Welcome to
Secondary
Our Secondary School offers the world-class National Curriculum for England (leading to GCSE, BTEC and A Level pathways) and engages students through specialist teaching, opportunity for independent study, cross curricular collaboration, enterprise and innovation. Students in the secondary school achieve exceptionally highly and are nurtured through our bespoke pastoral programme.
About our
Secondary school
The secondary school at GEMS Royal Dubai School is uniquely small (by international standards) which means every student really is known, valued, nurtured and challenged. Student achievement is our core purpose, ensuring a strong balance between academic learning, preparedness for the future and personal development. Our experienced, British-trained specialist subject teachers are highly skilled at personalising learning to meet the needs of each individual student in their class. By setting exceptionally high expectations from Year 7, students at RDS are confident, take responsibility for their learning and are equipped with the knowledge and skills to be successful in examinations from Year 10 onwards.
Learning is innovative and engaging in secondary, with strong connections between school and industry partners. With personalised support, opportunity to debate, research and innovate, and a world-class learning environment, we empower students to thrive both now and in their future studies. From Year 10, students will have the opportunity to follow academic, blended and vocational pathways with GCSEs, BTECs and A Levels on offer to students. Leadership talents are fostered and developed ensuring students graduate from RDS into university and the workplace as responsible and compassionate global citizens.
Explore Our
Secondary School Curriculum
Core Subjects
At GEMS Royal Dubai School, Key Stage 3 serves as a pivotal stage in the academic journey, building on the strong foundations laid in Primary School. The school’s Core Curriculum, taught by experienced subject specialists, includes English, Mathematics, and Science. This curriculum is designed to foster not only academic excellence but also critical thinking and the development of essential skills that will support students in their transition to Key Stage 4 and beyond.
The focus on these core subjects remains priority, with students continuing to build their proficiency in preparation for their GCSEs and BTECs. Throughout Key Stage 3, the school maintains its commitment to high standards, evident in students’ outstanding performance in external exams and benchmark assessments in English, Maths, and Science.
Enhanced curriculum provision with academic and technical pathways
FS - Y6
Royal Dubai School Automatic Enrolment
Y7 - 9
NCFE - MOE
Academic Pathway
GCSE
IGCSE
A Level
Qualifications Pathway
GCSE
IGCSE
BTEC L2
A Level/BTEC L3
Technical Pathway
BTEC L2&3
Core GCSE’s
ElectronicsBusiness/Engineering/Hospitality
University Partners
Industry Partners
Foundation Subjects
Our Foundation Subjects (History, Geography, Performing Arts, Music, French, Computer Science, Sport and Modern Foreign Languages) provide a dynamic learning experience, blending academics with practical skills in enterprise, robotics, and industry links. The foundation subjects are a mandatory part of the Key Stage 3 curriculum and heavily feature in our options pathways at Key Stage 4. Students are encouraged to explore innovative solutions, develop critical thinking, and engage with real-world business and technological challenges. Our strong partnerships with leading industries empower students to gain invaluable insights and hands-on experience, preparing them for success in an ever-evolving global market.
arabic and islamic
Arabic and Islamic Education at GEMS Royal Dubai School is exceptionally strong and remains a mandatory part of our curriculum at Key Stage 3. As students progress into years 10 to 13, it remains compulsory for native Arabic speakers continue to study Arabic and Muslim students of all nationalities continue their Islamic education.
Students are highly engaged in learning the Arabic language and make exceptional progress. Arabic A (native) and Arabic B (non-native) continue to be taught separately in the Secondary School following the Ministry of Education Curriculum with the option to sit the Arabic Language GCSE in Year 11.
All Muslim students (Arab and non-Arab) study Islamic Education with the purpose to teach students about being a Muslim rather than about the religion of Islam. This philosophy ensures lessons are heavily linked to real life and enables students to immerse themselves in activities which give them knowledge and skills which they can apply in their contemporary lives. As the Holy Quran builds the character and conscience of a true Muslim, the children are encouraged to respect and memorize the Holy Quran. School-organized competitions celebrate their achievements in Quran memorisation.
frequently asked
questions
How does the curriculum differ from Primary School?
The National Curriculum for England distinguishes between primary and secondary education in terms of depth and complexity. In primary school, the focus is on subjects such as English, mathematics, and science alongside a broad curriculum that includes geography, history, sports and arts. Secondary education builds on this foundation, introducing specialist teaching in all subject areas along with more advanced topics in science and mathematics. Assessment becomes more formal in secondary school, culminating in key stage 4 exams (GCSEs). Additionally, secondary schools offer greater subject choice and the opportunity for in-depth study in specific areas.
How will you ensure that the founding secondary students get to experience and interact with older students when they will always be the eldest at RDS?
To ensure founding secondary students interact with older peers, we have implemented mentorship programs, internships, and collaborative projects with Outstanding secondary schools within our cluster such as Wellington International School and Jumeirah College. External partnerships, alumni engagement, and cross-school events like competitions and sports will provide additional exposure. Peer leadership opportunities and specialised experiences further enhance their connections with older students, ensuring a broad range of experiences led by older students.
What do you challenge the most able students in secondary at RDS?
At GEMS Royal Dubai School, we provide all students with exceptionally high levels of challenge in lessons, beyond that of schools in the UK. Students also have opportunity to participate in local and international competitions, competing at the highest levels, while our peer mentorship programs nurture leadership, critical thinking, and collaboration, ensuring excellence across all areas of development.
How do you assess students in secondary?
At RDS, we assess students using a variety of methods to track their progress against the National Curriculum objectives. This includes regular classwork, teacher observations, and formal testing/.examinations. We also use ongoing assessments such as projects and presentations to understand each child's development. Parents receive regular updates through reports and parent-teacher meetings, which provide insights into strengths and areas for improvement. Our aim is to ensure a well-rounded approach, supporting each child's learning journey and individual needs
What exam boards do you plan to offer at GCSE and A Level?
At RDS, our experienced secondary teachers and leaders bring a wealth of knowledge from teaching a variety of exam boards. As our founding cohort progresses into Years 8 and 9, we will carefully select internationally recognized exam boards, including Edexcel, AQA, and OCR, to ensure a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum. We also collaborate with outstanding cluster secondary schools to maintain high academic standards and ensure rigor across all subjects. This approach aims to deliver the highest possible exam results, preparing students for success in both higher education and their future careers. Graduating from RDS means earning qualifications that are respected worldwide, equipping students for significant achievement in any path they choose.