Comparing 8 schools side by side in USD.
Sharq, Kuwait City, Kuwait. The campus spans seven buildings on a large private campus in the Sharq district, with facilities including two swimming pools, two auditoriums, football fields, indoor play areas for younger students, indoor and outdoor basketball courts, music rooms, computer and science labs, and a spacious cafeteria. It offers bilingual instruction in English and Arabic, blending the American and Arabic curricula.
Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle School, and High School (K-12).
Private bilingual day school.
Special Needs Division; inclusive support through Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and vocational training.
United States and Kuwait.
School days start with a 7:00–7:30 a.m. drop-off for all divisions. Pick-up times vary by division: Kindergarten 12:50–13:15, Elementary 14:00–14:15, Middle School 14:15–14:30, High School 14:30–14:45, SEN (A, D, S) 12:55–13:30, and SEN/Vocational 13:30–13:45.
Bus service with division-specific drop-off and pick-up times.
Uniform is mandatory for all students. Kindergarten wear logo tops and stretchable trousers or shorts with black closed-toe shoes. Primary wear blue button-down shirts with the logo and navy pants or knee-length skirts. Middle School wear light blue polo shirts with navy pants or skirts. High School wear white polo shirts with navy blue or black pants, with Grade 12 students designing their uniforms annually. PE and sports uniforms are also required.
Dasman Bilingual School is part of the Cognita family of Schools.
The school uses a bilingual curriculum that integrates American and Arabic standards. The curriculum is accredited by CIS and NEASC.
The school reports a 100% graduation rate. 55% of graduates pursue higher education at prestigious colleges and universities abroad (UK and US), while 45% continue their studies in Kuwait and the GCC. It is a licensed SAT exam center and a College Board-approved provider for AP exams. 90% of students take the IELTS exam through a British Council partnership, with an average score of 6.5 or above.
Dasman graduates study at leading universities worldwide, including Harvard, MIT, University College London, and McGill, with placements in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Law, and Computer Science. Alumni pursue degrees across the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Kuwait, and beyond, with scholarships and global opportunities noted.
The school provides effective pastoral care and a culture of wellbeing that supports thriving learners and compassionate citizens. Pastoral care focuses on nurturing happy, resilient, and adaptable learners, with dedicated teachers providing personalised support. Wellbeing is guided by Cognita Be Well Charter, promoting healthy choices and social engagement, including regular physical activity and healthy eating. Safeguarding measures ensure a safe and secure environment for all students to thrive. The Be Well Charter guides wellbeing through six pillars and the school fosters social responsibility through activities and partnerships such as the Sparkle Foundation.
The Special Needs Division comprises Special Needs, Autism, and Vocational Units. It is rooted in the belief that no one is left behind and provides an inclusive, supportive environment for students to grow. The division offers speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy, among other supports. A specialized assistant fluent in both English and Arabic works in each classroom to provide individualized support. The curriculum is modified in Language Arts and Math based on the CCSS, and older students may follow the ASDAN and BTEC Qualification Curricula, with some ASDAN students transitioning to higher education.
Wellbeing is a central focus aligned with the Cognita Be Well Charter, which emphasizes six pillars and is applied across the school. The school promotes healthy food choices and regular physical activity as part of daily routines. It fosters connections through social responsibility and enterprise, including the Sparkle Foundation partnership for volunteering activities. Leadership opportunities such as Model United Nations and Student Council support social and emotional development. Regular wellbeing initiatives and a safe, inclusive environment contribute to students' mental wellbeing.
Safeguarding is a commitment to promote the welfare of every child, ensuring equal rights to protection from harm and a safe, inclusive environment. The safeguarding principles are universal and have been developed by Cognita's Safeguarding Specialist Team; they emphasize staff training, early identification of concerns, and empowering children to voice their thoughts. Every adult who works with the school is vetted as safe to do so, and staff are equipped to educate students about risk and to respond appropriately to concerns.
1. Make an Enquiry. The Admissions Team answers initial questions and guides families through the next steps. The unique nature of the programs and limited grade-level availability means families are encouraged to follow the steps to ensure their needs are met with care. 2. Visit Us. Experience Dasman Bilingual School by scheduling a campus tour. The Admissions Team offers daily tours at various times to explore facilities and meet members of the School Leadership Team. This visit provides firsthand insight into the school's bilingual environment. 3. Submit Your Online Application. Applications are accepted online only. Upload digital copies of key documents, including identification, academic records, and any relevant reports for special education applicants. Ensure attachments are clear and readable to avoid delays. 4. Assessment and Evaluation. After submitting the application, an assessment date will be scheduled and you will be notified by email. For international applicants unable to attend in person, remote assessments may be arranged. Assessment results are communicated within 2–3 working days. Assessments vary by grade level: Kindergarten uses an informal interview with KG Academic Staff, while Grades 1–12 require formal assessments in English, Math, and Arabic. Special Needs and Vocational applicants may require psychological assessments and classroom observations. 5. Admission Decision. The Admissions Team will notify parents of assessment results within 1 day for Kindergarten and 2–3 days for Grades 1–12. 6. After Acceptance. Upon acceptance, pay a non-refundable KD 100 deposit to secure the child's seat within two days of notification. Submit transfer documents from the child's previous school to the DBS Registrar's Office.
Early Years Foundation Stage (Foundation); Primary (KS1–KS2); Secondary (KS3–KS4); Key Stage 5 (Year 12).
British international school following the National British Curriculum.
Pastoral care with Head of Pastoral Care and a Social Worker.
School day runs from 7:30 am to 2:30 pm on weekdays.
The school uniform must be worn correctly by students at school or on trips and is monitored by staff. The uniform can be purchased from the school uniform shop; if the correct size/item is unavailable, a temporary alternative can be worn. Summer Uniform: navy trousers, white polo shirt with IAK logo, black shoes with white socks; Summer PE kit is required. Winter Uniform: navy trousers, white polo shirt with IAK logo, navy sweater, black shoes with white socks; Winter PE kit includes a navy sweater (no logo) and trainers.
The owner is Mr. Abdulrahman Al Shayaa. The school follows the National British Curriculum.
British National Curriculum. Foundation Stage follows the English EYFS; Primary uses Oxford books for KS1–KS2 and Cambridge books for KS3–KS4 with English as the medium of instruction. The Arabic language and Islamic Studies curriculums follow Kuwait's Ministry of Education guidelines. Secondary follows the English National Curriculum and prepares students for IGCSE and Cambridge AS examinations; in KS4 (Year 10–11) four IGCSE subjects are studied each year (Maths core/extended, English, Arabic, Islamic and one additional IGCSE). In Year 12, students may study up to four AS subjects with Edexcel; Year 12 A2 is not offered. Cambridge, Edexcel and Oxford boards are used at high school.
The school develops the whole child and fosters intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth in every student. The pastoral system provides welfare support across Foundation, Primary, and Secondary, with staff responsible for the welfare of allocated groups. Teachers build positive relationships with students and target each student's individual needs. The school emphasizes building social, physical, and emotional skills to develop resilience and the ability to embrace challenges. The social worker collaborates with students, families, and staff to support wellbeing.
A carefully integrated system of pastoral care looks after the welfare of allocated groups and staff target each student's individual needs. The school relies on the social worker to assess behavior, learning, and social barriers in order to inform intervention plans. The social worker also collaborates with families to access resources that support students both in school and at home.
Pastoral care is central to student wellbeing, with the Head of Pastoral Care and the Social Worker supporting students, staff, and parents as required. A relaxed yet standards-based environment is maintained to foster a supportive atmosphere. The social worker provides mental health-related support and works with families to address barriers affecting learning and daily life.
Safeguarding is embedded in the pastoral framework, with the Head of Pastoral Care and the Social Worker coordinating welfare and safeguarding needs across the school. The social worker conducts assessments of behavior, learning, and social barriers to inform intervention plans that protect and support students. Deputy Head and Head of Primary oversee safeguarding as part of overall welfare and conduct policies.
1. Registration Procedures (KG-Year 2): An application form is completed by the parents/guardians at the reception area or online. The parent pays 20 KD as the interview/entrance test fee and is given a fixed date for the interview/entrance test. Foundation candidates are informed of the interview result immediately and are provided with a list of required documents to prepare and register within the required time period; otherwise the seat is lost.
2. Registration Procedures (Year 3-Year 12): An application form is completed by the parents/guardians at the reception area or online. Applicant students undertake an entrance exam to evaluate their academic level (Mathematics and English). Parents are informed of the results by phone; if the student achieves satisfactory results, they will be interviewed by the Head of Department. Parents should submit the official documents to the school within the required time period; otherwise the seat will be lost. Once the student is accepted, the parents are requested to pay the registration fees at the Accounting Department within the required time period, otherwise the seat will be lost.
3. Admission Department Letter: The Admission Department's main objective is to manage applications, entry evaluations and registration, withdrawals, communicating, and maintaining all students' information. Inquiries concerning admissions are encouraged and information about the admissions process is available. The school can be contacted during working hours (7:30 am-2:30 pm).
4. Waiting list: Due to high demand, passing Entrance Exam and the interview doesn't guarantee admission. When the capacity of each class is reached, students meeting the acceptance criteria but not admitted will be placed on a waiting list in case openings occur. The waiting list is used to fill seats as they become available. Parents are contacted when a seat becomes available.
5. Withdrawal and refunds: As per ministry regulations, withdrawal before the beginning of the school year results in non-refundable registration fees; withdrawal during the scholastic year makes all paid amounts non-refundable and non-transferable. Parents should notify the school in writing of withdrawal. The policy applies to all students.
6. Language and curriculum: The school has a strong tradition of teaching in English. English is the primary language of instruction across year groups. The school follows the National British Curriculum.
The school uses a waiting list when a year level is full. Applicants who meet the acceptance criteria but are not admitted due to capacity are placed on a waiting list for openings. The waiting list is used to fill seats as they become available. Parents are contacted when a seat becomes available.
The English School is on Mousaed Al-Azmi Street, Block 12, Salmiya, Kuwait. It is located in the Salmiya district of Kuwait. Transportation is provided via a TES-supported bus service operated in partnership with Delta Star, serving most areas in Kuwait. Buses are CCTV monitored and include a female chaperone, with real-time tracking via BatOnRoute.
Pre Prep (KG – Year 2); Prep (Years 3-8); Upper School (Years 9-11)
Not-for-profit
Approximately 30% of pupils are British, and over 60% come from native English-speaking countries.
United Kingdom
The school day begins at 7:25 am with gates opening at 7:10 am. Breaks are from 9:30–10:00 am and 11:30–12:00 pm. The KG day finishes at 12:15 pm and the regular school day ends at 2:30 pm (ECAs run until 3:30 pm).
Bus services are run by an independent company. The English School partners with Delta Star bus services to provide a comprehensive bus service for TES families. Buses serve most areas in Kuwait and are available for pupils from KG to Year 9. All buses have CCTV and a chaperone; BatOnRoute provides real-time tracking.
Uniform is navy blue formal wear. Girls wear a navy blue skirt or trousers with a blue-and-white striped blouse; boys wear navy blue trousers with a blue-and-white striped shirt; in the Upper School a tie and navy blazer are worn. All uniform is purchased from the onsite uniform shop; footwear, socks and swimming kit are excluded.
Lunch is brought from home. KG have two meal breaks (9:30–10:00 and 11:30–12:00). For Years 3–6, meals are eaten in the Dining Room and Years 7–8 in a Bedouin Tent.
The school has a house system with house-based leadership opportunities; examples include House captain roles and other leadership activities.
The English School Kuwait is not-for-profit and is owned by Mr. Emad Mohammed Abdulrahman Al-Bahar; Ms. Muneera Al-Bahar participates in leadership, and governance is provided by a Governing Committee and Leadership Team.
The English School Kuwait follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (3–5 years) and the National Curriculum for England (5–16 years), with additional features required for entry to future schools. The school operates within a British-curriculum framework and is the first British-curriculum preparatory school in Kuwait. The teaching staff, with the exception of the Arabic department, are British trained with British qualifications. Arabic and French are taught; Arabic for Arabs and Islamic Studies are mandatory from Year 1 upwards and Arabic for non-Arabs from Year 3; Kuwait Social Studies is taught from Year 5, as is French to all pupils. The language of instruction is English; the language of the playground is English, with around 30% of pupils British and more than 60% from native English-speaking countries.
Average class size is 23.
TES runs a full suite of GL assessments from Year 1 upwards; this provides age-standardised scores to track progress. TES scores consistently exceed the globally standardised average. Sample scores include CAT4 108.4, NGRT 110.8, PTE 108.3, PTM 108.7, PTS 117.1, and TES value-added +1.9. As the school expands to Upper School, IGCSE results will be reported here when available.
The English School follows the National Curriculum for England and provides a high level of pastoral care for every child. From Year 1 to Year 8 a House System fosters community, teamwork and leadership opportunities, including roles such as prefects, Head Boy and Head Girl and School Council representatives. Weekly assemblies reinforce Personal, Social, Health, Education & Citizenship (PSHEC) aspects of learning. The school emphasises leadership and social development through leadership roles and a broad Extra Curricular Activities programme. The core values of positivity, respect, integrity, confidence and empathy guide daily life at the school.
The English School creates a happy, busy and purposeful atmosphere with a strong focus on student well-being. A high level of pastoral care is provided for every child, and Personal, Social, Health, Education & Citizenship is reinforced through the curriculum and assemblies. A House System and leadership opportunities support resilience and social development. The Behaviour Management Policy is based on positive reinforcement and the school has a zero-tolerance approach to bullying. Parental involvement and regular feedback through consultations support the mental well-being of students.
Safeguarding is paramount at TES. The wellbeing and safety of every student is the highest priority, with safeguarding and child protection training for all staff. Safeguarding policies and procedures adhere to international standards, and concerns are acted upon immediately. Staff complete comprehensive safeguarding training on induction with ongoing refreshers, and a Safeguard Team is available across all sections. Students are taught about personal safety, wellbeing and how to seek help, and the school promotes respect, empathy and open communication to keep every child safe.
1. Online Application. Applications are welcome up to one year in advance of enrollment. The online form introduces the child to TES and helps determine the approach for the assessment process. Allow up to one week for the application to be processed, and the admissions team will confirm receipt by email with next steps. Assessments are offered based on space availability in the relevant year group, and submission of an application does not guarantee an assessment. 2. Assessment Fees. The assessment administration fee is 75 KD per child and covers administrative costs. The fee is requested once the child has been selected for an assessment and is non-refundable, irrespective of the assessment outcome. Once payment is received, the admissions team will begin scheduling an assessment for your child. 3. Admission Assessment. An assessment will be scheduled after the application and assessment fee are received. The assessment process varies by residency and age. Local applicants have onsite Pre-Prep (KG-Y2) or Prep (Y3-Y10) assessments on campus, including two GL tests and, for Prep, a copy of the latest school report. Overseas applicants have KG assessments coordinated on arrival in Kuwait, and Prep assessments involve two GL tests conducted at the current school; the admissions team will liaise with the current school to provide instructions. Outcomes are delivered as either accept or decline, and detailed feedback is not provided due to volume. 4. Acceptance of Offer. After the assessment, the admissions and assessment teams discuss the outcome and contact you by email with the result. If accepted, a registration pack with a letter of offer is issued and a 100 KD Registration Fee is due to hold the place (non-refundable if the place is not taken). Enrollment requires submission of all required paperwork, including passport and residency documents, civil IDs, three passport-sized photos, immunization records, a Transfer Certificate, and signed Terms & Conditions; documents may be submitted in hard copy or scanned form depending on location.
Block 9, Ibn Taimiya Street, Fahaheel, Kuwait. The school is located in the Fahaheel area and accessible via local roads. It is part of the Al Rayan Holding Co. Schools network.
Early Years; Primary Years; Secondary Years
British international school
Islam
Transportation by bus is provided. Fees are charged per term and depend on travel area: Up to Fintas (round trip 310; one-way 250); Far Area (Up to Masayil) (round trip 350; one-way 275). Installments: 1st Inst. 125/140; 2nd Inst. 125/140; 3rd Inst. 60/70. New joining: pay the full term's transport fee for the term joined.
The school has a compulsory uniform. Uniform is available at the school shop from Sunday to Thursday during school hours, and all items must be labeled with the child's name. There are different uniform options for Early Years, Primary Years and Secondary Years.
The school runs a House system. All students are allocated a House and a House Tutor. House points are awarded in Primary Years and Merits in Secondary Years, and house colour ties are available at the uniform shop and should be worn.
The school is part of Al Rayan Holding Co. Schools.
The school follows the English National Curriculum. Key Stage 3 (Year 7-9) and Key Stage 4 are offered. Arabic (First Language and Second Language), Kuwait Social Studies and French are part of the curriculum, and Islam is compulsory for Muslim students. The school uses diverse teaching styles and has four newly equipped science labs and a computer suite, with annual trips in Kuwait and abroad. A range of option subjects is available, including physics, chemistry, biology, business studies, history, geography, art, ICT and French.
British qualifications are internationally recognised and can open doors to study at reputable universities worldwide, including England.
The school challenges gifted and talented young minds and offers Masterclasses for Gifted and Talented students.
SEAL (Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning) is used to develop students' social, emotional, and mental health skills. The SEAL curriculum is delivered with direct form tutor contact twice daily and dedicated SEAL time: two hours per week for secondary and one hour per week for primary. The wellbeing framework promotes positive mental health for all students and staff, celebrating achievements, fostering belonging, and encouraging student voice in decision making. The school offers a counselling service with Ms. Zainab, a wellbeing team, peer mentors, and a wellbeing week as part of a whole‑school approach to mental health. Staff receive regular training in child mental health to recognise and respond to concerns and to support well‑being across the school.
The school has a SEND Policy. The safeguarding policy notes that children with SEN can face additional safeguarding challenges, and IBS diligently monitors SEN students and may provide targeted extra pastoral support. The SEND policy defines SEND and includes involvement of parents and other relevant professionals in providing support. The policy also references English as an Additional Language (EAL) alongside SEND and outlines collaboration with parents and professionals in the support process.
The school provides English as an Additional Language support and has developed teaching and learning strategies to support those with English as a second language. English as a Second Language is listed as a Cambridge IGCSE option (English as 2nd Language, Cambridge). Admission tests in English are used to assess language proficiency and placement. The SEND Policy defines EAL and supports language development as part of inclusive education. The school communicates ongoing language support strategies as part of its policy framework.
The school is committed to supporting mental health and wellbeing for students and staff; the policy states that positive mental health is everybody's responsibility. SEAL, wellbeing time, and dedicated counselling support are used to promote mental health and resilience. A counselling service, wellbeing team, peer mentors, wellbeing week, and SEAL program provide structured support and skill-building. Staff receive training in child mental health to recognise warning signs and respond appropriately. The school also signspost to external support where needed and implements a whole‑school approach to mental health, including classroom and community strategies.
The school has a Saf safeguarding Policy with a designated safeguarding lead and a safeguarding officer to cover absence, and all staff receive safeguarding training. The policy outlines reporting procedures for concerns, including steps to take if a child discloses abuse, and the involvement of Al Rayan Head Office and local authorities as needed. It details access to DBS/Police checks for new staff and annual safeguarding training updates, plus clear lines of escalation for allegations against staff. It provides safeguarding information for parents and emphasizes communicating with parents about safeguarding policies. The policy recognises that safeguarding considerations include students with SEND and contextual safeguarding beyond the school site.
1. NEW REGISTRATIONS: Parents and students may request a campus tour. Tours can be arranged by contacting Reception. When contacting the school, the age of the child and their interests are requested so that a relevant tour route can be planned. The Admissions Team will assist prospective parents throughout the application process.
2. STEP TWO: The Registrar requires basic documentation, including the personal details page of the child's passport and a copy of their most recent school report. Have those papers ready for the entrance test. For Early-Years: The KG test includes a parent interview (about 30 minutes) and tests motor-skills and basic English; if a KG class is available, the child will join a lesson and interact with other children. For Reception: The test includes a parent interview (about 30 minutes); motor-skills, basic Mathematics and English are assessed; if a Reception class is available, the candidate will join a lesson.
3. STEP THREE: After testing has been conducted and the results processed, prospective parents are contacted with a decision by the Head of Department. The Head of Department determines admission decisions. If a place is offered, the process proceeds to Step Four. If not offered, the applicant's file remains in consideration for future opportunities where spaces arise.
4. STEP FOUR: For students offered a place, parents meet with the Registrar to complete the initial data entry required for the registration form. The Registrar provides guidance and collects the necessary information.
5. STEP FIVE: The next step is to visit the Accounts department to pay a registration fee (100 KD) and any fee settlement required. The Accounts department provides payment details and receipts.
6. STEP SIX: The sixth and final stage of the process is for the parent to return to the Registrar to complete the required data entry for the registration form and receive final confirmation of admission. The Registrar confirms the completion of registration and admission status. Parents may contact the Registrar for any clarifications.
7. STEP SEVEN: The Registrar will liaise with the Head of Department to confirm a start date for the student. On the first day of school, the tutor/class teacher will receive the student and introduce him/her to their new tutor group.
8. RE-REGISTRATIONS: Early in Term 3, parents of students already registered will receive notification of the deadline for re-registration. If a parent fails to re-register before the deadline, IBS cannot guarantee a place. IBS is in high demand, so re-registration should be completed early. Parents must visit the school to meet with the Registrar, update details on the registration form, and pay a non-refundable re-registration deposit plus refundable compulsory charges per student.
9. CONDITIONS OF ENTRY INTO SIXTH FORM: The Sixth Form comprises Year 12 and Year 13 and caters to students pursuing International A Level qualifications. For Year 12, compulsory education in Kuwait ends after Year 11; entry requires meeting general requirements and a minimum standard for progression to IA Levels, including expectations around English and previous grades. For Year 13, continuation depends on meeting required grades and subject choices; Sixth Formers are admitted as voluntary students expected to behave with responsibility and maturity. A student may be reserved a place on an IA Level course if general requirements are met and mock examination grades are achieved; otherwise a place may be offered based on availability, subject to final examination results.
IBS uses a waiting list for entry to courses when places are not immediately available. Admission from the waiting list depends on meeting general requirements and achieving the required examination grades; admission occurs if spaces exist. For Year 12, a place may be reserved for students meeting general requirements and achieving the required mock grades; students on the waiting list may be admitted after final examinations if spaces exist, and if they continue to meet all general requirements.
The school is located in Salmiya, Kuwait, on Al Dimnah Street (Block 4). The postal address is P O Box 33106, Salmiya, Kuwait. The school can be reached by telephone at +965 2575 7022 or +965 2575 7952.
The school serves ages 3–18, from Kindergarten to Year 13.
The school is a private British international school.
UK/British
The school day runs Sunday to Thursday, from 7:10 AM to 2:30 PM.
The school requires all students to wear the official Gulf English School uniform; the uniform is available in the school uniform shop; a school jacket is the only outerwear permitted to wear to and from school.
GES has a House System with four houses: London Lions, Edinburgh Eagles, Cardiff Cheetahs and Belfast Bears. Students earn house points in lessons and activities toward a House Champion.
GES is part of A'Tafawuq for Educational Services (TES). The Governing Board provides strategic oversight and is composed of senior members of the holding company and representatives of the proprietor family, including Ms. Farah Al Wazzan, Mr. Fahad Al Wazzan, and Dia. TES centralizes key functions such as HR, finance, marketing, IT, procurement and legal to ensure consistency and regulatory compliance.
The school uses a British-based curriculum aligned with the English National Curriculum across Key Stage 3, 4 and 5. Key Stage 3 provides a broad foundation across core subjects, humanities, languages, creative arts, technology and physical education, with literacy, numeracy and oracy reinforced across the curriculum. Key Stage 4 follows English National Curriculum expectations with GCSE/IGCSE pathways and a broad range of core and optional subjects, plus exam preparation, careers guidance and pastoral support for post-16 study. Key Stage 5 offers an aspirational and flexible curriculum aligned with English National Curriculum principles and internationally recognised A Level qualifications, supported by enrichment opportunities, leadership roles and comprehensive university and careers guidance. Assessment and reporting are designed to support progress, with formative and summative assessments and four reports per academic year.
University and careers guidance is provided to prepare students for university and beyond.
The PSHE Programme empowers students with essential life skills, knowledge and values to navigate challenges, make informed decisions and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. The PSHE Programme supports social and emotional development through guidance on wellbeing and personal growth. The Counselling and Safeguarding service provides confidential guidance and coping strategies through a team of qualified staff. The School Clinic offers health education and care, supporting students' wellbeing in collaboration with qualified healthcare professionals. The School Representative Committee gives elected student representatives a platform to express ideas and lead initiatives, promoting belonging and student engagement. Wellbeing and safety come first at GES, reflected in our nurturing staff and policies.
Counselling and safeguarding services address social, emotional, and mental health concerns with confidential support from qualified professionals. The PSHE Programme includes mental health awareness and coping strategies for students. The school prioritizes well-being through a supportive environment and safeguarding measures to protect students. The School Clinic provides health checks and health-related education, coordinating with the Ministry of Health for vaccinations and checks. The School Representative Committee fosters student leadership and belonging, contributing to students' mental wellbeing.
GES is committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of children. Counselling and safeguarding services provide supportive guidance and address social, emotional, and mental health concerns, with confidential support from qualified staff. Robust safeguarding measures ensure the physical and emotional safety of all students. The Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy (including an Arabic version) guides practice, and the policy is listed on the School Policies page. The school coordinates with health authorities and maintains policies to protect students' safety.
Admission to GES is selective and highly competitive due to the large number of applications. The school seeks students who demonstrate achievement and the potential to contribute to the GES community. Selection is based on past school records, letters of recommendation, and a standardized test in mathematics, English language, and reading. 1. Submit the application form, available at the school and on the GES website. 2. Book an entrance test appointment. 3. After approval, you will receive an approval letter to submit to the previous school so that transferring documents can be obtained. 4. If there is no previous school, you will be directed to a governmental clinic to create a health file for the child. 5. Reserve a place by paying a 100 KD deposit, which is non‑refundable and secures the place until September 1. 6. Age requirements: Pre-KG must be 3 years old by September 15; KG must be 3 years 6 months by September 15; Reception must be 4 years 6 months by September 15; Year 1 to Year 12 registration is based on the student's reports and attendance certificates. 7. Required documents include 3 passport‑size photos, birth certificate, civil IDs for guardian/father/mother/student, nationality copy for Kuwaiti nationals, passports for all members, residency page for non‑Kuwaitis, last academic reports (Reception to Year 3) or three years of school reports (Year 4 to Year 12), a reference form and transfer certificate from the previous school (for Years 7–12), fees clearance, student's academic file, and a School Health card. For students coming from outside Kuwait, the last academic report and transfer certificate should be stamped by the Kuwaiti Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 8. 9. The Registration Department will contact applicants to schedule the pupil's interview/test. 10. An enrolment form is also available for completion as part of the process. The school emphasises a structured pathway from application to enrollment, with opportunities to complete steps in English or Arabic and clear guidance on documentation and health requirements.
Ahmad Ibn Tolon Street, Area 82, Hawally, Kuwait (Hawally district). PO Box 1081, Surra 45701. The English Academy is part of the Al-Jeel Al Jadeed Educational group and moved to Hawally in 2013 to its new premises.
All-through school from age 3½ to 18, organized into three sections: Infants (EYFS/KG), KS2, and Secondary. It delivers the National Curriculum for England to KS1–KS3 and EYFS for KG/Reception, with iGCSE, AS and A levels offered in KS4–KS5.
An international school within the Al-Jeel Al Jadeed Educational group; delivers a British international education and follows the National Curriculum for England.
The pupil body represents 25 nationalities; the largest groups are Egyptian (57.7%), Kuwaiti (15.7%) and Jordanian (6.7%).
Early morning and after-school intervention groups for mathematics and literacy.
British international school; follows the English National Curriculum.
Three-term school year; Sunday–Thursday; school day 7:00–14:00.
Uniform is compulsory. Summer uniforms are a blue and white striped dress for girls and a blue and white striped shirt for boys; Winter uniforms are a tartan pinafore dress for girls and a white long-sleeved shirt with TEA badge and navy trousers for boys. PE Kit includes a TEA polo shirt, a house-colour T-shirt, white shorts and socks, a blue TEA tracksuit in winter, and trainers; House colour T-shirts are worn for inter-house competitions.
Pupils bring a lunch box; a healthy snack is encouraged (fruit, vegetables, sandwich or biscuits with juice or milk); no fizzy drinks, glass or tins are allowed. KG and REC pupils are not allowed to purchase from the canteen.
The school uses a house system with House points; a house-colour T-shirt is worn for inter-house competitions.
The English Academy is part of the Al-Jeel Al Jadeed Educational Group, which includes an American school and two Kuwaiti curriculum schools.
TEA follows the English National Curriculum across the school, adapting it to meet student needs. In Early Years (Kindergarten to Year 2) TEA uses the EYFS Framework with seven areas of learning. In Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, TEA follows the English 2014 National Curriculum, with themed learning and schemes such as Talk for Writing and White Rose Maths. The Secondary Curriculum is based on the National Curriculum of England and is complemented by Arabic, Islamic Studies and PSHE, with progression from Year 7 to IGCSE and Sixth Form. The Sixth Form offers IAS and IAL programmes. University destinations include Europe, the United Kingdom, the Middle East and the United States, with TEA's learning habits helping students thrive in higher education.,
TEA is an examinations centre for Cambridge and Pearson. In 2022, 46% of IGCSE grades were A-A; in 2023, 47.3% achieved A-A. For A-C, 78% of IGCSE grades were A-C in 2022 and 81.7% in 2023. IAL results in 2022 and 2023 met university entry requirements and enabled progression to university study.,
Many TEA students attend renowned universities in Europe, the United Kingdom, the Middle East and America. The learning habits taught at TEA enable students to thrive at these institutions.,
TEA integrates social and emotional development through a weekly PSHE programme and a robust pastoral framework. PSHE aims include developing self-esteem, healthy lifestyles, safety awareness, good relationships, and social skills to form fulfilling relationships. The School Council and elected student leaders give pupils voice, with assemblies and activities that promote citizenship and collaboration. The Pastoral Team provides ongoing care and support to ensure individual well-being and academic progress, and TEA offers inclusive after-school clubs and enrichment. Enrichment opportunities such as the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award and Model United Nations develop resilience, leadership, and global awareness, complementing classroom learning. TEA is committed to ensuring every pupil feels valued and supported to thrive.
Almost all students are learning English as an additional language. TEA delivers the National Curriculum for England to students, with Arabic, Islamic education and Kuwaiti social studies delivered in line with Kuwait's Ministry requirements. The teaching body is drawn from a range of countries, and most teachers delivering non-Arabic subjects have British qualifications or previous experience of teaching in British international schools.
TEA places student well-being at the core of its offer and recognises wellbeing as paramount. The Pastoral Team provides care and guidance to support both well-being and academic progress, and PSHE is designed to develop thinking, social skills and resilience. Zones of Regulation have been introduced to help KS2 students manage emotions, and PSHE is delivered weekly for younger students and through form tutor time in secondary. After-school clubs and enrichment activities such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award and Model United Nations promote inclusion, activity and personal growth. TEA maintains ongoing communication with families to support students' mental well-being and success.
TEA operates a Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy with a Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputy, supported by a safeguarding team. Staff undergo mandatory safeguarding training at three points in the year, and induction packs include safeguarding statements and procedures. The policy requires staff to respond immediately to concerns, to discuss with the DSL/DDSL, and to act in the child's best interests, including sharing information with appropriate bodies. It prescribes the Think PIE approach for recording disclosures and outlines escalation pathways, including involvement of the School Principal, Chair of Directors, and external agencies as needed. The policy also covers Safer Recruitment, calls for appropriate checks on staff, and outlines safe working practices and reporting procedures for allegations against staff.
1. Admissions start in January for the following academic year. Priority is given to siblings of current TEA students. Entrance to KG and Reception is determined by age: KG 3.5 years; Reception 4.5 years. Once the age requirements are met, the child will be invited to an interview with the EYFS team.
2. Screening: The admissions team screens the information provided and will contact you to confirm whether the child meets the requirements. They will undertake the next part of the process. From Year 1 to Year 10 this involves entrance examinations. Entrance Test and Interview: If your child has been selected, you will be contacted with an appointment time for the entrance test and interview.
3. Entrance Test and Interview: The next step is the entrance test and interview. If your child has been selected, you will be contacted with an appointment time for the entrance test and interview. The process for Year 1 to Year 10 includes these assessments.
4. Final Decisions and Registration: For children that pass the test and interview, registration of your child must be made within the required time period. This is to guarantee their place due to the high numbers of applicants. Final acceptance decisions are made by the School Principal.
5. The school address is Ahmad Ibn Tolon Street, Area 8, Hawally, Kuwait. Telephone: +965 22651195, +965 22651196. Office hours are Sunday - Thursday, 7AM - 2PM.
Salwa, Area 11, Street 9, Salmiya 22057, Kuwait (P.O. Box 8640). It is in the Salmiya district along the Kuwait coastline. Contact: +965 2239 0100; keschool@kes.edu.kw.
Early Years (KG and Reception, 3–5 years); Primary School (Years 1–6, 5–11 years); Secondary School (Years 7–13, 11–18 years); Green Unit (Special Needs Education).
KES provides a British-style education with English as the language of instruction. The English national curriculum is delivered with Kuwaiti ministry adaptations, and a Green Unit provides Special Needs Education.
Green Unit provides Special Needs Education.
United Kingdom
Extensive school bus service with routes across Kuwait. Morning pickups may start as early as 6:15 am. The service is managed by the Transport Manager; buses have seat belts and are equipped with surveillance cameras; rules cover safety and conduct.
The school has a compulsory uniform and can be bought on site at the uniform shop or online. All items must be labeled with the child's name, jewellery, nail varnish, or football shoes with studs are not allowed. The uniform differs for winter and summer months.
The school is owned by Sama Educational Company, which became the new owners in June 2022. The Head of School is Nicholas Gunn, and four Headteachers supervise four divisions: Early Years, Primary, Secondary, and Green Unit. Sama also operates the American Creativity Academy (ACA) with four campuses and owns the Sylvan Learning Center.
The Kuwait English School provides Early Years, Primary and Secondary education within a British-based curriculum. In Early Years, the English National Curriculum is followed with seven areas of learning: Communication and Language; Personal, Social and Emotional Development; Physical Development; Literacy; Mathematics; Understanding the World; Expressive Arts and Design. In Primary, the department follows the National Curriculum of England and Wales, with all subjects taught in English except Arabic and Islamic Studies, which follow the Ministry of Education's Arabic and Islamic programs. In Secondary, the language of instruction is English; Years 7-9 follow the English National Curriculum, Years 10-11 work toward Cambridge IGCSE and Edexcel/Pearson GCSE, and Year 12-13 offer Advanced Subsidiary or Advanced Level courses with subjects including Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English Literature, Geography, History, Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, ICT, Design Technology, Art, Drama, Music, Spanish and French. Arabic and Islamic Studies follow MoE curricula.
Latest published external examination results (2023) show IGCSE: A-A 40%, A-C 76%, A-G 96%; IAS: A 29%, A-C 67%, A-E 90%; IAL: A-A 56%, A-C 91%, A-G 100%.
100% of graduates gain entry into higher education institutions worldwide, including Yale University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Chicago, New York University, Harvard University, Brown University, Georgetown University, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Toronto and other well-recognised institutions.
Year 2 Mindfulness Club helps students explore their feelings and emotions and teaches mindfulness and relaxation techniques to support their wellbeing. Green Unit delivers PSHE and Citizenship with SEAL (Social Emotional Aspects of Learning) and EI (Emotional Intelligence) to develop social and emotional skills. The Green Unit fosters a holistic education with small class sizes and a mainstream curriculum differentiated to meet individual needs. It includes opportunities for Work Related Learning and community engagement, with externally accredited qualifications such as GCSE/IGCSE and AS/A Levels for eligible students. The school supports student wellbeing and social development through a Student Leadership Council that organises events and charitable activities and through wellbeing initiatives such as mindfulness and anti-bullying programs. edu.kw
Green Unit is Kuwait English School's Special Educational Needs department. It provides education for students who experience learning disabilities and difficulties. Infant & Junior Learning Support classes (ages 6 to 12) follow the Mainstream EYFS and Primary Curriculum modified to meet individual needs. Senior High School Learning Support classes (ages 12 to 21) follow a modified mainstream curriculum and work towards external examinations (IGCSE/GCSE) and the ASDAN Award. Year 12 is offered only to exceptionally gifted and talented students; they may attend mainstream classes in specific subjects and focus on the AS/A Level programme. edu.kw
KES provides mental wellbeing support through safeguarding and a dedicated Well-being framework, including a Director of Well-being/Designated Safeguarding Lead and a School Counsellor to support students. The safeguarding team includes a Head of School, Director of Teaching and Learning, and Departmental Safeguarding Leads across departments. Students can participate in wellbeing initiatives such as Year 2 Mindfulness Club and KES Wellbeing Ambassadors. The school also runs anti-bullying activities such as GU Anti-Bullying Week. edu.kw
KES is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students. It provides a secure, welcoming environment where children are safe, respected and valued, and aims to help them achieve the best possible outcomes. All staff undergo safe recruitment procedures and are trained in Child Protection. Children are made aware of the adults they can talk to if they have concerns, and safeguarding follows Kuwaiti laws of Children's Rights and Keeping Children Safe In Education guidelines. The safeguarding team includes the Director of Well-being/Designated Safeguarding Lead, Head of School, Director of Teaching and Learning, Departmental Safeguarding Leads, and the School Counsellor. If you are worried about a student's safety, contact details are provided. edu.kw
1. Applications for places are accepted from January for the following September. Online registration is strongly recommended due to high demand. The Green Unit provides support for students with specific learning difficulties; mainstream entry testing applies. Students are tested before entry. 2. New registration and assessments: Newcomer parents submit the online registration form on the school website. After submission, the school contacts families with further instructions and schedules an interview assessment date. The entrance test assesses concentration, academic level, thought process and communication skills; a copy of the previous school report may be requested and discussed with parents. Entrance test fees are non-refundable. The Head Teacher's decision determines acceptance and no student is admitted unless they meet entry requirements. 3. If the student passes the assessment, an acceptance letter is issued. The acceptance letter, together with the required paperwork, is taken to the Accounts Department where a non-refundable deposit is paid to complete registration. All required paperwork must be provided before registration can be completed; this paperwork must be brought to the interview. 4. Students are placed into the correct class and year group; there is an age guideline for each year. Occasionally a student may be admitted into a year below chronological age if maturity or English level requires it. 5. Re-registration: Reminders of the re-registration deadline are issued mid Term 2, typically in the first week of April. If a parent fails to re-register by the deadline, the school cannot secure a place. Re-registration should be completed as early as possible to avoid losing a seat.
The Lycée Français de Koweït is located in Salmiya, Kuwait, on Hamad Al-Mubarak Street. The postal address is PO BOX 9450, 22095 KUWAIT. It is a French international school affiliated with AEFE.
From Toute Petite Section (TPS) to Terminale.
French international school; homologated by the French Ministry of Education; partner of AEFE.
France; the school is homologated by the French Ministry of Education and is AEFE-partner.
Bus service is provided as part of school transport; if a student who usually uses the bus cannot ride, parents must inform the school as soon as possible by phone or by email at inscriptions@lfkoweit.edu.kw.
A uniform in the colors of the school is worn. Students wear a polo or a T-shirt in school colors reflecting the school's identity. Uniforms are available from Unifit Uniforms and can be ordered online.
Daily balanced meals are offered by the cantine. Menus are designed to balance pleasure, health and taste. Catering teams ensure product quality and hygiene.
The Lycée Français de Koweït is an AEFE partner and is homologated by the French Ministry of National Education.
The school offers a bilingual curriculum culminating in the BFI (Baccalauréat Français International). A Section Européenne anglaise will begin in fall 2025. Language certifications are offered in IELTS (English), DELE (Spanish), DELF (French), and CIMA (Arabic). Language instruction starts in kindergarten and continues through Terminale. From primary, PARLE and EMILE are used to support language learning; in collège, PARLE continues; in lycée, students can pursue the BFI and, from 2025, the English-language European Section. The curriculum includes official education pathways: Parcours Avenir (career guidance), Parcours d'éducation artistique et culturelle, Parcours éducatif de santé, and Parcours citoyen.
Step 1: Enrollment period runs from February through June for the next school year. Step 2: Complete the online enrollment form. The form comprises four sections: student information, parent information, enrollment terms, and attachments. Step 3: The dossier is reviewed for current or planned residence in Kuwait, prior schooling in the French system, and whether a sibling is already enrolled at LFK. Step 4: Children from non-recognized establishments must pass an admission test to determine language aptitude. Step 5: Admission is validated when the dossier is complete, enrollment fees are paid, and the financial regulations are accepted. Admissions are processed by order of arrival and according to available places; mid-year admission is possible for students from homologated establishments if places remain.
Admissions are handled on a first-come, first-served basis and according to available places.
