Safa British School logo

Safa British School

Founded 2004

Updated July 2026

3–18Ages
Co-edGender
DayType
1,600Students
12:1Student : teacher

Languages

English flagEnglishArabic flagArabicSpanish flagSpanish

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.

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

EAL support
Included in fees
Learning support
Dedicated department

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
Annual tuition by grade
GradeAgesAnnual
FS13–4AED 45.4K
FS24–5AED 49.8K
Year 15–6AED 49.8K
Year 26–7AED 54.1K
Year 37–8AED 54.1K
Year 48–9AED 58.4K
Year 59–10AED 58.4K
Year 610–11AED 60.6K
Year 711–12AED 62.7K
Year 812–13AED 64.9K
Year 913–14AED 67.1K
Year 1014–15AED 70.3K
Year 1115–16AED 70.3K
Year 1216–17AED 73.6K
Year 1317–18AED 73.6K
Other fees(2)
Other fees
Application fee· One TimeAED 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

Swimming poolSports fieldGymnasiumLibraryScience labsArt roomMusic roomTheatre / auditoriumBoarding

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 Horwell
    Brian HorwellPrincipal | Geography Teacher

    Brian 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 McGeever
    Louise McGeeverHead of Primary

    Louise McGeever serves as the Head of Primary at Safa British School.

  • Jonathan Pennock
    Jonathan PennockHead of Secondary | Maths Teacher

    Jonathan Pennock is the Head of Secondary and a Maths teacher at Safa British School.

  • Noreen McGuckin
    Noreen McGuckinDeputy Head Primary

    Noreen McGuckin serves as the Deputy Head Primary at Safa British School.

  • Jessica Vowles
    Jessica VowlesDeputy Head Secondary | History Teacher

    Jessica Vowles is the Deputy Head Secondary and a History teacher at Safa British School.

  • Fiona McDermott
    Fiona McDermottHead of Foundation Stage | Assistant Head

    Fiona McDermott is the Head of Foundation Stage and an Assistant Head at Safa British School.

  • Denise McQuinn
    Denise McQuinnDirector of Inclusion

    Denise McQuinn serves as the Director of Inclusion at Safa British School.

  • Dara Davey
    Dara DaveyAssistant Head, Designated Safeguarding Lead - Primary

    Dara Davey is an Assistant Head and the Designated Safeguarding Lead for the Primary school.

  • Sarah Polley
    Sarah PolleyAssistant Head

    Sarah Polley serves as an Assistant Head at Safa British School.

  • Rebecca Devlin
    Rebecca DevlinAssistant Headteachers – Primary

    Rebecca 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.