Aldenham Prep Riyadh vs Downe House Riyadh

	A Aldenham Prep Riyadh Riyadh, Saudi Arabia	D Downe House Riyadh Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year SAR 53,475 - 80,500	Fees / year SAR 54,855 - 97,520
Age range	Age range 3 - 13 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, BTEC Qualification, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Pearson Edexcel IGCSE
Pupils	Pupils 500	Pupils 300
Typical class size	Typical class size 16	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened 2022
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Aldenham Prep Riyadh is located in Riyadh North, in the Al Noura/As Sahafah area. It is easily accessible from most parts of the city. The campus address is Aldenham Prep Riyadh School, Al Noura, As Sahafah, Riyadh RYD 13321, Saudi Arabia.	Location Abi Alhasan Alhsry, Al Aqiq, Riyadh, 13511, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The campus is located in the Al-Aqiq district of Riyadh.
Stages	Stages The school currently offers Early Years Foundation Stage (age 3+) through Year 8 (ages 11-13). The structure includes EYFS, Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2, and Key Stage 3, with Year 8 as the current upper year. The school intends to expand later to cover the full EYFS–Year 13 British international framework.	Stages The school serves pupils aged 2 to 18. It admits boys and girls in Pre-Prep and Lower Prep (ages 3-9) and is girls-only from Upper Prep (ages 9-18).
School type	School type Co-educational; the Riyadh campus operates as a British international day school (boarding is not indicated for this campus). Boarding is available at Aldenham UK for older pupils.	School type Downe House Riyadh is a British international day school. It operates as co-educational in Pre-Prep and Lower Prep and becomes girls-only from Upper Prep onward.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Data on pupil nationalities or the local-to-international ratio is not publicly disclosed.	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support SEN provisions are not publicly listed. Arabic Language and Islamic Studies are integrated into the local curriculum.	Additional learning support There is an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme and a dedicated Learning Support Department. EAL supports language development through group and one-to-one sessions, with additional resources and regular progress assessment. Learning Support provides Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and targeted, small-group support as needed; some specialist EAL tuition may incur additional charges.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Aldenham Prep Riyadh is part of the Aldenham Foundation and affiliated with Aldenham UK, the UK-based founding school group.	Country affiliation The school is affiliated with the United Kingdom as a British international school and follows a British curriculum as part of the Downe House international family.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation There is no explicit religious affiliation stated. The curriculum includes Arabic Language and Islamic Studies to reflect the local context.	Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation. Arabic and Islamic Studies are integrated into the curriculum to reflect Saudi context.
School day structure	School day structure Nursery offers full-day provision. Start and end times for the general school day are not published publicly.	School day structure Nursery, KG1 and KG2 begin with a drop-off at 7:30 am, start at 7:45 am, and are collected at 2:30 pm. Year 1 to Year 13 have a drop-off at 7:30 am, start at 7:45 am, and finish at 3:45 pm.
Bus service details	Bus service details A bus service for the Riyadh campus is not published in public materials; families typically arrange transport. The Aldenham UK campuses provide coach routes, but these are not indicated for Riyadh.	Bus service details There is no available information on school-provided bus service.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Schedule of tuition fees (per term and per year group) - Nursery - Term 1: SAR 18,600 - Term 2: SAR 18,600 - Term 3: SAR 9,300 - Total fee (excl. VAT): SAR 46,500 - Total fee (incl. VAT): SAR 53,475. - Reception - Term 1: SAR 19,400 - Term 2: SAR 19,400 - Term 3: SAR 9,700 - Total fee (excl. VAT): SAR 48,500 - Total fee (incl. VAT): SAR 55,775. - Year 1 - Term 1: SAR 21,400 - Term 2: SAR 21,400 - Term 3: SAR 10,700 - Total fee (excl. VAT): SAR 53,500 - Total fee (incl. VAT): SAR 61,525. - Year 2 - Term 1: SAR 21,400 - Term 2: SAR 21,400 - Term 3: SAR 10,700 - Total fee (excl. VAT): SAR 53,500 - Total fee (incl. VAT): SAR 61,525. - Year 3 - Term 1: SAR 25,400 - Term 2: SAR 25,400 - Term 3: SAR 12,700 - Total fee (excl. VAT): SAR 63,500 - Total fee (incl. VAT): SAR 73,025. - Year 4 - Term 1: SAR 25,400 - Term 2: SAR 25,400 - Term 3: SAR 12,700 - Total fee (excl. VAT): SAR 63,500 - Total fee (incl. VAT): SAR 73,025. - Year 5 - Term 1: SAR 25,400 - Term 2: SAR 25,400 - Term 3: SAR 12,700 - Total fee (excl. VAT): SAR 63,500 - Total fee (incl. VAT): SAR 73,025. - Year 6 - Term 1: SAR 25,400 - Term 2: SAR 25,400 - Term 3: SAR 12,700 - Total fee (excl. VAT): SAR 63,500 - Total fee (incl. VAT): SAR 73,025. - Year 7 - Term 1: SAR 28,000 - Term 2: SAR 28,000 - Term 3: SAR 14,000 - Total fee (excl. VAT): SAR 70,000 - Total fee (incl. VAT): SAR 80,500. - Year 8 - Term 1: SAR 28,000 - Term 2: SAR 28,000 - Term 3: SAR 14,000 - Total fee (excl. VAT): SAR 70,000 - Total fee (incl. VAT): SAR 80,500. Assessment, acceptance and entrance-related fees - Assessment Fee: non-refundable SAR 1,000, payable on submission of the application form. - Acceptance Fee: non-refundable SAR 10,000, payable when an offer of a school place is accepted; charged once to hold the place. - Capital Development Fee: non-refundable SAR 10,000, payable when an offer of a school place is accepted; charged once. Refundable security deposit - Refundable security deposit: SAR 2,500, payable on 1 April 2026 at the start of Term 3. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition billing split: Term 1 = 40% of the total fees (due 15 August); Term 2 = 40% of the total fees (due 15 December); Term 3 = 20% of the total fees (due 01 April). Parents are responsible for payment of all applicable school fees before the student may attend; this responsibility cannot be delegated to a company. Boarding fees - Boarding: Not applicable. Aldenham Prep Riyadh operates as a day prep school for the stated age range and does not list boarding provision or boarding charges for the Riyadh campus. Other mandatory or commonly charged costs - Food (lunch): Lunch provision is mandatory and bundled into the tuition cost; breakfast is available as an optional add-on and charged separately. Specific add-on prices are not listed in the schedule. - Uniform: New parents are required to purchase a full uniform bundle (summer, winter and PE) prior to the pupil starting; individual items may be bought later. Specific uniform prices and item lists are not provided in the schedule. - Discounts: A sibling discount of SAR 1,250 is applied for each additional child; the eldest child is charged at the full rate. - VAT: A 15% VAT is applied to all charges; Saudi nationals do not pay VAT on these education-related charges. The schedule notes fees are exclusive of VAT unless stated otherwise. Refund information - Assessment Fee, Acceptance Fee and Capital Development Fee are explicitly described as non-refundable. The security deposit is explicitly described as refundable (SAR 2,500). No additional refund policy details (for term fees or pro-rata refunds) are specified in the Schedule of Fees. Fee payment options - The Schedule of Fees and the published fee pages do not specify accepted payment methods for tuition (such as credit card or bank transfer). Event and activity notices on the site show that some extracurricular payments have been handled by bank transfer, but accepted methods for tuition and one-off charges are not listed in the fee schedule and should be clarified directly with the school administration. Notes and contractual reference - All fees above are presented as published in the Schedule of Fees for the 2025–2026 academic year. The Schedule states that all information is governed by the 2025–2026 Parent Contract and that mandatory fees are exclusive of VAT unless otherwise stated.	Fee details Tuition fees — per term and annual - Nursery: Term 1: SAR 19,080 Term 2: SAR 19,080 Term 3: SAR 9,540 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 54,855 - Pre‑School: Term 1: SAR 19,080 Term 2: SAR 19,080 Term 3: SAR 9,540 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 54,855 - Reception: Term 1: SAR 19,080 Term 2: SAR 19,080 Term 3: SAR 9,540 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 54,855 - Year 1: Term 1: SAR 23,320 Term 2: SAR 23,320 Term 3: SAR 11,660 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 67,045. - Year 2: Term 1: SAR 23,320 Term 2: SAR 23,320 Term 3: SAR 11,660 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 67,045. - Year 3: Term 1: SAR 27,560 Term 2: SAR 27,560 Term 3: SAR 13,780 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 79,235. - Year 4: Term 1: SAR 27,560 Term 2: SAR 27,560 Term 3: SAR 13,780 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 79,235. - Year 5: Term 1: SAR 27,560 Term 2: SAR 27,560 Term 3: SAR 13,780 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 79,235. - Year 6 Term 1: SAR 27,560 Term 2: SAR 27,560 Term 3: SAR 13,780 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 79,235. - Year 7: Term 1: SAR 29,680 Term 2: SAR 29,680 Term 3: SAR 14,840 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 85,330. - Year 8: Term 1: SAR 29,680 Term 2: SAR 29,680 Term 3: SAR 14,840 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 85,330. - Year 9: Term 1: SAR 29,680 Term 2: SAR 29,680 Term 3: SAR 14,840 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 85,330. - Year 10: Term 1: SAR 31,800 Term 2: SAR 31,800 Term 3: SAR 15,900 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 91,425. - Year 11: Term 1: SAR 31,800 Term 2: SAR 31,800 Term 3: SAR 15,900 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 91,425. - Year 12: Term 1: SAR 33,920 Term 2: SAR 33,920 Term 3: SAR 16,960 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 97,520. - Year 13: Term 1: SAR 33,920 Term 2: SAR 33,920 Term 3: SAR 16,960 Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 97,520. Application, assessment, registration and deposit fees - Application (administration) fee: SAR 500 (one‑off, non‑refundable). - Assessment (professional evaluation) fee: SAR 1,000 (one‑off, non‑refundable). - Registration (enrolment administration) fee payable after an offer is made: SAR 3,500 (one‑off, non‑refundable). - Acceptance deposit to secure a place: 50% of Term 1 fees, payable within 7 days of the offer; this deposit is non‑refundable and is deducted from the first term's invoice. - Note: VAT (15%) is applied to admissions fees for non‑Saudi families where applicable. Billing schedule and payment terms - All tuition invoices are payable in advance of each term. Indicative invoice issue and payment months for Academic Year 2025–26 are: Term 1 — invoice issued May, payment due June; Term 2 — invoice issued October, payment due November; Term 3 — invoice issued February, payment due March. - Tuition may be paid in full at the start of the academic year or in three instalments, payable in advance of each term. A 5% discount is applied to full‑year payment when paid at acceptance (discount only applies where payment is made by bank transfer, cheque or cash). - There is a late payment fee of SAR 2,000 per month (or part thereof) for overdue invoices. Post‑dated cheques may be accepted by arrangement to avoid late fees. - Re‑enrolment / seat reservation: a SAR 5,000 seat reservation deposit is payable by the published deadline, followed by 20% of the annual tuition for the year group the child will enter; both payments are non‑refundable and will be credited against Term 1. Places unpaid after the deadline will be released. Boarding fees - There is no boarding provision listed for Downe House Riyadh. Boarding fees do not apply. Other charges and typical additional costs - School lunches, transportation, educational trips, and extracurricular activities delivered by external providers are not included in tuition and may incur additional charges. Minimum transport/excursion charge for class trips is SAR 50 plus any entrance/activity fees; residential trip charges vary and will be notified in advance. Public/external examination fees (e.g., IGCSE, A‑level) are charged to parents. - Learning support and EAL/AAL charges where required: one‑to‑one learning support SAR 120 per lesson; small group learning support SAR 60 per lesson; EAL one‑to‑one SAR 4,100 per term; EAL small group SAR 3,100 per term; AAL one‑to‑one SAR 4,100 per term; AAL small group SAR 3,100 per term. - Breakfast Club and After School Care: a 20% discount is available when a child registers for both provisions in the same term (charges apply; standard session cost is for one hour/5 days a week). - Uniform: the school shop supplies uniform items; parents must purchase items listed as parent‑purchased on the uniform list from the specified sources. Refund information - Refunds are processed in accordance with Ministry of Education regulations and the school's fee policy. Deposits are non‑refundable except in exceptional circumstances. - If fees were paid annually in full before the due date, a refund of remaining term(s) will be given provided one term's written notice of withdrawal is provided; the 5% annual payment discount will not be applied to any refund. No refund is given for casual absences, sickness, holidays, or periods of exclusion. - Fees for pupils who join in‑term are calculated pro‑rata to the number of days remaining in the term but will not be less than 50% of the first term's fees.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding is not provided. Aldenham Prep Riyadh operates as a day school for children aged 3–13. There are no boarding facilities or arrangements described on site.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement A full uniform bundle (summer, winter and PE uniform) must be purchased before starting school; after purchase, individual items can be bought as needed.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Lunch provision is included in the curriculum and bundled tuition. Breakfast is available as an optional add-on.	Food options —
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Aldenham Prep Riyadh is the first owner-operated branch of an independent UK school in Saudi Arabia. It is part of the Aldenham Education Group and is closely linked with Aldenham UK, which was founded in 1597.	Governance and ownership —
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Aldenham Prep Riyadh offers a British international curriculum for boys and girls aged 3 to 13 and currently teaches up to Year 8; there are plans to become a full EYFS–Year 13 school offering (I)GCSE and A Levels. The timetable includes English, Maths and Science, along with ICT, Art, Design Technology, Geography, History and French, with specialist French and weekly PE and swimming. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central components of the curriculum, with Arabic taught from Lower School by subject specialists. The school follows a staged structure: Early Years Foundation Stage (Nursery/Foundation), Key Stage 1 (Years 1-2), Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6) and Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9). Aldenham emphasizes a broad co-curricular programme and sport, offering football, netball, hockey, cricket, basketball, plus swimming and other activities.	Curriculum details Downe House Riyadh delivers a seamless British education from Nursery to Year 13, combining the UK National Curriculum with the Downe House UK academic approach. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies are embedded in the core curriculum to provide cultural and linguistic balance. From Year 5 onward, lessons are taught by subject specialists across the curriculum. In Years 9–11, students follow the IGCSE programme with core subjects (English, Mathematics and the Sciences) and a range of options, with Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies continuing to be taught. In Years 12–13, students typically pursue A Levels, with BTEC qualifications also available as a pathway. Timetables are structured to encourage increasing independence in learners' study throughout the senior years.
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 SEL at Aldenham Prep Riyadh is embedded in daily life through strong pastoral care. Pastoral care is at the heart of the school's approach to education. SEL is supported by a PSHE programme designed to promote well-being, confidence, and readiness for life beyond academics, with content covering physical health, mental health, and relationship health. The House system provides belonging and ongoing welfare support through personal tutors and Housemasters, complemented by a School Chaplain who offers pastoral and spiritual guidance. All staff are trained in safeguarding to help maintain a safe and supportive environment.	Social & emotional learning Downe House Riyadh supports social and emotional learning (SEL) through a dedicated pastoral care framework aligned to the Cognita Be Well Charter. Pastoral care aims to nurture happy, resilient, and adaptable learners, with wellbeing at the heart of learning. Dedicated teachers provide personalised care, guiding each girl through her learning journey and helping build resilience and self-esteem. The school emphasises an all-girls environment and Downe House DNA values—Compassion, Collaboration, Resilience, Creativity, Aspiration, Communication, Outward Looking, and Digital Ready—to foster confidence and leadership. Be Well Charter is applied across daily routines, incorporating six pillars, healthy food choices, regular physical activity, and volunteering opportunities such as the Sparkle Foundation to support social engagement. This Be Well framework supports SEL within the school's broader wellbeing and safeguarding culture.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Information publicly available for Aldenham Prep Riyadh does not describe any dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision. It does not specify which types of SEN the school can support or whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution. There is no mention of an Academic Learning Support department or intensive one to one interventions in the documented materials. In contrast, SEN related information is published for Aldenham UK which describes a small Academic Learning Support unit, but that does not confirm availability at the Riyadh campus. Therefore, SEN provision for the Riyadh campus is not publicly disclosed.	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support for mild-to-moderate SEN is provided through a dedicated Learning Support Department. Every student requiring learning support has an Individual Education Plan (IEP) outlining specific strategies to access the curriculum. Specialist staff work closely with classroom teachers to ensure IEPs are embedded in lesson planning, with targeted support available in one-to-one or small-group sessions. The school describes its SEN provision as inclusive and delivered through the Learning Support Department rather than a specialist external centre. It does not indicate operating a dedicated specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Information publicly available for Aldenham Prep Riyadh does not describe any dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision. The curriculum is described as tailored for Riyadh with Arabic Language central, and there is no explicit mention of EAL staff, programmes or classes. The site does not disclose EAL support details. Therefore, EAL provision is not publicly disclosed. No further EAL information is publicly available beyond the current materials.	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) is supported through a comprehensive EAL programme. The EAL provision includes group sessions, one-to-one tuition, and access to online activities and mentoring. Students receiving EAL support are regularly assessed, with progress monitored and interventions adjusted as needed. EAL support may be identified at admission or as a student progresses through the school. Additional charges apply for specialist EAL tuition.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through well established pastoral care within the Aldenham network, including a Health Centre and access to medical staff for preventative care and wellbeing support. The Health Centre is supported by a qualified nurse and, for boarding students, a School Doctor, with additional mental health resources as part of the Life Matters and pastoral framework. Short periods of counselling are available, with referrals to Private therapy or CAMHS if more is needed. A School Chaplain provides pastoral and spiritual support, including assemblies and one to one listening when needed. PSHE programs include mental health education as part of holistic development.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is central to Downe House Riyadh's Be Well Charter approach. The Charter guides practice across six pillars intended to support both emotional and physical health. Daily routines include regular physical activity and healthy food choices to promote wellbeing. The Sparkle Foundation partnership engages students and families in volunteering, helping build social connections and a sense of purpose. Wellbeing is embedded in the pastoral framework to ensure students are supported holistically.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding at Aldenham Prep Riyadh is a priority, with ALL staff trained in safeguarding and a dedicated safeguarding team in place. The safeguarding team works with families and external agencies to support pupils and ensure a safe environment. If there are concerns about a child welfare, staff or families should contact the safeguarding team, or call emergency services if a child is in immediate danger. A safeguarding policy is published and available, outlining procedures and protections. These standards reflect the safeguarding framework used across the Aldenham group.	Safeguarding Downe House Riyadh commits to safeguarding by ensuring every child is protected and has a safe, inclusive environment. Safeguarding principles are universal and apply across Cognita schools, developed by the Cognita Safeguarding Specialist Team and aligned with international child-protection standards. Staff are educated about categories of abuse and their duty to act in the best interests of the child. The framework emphasises knowing the children well, offering timely support for adverse experiences, and empowering students to voice concerns. It requires that every adult who works with the school is safe to work with.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Aldenham Prep Riyadh uses purpose-built facilities and learning spaces designed to inspire and educate. The campus includes an outdoor play area and state-of-the-art technology. The school is located in Riyadh North, easily accessible from most parts of the city. The facilities reflect a modern learning environment designed to support holistic education.	Facilities overview The campus is designed by leading Saudi female architects and features state-of-the-art buildings. It includes dedicated libraries, science and IT laboratories, and music studios. A 560-seat theatre supports performing arts. An expansive sports complex includes an indoor swimming pool. The extended school day provides time for students to pursue passions beyond the classroom and to develop leadership skills.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Sport is a strong focus at Aldenham Prep Riyadh; games and physical education are central to school life. From Reception onward, pupils have access to a specialist PE teacher. The school offers a broad range of co-curricular activities including sports. Outdoor spaces support physical education and active learning.	Sports facilities The school has an expansive sports complex with an indoor swimming pool. Physical education is integrated into the Downe House Riyadh experience through its broad co-curricular programme. Learning on the playing field is a core part of the Downe House Riyadh DNA. The extended school day provides time for sport and other co-curricular activities.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The school provides a first-class British international education for ages 3 to 13. It is closely aligned with Aldenham School in the UK and integrated with a global network. The curriculum emphasizes strong academic foundations and personal growth beyond the classroom. Current operations offer classes up to Year 8 as the school grows toward a full EYFS to Year 13 program.	Academic facilities The campus has state-of-the-art buildings with dedicated libraries, science and IT laboratories. Music studios support performing arts and creative learning. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are embedded within the core UK National Curriculum. Pupils prepare for IGCSE, BTEC and A-Level examinations. Timetables are structured to provide pupils with greater independence and time to read around their subjects.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Aldenham offers a broad co-curricular program including sports, languages, and performing arts. Music and Drama are taught by specialist teachers from Nursery onward, with opportunities to learn instruments and participate in productions. Co-curricular activities support holistic development and a sense of community. The program aligns with the broader British international education approach of Aldenham.	Extra curricular facilities Downe House Riyadh runs a broad co-curricular programme that includes creative arts, sports and personal development. The campus features music studios and a 560-seat theatre to enable performance and creative work. Co-curricular opportunities are underpinned by the Downe House DNA—emphasising collaboration, resilience, creativity and being outward looking. The extended school day provides time for co-curricular pursuits.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Aldenham Prep Riyadh opened in September 2022 as the first owner-operated, integrated branch of a UK independent school in Saudi Arabia, serving children aged 3 to 11. It is closely aligned with Aldenham School in the UK, sharing its ethos and traditions, with Aldenham UK founded in 1597 as the flagship of the Aldenham Foundation. The Riyadh campus appointed Vicky Gocher as Founding Head, bringing leadership from Aldenham Prep in the UK. In 2023, Aldenham Education Group announced plans to add a second campus in King Abdullah Financial District to deliver a broader K-12 offering, while Aldenham Prep Riyadh continues to grow from its 2022 origins.	History Downe House Riyadh opened in 2022 as the Kingdom's first premium British girls' school, extending the Downe House UK ethos into Saudi Arabia. Downe House itself traces its origins to Downe House in Downe, Kent, founded in 1907 by Miss Olive Willis and Miss Alice Carver. By 1922 the school relocated to Cold Ash, Berkshire, bringing buildings from Kent and expanding facilities including classrooms, science laboratories, a library opened by the Duchess of Atholl, a gym and a swimming pool. The centenary celebrations included a service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, alumni reunions, academic conferences, and the commissioning of the opera Olive Triumphant. Downe House Riyadh is part of the Cognita family of Schools, aligning with the Downe House UK heritage while operating within Cognita's international network.
Community	Community The school describes a warm, inclusive community with pastoral care at its heart and a strong connection to the wider Aldenham family and its global network. Its curriculum is broad and supported by a rich co-curricular programme, with opportunities in sports, languages and the arts. It hosts regular events for families, including Parent Workshops and Tea and Talk sessions, as well as school photos. It also participates in community charity initiatives such as Harvest Festival donations for orphans care.	Community Downe House Riyadh's community is anchored in the Downe House DNA, with eight core values—Compassion, Collaboration, Resilience, Creativity, Aspiration, Communication, Outward Looking, and Digital Ready—guiding learning, play, and personal development. An all-girls environment supports tailored learning within a British curriculum while integrating Arabic and Islamic Studies reflecting local context. Pastoral care emphasizes wellbeing through the Cognita Be Well Charter, safeguarding, and a partnership with the Sparkle Foundation for volunteering. The school presents a warm, caring community focused on wellbeing and development across the classroom, playing field, and stage.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association ASPA is established to foster a strong sense of community among parents, teachers and pupils. It supports the educational aims of Aldenham Prep Riyadh through active collaboration and engagement. It enhances the educational and social experience of pupils by organizing events, activities and initiatives, and it promotes effective communication between parents and the school while encouraging parental involvement in supporting the life and values of the school. The association has an Executive Committee, including a Chair, Secretary and Treasurer, with members such as Chair Mrs Tufful AlOkby, Secretary Mrs Fatima Bouakharif, Treasurer Mrs Rayanne Zaim, and members Mr Ishaq Uri, Mr Richard Muldoon, Mr Rakan Ghoth, among others. ASPA operates within the Aldenham network, as shown by references to Aldenham UK (founded 1597).	Parent teacher association Friends of DHR is the active parent volunteer group at Downe House Riyadh. It is described as the heart of the school community, with parent representatives organizing events and initiatives that enrich school life. The group works closely with the school leadership team, with regular committee meetings to plan activities that bring families together, celebrate milestones, and support the wider school community. Through these efforts, parents enhance their children's educational experience and contribute to the warm, inclusive spirit that defines Downe House Riyadh. Members engage in coordinating community initiatives as part of the school's broader engagement strategy.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school provides a British International education for boys and girls aged 3 to 13, closely aligned with Aldenham School in the UK. It currently offers classes up to Year 8 and will develop into a full EYFS to Year 13 British International School offering (I)GCSE and A Level qualifications. The curriculum emphasises breadth and high standards, developing academic, creative and sporting talents through a broad curriculum and rich co-curricular programme. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central; Arabic is taught from the Lower School by specialist teachers and is contextualised for Riyadh.	Academic & intellectual Impact and Competency Pathways (ICPs) are year-long programmes in Sports, Creative and Performing Arts, and Academic Exploration that run within the school day to help students explore their passions and develop key life skills such as leadership, resilience, teamwork and creativity. ICPs are structured yet personalised, allowing students to build portfolios and chart a pathway unique to their interests and strengths. The school follows a British curriculum pathway from Nursery to Year 13, with Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies embedded in core learning, and it prepares pupils for IGCSE, BTEC and A-Level examinations.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Pupils have specialist music instruction from Nursery onward and can learn instruments and participate in dramatic productions. The co-curricular programme includes arts and performing arts as key components of the all-round education, with clubs and activities spanning languages, arts and crafts, sports and STEM. Performing arts are part of the school's activities, enhancing creative development.	Arts & creative Performing Arts offerings include private music lessons, musical ensembles, school concerts and choirs, and drama provision to develop communication and creativity. The 560-seat theatre serves as the central performing arts facility with advanced audio-visual, acoustic and lighting design. The programme supports students of all ages to explore their artistic and musical potential beyond the classroom.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Arabic Language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central components of the curriculum, and Arabic is offered from the Lower School by subject specialists. The curriculum is British in nature but tailored to fit the Riyadh setting.	Cultural & language Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies are embedded in the core curriculum, reflecting a commitment to cultural heritage within a British educational framework. In Years 7–8, the curriculum includes Arabic, Islamic and Social Studies alongside the UK Key Stage 3 framework, and Years 9–11 focus on IGCSE with continued emphasis on Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies. In Years 12–13, A Level and BTEC pathways are offered with ongoing attention to Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies From Year 1 onwards, each class has one PE lesson per week with a specialist teacher, a Games afternoon and a weekly swimming lesson. Major sports include football, netball, hockey, cricket and basketball, with opportunities to be coached in other sports such as badminton, climbing and trampolining. Educational trips and visits are important experiences, and visiting groups support learning.	Social & hobbies Impact and Competency Pathways (ICPs) span across Sports, Creative and Performing Arts, and Academic Exploration, enabling cross-age collaboration and portfolio-building. The school promotes leadership, resilience, teamwork and creativity through these year-long programmes, integrating mentors and peers across age groups. The performing arts and sports facilities support broad participation and personal development beyond the classroom.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The school is led by Headmaster Mr Mark S. Bedford. Deputy Head - Pastoral is Mr Crispin Cole, and Deputy Head - Academic is Mrs Hina Khan. The Headmaster has led schools in the UK, Cyprus, Thailand, China and Saudi Arabia, with a background in English Literature, School Improvement and Educational Psychology.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Pastoral care is at the heart of the school, creating a warm and inclusive community where children feel valued, supported and confident. A broad curriculum and strong sense of community help pupils discover and develop their talents.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport is a core element of the holistic education, with a ‘Sport for All' ethos that encourages lifelong physical fitness and participation. Facilities include an indoor pool, basketball/football court, squash courts, and fitness spaces, supporting a wide range of age-appropriate activities and well-being initiatives. The performing arts and extended day also contribute to a balanced, well-rounded school experience.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Arabic language is offered from the Lower School onwards and is delivered by subject specialist teachers. The curriculum is tailored to fit the Riyadh setting, with Arabic language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies as central components. The timetable includes English, Maths and Science, with English and other subjects such as ICT, Art, DT, Geography and History.	Language provision Arabic Language is taught as part of the core curriculum, with Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies embedded across year groups. In Years 7 and 8, the programme is underpinned by an enhanced UK Key Stage 3 curriculum balanced with Arabic, Islamic and Social Studies. Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies continue to have dedicated time within the curriculum across Years 9–13. English as an Additional Language (EAL) is provided to support students learning in non-native languages, including group sessions, one-to-one tuition, and regular progress assessments.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards Top Global School in Arabic Benchmark Test (ABT) (2025): The school was recognized by ABT International as one of the top-performing schools worldwide for its exceptional provision and student achievement in the Arabic language.
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations COBIS (Council of British International Schools) – Member (Compliance): The school was awarded this status in July 2025, demonstrating that it meets rigorous international standards for safeguarding, student welfare, and governance. BSME (British Schools in the Middle East): The school is a member of this leading network, which connects high-quality British international schools in the region and supports staff development and student enrichment. AoBSO (Association of British Schools Overseas): Membership in this association connects the school with the UK government's Department for Education, ensuring it aligns with British educational standards overseas. Pearson BTEC Approved Centre: This accreditation authorizes the school to deliver BTEC vocational qualifications, providing students with practical, career-focused learning pathways alongside traditional academics. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Centre: The school is an authorized provider of this prestigious youth achievement award, allowing students to gain recognition for their personal development, skills, and community service. Cognita Family of Schools: Being part of the Cognita network ensures the school operates under a global framework of educational excellence and rigorous quality assurance.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1. Entry points and age bands: Aldenham Prep Riyadh offers day education for boys and girls aged 3 to 13. The school currently offers classes up to Year 8 and will become a full EYFS to Year 13 British International School offering (I)GCSE and A Level qualifications. Entry points are Nursery (Age 3+), Lower School (Age 4+; Reception, Year 1 and Year 2), and Upper School (Age 7+; Years 3-6). Aldenham Prep Riyadh is located in Riyadh North.	Admissions 1. Make an Enquiry. Connect with the Admissions Team, who provide a personalised and seamless experience. They will reach out to understand your family's needs and guide you through the next steps toward joining Downe House Riyadh. With limited availability in some year groups, families are encouraged to begin the process early to secure a place. The Enquiry Form can be completed online to start the process. 2. Visit Downe House Riyadh. Experience Downe House Riyadh firsthand with a personalised campus tour. The Admissions Team offers daily tours at convenient times, giving you the opportunity to explore facilities and meet the Leadership Team. Book a School Tour to arrange your visit. 3. Submit your application. Complete the online application form and upload the required supporting documents to take the next step toward joining Downe House Riyadh. 4. Assessment & Offer. After submitting the application, an assessment date will be scheduled and communicated by email. If applying from overseas, a remote assessment can be arranged. You'll receive the results within a few days. 5. Secure your place. To confirm your child's place, accept the enrolment offer, submit the required documents, and complete the enrolment fee within the given timeframe. A deposit of 50% of the first term's fees is required and is deducted from the first term's fees.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships Downe House Riyadh recognises exceptional talent through a Scholarships Programme. Scholars receive mentoring, enrichment opportunities, and resources to help them excel. Applications involve an interview with members of the Senior Leadership Team, evaluation of previous school reports and accolades, and awards in the student's chosen field. Details on eligibility and application requirements can be requested from the admissions team.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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