GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa
Part of GEMS Education, Secular, Founded 2015
Updated July 2026
National Curriculum (England)
IGCSE
Montessori
Reggio EmiliaAccreditations
British Schools Overseas
Cognia
COBISLanguages
EnglishGEMS FirstPoint School is a premium, family-focused international school in Dubailand offering a world-class British curriculum education for students from Nursery to Year 13. Established in 2015, it is known for its 'Outstanding' BSO rating and commitment to holistic student development.
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school operates under a 'Family First' approach, prioritising student wellbeing, inclusion, and personal development alongside academic achievement. It aims to empower every learner to 'Achieve Their Potential and Find Personal Success' through a curriculum that integrates GEMS Education values with UAE cultural influences. The school fosters a diverse, inclusive environment where students are encouraged to develop independence, resilience, and leadership skills.
Programmes
The school follows the National Curriculum for England (NCfE) across several key stages: Nursery (ages 2-3, combining Reggio Emilia and EYFS), Early Years Foundation Stage (ages 3-5), Primary (ages 5-11), Secondary (ages 11-16), and Post-16 (ages 16-18). The Post-16 pathway offers A Levels and BTECs to prepare students for university and career success.
Outcomes
The school reports a 95% university acceptance rate, with graduates securing placements at institutions in the UK, UAE, USA, and Europe. It is rated 'Outstanding' by British Schools Overseas (BSO) and 'Very Good' by the KHDA. Students are prepared for internationally recognised qualifications, including GCSEs, BTECs, AS, and A Levels.
Student support
Learning support
The school maintains an expert Inclusion and Learning Support team, including specialist teachers, Learning Support Assistants (LSAs), a Speech and Language Therapist (SALT), and an Occupational Therapist (OT). It holds the SENDIA award for excellence in inclusion and the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools 'School Mental Health Award' (Silver Status). Additional specialist provision for English language learning or other needs is available for an additional charge.
Frequently asked questions(6)
- What curriculum does GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa offer?
- GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa offers National Curriculum (England), British EYFS, IGCSE, Cambridge A-Level, Montessori and Reggio Emilia.
- How much is tuition at GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa?
- Annual tuition at GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa is AED 37.5K–AED 75.8K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa a day or boarding school?
- GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa is a day school.
- What accreditations does GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa hold?
- GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa holds accreditations including British Schools Overseas, Cognia and COBIS.
- Is GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa co-educational?
- GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa is a co-ed school.
- Where is GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa located?
- GEMS FirstPoint School - The Villa is an international school in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025-2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Nursery | 2–3 | AED 37.5K |
| Foundation Stage 1 (FS 1) | 3–4 | AED 44.3K |
| Foundation Stage 2 (FS 2) | 4–5 | AED 44.3K |
| Year 1 | 5–6 | AED 52.4K |
| Year 2 | 6–7 | AED 52.4K |
| Year 3 | 7–8 | AED 52.4K |
| Year 4 | 8–9 | AED 58.3K |
| Year 5 | 9–10 | AED 58.3K |
| Year 6 | 10–11 | AED 58.3K |
| Year 7 | 11–12 | AED 64.1K |
| Year 8 | 12–13 | AED 64.1K |
| Year 9 | 13–14 | AED 64.1K |
| Year 10 | 14–15 | AED 69.9K |
| Year 11 | 15–16 | AED 69.9K |
| Year 12 | 16–17 | AED 75.8K |
| Year 13 | 17–18 | AED 75.8K |
Other fees(6)
| Application fee· Refundable if the school does not offer a place (unless carried forward), non-refundable if offered but declined, not deductible from tuition. Waived for Emirates students. | AED 525 |
|---|---|
| Deposit· 10% of the total tuition fees, deductible from total tuition fees, non-refundable. | — |
| Registration fee· 5% of the total tuition fees, deductible from total tuition fees, non-refundable. | — |
| EAL· Chargeable if English language proficiency testing indicates specialist support is required. | — |
| Bus / transport· STS transport fees apply. 10% discount for Emirates students. | — |
| Uniform· Threads uniforms. 10% discount when purchasing three sets at once for Emirates students. | — |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 15% - 25%
- Full-payment discount: up to 3%
Admissions
The school accepts applications for students from Nursery to Year 13. The online enrolment process requires an application fee of AED 525, followed by a non-refundable registration deposit of 10% of total tuition fees for new students or 5% for existing students upon re-enrolment. Prospective families are encouraged to book a tour to visit the campus.
Calendar
The academic year is divided into three terms. For the 2025-2026 academic year, Term 3 begins on 23 March 2026 and concludes on 3 July 2026. The calendar includes scheduled breaks for public holidays such as Eid Al Adha and the Islamic New Year, which are subject to confirmation by the Ministry of Education.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus includes state-of-the-art academic and innovation spaces such as STEAM labs, science laboratories, an electronics and robotics laboratory, and an ICT discovery space. Sports facilities feature a 25m swimming pool, a learners' pool, a multi-purpose sports hall, climbing walls, cricket nets, an all-weather sports field, netball and tennis courts, and a fitness suite. Creative and performing arts spaces include a 500-seat auditorium, a black box theatre, a music technology suite, a recording studio, and a dance studio. Additional amenities include a Post-16 hub, libraries, a food technology catering suite, and outdoor learning areas like the Desert School and Bamboo Garden.
Co-curriculars
The school offers an extensive, teacher-led co-curricular programme spanning sports, creative arts, sustainability, and leadership. Activities include music, academic competitions, debating, design, outdoor pursuits, and STEM. The school also features a Golf Centre of Excellence in partnership with Claude Harmon III and provides opportunities for local and international trips.
David WadePrincipalDavid Wade joined GEMS Education in 2018 and became Principal of GEMS FirstPoint School in 2022, having previously served as Principal of GEMS Winchester School – Fujairah. With over 20 years of leadership experience in the UK, Singapore, and Malaysia, he holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and the NPQ for Executive Leadership. He is a former accountant who retrained as a teacher and is passionate about sports and educational innovation.
Steve FarishVice PrincipalSteve Farish joined GEMS FirstPoint School in 2022 and has worked in the UAE since 2013. He holds a degree in Sport and Exercise Science, a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Management, and the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH). He is a keen golfer and musician who is committed to building a supportive family school community.
Isabel BrannockHead of Primary SchoolIsabel Brannock joined GEMS FirstPoint School in 2016 and holds a First Class Honours degree in Primary Education and the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH). Before moving to Dubai, she taught across primary phases in the South East of England. She is committed to the holistic development of children and fostering a love of learning.
Rhys HeadleyHead of Secondary SchoolRhys Headley moved to Dubai in 2016 and has held various leadership roles including Head of Department and Head of Year. He holds a BA Honours in European and International Politics, a PGCE, and the National Professional Qualification in Senior Leadership, and is currently studying for an MA in Educational Leadership. He is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and a former rugby player.
Emily GalloneDeputy Head of Primary SchoolEmily Gallone joined GEMS FirstPoint School in 2017 and has worked in various roles within Key Stage 2. She is currently completing her National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) and is dedicated to creating an inspiring curriculum that supports student growth.
Lewis HammillDeputy Head of Secondary SchoolLewis Hammill joined GEMS FirstPoint School in 2016 and has served in roles including Head of Year, Director, and Assistant Principal. He holds a BA (Hons) in Physical Education and a PGCE, and is currently completing the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH). He is passionate about research-driven initiatives and fostering high aspirations in students.
Emma MonteithWhole School Senior Assistant PrincipalEmma Monteith joined GEMS FirstPoint School in 2017 and leads Teaching & Learning, Inclusion, and EAL across the school. A former Law graduate who retrained as an English teacher, she has held roles including Head of English and Assistant Principal. She is passionate about research-led practice and professional development.
Abdul HafeezAssistant Principal (Data & Systems)Abdul Hafeez is an expert in educational data and information systems who joined GEMS FirstPoint School after serving as Director of Data and Information Systems at GEMS Winchester School – Fujairah. He holds a Master’s degree in Information and Operational Management, the NPQSL, and is a recognized Specialist Leader of Education (SLE). He has over a decade of experience in data management and school improvement.
Asif KhanAssistant Principal (Arabic and Islamic Studies)Asif Khan is a UK-qualified teacher of Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Chemistry with experience in the UK, Denmark, Qatar, and the UAE. He holds a BSc in Molecular Biology and Immunology, a BA in Sharee’ah, and a PGCE at Master's level. He previously served as Head of UAE MoE Subjects and is an avid runner and cyclist.
Erika KennedyAssistant Principal (School Improvement)Erika Kennedy joined GEMS FirstPoint School in 2023 and focuses on oracy and student-led enquiries to improve learner outcomes. She holds a degree in History and Politics, a PGCE, and an MA in Educational Leadership. Previously, she was an all-through leader for Character and the Quality of Education in Halifax, West Yorkshire.
Manoj MathewsManager, School OperationsManoj Mathews is a Civil Engineering graduate from the National Institute of Technology in Calicut, India, with extensive experience in the engineering and construction industry. He has worked on projects for major organizations like EMAAR and DAMAC before becoming Manager of School Operations at GEMS FirstPoint School. He is focused on maintaining high standards of site safety, compliance, and student wellbeing.
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