GEMS FirstPoint School has been rated 'Outstanding' in 2024-25 by British Schools Overseas (BSO) and 'Very Good' by KHDA in our 2023-24 inspection.
We are proud of our ‘Outstanding’ school - huge congratulations to all students, parents, teachers, leaders, and governors!
The British Schools Overseas inspection team from the UK noted significant improvements since their last inspect, issuing a glowing endorsement of the exceptional education provision: "GEMS FirstPoint School (FPS) provides outstanding education and care that meets the needs of the pupils in an effective, supportive and creative environment."
BSO noted that "The quality of teaching and assessment is outstanding. It is consistently very strong across the school with many examples of outstanding practice observed across all key stages."
BSO also noted that "The standards achieved by pupils are outstanding. Pupils across all phases of the school demonstrate high levels of attainment and progress, consistently exceeding UK national benchmarks. Rigorous assessment processes and data analysis ensure that nearly all pupils meet or exceed age-related expectations, with improvements observed across key areas since the last inspection."
In reference to leadership, BSO reported that "the leadership and management of the school meet the BSO standards and are outstanding. They foster a culture of inclusivity, well-being, and innovation. The Principal and senior leadership team inspire the school community, ensuring exceptional outcomes for pupils and cultivating a safe, supportive environment where everyone feels valued."
Against the UAE framework, 79% of KHDA inspection areas for FPS are now rated as 'Very Good' or 'Outstanding.'
Across 5 of the 6 sections in the UAE inspection framework, all judgements (100%) received a rating of 'Very Good' or 'Outstanding.'
Key strengths highlighted by BSO include:
- The relationships between pupils, staff and parents are central to the ethos in the school.
- Pupils feel safe, valued and have a sense of belonging and are happy, confident, friendly, well-behaved, enthusiastic and engaged learners.
- The commitment of staff to providing the best possible experiences for pupils, thus ensuring excellent progress and attainment.
- Behaviour management - exemplary behaviour is reinforced by consistent use of language and actions across the school.
- Behaviour for learning - there is a real atmosphere of high expectations within lessons at all phases which leads to exceptional attitudes to learning.
- There is a well-developed inclusive education for pupils of determination, most able and talented and English language learners.
- The high quality well maintained premises and facilities support learning. The school community takes great pride in the school facilities.
- Wellbeing has a high profile in the school for pupils and staff. Staff are well supported through the induction process and beyond.
- Early years facilities demonstrate commitment to holistic and child-focused approaches to learning.
- Consistently well-planned lessons are underpinned by a clear vision of what excellent teaching looks like.
- Academic standards are high and have seen sustained continued improvement over the last three years.
- The actions of all stakeholders embody the school’s vision. All staff members are committed to driving continuous improvement, which is underpinned by the high expectations and support provided by school leaders.
To view the full BSO report, click here.
Key improvements highlighted by KHDA include:
- Student Progress
- Teaching for Effective Learning
- School Leadership
- Notable strides in Islamic and Arabic Education
Leadership at FPS is recognised as effective and inspiring within a purposeful learning community.
FPS has earned an 'Outstanding' rating across the board for students' personal development, social responsibility, and innovation skills.
Noteworthy advancements were observed in student progress in Secondary Science in phases 3 and 4, achieving a remarkable 'double jump' from 'Acceptable' to 'Very Good.'
Health and Safety, along with Facilities Management, have consistently achieved an 'Outstanding' rating throughout the entire school.
The school's relationships with parents and the community are lauded as 'Outstanding.'
FPS secured a 'Very Good' rating in all Dubai key focus areas, including Wellbeing, Inclusive Education, and the National Agenda.
To view the full KHDA report, click here.
