School of Modern Skills logo

School of Modern Skills

Part of AlephYa, Islamic, Founded 2006

Updated July 2026

Co-edGender
For-profitOwnership

Accreditations

Languages

English flagEnglishArabic flagArabicFrench flagFrench

The School of Modern Skills is a private, NEASC-accredited K-12 institution in Dubai that blends UAE heritage with a rigorous American curriculum. It serves as a community-focused school dedicated to preparing future-ready learners through innovative teaching and personalized support.

Teaching approach

The school aims to empower students to discover their passions, become leaders of their learning, and prepare for a global society. It fosters an innovative and inclusive environment that prioritizes personal, social, emotional, and academic growth. The institution emphasizes Islamic values, Emirati culture, and the development of upstanding, creative, and caring global citizens.

Programmes

The school delivers an American curriculum based on California Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English and Mathematics, and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Science. The Early Years Development Program (EYDP) utilizes a creative, play-based approach, while the Elementary school integrates STrEaM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) into thematic learning. The Middle School focuses on cognitive development and interdisciplinary projects, and the High School offers a college-preparatory program with diverse electives and AP pathways. Arabic, Islamic Education, and UAE Social Studies are taught according to Ministry of Education requirements.

Outcomes

Graduates are prepared for higher education through college advising, career guidance, and mentorship, with support for SAT, IELTS, and EmSAT examinations. The school offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the AP Capstone Program to provide students with specialized academic pathways. Students graduate as independent, lifelong learners equipped with the skills to succeed in a modern, global society.

Student support

EAL support
Unknown
Learning support
Unknown

Learning support

The school provides holistic student support services led by a dedicated team, including psychologists, school counselors, and a pastoral care team. Support is tailored to individual needs through the After School Academic Program (ASAP) and the work of learning support assistants. The school also employs a behaviorist and provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support to ensure an inclusive environment.

Frequently asked questions(5)
What curriculum does School of Modern Skills offer?
School of Modern Skills offers Advanced Placement.
How much is tuition at School of Modern Skills?
Annual tuition at School of Modern Skills is AED 17.5K–AED 29.6K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
What accreditations does School of Modern Skills hold?
School of Modern Skills holds accreditations including NEASC.
Is School of Modern Skills co-educational?
School of Modern Skills is a co-ed school.
Where is School of Modern Skills located?
School of Modern Skills is an international school in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Tuition & fees

Annual tuition by grade

2025-2026
Annual tuition by grade
GradeAgesAnnual
KG1AED 17.5K
KG2AED 18.2K
Grade 1AED 18.9K
Grade 2AED 19.6K
Grade 3AED 20.4K
Grade 4AED 21.1K
Grade 5AED 21.9K
Grade 6AED 22.7K
Grade 7AED 23.4K
Grade 8AED 24.2K
Grade 9AED 24.9K
Grade 10AED 25.7K
Grade 11AED 29.6K
Grade 12AED 29.6K
Other fees(5)
Other fees
Uniform· Varies by grade, ranging from 461 AED to 793 AED (including VAT)
Materials· Books & Stationery, varies by grade, ranging from 1,260 AED to 4,026 AED
Registration fee· Registration fee is required but amount is not specified
Enrolment fee· Re-enrollment fee is required but amount is not specified
Bus / transport· Transportation is available as an optional extra

Admissions

The school manages admissions through a formal inquiry procedure, with registration and re-enrollment processes available for prospective families. Fees for the 2025-2026 academic year range from 19,212 AED for KG1 to 34,391 AED for Grade 12, covering education, uniforms, and books. The school maintains a transparent fee structure that includes one-off registration costs and provides specific contact channels for the admissions and finance departments.

Calendar

The school operates on a Monday to Friday schedule, with a half-day on Friday and a weekend on Saturday and Sunday. Daily hours are 7:45 am to 12:40 pm for KG1-KG2 (Mon-Thu), 7:45 am to 2:40 pm for Elementary (Mon-Thu), and 7:45 am to 2:50 pm for Middle and High School (Mon-Thu). On Fridays, all grade levels conclude at 11:40 am.

Facilities

Science labsSTEM labArt roomLibraryGymnasiumPlaygroundDining hall

About the campus

The campus features separate boys’ and girls’ sections for Grades 5-12 and includes state-of-the-art science and IT laboratories, two libraries, and an innovation hub equipped for robotics and AI. Other facilities include a hydroponics garden, multipurpose halls, a health clinic, a cafeteria, and dedicated art rooms. Classrooms are designed to support interactive and collaborative learning, complemented by "relaxation stations" to assist with student self-regulation.

Co-curriculars

The school offers an Extended Day Program (ENGAGE) for KG students and an After School Academic Program (ASAP) for students seeking extra support or advancement. Students participate in various initiatives such as the "SMS does Shark Tank" innovation project, robotics, and community volunteer programs. Additionally, the school provides opportunities for local and international trips, as well as sports and arts activities.

  • DR. STEPHANIE CHATTMAN
    DR. STEPHANIE CHATTMANSchool Principal
  • DAVID JONESVice Principal for Elementary
  • NEASA NI BHROSNACHAINVice Principal for Middle and High School
  • JENNIFER MCGUIREDirector of Student Support and Services
  • AMBER LYNN CURRYDirector of Teaching and Learning
  • LAYAL NABIL EL AYOUBIHead of Assessment
  • HANADI AHMAD SALEHHead of Curriculum - AP Coordinator
  • LEANNA SAYARHead of Wellbeing
  • JENNIFER SUE TRELOARAssistant Vice Principal Early Years
  • HANIAH ABDOLLATIF MOHAMMEDAssistant Vice Principal Elementary
  • NADINE HAMZEAVP - Girls' Campus
  • RIHAB MAKSOUDInstructional Coach