The Sheffield Private School

Established in September 2004, The Sheffield Private School has made significant progress in terms of education. TSPS aims to prepare students for life beyond school by instilling skills that enable them to become responsible and independent. Students achieve high academic standards as a result of guidance and mentoring provided by the school. They are also given opportunities to think beyond the classroom.

The Sheffield Private School Al Nahda campus follows the UK curriculum and EYFS programme. Currently, there are 1,500 boys and girls aged 3 to 18 years. Students appear for IGCSE, AS and A-Level exams. The school recently received a ‘Good’ rating from the KHDA.

As one of the UK curriculum schools in Dubai, it is best known as an education facility where numerous improvements are made across all sections by the enthusiastic leadership.

Most parents prefer to send kids to schools that are not far from their residential districts. Below mentioned areas are in the proximity to The Sheffield Private School:

• Al Taawun
• Al Twar
• Al Qusais
• Al Mamzar

Those looking to live near The Sheffield Private School can consider:

• Apartment for rent near The Sheffield Private School

The 2-floor school building is centrally air-conditioned and has spacious classrooms. Each classroom has networked computers, projectors and interactive Smart Boards to assist the learning process. The school is completely Wi-Fi enabled making it possible for teachers to use online resources and video streaming.

The purpose-built facility includes a covered FS play area, an outdoor play area, a covered 5-lane swimming pool and a learner pool, an auditorium hall, three ICT labs, school clinic, an art room, three fully equipped laboratories and a library.

For extracurricular activities, the school has a well-resourced art studio and several music rooms. Students can find a covered netball court as well as football and hockey pitches. The auditorium at TSPS can also be used for volleyball, badminton and basketball.

The Sheffield Private School, Dubai is located in the family-friendly community of Al Nahda, Al Nahda 2 to be precise. It is adjacent to Al Qusais Industrial area. People settled in Al Taawun, Al Mamzar and Al Nahda can reach TSPS within minutes. People who live around Deira, Dubai can consider sending their children to The Sheffield Private School as it is only 15 minutes away from the district.

TSPS Dubai got a ‘Good’ rating from the KHDA. The school inspires students to achieve their full potential while spending time in a supportive learning environment. As a result, students graduate as responsible citizens and lifelong learners. Students from TSPS contribute successfully to the global community.

Aiming to provide holistic education, TSPS makes sure students have the skills needed to become valuable members of society.
The Sheffield Private School exceeded PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) targets and has above national averages compared to other private schools in the city. The school has also surpassed its 2019 targets.

The Sheffield Private School’s vision is supported by the Student Leadership team including the head boy and head girl. The Student Leadership Programme is a bright example of how students can help achieve the milestones set by the school management. The school also has a House Points System giving all students a fair chance to earn rewards. The four houses at TSPS are Scorpions (Red), Falcons (Blue), Leatherbacks (Green) and Leopards (Yellow).

One of the strengths of the school is its provision for the health and safety of students. TSPS has shown an astonishing level of improvement during the last three years in terms of school transparency.

The school offers classes from FS1 to Year 13. All classes are divided into three sections plus sixth form.

FOUNDATION STAGE

The Foundation Stage consisting of FS1 and FS2 is for children aged 3-5 years old. It follows The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum.

The Early Year Foundation Stage section understands every student deserves the best possible start to the learning process. The EYFS curriculum sets the best standards for the learning and development of children.

PRIMARY SCHOOL

Primary school at The Sheffield Private School is about creating curiosity in learners. The primary level comprises two key stages – KS1 and KS2. KS1 consists of Year 1 and 2 for students aged 5 to 7 years. KS 2 is Year 3 to 6 for students aged 7 to 11 years. The curriculum at TSPS is a modified version of the National Curriculum for England and Wales, taking into account the UAE Ministry of Education rules.

The curriculum is based on Every Child Matters Agenda and promotes social and emotional development through a value-based approach. The aim is to create curious and active learners even outside the classroom.

Foundation subjects in Key Stage 1 and 2 include Social Studies, P.E., History, Geography, French, Music, Art, ICT and Social and Health Education.

SECONDARY SCHOOL

Secondary school students focus on the practical implications of their knowledge. This section includes Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5. Key Stage 3 includes Year 7, 8 and 9 for students aged 11 to 14. Key Stage 4 covers Year 10 and 11 for students aged 14 to 16. Key Stage 5 involves Year 12 and 13 for students aged 16 to 18.

EYFS

At TSPS, EYFS curriculum is offered at the foundation stage. The curriculum is based on developing a unique child that is capable, resilient and confident. The curriculum recognises that each child has their own pace of learning. Emphasis is laid on building positive relationships and developing strong relationships with parents, teachers and the child. The core areas of the curriculum include:

• Physical Development
• Communication and Language
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development

The subject areas include:

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts and Design

The programme develops resilient, confident and self-assured individuals. The school also acknowledges that each child learns in a different way and at a different pace. TSPS has a supportive learning environment and understands that opportunities and experiences should be tailored to the individual needs of the child. This is worked upon through a strong partnership between teachers, parents and school management. The EYFS programme supports students in becoming independent and responsible.

Pre-primary students enjoy indoor and outdoor playtime under adult supervision. Through playtime, children are able to develop intellectually, physically, socially, creatively and emotionally.

It is essential for students at this age to enjoy their learning experience and this is made possible by the qualified and caring teaching staff. The curriculum for young individuals is designed to stimulate hands-on learning.

Teachers plan lessons and activities based on children’s interest to stimulate curiosity, understanding and exploration. Child’s growth and development is kept in mind while planning the curriculum at this stage. Students’ progress is also important at this early stage so their attainment is observed and recorded. Parents’ input is of high value in this regard.

At TSPS, progress made by each student is recorded in individual portfolios. These portfolios contain anecdotal observations, photographs and samples of the child’s work.

PRIMARY

The primary school at TSPS offers an enriched curriculum that is relevant and stimulating. The TSPS aims at creating active lifelong learners. Students are challenged constantly in a realistic context to develop their learning skills.

KEY STAGE 1 OVERVIEW:

Key Stage 1 is for Year 1 and Year 2 where the emphasis is on developing good literacy and numeracy skills. Subjects include science, technology and geography. Class teachers carry out Regular Formative Assessment and track key skills such as writing, reading and mathematics. To identify gaps in the learning process, phonics screening is also done.

KEY STAGE 2 OVERVIEW:

This involves Year 3 to Year 6 where students develop skills and use research and observation. Students are challenged and trained to apply their knowledge. All students at this stage are expected to learn French following the Modern Foreign Language curriculum. Throughout Key Stage 2, students are engaged in a purposeful and creative learning environment. Additional support is provided to students who need to develop basic skills. Students who are delivering more than their age-related expectations are given further guidance.

Core Subjects in Key Stage 1-2 are:

• English
• Mathematics
• Arabic
• Science
• Islamic Studies (only for Muslim students)

SECONDARY

KEY STAGE 3 OVERVIEW:

During this stage, students expand on their academic approach and focus. Students undergo continuous and ongoing assessments throughout the academic year. Teachers keep track of student progress. Key Stage 3 offers core subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Arabic, English and Islamic Studies. Foundation subjects in Key Stage 3 involve Art, Geography, P.E, Music, History, Social Studies, IT and Personal and Health Education.

KEY STAGE 4 OVERVIEW:

In Key Stage 4, The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is introduced. Students are equipped with skills that will enhance their careers.

The IGCSE is a well-recognised education qualification. TSPS understands the needs of each student and provides the necessary support for students to exceed their potential and achieve academic success. Subjects offered for IGCSE include :

• Mathematics
• Statistics
• English Language
• English Literature
• Media Studies
• Islamic Education
• Arabic 1st and 2nd Language
• Physics
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Combined Science
• Economics
• Business Studies
• Accounting
• Travel and Tourism
• Environmental Management
• Sociology
• Psychology
• Physical Education
• Art
• History
• Geography
• ICT
• French
• Personal Health and Social Education

KEY STAGE 5 OVERVIEW:

International A-Level students expand their knowledge regarding core and mandatory subjects. This is a worldwide recognised qualification. Students can also become part of Duke of Edinburgh scheme which is well-recognised across the world. Students are encouraged to engage themselves in community projects that are vital to transforming students into well-rounded individuals. Currently, subjects offered include:

• Mathematics
• English Literature
• Media Studies
• Islamic Education
• Arabic 1st and 2nd Language
• Physics
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Economics
• Business Studies
• Accounting
• Sociology
• Psychology
• Art
• History
• Geography
• ICT

MORAL EDUCATION

TSPS has a moral education program for Years 2 to 10. During this programme, students are trained to be responsible and tolerant citizens. They are encouraged and guided to appreciate their local heritage and culture while respecting diversity in other nations. This education programme is taught in a series of units. Each unit requires 45 minutes of the lesson across half of a term or across two half-terms.
The curriculum framework for Moral Education is divided into four main pillars:

• Civic Studies
• Cultural Studies
• Individual and Community
• Character and Morality

A “moral of the month” is set during each half term such as Honesty. The moral is then run as a theme throughout the school. Students are asked to design a logo for the pillar and winning entries are displayed in the school. Moral Education afternoons are set where a community-based project is planned on valuing diversity.

Under the Moral Education programme, students visit various locations in Dubai during cultural and civic studies to enhance their learning experience. External speakers are also invited to explain to students about their career and cultural heritage.

The KHDA provides comprehensive information regarding private schools in Dubai. It also suggests the improvement needed by the school. Every year, KHDA inspects all the schools in Dubai and judges their performance based on a 6-point scale. The rating ranges from outstanding to very weak.

The KHDA inspected the school from 18th to 21st November in 2019 and rated it as “Good.”

As per Sheffield Private School KHDA rating and report, children at Sheffield School make consistent good progress in the Foundation Stage. However, their attainment and progress in other phases are inconsistent. Students make good attainment and progress in English and Mathematics in primary phase. Students show the strongest learning skills in the secondary and post-16 phases.

There is a strong work ethic as older students give valuable support to younger students and act as role models. Students in post-16 level have a deep understanding of different cultures in Dubai and the world. Students have developed a strong sense of environmental awareness and understand local and global issues. They also participate in a wide range of community activities.

Teachers in the post-16 phase skillfully develop students’ problem solving and critical thinking skills. In other phases, teachers are required to use questions well enough to encourage students and enable them to think deeply about their learning. The reliability of assessment has improved in the FS and successfully sustained in the secondary phase. Assessment in the primary phase is not consistently accurate.

School curriculum is well-designed and is implemented in the post-16 phase. Students have opportunities to follow their interest and prepare for the higher education phase and professional life. The enhanced and enriched curriculum during this phase also provides opportunities for students to be innovative and creative. Curriculum is not consistently adapted in other phases and it does not meet the needs of all groups of students.

The school provides an exceptionally safe environment for learning. Students of determination and Gifted and Talented students get effective support. Students’ well-being is carefully fostered. Students also get very good guidance for their future beyond the school.

School leaders have a good understanding of the best practices in teaching. They use their expertise to continuously support and train staff. Leaders use self-evaluation procedures to identify improvement areas. However, this is not rigorous enough to provide an accurate evaluation of the schools’ effectiveness.

Sheffield School has established a very good partnership with parents. The governing board increasingly provides an appropriate challenge and support. The school also has effective day-to-day management.

Best features of the school are:

• The quality of teaching in the post-16 level that results in strong academic and personal development outcomes.
• The harmonious learning environment which is a result of the care and support provided to students
• The outstanding attention given to students’ and staffs’ health and safety
• The very good partnership between parents and school that enables parents to support their children’s learning effectively.

Key recommendations made by the KHDA include:

• The need to improve reading, writing and mathematical problem solving skills in the primary phase
• The school must improve progress in Arabic as a second language in the secondary phase
• Teachers must make good and consistent use of questioning
• Teachers’ assessment procedures need to be better in the primary phase
• Data from external assessments that moderates internal assessment information must be used to ensure the accuracy of self-evaluation

• The first term starts in the last week of August and ends in the second week of December, followed by a 3-week winter break.
• The second term starts in the first week of January and ends in the last week of March, followed by a 2-week spring break.
• The third term starts in the second week of April and ends in the first week of July, followed by a 2-month summer break.

Holidays and exam dates can be changed due to National Holidays and Eid breaks. The academic calendar of TSPS Dubai is available on their website

The Sheffield Private School has a hassle-free 4-step admission process. The admission officer and staff members are always ready to assist parents. The four stages of admission are enquiry, application, assessment and enrolment.

For queries, parents can use the admission enquiry form or visit the school where the school staff is willing to assist with the process.

For admission, one has to submit the online admission form or download the form and fill it manually in Block letters. The form is available on the school’s website.

Following are the documents that should be attached with the admission form:

• Six passport size photographs of student
• Birth certificate
• Two copies of student’s valid passport
• Copy of parents valid passport
• Attested copy of student’s birth certificate ( preferably in English or in Arabic)
• Copy of student’s vaccination record
• Most recent report card
• Original and attested transfer certificate
• A letter of character certificate from the previous school
• Continuation certificate for year 1 onward (compulsory)

All of the above documents must be submitted either in English or Arabic. If the documents are in another language then it is mandatory to get them translated into English by a legal translation office. After the form has been submitted along with the required documents, school reviews the application and documents and contact the parents via email to update them regarding the status of their application.

Once the form is accepted, the student has to appear for the assessment test based on different criteria. When the student successfully passes the assessment, The Sheffield Private School – Al Nahda sends an offer for enrolment via email. A non-refundable seat confirmation fee is required before the specified deadline.

There is an additional information section in the application form where parents need to provide details of special needs and individual education plans (IEPs). Parents must provide copies of psychological, medical and educational assessment reports. They should also notify if the student or their close family member has any learning difficulty.

Students coming from other schools must submit the transfer letter to the admission office for review. For overseas students, the school recommends getting the transfer letter before arriving in Dubai.

Dubai-based students can use the KHDA e-portal to get the certificate. Applicants from countries other than the USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Western Europe should have original Transfer Certificate attested by the Ministry of Education, UAE Embassy from the country of Transfer Certificate and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

For further assistance, parents can email at admissions@sheffield-school.com or call +971-4-267-8444.

Below is the age placement guideline that parents must adhere to while applying for admissions at the school.

This is based on the age of the students on 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)

The following is The Sheffield Private School fees for the current academic year:

The Sheffield Private School also offers a sibling discount

• First Child 0% (Oldest/Highest Year Group)
• Second Child 5%
• Third Child 15%
• Fourth Child 25%
• Fifth and onwards 30% (Youngest/Lowest Year Group)

This percentage discount is based on Annual Tuition Fee approved by the KHDA and will be adjusted against the 3rd term tuition fees.

School fees should be submitted term wise through post-dated cheques. Parents should know that the mid-term admission is based on a 10-month prorate on annual tuition fee. Every discount is applicable to students who are registered from the beginning of the academic year.

Both the registration fee at the time of admission and assessment charges are AED 500. These payments are non-refundable. New students have to submit the seat confirmation fee against after receiving an offer from TSPS. This is required to secure the seat and is deducted from the first term fee. Please note that this fee is non-refundable.

Former students who wish to return will have to re-register for seat confirmation at The Sheffield Private School – Al Nahda Dubai. Re-registration fee is fully deductible from the first term tuition fees. Returning students who do not re-register by the cut-off date will have to apply as a new student with all applicable fees. Their admission will also be subject to the availability of a seat.

The tuition fee for each term has to be paid on the first day of each term. Tuition fees do not include charges for books, external examination, transport, extra-curricular activities and uniforms, etc.

The school canteen provides a variety of healthy snacks. Students can also bring a healthy packed lunch from home.

The school provides a safe and dependable bus service by collaborating with GPT School Bus Service. Gulf Pinnacle Transport (GPT) maintains the highest level of safety, outstanding customer service and follows rules laid down by the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA). All buses are well-maintained and are regularly monitored by a dedicated fleet inspection team.

The school buses serve the following areas/routes:

The Sheffield Private School encourages students to take part in physical activity. There is an outdoor play area and a covered netball court. Students can also find AstroTurf football and hockey pitches. A covered five-lane swimming pool and a separate learner pool are also available for students. Both pools are temperature-controlled and have separate changing rooms for girls and boys.

The Sheffield Private School Dubai has a school auditorium/multi-purpose hall that is best used for volleyball, badminton and basketball.

The Sheffield Private School has sports programs that include physical education, games and swimming. Students can take part in different sports programs as per their interest. Experienced teachers and expert coaches prepare students for competitions throughout the year. Sheffield Private School students have confidently represented the school at the national and international game events.

The Sheffield Private School has a well-planned set of weekly extracurricular activities. These help students become responsible and self-dependent individuals.

TSPS Dubai has divided extracurricular activities into 2 categories.

• Inclusive Enrichment Activities
• Optional Enrichment Activities

Inclusive Enrichment Activities are led by teachers which students can avail twice a week. They range from sports to artistic activities. Optional Enrichment Activities are provided by professional companies and qualified trainers on a third party basis. These activities are available thrice a week within the school premises and include activities conducted through clubs. Parents have to pay a certain fee to take part in the clubs.

INCLUSIVE ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES

The following activities are provided two days a week.

There are other inclusive activities as well. The detail is available on the official website of the school.

OPTIONAL ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES

The Sheffield Private School has four after-school optional activities and parents have to pay for them separately. These activities include swimming, karate, multisport and football.

Field trips are offered under the Moral Education programme. Students are taken to different locations in Dubai to enhance their learning experience.

Few of the trips in the recent past include Mattel Play Town, Year 3 school trip to Green Planet Dubai, Year 6 trip to Dubai Opera House, Year 1 trip to Mamzar Park and many more. International trips destinations include Nepal, Sri Lanka and others.

TSPS offers a “Late Room” facility for the foundation stage students as their classes end at 12:30 pm. There is an additional fee for using this facility.

The School Health Department is well-developed to deal with all minor health emergencies that happen during the school hours. The Sheffield Private School comply with every rule laid by local Health Authorities and follow best health care practices.

The school clinic is officially licensed by the DHA. It is also regularly inspected by Dubai Health Regulation Authority, KHDA, WEYAK and School Health Unit.

The school clinic offers the following services:

• Assessment of minor health complaints
• Routing vaccination program
• Annual health screening
• Promote a healthy living style
• First aid care for emergencies and other urgent health situations
• Medication administration and basic care for students with particular health care needs.

The school maintains a confidential medical data record. TSPS Dubai has protocols to follow during a medical emergency. Teaching as well as the non-teaching staff including sports coaches undergoes first-aid training.

D6 Communicator is an online app that parents and teachers can use to streamline the communication process. Parents can log-in on the parents-portal for getting regular updated.

The Sheffield Private School Parents Teachers Association established in 2008 is a forum where parents and teachers work together to enhance a student’s educational experience. This association increases the opportunities for parents to help and provide suggestions to the school for the betterment of students.

TSPS has also introduced Parent Helpers to assist teachers in the classroom. Parents are welcome to use their skills and share them during after-school activities.

There is a WhatsApp group that parents can join to keep themselves updated regarding the events and happenings of the school.

• Telephone: +971-4-267-8444
• Email: info@sheffield-school.com
• Admission: admissions@sheffield-school.com
• Contact for admission: +971-4-267-8444
• Website The Sheffield Private School
• Instagram The Sheffield Private School
• Facebook The Sheffield Private School

Note that the cover image belongs to The Sheffield Private School.