Al Diyafah High School vs The Apple International School

	A Al Diyafah High School Dubai, United Arab Emirates	T The Apple International School Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 11,596 - 24,655	Fees / year AED 6,993 - 20,131
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,714	Pupils 1,036
Typical class size	Typical class size 14	Typical class size 25
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Al Diyafah High School is in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The campus is on 7A Street in Al Qusais Industrial Area, within the Al Nahda 2 enclave, a location well connected by roads and close to Deira and Dubai International Airport. The school's address is commonly listed as Al Nahda 2/Al Qusais Industrial Area, Dubai.	Location The Apple International Community School is located at 29A Street, Behind Karama Centre, near Karama Park in Al Karama, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It sits in central Dubai in a densely developed area with convenient road access. The Karama Centre reference point and the Al Karama address help nearby residents identify the campus easily.
Stages	Stages The school delivers the Foundation Stage (EYFS) for early years, followed by primary (Key Stages 1–2) and secondary (Key Stages 3–4) under the English National Curriculum, concluding with a Sixth Form (Key Stage 5). The Sixth Form offers AS and A2 levels, and a BTEC Diploma option.	Stages Foundation Stage (FS1–FS2) prepares children aged 3–5. Primary covers Year 1 to Year 6, and Lower Secondary covers Year 7 to Year 9. KHDA data also shows the UK National Curriculum framework extending to Year 10 in the school's profile.
School type	School type Al Diyafah High School is a Co-educational, day school.	School type Co-educational private day school. The school operates under LEAMS Education and delivers a British curriculum in Dubai. The KHDA inspection confirms the school uses the UK curriculum and serves both boys and girls.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The school has a diverse student body with over 1,900 students from several nationalities; exact counts and the local/international ratio are not published.	Pupil nationality mix Public data from KHDA's DSIB (2023–2024) lists 1 Emirati student out of 1,036, with the largest nationality group being Indian; total enrollment was 1,036 students. This implies a predominantly international pupil body with a single local student in that inspection period.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school provides student counselling and a Career Guidance Interface, and runs a Personal Enrichment Programme (PEP) to support holistic development. It also identifies and supports gifted and talented students through acceleration and enrichment activities. Explicit, published SEN provisions are not listed on the site.	Additional learning support The school supports learners with additional needs and requests relevant documentation (e.g., IEPs or therapy reports) as part of the admissions process. KHDA's Dubai Schools Inspection notes ongoing provision for learners with diverse needs and reports on the school's care and support as part of its overall assessment.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school follows the National Curriculum of England, i.e., the British curriculum, and uses IGCSE and A-level qualifications. There is no formal country affiliation beyond this alignment.	Country affiliation United Kingdom. The school follows the English National Curriculum (UK curriculum) as part of its stated curriculum.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation stated. Islamic studies are included as part of the curriculum where relevant.	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation: None. The school follows the UK National Curriculum and UAE MOE requirements, with Islamic and Arabic studies taught as appropriate under KHDA guidelines.
School day structure	School day structure School timings are published as: FS 1–FS 2 from 7:15 am to 12:00 pm every day; Years 1–13 from 7:15 am to 2:30 pm Monday–Thursday, with Friday finishing at 12:00 pm. These timings are reflected in the admissions and know-your-school information.	School day structure The school's official working hours for the campus are: Monday–Thursday 7:30 AM–4:30 PM; Friday 7:30 AM–12:00 PM and 2:00 PM–4:30 PM; Saturday 8:00 AM–1:00 PM. These hours pertain to school administration and operations.
Bus service details	Bus service details A school bus service is offered, with transport areas and corresponding fees for AY 2025–26. Areas include Al Nahda, Ghusais, Al Twar/Muhaisana, Bur Dubai/Karama/Satwa/Mirdif, Deira, International City, and Sharjah. The service is subject to seat availability, and an transport ID card can be issued; a AED 50 charge applies for reissuance. Contact transport@diyafahschool.com and +971 4 2671115 for details.	Bus service details The school provides outsourced student transport at an affordable cost, managed by a reputable transport company. Fees depend on the area of residence, with transport arrangements and routes coordinated by the school; the transport contact is transport@applecommunityschool.ae.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & assessment fees - Assessment (entrance) fee: AED 500 (including VAT); this amount is refunded if the student sits the assessment and admission is not successful. - Admission and registration charge on confirmation of a new place: AED 1,000 (one‑time, non‑refundable and non‑adjustable). A separate registration/deposit equal to 10% of the annual tuition is also collected on admission and is adjustable against the Term 1 fee but is not refundable if the enrollment is withdrawn. (An admissions overview page includes a different single figure for the one‑time charge in some communications; parents should note the school's formal fee schedule shows AED 1,000 plus the 10% deposit). - Re‑registration for existing students: approximately 5% of the school fee charged annually (typically in March); this re‑registration payment is adjustable against the first term fee but is not refundable if the student withdraws. Tuition fees (annual and per‑term) — Academic Year 2025–26 All figures in AED. Annual fee then Term 1 / Term 2 / Term 3 as shown on the school fee schedule for AY 2025–26. - FS1: Annual AED 11,596 — Term 1 AED 4,639 / Term 2 AED 3,479 / Term 3 AED 3,479. - FS2: Annual AED 11,596 — Term 1 AED 4,639 / Term 2 AED 3,479 / Term 3 AED 3,479. - Year 1: Annual AED 12,214 — Term 1 AED 4,886 / Term 2 AED 3,665 / Term 3 AED 3,665. - Year 2: Annual AED 12,214 — Term 1 AED 4,886 / Term 2 AED 3,665 / Term 3 AED 3,665. - Year 3: Annual AED 12,214 — Term 1 AED 4,886 / Term 2 AED 3,665 / Term 3 AED 3,665. - Year 4: Annual AED 12,578 — Term 1 AED 5,032 / Term 2 AED 3,774 / Term 3 AED 3,774. - Year 5: Annual AED 12,578 — Term 1 AED 5,032 / Term 2 AED 3,774 / Term 3 AED 3,774. - Year 6: Annual AED 12,578 — Term 1 AED 5,032 / Term 2 AED 3,774 / Term 3 AED 3,774. - Year 7: Annual AED 12,851 — Term 1 AED 5,141 / Term 2 AED 3,856 / Term 3 AED 3,856. - Year 8: Annual AED 14,626 — Term 1 AED 5,851 / Term 2 AED 4,388 / Term 3 AED 4,388. - Year 9: Annual AED 16,153 — Term 1 AED 6,462 / Term 2 AED 4,846 / Term 3 AED 4,846. - Year 10: Annual AED 20,521 — Term 1 AED 8,209 / Term 2 AED 6,157 / Term 3 AED 6,157. - Year 11: Annual AED 20,521 — Term 1 AED 10,261 / Term 2 AED 8,208 / Term 3 AED 2,052. - Year 12: Annual AED 20,831 — Term 1 AED 10,416 / Term 2 AED 8,332 / Term 3 AED 2,083. - Year 13: Annual AED 24,655 — Term 1 AED 12,328 / Term 2 AED 9,862 / Term 3 AED 2,466. Billing schedule and payment terms - Term due dates shown for AY 2025–26: Term 1 due 15 August 2025 (Sept–Dec), Term 2 due 5 December 2025 (Jan–Mar), Term 3 due 5 March 2026 (Apr–Jun). All term fees are payable in advance on or before the due dates listed; Term 1 must be paid by the start of the academic year or the student will not be allowed to attend classes. Non‑payment can lead to withholding of reports, suspension and referral to KHDA as per published policy. - On admission confirmation the 10% deposit and the one‑time admission & registration fee must be paid (deposit is adjusted against Term 1). Re‑registration fee (approx. 5%) is charged in March for existing students and is adjustable against Term 1. Boarding fees - Boarding is not offered; Al Diyafah High School operates as a day school. Transport (bus) fees and other optional charges - Transport is optional and charged in addition to tuition; charges vary by route. Examples for AY 2025–26: Al Nahda/Ghusais/Al Twar routes AED 6,300 per year (Term 1 AED 2,520 / Term 2 AED 1,890 / Term 3 AED 1,890); Bur Dubai/Karama/Mirdif routes AED 7,200 per year (Term 1 AED 2,880 / Term 2 AED 2,160 / Term 3 AED 2,160); International City/Sharjah routes AED 7,875 per year (Term 1 AED 3,150 / Term 2 AED 2,363 / Term 3 AED 2,362). Transport allocation is subject to seat availability and additional terms apply. - Tuition figures exclude certain mandatory services and incidental charges: books and online resources, progress tests/PEP, medical fees (incl. VAT where applicable), selected field trips, SEN/learning support, international assessment and examination fees, annual photography, graduation and some activities — these are charged in addition to tuition as applicable by year group. Refunds and non‑payment consequences - Refunds on withdrawal or cancellation are calculated in accordance with KHDA guidelines. The admission/registration deposit (and re‑registration fee) is adjustable against Term 1 but is not refundable if enrollment is withdrawn, unless KHDA rules require otherwise. Non‑payment can result in suspension, withholding of reports, refusal to re‑enrol and withholding of Transfer Certificate until outstanding fees/actions are resolved. Fee payment methods and invoicing - Accepted payment channels include the Diyafah Parent Portal (24/7 online payment by credit/debit card), bank‑to‑bank transfer to the school's account at ADCB (remittance advice to ebilling@diyafahschool.com for reconciliation), cash deposit at ADCB ATM, and cash or card payment at the school cash counter during posted hours. Parents are asked to email scanned remittance advice or deposit slips with the student GR number for reconciliation. Allow at least one working day for reconciliation. Cheque/PDC replacement or withdrawal requires a minimum seven working days' notice to ebilling@diyafahschool.com. Contacts for finance and transport - Finance / billing email: ebilling@diyafahschool.com. Transport contact: transport@diyafahschool.com. Specific route charges and seat allocation are handled by the transport team and are subject to terms and availability. (Where multiple school communications use slightly different wording or figures for a single administrative charge, the school's published fee structure and KHDA fact sheets supply the formal year‑by‑year tuition and term breakdown for AY 2025–26 as the primary reference for the amounts above.)	Fee details Application fee - Application fee: AED 525 (non-adjustable, inclusive of VAT), payable at the time of registration. Registration (enrolment) deposit - Registration fee deposit: 10% of the annual tuition fee. This deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable and may be adjusted against the first term tuition. Tuition fees by year group (annual and term breakdown) - FS1: Annual tuition AED 15,850. Term 1 (40%) AED 6,340; Term 2 (30%) AED 4,755; Term 3 (30%) AED 4,755. - FS2: Annual tuition AED 15,850. Term 1 (40%) AED 6,340; Term 2 (30%) AED 4,755; Term 3 (30%) AED 4,755. - Year 1: Annual tuition AED 16,980. Term 1 (40%) AED 6,792; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,094; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,094. - Year 2: Annual tuition AED 16,980. Term 1 (40%) AED 6,792; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,094; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,094. - Year 3: Annual tuition AED 17,980. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,192; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,394; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,394. - Year 4: Annual tuition AED 17,980. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,192; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,394; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,394. - Year 5: Annual tuition AED 18,499. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,400; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,550; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,549. - Year 6: Annual tuition AED 18,499. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,400; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,550; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,549. - Year 7: Annual tuition AED 19,131. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,652; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,740; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,739. - Year 8: Annual tuition AED 19,131. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,652; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,740; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,739. - Year 9: Annual tuition AED 19,550. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,820; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,865; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,865. - Year 10: Annual tuition AED 20,100. Term 1 (40%) AED 8,040; Term 2 (30%) AED 6,030; Term 3 (30%) AED 6,030. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is invoiced and payable in advance at the start of each term. Termly instalment option: Term 1 = 40% of annual tuition; Term 2 = 30%; Term 3 = 30%. - For instalment payments in the referenced school schedule, the first-term payment is due before 25 August 2025, with the remaining two term payments to be provided by post‑dated cheques dated 25 December 2025 and 25 March 2026. Cheques are deposited on their due dates and cannot be postponed. - Tuition invoicing begins from the student's date of admission; if a student enrols during the term, tuition will be charged starting from the beginning of the month of enrolment. Boarding fees - No boarding provision or boarding fees are listed; boarding is not applicable. Transport (bus) is offered as a separate charge. Other costs and fees - Transport: Bus/transport is charged separately and varies by area of residence. Transport is arranged through an associated provider; transport fees and route availability are provided by the school. The minimum period for transport is one month; one month's fee applies even if the student is enrolled for a shorter period. Transport fees are charged per term depending on commencement date. - Books and learning resources: The annual tuition includes books (workbooks and textbooks), e-learning resources and online apps, computer and laboratory resources, external exam fees, medical and related resources, and robotics. The tuition does not include optional Ministry books and optional French books. - Uniform: One set of regular uniform and one PE uniform is included in the annual tuition. Accessories, blazer and cardigan, and certain optional items are excluded; an additional charge of AED 30 applies for special-size uniforms. - Application fee is non-refundable in all circumstances. The registration deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. Specific transport discontinuation and refund rules apply to transport (see transport notes). Refund information - The application fee is not refundable under any circumstances. Refunds of school fees follow the school's published calculation method: for very short enrolments there are deductions (for example, if a student was enrolled for two weeks or less a month's fees is deducted according to the school's stated refund rules). Transport refunds and discontinuation are governed by transport-specific rules (minimum one month charge, term‑based charges). Registration deposit is non-refundable. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods: cash, credit card, and cheque payments at the school fee counter; online payment via the parent portal (transaction charges may apply, typically 1%); wire transfer (account details available from accounts representative). The school also supports payments through the Zenda mobile app and offers online “Pay Now” (credit/debit card) and “Pay Later” options. Important notes about discounts and inclusions - The published tuition schedule includes certain discounts applied to the KHDA‑approved fees; discount levels and the final discounted tuition are shown in the fee schedule. One‑time payment and sibling discounts have been offered under the school's published terms in previous fee schedules; details and eligibility are specified in the school's payment policy. The tuition inclusions and exclusions listed above apply to the published fee schedules.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform FS to Year 13 is mandatory for all pupils. Uniforms must be purchased from the authorised dealer Sumeru Industries, with two purchasing options: in-person at Madina Mall (Uniform Shop, First Floor, Shop 39) or online at shopatsumeru.com; trials are limited to five items per visit. The headscarf worn for religious reasons must be white, and girls may wear ankle-length navy skirts instead of trousers for religious reasons; the PE kit is separate.	Uniform requirement Uniform includes 1 set of regular uniform and PE uniform; accessories, blazer and cardigan are not included. The uniform is included in the annual tuition.
Food options	Food options —	Food options —
House system	House system Al Diyafah High School operates an inter-house system with four houses: Marco Polo (Red), Albert Einstein (Yellow), William Wordsworth (Blue), and Jesse Owens (Green). Each pupil is assigned to a House on entry and remains in that House; House Captains coordinate events such as Sports Day and inter-house competitions to foster aspiration and teamwork.	House system Apple International Community School uses a house system to foster teamwork and leadership. Students participate in house-based activities and there are leadership roles and a student council as part of house life.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is Al Diyafah High School LLC, part of the Diyafah Schools group in the UAE, with Diyafah International School in Abu Dhabi as another campus in the group. Leadership is headed by Principal Neetha Shetty and supported by a Leadership Team that includes a Vice Principal and Heads of key areas.	Governance and ownership The Apple International Community School is governed by its Governing Body and is part of LEAMS Education. The Governing Body includes the Chair of Governors and other LEAMS Education directors; LEAMS Education provides governance and oversight for the school.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Al Diyafah High School follows the English National Curriculum across its age range, beginning with the Foundation Stage (EYFS) in the early years. In KS1 and KS2, the curriculum is based on the National Curriculum for England, taught alongside UAE MOE inputs, with core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science, Arabic, and Moral and Social Cultural Studies, plus ICT, languages (French/Hindi from year 3), Art, Design, Music, Islamic Studies, and Physical Education. Key Stage 3 and 4 follow a two-year IGCSE pathway from Year 10, with Cambridge Assessment International Education and Pearson Edexcel boards offering subjects such as English, Mathematics, Arabic, Moral Education, Islamic Studies, and a wide range of option subjects (Accounting, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Geography, History, English Literature, etc.). The Sixth Form (Year 12–13) provides AS levels in Year 12 and A2 levels in Year 13, with 15 AS subjects and 12 A2 subjects; a Pearson Edexcel International Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Business is also offered, with mandatory subjects including Islamic Studies, Arabic A for native speakers, Physical Education and Moral Education. The curriculum is complemented by Personal Enrichment Programme (PEP), STEM, Peter Jones Foundation, Duke of Edinburgh, internships, and a formal Career Guidance programme. Gifted and Talented provision is supported through acceleration and enrichment, with CAT4 identification and opportunities to lead clubs and undertake additional IGCSE subjects where appropriate.	Curriculum details The Apple International Community School in Dubai delivers a British-style education with the curriculum organized into Foundation Stage, Primary and Lower Secondary. Foundation Stage (FS1–FS2) follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework for ages three to five, preparing children for learning in Key Stage 1. Primary (Years 1–6) delivers the English National Curriculum, aligned with UAE Ministry of Education requirements, and includes Arabic A/B, Islamic Studies A/B, and Moral, Social and Cultural Studies, alongside Foundation Subjects such as Art and Design, Music, Design and Technology, Computing, Geography, and History. Lower Secondary (Year 7–9) provides a broad KS3 program with Core Subjects (English, Mathematics, Science) and Foundation Subjects (PE, Geography, History, Computing, Design and Technology, Art & Design, Music, Modern Foreign Languages) plus UAE MOE subjects (Arabic A, Arabic B, Islamic A, Islamic B, Moral, Social and Cultural Studies). The KS3 curriculum is described as tech-enabled, incorporating Robotics and Artificial Intelligence to develop 21st-century skills; published KS4/IGCSE details are not provided on the site.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Al Diyafah High School provides Student Support Services including a Counsellor, Special Educator and Learning Support Assistants to keep students emotionally balanced and academically successful, with a Learning Support Programme that uses psycho-educational assessments to draw up individual education plans (IEPs). The team also supports Gifted & Talented learners through identification (CAT4) and enrichment activities, reinforcing SEL through counselling and targeted support. The school emphasises social-emotional development via the counsellor and relationships with staff to monitor wellbeing. The Student Support Team includes the counsellor, learning support staff, and a dedicated pathway for emotional/academic balance. The school also provides ongoing counselling for social and emotional needs and career guidance to help students plan their futures.	Social & emotional learning The Apple International Community School prioritizes holistic social and emotional learning (SEL) through a formal wellbeing framework and a dedicated wellbeing team. The team includes the Principal (Leader of Wellbeing), the School Counselor, the Head of Inclusion and Wellbeing, Wellbeing Officers, the Inclusion Team, and Student Council, and they respond to students' personal, social, emotional, and academic concerns in a caring, non‑judgmental environment. Mental health awareness is embedded in the PSHE curriculum and the wellbeing programme, with the inclusion department coordinating well‑being activities and awareness weeks. A mindfulness programme operates as part of the wellbeing provision, including a Morning Mindfulness routine, breathing and reflection breaks, and daily gratitude, and it draws on the Oxford wellness curriculum and Jigsaw. The school maintains a wellbeing calendar and nurture initiatives (Nurture Hub) with partnerships such as Seeds Center and Thriving Souls to support student wellbeing, while staff receive regular safeguarding and mental health training as part of child protection CPD. The school emphasizes listening to the voices of children, teachers and parents and signposting to internal or external pathways for support, strengthening a school‑wide wellbeing culture.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support is a formal programme; referred students have an individual education plan based on psycho-educational assessments conducted by external professionals, with intervention delivered in-class or one-to-one by the counsellor, special educator and Learning Support Assistants; a Shadow Teacher option is available. Gifted & Talented provision is identified via CAT4 and includes acceleration and enrichment, with opportunities to lead clubs and participate in external events. The structure aims to address a range of needs, including those requiring specialised intervention and monitoring. The school documents explicit processes for assessment, planning and progress monitoring through the Student Support Team.	Special educational needs (SEN) The Inclusion Department (ID‑AICS) leads SEND support and includes an Inclusion Governor, Inclusion Champion/Principal, Vice Principal, Leader of provision for Students of Determination, School Counselor, Special Educators, Learning Support staff, and Parents. The school uses a graduated approach with services such as initial screening, 1:1 interventions, small group intervention, in‑class support, modified/reduced curriculum, and exam access arrangements to meet diverse needs. Individualised Plans (IAP, ILP, IEP, BMP, BSP) are drafted to support learners with barriers to learning and are shared with parents and staff and reviewed termly. The Inclusion Team provides support for needs categorized under KHDA's Categorisation Framework and can coordinate with external providers if more intensive support is required. Admissions procedures for Students of Determination involve internal observations and assessments, with differentiated planning and accommodations to enable appropriate placement, including the development of Individual Education Plans in collaboration with parents and specialists. The school commits to inclusive education in line with KHDA and UAE law, seeking to remove barriers and ensure equal opportunities for all learners.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose information regarding English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision on its Student Support Services page. The available SEN/SEL content focuses on Learning Support, counselling and gifted education rather than EAL programmes.	English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose a separate EAL program in its published policies or public pages. The published materials describe inclusive education and support for students with special educational needs rather than a dedicated EAL service; external providers may be engaged if needs exceed standard school provision. Some curriculum pages indicate language offerings (e.g., Arabic language tracks and English‑language instruction within KHDA frameworks) but there is no explicit EAL policy or staffing detail described. The inclusion framework notes that support can be extended for students with various needs, including those requiring additional services from external providers. Admissions emphasize inclusion and appropriate placement for diverse learners, but EAL is not specifically documented as a distinct program. If EAL needs arise, the school can provide differentiated planning and accommodations as part of its inclusion approach.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through the Student Support Services, with a counsellor available for social and emotional needs and regular counselling as part of the school's approach to wellbeing. The Career Guidance component also supports students' mental and emotional planning for post-16 pathways. The team's aim is to keep students emotionally balanced and academically successful, supported by targeted interventions and monitoring.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is a central element of the wellbeing policy, with a focus on promoting mental, physical and emotional health through the PSHE curriculum and wellbeing activities. The school runs a well‑being week and implements mental health awareness activities to educate students and staff safely and sensitively. The Mindfulness Programme includes a Morning Mindfulness routine, guided breathing, and mood checks, along with daily gratitude practices; the Oxford wellness curriculum and the Jigsaw programme underpin this approach. The Wellbeing Team (including a Wellbeing Governor, a School Counselor, and Inclusion leads) coordinates emotional, social and academic support and provides targeted, individualised assistance when needed. Staff receive regular child protection training as part of safeguarding and mental health CPD to recognize and respond to concerns. The school also runs nurture initiatives (Nurture Hub) and partners with external organizations (Seeds Center, Thriving Souls) to support wellbeing beyond the classroom.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding KHDA's 2023-2024 DSIB inspection for Al Diyafah High School L.L.C reports a Good overall rating, with Wellbeing rated Good and Inclusion rated Good; health and safety is rated Outstanding and the quality of student support rated Very Good, reflecting robust safeguarding and protective practices. These findings indicate a well-supported environment for student safety and wellbeing within the Dubai context.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is embedded in the school's wellbeing and inclusion practices, with a designated child protection and safeguarding officer and ongoing staff training as part of standard child protection CPD. The PSHE policy explicitly addresses safeguarding within personal, social, health and economic education, equipping learners to recognize risks and take appropriate action. The Wellbeing policy emphasizes systems for listening to children and signposting them to internal or external pathways for support, reinforcing safeguarding across the school. The Inclusion Head leads on safeguarding within the Inclusion Team and coordinates with staff and external specialists as needed. Staff are trained to recognize warning signs and are instructed to report concerns to safeguarding leads or emotional wellbeing leads as appropriate, with parents informed where relevant.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Al Diyafah High School has a modern campus that supports academic learning, creativity and student welfare. Every classroom is equipped with an interactive board to enhance teaching and learning. The senior library is well stocked with reference and fiction books, and class libraries are available for Kindergarten to Year 4, maintained by two librarians. Fully equipped Physics, Chemistry and Biology laboratories support practical science, and separate Computer Labs provide up-to-date software and hardware. Music and Art facilities support creative learning, with Music and Art taught in the curriculum and Art and Design offered at IGCSE, AS and A levels.	Facilities overview The Apple International Community School is located in Al Karama, Dubai, United Arab Emirates and operates as a LEAMS Education school offering British education. The school provides a safe, nurturing, and positive environment where every member of the community is valued. It offers outstanding academic, sporting, and performing arts facilities, including a football field, indoor swimming pool, lawn tennis and badminton courts, basketball court, dedicated music, drama, and visual arts rooms, a well-stocked library, and shared play areas for younger learners.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities A spacious outdoor playground supports basketball, football and other games; the playground is described as open and closed, providing both outdoor space and covered areas for physical activity.	Sports facilities The Apple International Community School provides a sprawling football field, an indoor swimming pool, lawn tennis and badminton courts, and a basketball court. These facilities support the school's broad sports programme as part of its British education offering.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Interactive boards are installed in every classroom to support digital learning. The senior school library is well stocked with reference and fiction books, with class libraries for younger students, and two trained librarians maintain the library. Fully equipped Physics, Chemistry and Biology laboratories accompany dedicated Computer Labs with up-to-date software and hardware to support teaching and student work.	Academic facilities Foundation Stage follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework as part of an enriched version of the English National Curriculum. The Primary curriculum complies with the English National Programme and includes Arabic and Islamic Studies, Moral Education, and UAE Social Studies. Lower Secondary (KS3) includes core subjects (English, Mathematics, Science) and foundation subjects such as Physical Education, Geography, History, Computing, Art & Design, Music, PSHE for Non-Muslim Students, Design and Technology, and Modern Foreign Languages, plus UAE MOE Arabic A/B, Islamic A/B, and Moral, Social and Cultural Studies. The curriculum is tech-enabled and includes Robotics and Artificial Intelligence.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Music and Art facilities support creative learning, with Music and Art taught in the curriculum and Art and Design offered at IGCSE, AS and A levels. The campus also includes a on-site clinic with medical staff, a prayer room, a canteen, and a spacious playground for recreation; counselling services are available to students, and school transport is provided by an external provider.	Extra curricular facilities The Apple International Community School offers opportunities in sports and performing arts, supported by facilities for football, swimming, tennis, badminton, basketball, music, drama, and visual arts.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Al Diyafah High School Dubai was founded in 1982 by the late Mrs. Winnie D'Cunha. It began as a nursery with two children in a small villa on Al Diyafah Street. To accommodate growth, the school moved to a new campus in 2001, where it remains located. The Diyafah brand later expanded to Diyafah International School in Abu Dhabi, established in 2013. The Dubai campus now educates over 1,900 students from many nationalities, reflecting a longstanding commitment to holistic education. (sources: turn0search0)	History Apple International Community School (AICS) is the newest addition to LEAMS Education, a Dubai-based group that administers UK- and CBSE-curriculum schools. LEAMS Education has a history spanning more than 40 years in the UAE and operates multiple campuses offering British curricula. The Apple Nursery at Karama opened in 1981, The Oxford School began in 1984, The Apple International School started in 1994, and The Apple International Community School opened in Karama in 2021. AICS follows the English National Curriculum across year groups and emphasizes affordable, high-quality education with substantial facilities. Abdul Lahir Hasan serves as Chairman of LEAMS Education, anchoring the group's long-running commitment to education.
Community	Community Al Diyafah High School fosters a learning community through acceleration and enrichment programmes that challenge gifted and talented students and offer leadership opportunities in clubs such as literacy, sports, and music. Students represent the school in events and competitions such as ADPIQ and the Dubai Scholars Cup, and some contribute to the school newsletter and concert scripts. The school supports experiential learning and encourages participation in Massive Open Online Courses and additional IGCSE subjects. A strong parent community is integrated into school life, with parents attending Career Fairs and the Options Evening alongside their children. (sources: turn2search7; turn1search1; turn2search3)	Community Apple International Community School is built on a safe, nurturing environment where every member of the community is valued and treated like family. The school's motto is Justice, Equality and Unity, guiding its approach to leadership and citizenship. It follows the National Curriculum of England across year groups and offers a broad co-curricular program that fosters leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurship. The campus provides facilities such as a football field, indoor swimming pool, lawn tennis and badminton courts, a basketball court, and dedicated spaces for music, drama, and visual arts, along with a well-stocked library. The school emphasizes strong partnerships between parents, staff, and peers as part of its community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Al Diyafah High School maintains an active parent community that collaborates with staff to support student development and emphasizes strong parent–school connections as part of its approach. Parents participate in major career and options planning events, such as Campus Career Fairs and the Options Evening. The school runs career-focused activities involving families, including the Diyafah Career Café and the Diyafah Career Connect, which bring industry professionals into the school for student career discussions. The International University Fair and the Annual Career Fair are organized with family involvement, providing access to university representatives from the UK, Canada, the USA, and other destinations. Career guidance and internship opportunities are integrated into the program, with families encouraged to engage in these experiences alongside their children. (sources: turn2search3; turn2search7; turn1search4; turn1search1)	Parent teacher association LEAMS Education coordinates parent involvement through the LEAMS Gateway – Parent Portal, which The Apple International Community School uses to share updates and involve families. The LEAMS community emphasizes partnership with parents, students, and staff as a core principle of its schools. Parent testimonials on the AICS site show ongoing engagement and positive collaboration with teachers and school activities. LEAMS supports community development programmes and after-school and creative activities that involve families. In 2022, AICS students participated in the NASA Space Apps Challenge, achieving recognition in the Abu Dhabi region, reflecting family-supported, project-based learning.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school runs a Personal Enrichment Programme (PEP) that blends academics with experiential learning and 21st‑century skills. Experiential Learning includes hands-on activities such as App development, Hydroponics, Gardening, Photography, Craft, Robotics, Cooking and 'Best out of waste' projects. The programme also emphasizes independent enquiry, collaboration and real‑world problem solving, with industry professionals acting as moderators alongside teachers.	Academic & intellectual The Apple International Community School delivers a British education using the English National Curriculum in Primary. Foundation Stage (FS1 and FS2) covers ages three to five and prepares children for Key Stage 1. The curriculum includes Arabic A for Arab students and Arabic B for non-Arab students, Islamic A for Muslim Arab students and Islamic B for Muslim non-Arab students, and Moral, Social and Cultural Studies as required by KHDA. The Lower Secondary program (Year 7–Year 9) provides a broad, standards-aligned program with integration of UAE Ministry of Education subjects, and the curriculum is tech-enabled with Robotics and Artificial Intelligence to support 21st-century learning.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The Personal Enrichment Programme includes arts and creative activities such as Debate Society, TED‑Ed, General Knowledge Club, Eco Club, Public Speaking Club, Art Society and Drama Society. Music‑related activities include School Choir and various performances.	Arts & creative The school provides dedicated spaces for music, drama, and visual arts. There are performing arts facilities and a well-stocked library to support reading and creative work. The infrastructure supports arts and creative pursuits as part of the overall curriculum and school life.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Arabic Culture Club is among the extracurricular options. Languages offered within the curriculum include French and Hindi from Year 3 onwards, and Arabic is taught as a core subject.	Cultural & language English is the language of instruction. Arabic A for Arab Students and Arabic B for non-Arab Students are provided, as are Islamic A for Muslim Arab Students and Islamic B for Muslim non-Arab Students, in line with KHDA regulations. Moral, Social and Cultural Studies is taught from Year 2. Modern Foreign Languages are included as part of the Foundation Subjects within the curriculum.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Students may join Debate Society, TED‑Ed, General Knowledge Club, Eco Club, Public Speaking Club, Art Society, Drama Society, Arabic Culture Club, Music groups, School Choir, Personality Development Club, Dress Designing Club, Video Editing and Graphic Designing Club, and Advertising Club.	Social & hobbies The school offers extensive sports facilities, including a sprawling football field, indoor swimming pool, lawn tennis and badminton courts, and a basketball court. There are dedicated spaces for music, drama, and visual arts, and shared play areas designed for younger learners. The provision aims to balance academic and non-academic pursuits to support holistic development.
Community & service	Community & service Community Service Programme is part of the Personal Enrichment Programme, providing volunteering and service opportunities.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional PEP fosters leadership, communication and teamwork through experiential learning and debate/public speaking activities. It includes sessions moderated by industry professionals and teachers to help students develop career‑ready skills.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Physical Education is a mandatory part of the curriculum, and the Personal Enrichment Programme includes sports and wellness activities to support overall well‑being.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school provides a safe, nurturing, and positive environment. Its facilities support physical activity and wellbeing, including a football field, indoor pool, and multiple courts. LEAMS Education emphasizes state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities at an affordable cost, supporting holistic learning and lifelong development.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school follows the National Curriculum for England, with English as a core subject across KS1–KS4 and in the Sixth Form. Arabic is taught as part of the core curriculum; native Arabic speakers study in Arabic while non-Arabic speakers study in English in Islamic Studies. French and Hindi are offered as second languages (from Year 3 onwards in KS1/KS2) and appear as language options in Key Stage 3. For examinations, KS4 uses IGCSE; CAIE and Edexcel boards are available; the Sixth Form offers AS/A2 levels and a Pearson Edexcel BTEC, including English among AS/A2 options.	Language provision The language of instruction is English. The Apple International Community School follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and the English National Curriculum.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Yes; Islamic Studies uses a bilingual approach: native Arabic speakers are instructed in Arabic and non-Arabic speakers are instructed in English.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions The school follows the National Curriculum of England in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The school operates in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and uses a modern, technology–embedded facility. It offers a Personal Enrichment Programme (PEP) as part of its holistic approach to learning.	Admissions 1. Online Application: Complete the online enquiry and registration via the school's online portal. You will receive an online reference number and guidance on the following steps. The online portal centralizes submissions and communications. 2. Registration and Payment: Pay the AED 525 application fee online or by visiting the school. The fee is refundable if the school does not offer a place and non-refundable if a place is offered but not taken, and it is not deductible from the tuition. The school requests the listed documents and notes that the child's previous school reports will be reviewed, followed by an interview and a written assessment if required. 3. Assessment: The child is invited for an assessment or interview by the School Registrar. CAT4 or other written assessments may be used, or the previous school report may be reviewed. Results are notified by email or phone. 4. Admission Confirmation: The Admission Officer sends confirmation letters to successful applicants, subject to seat availability. A seat-confirmation deposit of 10% of total tuition is payable, non-refundable and deductible from tuition. The first term tuition and the annual fee are due within 10 working days of confirmation; if not paid, the admission may move to the waiting list. 5. Tuition Payment & Waiting: Tuition is payable at the start of each term and is structured in three terms. The seat confirmation deposit and first-term payment are due within 10 working days of offer; delayed payment may move the student to the waiting list. The fee structure is KHDA-approved and payments can be made by various methods. 6. KHDA & Eligibility: Admissions are subject to KHDA approval; KHDA regulations apply to all places. 7. Age & Year Placement: AICS places students in age-appropriate year levels in accordance with Ministry of Education and KHDA regulations. Use the country comparison to align grades with international naming conventions. Age as of August 31 maps FS1 to age 3, FS2 to age 4, Year 1 to age 5, Year 2 to age 6, Year 3 to age 7, Year 4 to age 8, Year 5 to age 9, Year 6 to age 10, Year 7 to age 11, Year 8 to age 12, Year 9 to age 13. 8. Location and affiliation: The Apple International Community School is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and is part of LEAMS Education.
Scholarships	Scholarships null	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist There is a waiting list for admissions when a place is not immediately available. Admission may be moved to the waiting list if the seat deposit or fees are not paid within the required timeframe, and seats are offered by turn.
	View full profile →	View full profile →