As a parent, selecting a school for your child is likely one of the most important choices you will make! In a multicultural city such as Dubai, it is no surprise that the demand for a kind of Indian-style quality education has boomed, resulting in the establishment of several good schools. No wonder Dubai has so many Indian schools! There are so many options, it can be impossible to decide which one. This short guide will present some advice resources to help you.
1. Understand the Curriculum
Indian schools in Dubai and the UAE are generally affiliated with either the CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) or the ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education). CBSE is the most common and recognised curriculum, while ICSE is less well-known. CBSE is quite academically driven, while ICSE has a much higher language and theoretical component than CBSE. Find an appropriate curriculum, or if your focus is on a long-term, your preferred choices are found to appreciate, as noted in the last paragraph above. Some schools utilise a combination of both architectures, some with additional qualifications, some with other programs, STEM, extra-curricular programs, etc.
2. Review the School's Academic Record
The academic performance is one of the first indicators of quality if you don't know the school or its reputation. Previous board results, their successful university placements, and accolades they may have received or earned throughout their academic study/establishment in Dubai should be reviewed. Many of the reputable Indian schools in Dubai, if not all, will publish their results and/or success stories on the school website or a social media account or platform, and these indicators give a good representation of the school and academic strength.
3. Investigate Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
Education is not just about learning from books. The right school will have a healthy combination of education and co-curricular opportunities. When shortlisting Indian schools in Dubai be sure to look for facilities such as libraries, science labs, art rooms, sports complexes, and so on. Moreover, schools that offer extracurricular activities in drama, music, robotics, environmentalism and so on can enhance your child's learning experience significantly.
4. Location and Fee Structure
While quality is the main priority, convenience does come into play. Look at schools that are located relatively close to your home so you can minimize the stress and time associated with the commute. Moreover, look at the fee structure. Indian schools in Dubai vary widely in terms of tuition plans, and many have flexible payment plans to accommodate different needs and budgets.
5. Read Reviews and Talk to Other Parents
Manual word of mouth is often the most genuine feedback you can receive. One of the best routes to open a discussion is to speak with parents whose children are enrolled in an Indian school in Dubai. Online reviews and parent forums also provide important insights into the school culture and environment, teacher engagement and communication, student support for friends, etc.
6. Take a Campus Tour
Nothing is as important as a real experience! Ask for a campus tour and then, you are able to meet the teachers, see the classrooms, and get a feel for the campus. Furthermore, you will be able to determine if it is a nurturing, safe, and well-resourced learning environment surrounding your child’s academic needs, and personal development.
Conclusion
Initiating an educational journey for your child is personal, and there is no right or wrong decision to make when finding a comfortable fit in your child’s unique education experience. There are many respected Indian schools in Dubai, and with thorough research, campus visits, and strong prioritized decisions, as a family, you can pave the way forward. One school that is recognized among the well-respected schools for academic excellence, whole child development, and consistent positive feedback from parents is Sabari Indian School. You can rest easy that Sabari is an excellent option if families are looking for a successful Indian school education in Dubai.