Should I Choose a British Nursery in Dubai?
Moving from a play-based nursery into the world of school can be a tricky thing to get right…but it can be done!
Start with What Works for Your Family
Choosing the right curriculum can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first step into the world of schooling. The truth is that the ’best’ curriculum is the one that supports your child, family values and long-term goals. Every child learns differently, so take time to consider what kind of environment helps them shine and become the best version of themselves they can be. It can be a bit like finding Cinderella’s slipper, finding the right fit can take some trial and error!
If you love a play based and child led learning approach, then a very traditional and structured system may not feel like the right fit. For example, the classic British curriculum tends to become more structured as children grow older. This works incredibly well for some families and children who thrive in that kind of structure, but it might feel too formal for others. It really comes down to what helps your child feel confident, curious and comfortable; ensuring that they are supported wholeheartedly throughout their learning journey.
Consider Where You Live
The country or city you live in also influences your options. Here in Dubai, some national curriculums are more widely available than others. Families will find many British curriculum schools and Indian curriculum schools, while American or International Baccalaureate settings are less common but still very much present (you may just have to dig a little deeper). Location plays a big role too because nobody wants to endure the never-ending school morning traffic with a toddler in tow! Ultimately, you need to choose a school that aligns with your values and also fits smoothly into your daily routine.
A Look at the Most Common Curriculums in Dubai
We’ve created a simple breakdown of the core principles of the most common nursery and school curriculums you will find in Dubai. Each one offers something unique, so it helps to understand the general feel of each pathway
British Curriculum
Structure: Foundation Stage One through Year 13.
Specialisation: Students begin choosing exam subjects in their mid-teens.
Assessment: Formal, external exams including GCSEs and A Levels.
Teaching Style: More traditional, with a strong focus on teacher led learning and independent study.
A growing number of British curriculum schools in Dubai are embracing more play-based learning from birth to age five, placing greater emphasis on developing the whole child rather than focusing only on academic milestones. It’s a steady process, but we’re happy to see the change, regardless!
American Curriculum
Structure: Kindergarten through Grade 12.
Specialisation: Students continue studying a broad range of subjects throughout their school years.
Assessment: Continuous assessment through GPA, projects and some standardised tests such as the SAT or ACT.
Teaching Style: Highly interactive, with lots of group work, project based learning and active participation.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Structure: A global framework that prioritises holistic, inquiry driven learning.
Specialisation: Six subject groups designed to keep learning balanced. (Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics and the Arts)
Assessment: Varied and continuous with far less emphasis on a single final exam.
Teaching Style: Strong focus on critical thinking, inquiry and student agency.
Indian Curriculum (CBSE and ICSE)
CBSE Structure: Compact syllabus with strong focus on science and mathematics.
CBSE Approach: Traditionally more theory focused with structured, teacher led learning.
CBSE Assessment: Exam centred with a standardised grading system.
ICSE Structure: Broader curriculum with more emphasis on languages and literature.
ICSE Approach: Encourages analytical skills, detailed understanding and practical, project based tasks.
ICSE Assessment: Known for being rigorous with both internal and external practical exams.
So Which Curriculum Is Best?
There is no one size fits all answer and that is the beauty of education today. Each curriculum offers something valuable and each child will respond differently. What matters most is that the school feels like the right fit for your child’s personality and your family’s values.
At Kid’s Island Nursery, we believe that early education should feel warm, meaningful and full of discovery. No matter which curriculum your child eventually follows, giving them a joyful and engaging start sets the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
If you have questions or want to explore what a play based, child centred approach looks like in action, our doors are always open for a tour!
Get in touch to book a tour of our nursery school, or book a stay-and-play nursery school session to see how your child experiences the nursery school. Or get in touch with Kid’s Island Nursery School, Dubai for any other questions you might have.