as the final registration step.
• Parents (and students of age 15 years and above) are required to sign the Parent School Contract for new students at the start of their first academic year at the school.

After a successful assessment, members of the senior academic team will review the previous school reports of applicants as well as the results of the assessment. Successful applicants receive a formal offer letter within 2 working days after the date of assessment. If the seat is not available, successful candidates are kept on a waiting list. They are notified once a seat is available.

SELECTION CRITERIA

• Selection is based on the following criteria:
• Performance in English and Mathematics in the entrance test.
• Previous school reports
• Interview with the admission officer, school counsellor, academic coordinator and school principal
• Grade level and age appropriateness for the applied year
• Transfer certificate from the previous school
• Siblings of currently enrolled students are given priority
• Applicant’s previously attended curriculum

Also, parents must ensure that their child meets the following age-placement guidelines.

This is based on the age of the students on 31st March (for schools beginning in April) and 31st August (for schools beginning in September). Source: KHDA

* This is to cater to students transferring from systems that admit students of a younger age)

Raffles International School fees structure for the academic year 2023 - 2024 is as follows:

Please note that:

• Registration charges for new students are 10% of the tuition fee (adjusted in term 1 fees)
• Re-registration charges for existing students are 5% of the tuition fee (adjusted in term 1 fees)

SIBLING DISCOUNT

RIS Dubai offers a 5% sibling discount to the second and third child and a 10% discount from the fourth child onwards. This sibling discount applies to both new and existing students.

Tuition fees can be paid in full or via two cheques that must be dated for the first day of each semester or earlier. Payment can also be made through bank transfer, cash or credit card for the whole semester. However, it should not be later than the first day of each semester.

Raffles International School provides three types of scholarships through ACES: Sports, Academic and Co-curricular, and Emirati Distinction. These scholarships are available to students with outstanding academic records and achievements. Eligibility is open to both new and current students in Years 5 to 13 and the scholarships will be awarded as a percentage of the annual school fees.

For more information regarding the categories and eligibility criteria, please head over to the Raffles International School Scholarship page on the official website.

The school cafeteria is where students can have a healthy breakfast, lunch and mid-morning snacks. All food items are healthy and hygienic. One can also spot drinking water stations at the cafeteria. Students are allowed to bring nutritious lunch and drinks from home. The cafeteria menu includes a main course, vegetables, rice/potato and a dessert.

Raffles International School provides a safe and secure daily transportation service as an optional facility. The transportation staff is well-trained and follows the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) guidelines. RIS buses maintain a perfect safety record to ensure a hassle-free commute.

Arab Falcon Bus Rental LLC is the reputable transportation company managing the service. The school ensures that students are picked and dropped safely from the locations. All the buses are CCTV equipped and are monitored by bus supervisors.

When there are co-curricular activities at school, additional bus services are there to assist with the commute.

Parents have to submit the completed transport request form to the transport office based in the school. You can also send a fax on +971-4-427-1201 or email at crs.ris@arabfalcondubai.ae.

For other transport-related queries, parents can contact the Arab Falcon customer care representative on +971-55-459-1027.

RIS Dubai believes that physical activity is important for the wellbeing of students. It has a balanced PE curriculum supported by a highly popular extra-curricular programme.

There is a large open area around the school that serves as a play area for students. Football, touch rugby, volleyball, athletics and other sports are offered to students to keep them healthy and strong. RIS has a coaching facility for different sports. The school also competes with other Dubai schools; students can participate in swimming, cross-country, basketball, football, volleyball, athletics and other competitions.

Extracurricular activities include three components: Science, Sports and Performing Arts at RIS. They range from exciting sports, creative arts, and aesthetic activities to music and drama. RIS Dubai expects students to participate in at least one extracurricular activity every term. A wide range of activities is offered as a mix of teacher-led and paid activities.

PAID ACTIVITIES AT RIS

Paid extra-curricular activities at RIS include:

Teacher-led activities include the following:

Other extra-curricular activities include:

Secondary school students go overseas and are part of local trips as well. The school planned an art trip to Paris.

Local field study trips to different emirates including Louvre Abu Dhabi, science investigations at the mangroves in Umm Al Quwain, desert wildlife exploration at Al Qudra and camping in the Hajar Mountain are also arranged at RIS.

International trips start from Year 5. Students have been to Italy, France and China. Cultural trips to Rome, London and space camp in Brussels were also planned for students.

RIS shares details with parents at the start of the year that helps them in planning, selecting and budgeting. Please note that these trips are not mandatory.

The school clinic is managed by a full-time qualified doctor and two experienced nurses. The medical staff maintains detailed medical records of students and provides support during health emergencies. The clinic strictly adheres to the child protection protocol laid down by the DHA (Dubai Health Authority).

RIS provides immunisation to students whose parents agree for it. School vaccination starts from age 6 years (Year 2). Oral polio, DT and MMR vaccines are part of the school.

Parent Portal keeps parents updated regarding their child’s progress and other school-related events.

PaRIS is the Parent Association of Raffles International School. The executive committee member of PaRIS meets the Principal every week.

RIS Dubai also has a WhatsApp group for parents. The group sends updates regarding events, trips and other activities happening at the school.

• Telephone: +971-4-427-1200
• Email Admission: admissions@rafflesis.com

General Information

• Website Raffles International School
• Facebook Raffles International School
• Twitter Raffles International School
• Instagram Raffles International School

What are the timings of the school?

The school is operational from 07:30 am to 04:00 pm.

How many years are there in the school?

FS to Year 13.

Does the school follow a co-education model?

Yes, Raffles International School follows co-educational model.

Please describe the academic calendar of the school.

The school year starts in August and ends in July.

Please mention the range of the tuition fee charged by the school.

AED 32,430 to AED 85,923.

How does the school communicate with parents?

 Parents portal is the primary source of communication between parents and the school.

How many students are currently studying in the school?

Raffles International has 1,155 students.

Does the school have a cafeteria or a canteen on campus?

Yes, Raffles International has a cafeteria for students.

Does the school arrange field trips?

Yes, the school takes students on field trips every year.

How many teachers are currently teaching in the school?

There are 121 teachers in the school.

Note that the cover image belongs to Raffles International School