Quick summary of key school information
School details
Number of students |
220 |
Number of nationalities represented in the school |
37 |
Most common nationality |
We have a diverse background among our members, with 50% having Arabic origins, 29% hailing from Spanish-speaking countries, and 21% originating from other backgrounds. |
Ratio of local students to international students |
2 to 1 |
Native Spanish speaking teachers |
Yes |
Language support for students not fluent in Spanish |
Spanish Language Immersion Program |
Additional language classes offered by the school |
English and Arabic. |
Max. number of students per class |
20 |
Average number of students per class |
18 |
Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
Use of technology in the classroom |
We utilize smartboards and iPads as part of our educational technology. Being an Apple school, we embrace the use of iPads, and we also have a dedicated lab. Additionally, we have STEAM in our primary curriculum. |
Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online if the school is closed, e.g. during COVID-19 closures) |
Yes, we are a Google school. |
Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
In accordance with UAE law, Muslim students are required to study Islam as part of their subjects, and we provide a prayer room for those who wish to pray. |
How does the school accommodate non-religious students or students of a different religion? |
Non-religious students or those of different religions follow a separate program during Islamic studies subject time. |
External examinations or assessments available |
We offer Cambridge Certifications and Cervantes Institution for Spanish language education. We follow the required examination calendar for the Spanish Curriculum. |
Results in these examinations |
This is private information shared with our families. |
Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
We have a program called Happy Homework. |
Approximate hours of homework given |
30 minutes. |
Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes |
Learning support offered |
We have a comprehensive inclusion department that tailors its support to meet the individual needs of every student. |
The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
We have a comprehensive inclusion department that tailors its support to meet the individual needs of every student. |
Student access to education psychologist |
Yes. |
Entry evaluation for students |
Yes |
Brief description of entry evaluation required |
Our Head of Inclusion conducts assessments for each student to determine their academic level, and language proficiency, and identify any specific needs that may require support. |
Waiting list |
Yes, it depends on the grade level and whether we have reached maximum capacity. |
Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
No deadline. |
Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes. |
School start time |
8:00 AM |
School finish time |
Early Years: 14:00
|
Supervised care before/after school |
We have an early bird program that starts at 7:15 AM. |
School bus service available |
Yes |
School provided lunches |
Yes |
Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes |
Uniform required |
Yes |
Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
Tennis, Football, Arts, Music, and Chess. We are always open to parents' suggestions. |
Sports activities included |
Physical Education following the Spanish Curriculum 3 times per week. |
Facilities at the school |
Library, IT Lab, Music Room, Art Room. |
Sports facilities at the school |
Indoor Gym. |
Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
Founded on the basis of strong cultural relations between Spain and the UAE, the Spanish School of Abu Dhabi is committed to providing quality education based on the Spanish curriculum. Presently, SSAD is offering Nursery to Grade 5. |
Teaching approach of the school |
SSAD seeks to help students to become coherent, inquisitive, and broad-minded learners receptive to new ideas. While developing the talents and interests of students, the school seeks to establish a strong sense of values. |