Quick summary of key school information
School details
Number of students |
1950 |
Number of nationalities represented in the school |
89 |
Most common nationality |
British |
Ratio of local students to international students |
12% local : 88% international |
Native English speaking teachers |
Yes |
Language support for students not fluent in English |
Yes, we have English as an additional language provision |
Additional language classes offered by the school |
Arabic, French, Spanish |
Max. number of students per class |
In FS1 and FS2 there will be a maximum of 22 pupils in each class. In all other year groups the maximum number of students is 25 |
Average number of students per class |
25 |
Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
Use of technology in the classroom |
We have a BYOD policy, students bring their devices to school daily as certain lessons will be on the device |
Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
Islamic studies |
How does the school accommodate non-religious students or students of a different religion? |
Students not taking Islamic studies would take core studies during that time |
External examinations or assessments available |
GCSE, A Levels |
Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes, we have a Primary and Secondary Inclusion department that are here to support students along with specialist teachers and LSAs |
Learning support offered |
The school will appoint specialist teachers and assistants to take charge of learning support for students. |
Student access to education psychologist |
No |
Entry evaluation for students |
Screening and assessments |
Brief description of entry evaluation required |
GFPS will undertake screening and assessments to determine the right placement of an applicant. After a student has been registered and required paperwork submitted, students entering Years 1 - 12 will be asked to complete a CAT4 test. Students entering Foundation Stage 1 & 2 will meet in groups with a member of the Educational team. GEMS FirstPoint School seeks to make the most appropriate grade placement for each student based on his or her age, as well as academic, social and emotional development within policy guidelines. For this reason, new students may be required to complete an appropriate level assessment to determine placement and fit. |
Waiting list |
No |
Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes, as long as seats are a available for that year group |
School start time |
07:30 |
School finish time |
15:00 |
School bus service available |
Yes |
School provided lunches |
We have the option for meals to be purchased online for students FS1 - Y3, students Y4-13 have the option to buy from the school canteen |
Uniform required |
Yes |
Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
Photography, Chess, Drama, Arts, Environmental Club, Arabic stories, Climbing, Multi sports are regular features of the after-school programme. |
Sports activities included |
Students have two physical education classes a week, this includes swimming, football, badminton, and many other activities. |
Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
Yes |
Facilities at the school |
Libraries, multi purpose sports hall, swimming pools, outdoor astro and basketball courts |
Sports facilities at the school |
6 courts indoor sports hall, gym, playground, swimming pool and learners pool, pitches |
Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
Established in 2014 in The Villa development, GEMS FirstPoint School is a bright, modern school, welcoming pupils aged 2-19 as they enrol on the English National Curriculum in the heart of Dubai. From early years foundation stage to Year 13, GFPS offers students a truly international education, which includes world-class teaching and a strong focus on global values, helping our pupils become well-rounded world citizens. |
Teaching approach of the school |
GFPS curriculum offers a full, broad and balanced range of learning opportunities both in and out of the classroom, with an emphasis on Enterprise and Technology. The school has ties to local culture and tradition and together with the rest of the school. |