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British curriculum schools to undergo UK dept inspections

British schools in Dubai will undergo the British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspections starting next year, as the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) announced an agreement with the Department for Education of England (DfE).

To qualify for BSO inspections, schools must be able to demonstrate that their curriculum and ethos are related to the British culture. If they meet the standards, they will be recognised by the DfE. The inspections will be conducted in cooperation with the CfBT Education Trust as it will enable parents, the school and other stakeholders to see how the school measures up against the standards that apply to independent schools in the UK, taking into account local requirements.

The KHDA and the CfBT will offer BSO inspections to Dubai’s 54 British curriculum-based schools in conjunction with the inspections conducted annually by the Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau. To be classified as ‘British’ by the KHDA, schools will need to undergo BSO inspections.

Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Director-General of the KHDA, said: “This agreement is a very significant step in reaching our goal of ensuring high-quality education for all private school students in Dubai. We look forward to the positive impact it will have on Dubai’s education system.”

Nick Gibb, Minister of State for Schools at the DfE, said: “As part of the Dubai government, the KHDA is committed to high standards in all its schools. We are pleased that it has adopted an approach which improves the inspection process for British Overseas Schools in Dubai. These inspections will deliver high-quality reports for both the KHDA and the DfE.”

muaz@khaleejtimes.com