Welcome to the Scholars International Academy, Sharjah official Q and A page. Here we ask the questions, and the school answers directly. It is its chance to have its say on specific areas you have told us you want to know about. If you think there are additional questions we should be asking you may contact us here.

Does your school have a waiting list? In which years?

No we do not have classes that are on waiting list

What are qualities and characteristics that define your school and its students?

Scholars International Academy provides a rich learning environment to unlock your child’s full potential. SIA follows an interdisciplinary British Curriculum that educates students from 60 different nationalities. It has an excellent childhood development programme that helps create a strong foundation for the students which leads to higher education. Majority of our teachers are UK nationals that are highly qualified and have immense teaching experience. SIA is one of only 2 schools in Sharjah that is accredited by British Schools Overseas (BSO). SIA is a full member of British Schools Middle East (BSME).

“SIA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people as it recognizes that the safety of the children in its care is of paramount importance and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The effectiveness and safety of our recruitment policy and procedures make a major contribution to child protection by helping to deter, reject or identify people who might be unsuitable for working with children.”

How many nationalities are represented in your school? How international would you say your school is?

We have over 60 different nationalities at Scholars International Academy

Are there high proportions of a particular nationality?

Yes, our top nationality is Indian

What is the teacher: student ratio in your school?

FS1 1:20

FS2 1:20

Y1 - Y13 1:25

If external examinations and assessments are part of your curriculum, which ones do you offer?

As a British Curriculum school, we have our IGCSE and A Level external examinations which are provided by the Edexcel and Cambridge International Examination Bodies

What percentage of your sixth form that take exams at 18 go to university, and where, in general, do they go?

100% of our students move on to university after Year 13 (6th Form). They are dispersed between the UK, Canada, Australia and Central Europe

Describe your school's approach to education and teaching?

Our approach to teaching is based on creating dynamic and engaging learning environments. Unlocking each child’s potential is our goal. Our education pedagogy is directed toward finding and nurturing the learner within each child by asking the question “How does it contribute to the growth of your child?”.

Students are challenged to achieve their full potential through a rigorous academic program guided by dedicated professional educators. We are a community school of international learners and teachers from over 60 countries. Our English National Curriculum, enriched with the Cambridge programme and teaching methodology, is the international standard for British education. Sports, languages, technology, performing arts, multi-cultural interactions, and community service are among the many programmes that balance our strong academic core to promote well-rounded student leaders.

Do you develop independent learning through homework and, if so, what are your recommendations regarding this, particularly time spent on homework?

We do not give our Foundation Stage students any homework. From Year 1 and above, students have homework on a daily basis which lasts for around 30 min.

Physical education and sport is an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle. How does your school ensure children engage in physical activity?

Q7. Physical education and sport is an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle. How does your school ensure children engage in physical activity? We have 1 PE session every week, plus we do extra curriculum activities, and BSME competitions in swimming and dancing as well as football tournaments, rugby competitions and cricket games

How does your school promote healthy lifestyles?

We do healthy eating week and it's built into our lessons

How do you promote healthy eating?

We have a canteen that serves only healthy food, we sent out letters to parents about the importance of healthy eating and we have a section in our weekly newsletter

Does the school have cafeteria facilities for the students? How does it promote a balanced diet?

Yes, it does

What is the approximate average cost of a lunchtime meal?

AED 10 - 15 (dirhams)

What is the starting and finishing time of your school day?

For our Foundation Stages it is: 8.00am till 12.20pm

For our Primary and Secondary classes they are: 7:40am till 2.20pm

Is there a school uniform?

Yes, we have a school uniform and PE Kit for all year groups

Please advise on your discipline policy?

At SIA, we actually have a positive policy, we only speak of the good things and try to frame negative things in a positive way.

How do you feedback progress and attainment to students and parents?

We have a very fluid communication platform between our school and parent community. Students use the seesaw platform whereby their work is showcased to the respective parents. In addition, teachers do email parents and vice versa for any queries or clarification needed.

How often is the more formal feedback such as reports and parent/teacher meetings?

3 to 4 times a year

Which languages are taught at your school - please detail any as a first as well as second language?

French is taught as an additional language from Year 5 and above

Do you offer EAL or TEFL support for those students where English is not their first language?

Yes, EAL is offered to all our students that need assistance

Do you offer a dedicated prayer room/s for students? For which faiths?

Yes we do

How do you support gifted, able and talented students?

We give them extra work that is on a higher level than the others

Do you have a learning support team in your school?

Yes we do

Not all schools are staffed or resourced to offer learning support to those children with either moderate or significant learning needs. To what level can you offer support for those with learning differences?

We can offer moderate support to those students

Does your school have particular expertise in dealing with a specific learning need such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, aspergers syndrome and so forth?

Yes we do have

Does your school have an educational psychologist or access to one to assess and support those youngsters with more challenging learning and emotional needs?

Yes we do have

Do you have a parents’ group supporting the school?

Yes, we have a wonderful PTA group that support SIA and are advocates of the school.

Are there opportunities for parents to support the learning, activities and events within the school or on trips other than through the parent group?

Yes

Is there an opportunity for parental representation on your school Board of Governors?

No

Do you offer specific activities, events or information sessions for those parents new to the school and/or area?

Yes of course, and all new parents also receive a parent handbook at the start of the Academic Year