
Safa British School
Founded 2004
Updated July 2026
Accreditations
Languages
Safa British School is an all-through British curriculum school located in Jumeirah, Dubai, serving students aged 3 to 18. It is a global community of over 1,600 students representing more than 80 nationalities.
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school prioritizes student wellbeing, believing that happy students are successful students. It fosters an inclusive environment built on respect, kindness, and empathy, where individuality is celebrated. The educational approach emphasizes high expectations, continuous support, and the development of 'Safa Super Heroes'—traits such as collaboration, curiosity, grit, and resilience.
Programmes
The school follows the UK National Curriculum, beginning with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and progressing through Primary, Key Stage 3, GCSE (Key Stage 4), and Sixth Form. The curriculum includes core subjects alongside specialist instruction in Arabic, Islamic Studies, Modern Foreign Languages, Performing Arts, and Physical Education. Teaching utilizes the 'Curiosity Approach' in early years and emphasizes child-led learning throughout the primary and secondary stages.
Outcomes
Safa British School is rated 'Outstanding' by British Schools Overseas (BSO), with wellbeing and inclusion also rated 'Outstanding' by the KHDA. The school reports strong academic performance, including successful GCSE and A-Level results. Students are encouraged to develop lifelong skills, confidence, and character to prepare for university and future careers.
Student support
Learning support
The school maintains a dedicated Inclusion Team, including a SENCO, dyslexia specialists, and inclusion support teachers, to provide tailored interventions. The 'LINK' department offers specialized support for students with additional learning needs. The school emphasizes a culture of wellbeing and pastoral care, ensuring every student feels valued and supported.
Frequently asked questions(7)
- What curriculum does Safa British School offer?
- Safa British School offers National Curriculum (England), British EYFS, IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
- How much is tuition at Safa British School?
- Annual tuition at Safa British School is AED 45.4K–AED 73.6K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does Safa British School teach?
- Safa British School enrolls students aged 3 to 18.
- Is Safa British School a day or boarding school?
- Safa British School is a day school.
- What accreditations does Safa British School hold?
- Safa British School holds accreditations including British Schools Overseas.
- Is Safa British School co-educational?
- Safa British School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Safa British School located?
- Safa British School is an international school in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025-2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| FS1 | 3–4 | AED 45.4K |
| FS2 | 4–5 | AED 49.8K |
| Year 1 | 5–6 | AED 49.8K |
| Year 2 | 6–7 | AED 54.1K |
| Year 3 | 7–8 | AED 54.1K |
| Year 4 | 8–9 | AED 58.4K |
| Year 5 | 9–10 | AED 58.4K |
| Year 6 | 10–11 | AED 60.6K |
| Year 7 | 11–12 | AED 62.7K |
| Year 8 | 12–13 | AED 64.9K |
| Year 9 | 13–14 | AED 67.1K |
| Year 10 | 14–15 | AED 70.3K |
| Year 11 | 15–16 | AED 70.3K |
| Year 12 | 16–17 | AED 73.6K |
| Year 13 | 17–18 | AED 73.6K |
Other fees(2)
| Application fee· One Time | AED 500 |
|---|---|
| Registration fee· Re-registration fee for existing students wishing to re-enroll, charged in the third term and offset in Term 1 of the following academic year. | AED 2K |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 15%
Admissions
The school provides an online enrolment process and an age placement guide to assist families. Prospective parents can book school tours, including virtual options, to view the campus and facilities. Admissions are open for students from Foundation Stage 1 through to Year 13.
Calendar
The academic year is divided into three terms, typically running from late August to early July. The calendar includes scheduled breaks for half-term, National Day, and various Islamic holidays such as Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha. Specific dates for induction, results days, and teacher training are provided annually.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in the heart of Jumeirah, the campus features an innovatively designed environment with extensive outdoor play areas and continuous provision spaces for early years. The school includes dedicated facilities for expressive arts, a library, a school clinic, and a specialized Sixth Form area. Sports facilities support a comprehensive physical education curriculum, including swimming pools.
Co-curriculars
Safa British School offers over 60 extra-curricular activities (ECAs) spanning sports, arts, and academic interests. Students can participate in programmes such as the Micro, Mini, and Junior Duke awards, as well as the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Leadership opportunities are available through roles like House Captains, Student Council, Sports Leaders, and Peer Mentors.
Brian HorwellPrincipal | Geography TeacherBrian Horwell serves as the Principal of Safa British School and is also a Geography teacher. He emphasizes student wellbeing, individuality, and a culture of excellence within the school community.
Louise McGeeverHead of PrimaryLouise McGeever serves as the Head of Primary at Safa British School.
Jonathan PennockHead of Secondary | Maths TeacherJonathan Pennock is the Head of Secondary and a Maths teacher at Safa British School.
Noreen McGuckinDeputy Head PrimaryNoreen McGuckin serves as the Deputy Head Primary at Safa British School.
Jessica VowlesDeputy Head Secondary | History TeacherJessica Vowles is the Deputy Head Secondary and a History teacher at Safa British School.
Fiona McDermottHead of Foundation Stage | Assistant HeadFiona McDermott is the Head of Foundation Stage and an Assistant Head at Safa British School.
Denise McQuinnDirector of InclusionDenise McQuinn serves as the Director of Inclusion at Safa British School.
Dara DaveyAssistant Head, Designated Safeguarding Lead - PrimaryDara Davey is an Assistant Head and the Designated Safeguarding Lead for the Primary school.
Sarah PolleyAssistant HeadSarah Polley serves as an Assistant Head at Safa British School.
Rebecca DevlinAssistant Headteachers – PrimaryRebecca Devlin serves as an Assistant Headteacher for the Primary school.
- Yusuf SidatAssistant Headteacher | Chemistry Teacher
Yusuf Sidat is an Assistant Headteacher and Chemistry teacher at Safa British School.
- Rebecca BarryAssistant Head | Maths Teacher
Rebecca Barry is an Assistant Head and Maths teacher at Safa British School.
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National Curriculum (England)
IGCSE
British Schools Overseas