Choosing your child’s primary or UAE secondary school: Which curriculum is best?

There are many factors to consider before deciding which is best for your child. Is your child a hands-on learner? Do they need a curriculum based on individual needs and talents or do they have the mind for a broad curriculum with an emphasis on the sciences and technology? Every child is different and therefore requires a targeted approach to learning. The choice of curriculum at a primary or UAE secondary school makes a great difference to your child’s future. Whether the approach of the UK curriculum or the US curriculum is best is something only you can decide.

The US curriculum is based on the American Common Core State Standards. The core subjects are English Language, Arts, Math, History/Geography, and Science. Of course, this is coupled with a wide range of extra-curricular activities that give your child the chance to grow and learn outside of the typical classroom setting and face challenges as a well-rounded individual with a variety of talents and interests.

The UK Curriculum offers a balanced approach to education. With an emphasis on science and technology, this curriculum seeks to build a firm foundation with the core subjects of Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science. It also includes Arts, P.E., and Computer Studies as integrated elements of the core curriculum.

The UK curriculum encourages students to apply logic, to ask questions, and to solve problems. It is geared towards the sciences and promotes students’ curiosity and investigative thinking skills. If your child’s mind is inclined toward technology or advanced science subjects, then this is could be the right fit. On the other hand, if your child is creative, and excels outside the classroom, or needs a more well-rounded approach, then the US curriculum might be best. An abundance of extra-curricular activities and hands-on individualized learning could be exactly what they need.

Schools with the US curriculum ordinarily offer classes from Kindergarten through Grade 12. Afterward, a UAE secondary school using this curriculum will make arrangements for their students to take their SAT exams or TOEFL/IELTS, if necessary. Students graduate from Grade 12 with a High School Diploma, which is recognized by universities and colleges all around the world. UK curriculum schools using the National Curriculum of England typically offer GCE, GCSE, iGCSE and IAL examinations after Grade 9. The General Certificate of Education is also accepted by universities and colleges around the world.

Parents are an essential part of a child’s education in both systems and are encouraged to take an active role coordinating with the school and contributing to their child’s learning environment.