Curriculum

Learning with purpose

Our current FS1 to Year 6 pathway blends the National Curriculum of England, IPC, life skills and UAE Ministry requirements.

A distinctive curriculum blend

Ghaf School combines the National Curriculum of England, the International Primary Curriculum and a Life Skills programme. High standards are balanced with a child-centred approach so pupils can reach their potential, develop an international perspective and retain their cultural identity and language.

Character, moral development, self-reliance, creative skills and critical thinking are woven through daily learning.

Current year-group pathway

The school currently operates from FS1 to Year 6 for the 2025-26 academic year.

AgeYear groupKey stageKHDA phase
3–4FS1EYFSPhase 1
4–5FS2EYFSPhase 1
5–6Year 1Key Stage 1Phase 2
6–7Year 2Key Stage 1Phase 2
7–8Year 3Key Stage 2Phase 2
8–9Year 4Key Stage 2Phase 2
9–10Year 5Key Stage 2Phase 2
10–11Year 6Key Stage 2Phase 2

Early Years Foundation Stage

FS1 and FS2 learning is active, purposeful and built around the development of the whole child.

Communication

Communication, language and early literacy build confident expression and a love of stories.

Personal development

Personal, social and emotional learning supports independence, friendship and self-regulation.

Thinking foundations

Mathematical development and knowledge of the world encourage questioning and pattern recognition.

Creative movement

Physical and creative development strengthens coordination, imagination and self-expression.

Subjects across Key Stages 1 and 2

English and languages

English builds confident speaking, listening, reading and writing. French, Spanish and daily Arabic broaden communication.

Mathematics

A mastery approach develops fluency, reasoning, reflection and deeper problem-solving before acceleration.

Science and STEAM

Biology, physics and chemistry connect with design, technology, finance and hands-on work in the dedicated STEAM lab.

Computing

ICT and computer science develop safe digital fluency, computational thinking and programming.

Humanities

History, geography and fieldwork connect local and global places, people and events.

Creative arts

Art, craft, design and music invite pupils to perform, compose, make, evaluate and use traditional and new media.

Physical education

Movement, teamwork and sport build healthy habits and opportunities to represent the school.

UAE national subjects

Arabic, Islamic Education, Social Studies and Moral Education meet Ministry requirements and strengthen identity and values.

Life skills at the heart of learning

Ten transferable skills help pupils respond thoughtfully to opportunities, relationships and challenges.

  • Decision-making and problem-solving
  • Creative and critical thinking
  • Effective communication and interpersonal relationships
  • Self-awareness and empathy
  • Coping with emotions and stress