British Curriculum
A Distinctive British Education Tailored for Success
At Downe House Riyadh, we provide an exceptional education that nurtures intellectual curiosity, creativity, and independent thinking. Our seamless learning journey from Nursery to Year 13 combines the rigour of the UK National Curriculum with the proven excellence of Downe House UK, offering personalised learning pathways tailored to each pupil’s strengths and aspirations.
Pupils benefit from a structured yet dynamic curriculum, enriched by the creativity and track record of the Downe House UK academic programme. We recognise the importance of Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies, ensuring these subjects are embedded within our core curriculum for a well-rounded and culturally enriching education.
With a strong focus on academic achievement, our curriculum prepares girls for IGCSE, BTEC and A-Level examinations, taken in Year 11 and Year 13, opening doors to exciting and ambitious futures. Equipped with the skills and confidence to excel, our pupils are prepared for success in higher education and beyond.
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Nursery (Age 2 – 3 Years)
Discover a world of wonder at Downe House Riyadh Nursery.
As Riyadh’s only British International Nursery, we offer a unique and exceptional start to your child’s educational journey. In our safe, nurturing environment, little ones explore and learn through engaging play, building strong foundations for future success.
We believe in cultivating essential values from the earliest years, empowering children to become confident, curious, and compassionate individuals. Our dedicated team creates a stimulating atmosphere where every child can thrive and reach their full potential.
Pre-Prep (Pre-School –Year 2)
Learning in Pre-Prep begins with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, centred around play-based learning, where our youngest children develop cognitive, communication, and social skills. These early years lay the foundation for future academic success.
Pupils develop basic numeracy and literacy skills, applying their learning to real-world experiences. In Year 1, they begin the Key Stage 1 curriculum, designed to enhance creativity, curiosity, and core skills. Learning is interactive, encouraging pupils to engage in a variety of subjects. During these years, they develop reading, writing, and numeracy skills while being introduced to new subjects that broaden their knowledge.
Prep School (Years 3 - 8)
In Prep School, learning becomes more engaging and creative, with an enhanced Key Stage 2 curriculum that builds a strong academic foundation across multiple subjects. Pupils are encouraged to explore new interests, challenge themselves, and develop essential skills for future academic success.
From Year 5, all lessons are taught by subject-specialist teachers, fostering greater academic independence as pupils prepare for Key Stage 3. In Years 7 and 8, the curriculum is designed to provide a diverse educational experience, balancing intellectual challenge with creativity and collaboration.
The Key Stage 3 curriculum, complemented by Arabic, Islamic, and Social Studies, ensures a broad and balanced education while laying the foundation for IGCSE studies in Year 9.
Senior School (Years 9-13)
In Years 9 to 11, pupils embark on their IGCSE journey, tailoring their academic programme to their interests and strengths. IGCSEs are internationally recognised qualifications, providing both depth and breadth of knowledge before further specialisation in Year 12.
Pupils select IGCSE subjects with guidance from their form tutor and subject teachers, ensuring a broad and balanced curriculum. Core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and the Sciences are complemented by optional subjects that align with their aspirations. Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies remain integral to their education.
In Years 12 and 13, pupils prepare for A Level examinations and life beyond Downe House Riyadh. A Levels are globally recognised qualifications, opening pathways to leading universities worldwide. Pupils typically select three A Level subjects, studying in an academically rigorous environment that rewards depth of learning.
Alongside their A Level studies, pupils continue their Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies learning. Our structured timetables provide opportunities for independent study, allowing pupils to explore subjects in greater depth. With the support of their form tutor and subject teachers, they develop the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to achieve their full potential.