Al Salam Private School

Students’ achievement is mostly good, and very good in secondary mathematics and science. Attainment in English and mathematics in the Foundation Stage (FS), and in Arabic, for both first and additional language speakers, is mostly acceptable, although progress is good. Students in all phases have good learning skills.

Students have very responsible attitudes, are self-disciplined and sensitive to the needs of others. Bullying in the school is rare. Students are keen to take responsibility, participating enthusiastically in fund-raising for charities and seeking ways to enhance their school environment. Their awareness of healthy lifestyles is well-developed, and they mostly make healthy choices when selecting their meals. Students are highly respectful and appreciative of the UAE culture and heritage.

The English National Curriculum is now established across all phases and ensures continuity and progression in learning. In Secondary, education related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) has been developed in the curriculum. Meaningful cross-curricular links are identified and frequently referred to in lessons. Curriculum review is regular but has not yet been successful in ensuring very good provision in all subjects, especially in FS and lower Primary.

In this caring school, students, staff and parents feel valued, safe and engaged in school life. There is a strong commitment to promoting wellbeing, including surveys of stakeholders to inform wellbeing development. Students, parents and staff are present on the Governors' Advisory Board where the promotion of well-being is a priority. Students are well informed about how to access support and are confident in articulating their needs.

This is a caring and inclusive school with a team of experienced specialists that ensure inclusive practice. Identification of students who might require additional help with their learning is not consistently good enough. Parents value being involved in compiling individualised education plans (IEPs)for their children’s learning. They work closely with the school and appreciate clear and regular communication. Classroom implementation of IEPs is variable in all phases, especially in Foundation Stage and Primary.

The principal and school leaders are highly committed to the school and students. The monitoring and evaluation process, involving the governors and school staff, places an appropriate focus on the quality of teaching in the school. The school’s improvement plan draws on appropriate evidence including international assessments. However, the current plans do not have stated review dates, or checkpoints, to establish what progress is being made towards specific targets. Reading resources have been improved and expanding of provision in Secondary has brought improvements in achievement in mathematics and science.