British School Muscat vs Cheltenham Muscat

	B British School Muscat Muscat, Oman	C Cheltenham Muscat Muscat, Oman
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year OMR 4,240 - 10,280	Fees / year OMR 3,899 - 8,111
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 700	Pupils 700
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location British School Muscat is in Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, central Muscat, Oman. The campus sits in the heart of the city near the Ruwi area and is easily accessible from most parts of Muscat. The mailing address is PO Box 1907, Ruwi 112, Oman.	Location Cheltenham Muscat is located in Al Bandar, Muscat, Oman. The campus sits on a 45,000 square metre site within the Al Bandar Masterplan, a large mixed-use development near residential areas. It is in close proximity to Muscat International Airport and City Centre Muscat, with straightforward road access.
Stages	Stages The school serves children aged 3–18, from Nursery through to Year 13, including a Sixth Form Centre. It offers a through-structure with Primary and Senior School divisions. The campus resources include facilities such as a 500-seat theatre and a Sixth Form Centre.	Stages The school is structured in three bands: Pre-Prep (KG1–Grade 2), Prep (Grade 2–Grade 8), and Senior (Grade 8–Grade 12). This progression covers early years through to the end of secondary schooling.
School type	School type The British School Muscat is a co-educational, not-for-profit international school that operates as a day school (no boarding is indicated). It is governed as a not-for-profit institution and welcomes boys and girls.	School type Cheltenham Muscat is a co-educational British international day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The student body is multinational, with pupils from over 60 nationalities represented. The Primary School notes a vibrant, multicultural community of over sixty nationalities; there is no publicly published, exact local-to-international ratio.	Pupil nationality mix Enrollment is reported around 700–800 pupils with representation from about 50–60 nationalities. The most common nationalities are Omani and British. The international mix reflects the school's British international profile and its location in Muscat.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school provides Learning Support across four areas—speech and communication, cognition and learning, emotional/behavioural, and sensory/physical. Support is offered within the classroom and in specialist sessions as needed, with links to external specialists such as speech therapists and educational psychologists. The admissions process considers individual learning needs and how they can be met within the mainstream curriculum.	Additional learning support The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and a Learning Support Department. Pupil needs are addressed through EAL group and one-to-one provision, and every learner in need receives an Individual Education Plan (IEP) with opportunities for tailored, small-group support; some specialist EAL tuition may incur additional charges.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The institution operates as a British international school and follows the English National Curriculum. It presents itself as a British international school serving a diverse expatriate community.	Country affiliation The school is affiliated with the United Kingdom through the Cheltenham College family of international schools and offers a British curriculum (IGCSEs, A Levels, or GED).
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation is not stated; the school is described as secular with no specific religious ethos published.	Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation is stated in official materials.
School day structure	School day structure The School Day starts at 7:30am for Foundation Stage through to Year 13, with variations by phase. Foundation Stage 1 finishes at 12:30pm, FS2–KS1 finish around 1:30pm, KS2 finishes at 2:00pm, and Years 7–13 finish at 2:00pm. Drop-off begins as early as 7:00am (7:10am for Foundation Stage).	School day structure KG1–Grade 2 start at 7:15am with 7:30am registration; collection is at 2:00pm, with after-school activities or paid academy options. Grades 3–12 start at 7:15am with 7:30am registration; collection is at 3:45pm, with optional after-school activities from 4:00pm onward.
Bus service details	Bus service details A school bus service operates, including a route between Al Mouj and the British School Muscat. For details, contact the Primary or Senior Offices to discuss routes, timings, and costs.	Bus service details A school bus service operates for KG1 through Grade 12. Routes cover areas across Muscat including Al Mouj, Mawaleh, Al Hail, Mabella, Bawshar, Al Ansab, Qurum, Khoud, Al Athaiba, Ghubra, and Al Khuwair. A bus-tracking application allows parents to monitor journeys and request absences; for more info, contact the transport team.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and enrolment fees - Assessment fee: OMR 50, payable on or before the assessment day. - Reservation fee: OMR 300, payable once a place has been offered and due within 14 days of the offer; this amount is deducted from the first term's fees. If the offered place is not taken up the Reservation Fee is forfeited. - Refundable deposit: OMR 100, payable with the first term's fees; refundable when the student leaves provided one month's written notice before the end of the term of departure has been given, all books and resources are returned and all fees are paid up to date. Tuition fees (per term by year group and annual total) All tuition fees are payable in Omani Rials (OMR). - FS1 (age 3–4): Term 1 OMR 1,696; Term 2 OMR 1,272; Term 3 OMR 1,272; Annual total OMR 4,240. - FS2 (age 4–5): Term 1 OMR 2,120; Term 2 OMR 1,590; Term 3 OMR 1,590; Annual total OMR 5,300. - KS1 (Years 1–2, age 5–7): Term 1 OMR 2,282; Term 2 OMR 1,711; Term 3 OMR 1,711; Annual total OMR 5,705. - KS2 (Years 3–6, age 7–11): Term 1 OMR 2,368; Term 2 OMR 1,776; Term 3 OMR 1,776; Annual total OMR 5,920. - KS3 (Years 7–9, age 11–14): Term 1 OMR 3,262; Term 2 OMR 2,446; Term 3 OMR 2,446; Annual total OMR 8,155. - KS4 (Years 10–11, age 14–16): Term 1 OMR 3,664; Term 2 OMR 2,748; Term 3 OMR 2,748; Annual total OMR 9,160. - KS5 (Years 12–13, age 16–18): Term 1 OMR 4,112; Term 2 OMR 3,084; Term 3 OMR 3,084; Annual total OMR 10,280. Infrastructure fee (new-pupil levy schedule) - An infrastructure fee of OMR 300 per term is payable for each term for the first nine terms at the school (FS2 upwards), up to a maximum total of OMR 2,700. Infrastructure fee is payable termly with fees. The Infrastructure Fee is deferred for children entering FS1 until entry into FS2 and is assessed at the applicable rate for that academic year. - Family discounts on the infrastructure fee: for a third child the fee is reduced to OMR 225 per term (25%); for a fourth child the infrastructure fee is waived (Zero). The published payment schedule shows the termly breakdown and totals per child. Billing schedule and payment terms - All fees must be paid in full on or before the first day of term. Invoices are issued at least two weeks before the end of the previous term. - All fees are payable in OMR. The school states that if a student leaves before the end of term, no refund will be considered. - Discount: a 5% discount is applied for payment of the full annual tuition fees on or before the first day of Term 1. - Instalments: payment by instalments is possible only by prior agreement and incurs a 5% charge (to be agreed in advance). Late payment penalties and charges - 5% flat-rate penalty for late payment on the first occasion. - 10% flat-rate penalty for late payment on the second occasion. - 15% flat-rate penalty for late payment on the third occasion. Other charges and additional costs - Supplemental charges apply for school residential trips, some after-school activities and for external examinations (including GCSE, A/S, BTEC, A Levels); these charges may include postage and invigilation and may include additional postage costs for return of scripts, university admissions, and submission of Common Entrance papers. - Uniform: the school operates a uniform shop and BSM uniform is available to purchase from ZAKS; parents may also buy uniform from other retailers and a second-hand rail is operated with proceeds to the PFA. A Uniform Shop price list is published for items; costs for uniform items are separate to tuition and are charged to parents at purchase. - Transport, lunches and specific voluntary services or activities may carry separate charges (these items are commonly charged in addition to tuition where applicable). Supplemental activity and trip charges are specifically noted by the school as additional to tuition. Boarding fees - The British School Muscat operates as a day school; there are no boarding provisions or boarding fees. Refunds and forfeiture - The Reservation Fee (OMR 300) will be forfeited if an offered place is not subsequently taken up. - The OMR 100 refundable deposit is refundable on departure provided written notice (one month before the end of the term of departure) has been given, all books and school resources have been returned and all fees are paid up to date. - No refund is considered for tuition if a student leaves before the end of term. Fee payment options and processing - Credit and debit card payments are processed via third-party payment processors; the school's privacy and terms material makes clear the school does not itself store card details and that third-party processors handle card account information. - The school issues invoices in advance of each term; instalment arrangements may be agreed in advance (subject to the 5% instalment charge). Invoices and the school billing process are the mechanism used to instruct parents on payment. Notes on additional incidental charges - Costs for individual optional or variable items (example: extended extra-curricular programmes, optional trips, examination entry fees, instrument hire, private tuition, or special project materials) are charged separately and vary by activity; the school explicitly warns that such supplemental charges will apply where relevant.	Fee details Overview (academic year 2025–26) - All fees below are charged in OMR and apply to the 2025–26 academic year. Application, assessment and deposit - Application fee (new pupils): OMR 150 — one-off, non-refundable. - Assessment fee (per applicant): OMR 200 — refundable only if a place is not offered. - Place-holding deposit to secure an offer: 40% of the first term's fees, non-refundable and payable within 10 working days of the offer; the deposit is deducted from the first term's fees. Tuition fees by year group (per term and annual total) — Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior - KG 1: Term 1 OMR 1,560; Term 2 OMR 1,560; Term 3 OMR 779; Total per year OMR 3,899. - KG 2: Term 1 OMR 1,783; Term 2 OMR 1,783; Term 3 OMR 890; Total per year OMR 4,456. - Grade 1: Term 1 OMR 2,005; Term 2 OMR 2,005; Term 3 OMR 1,003; Total per year OMR 5,013. - Grade 2: Term 1 OMR 2,005; Term 2 OMR 2,005; Term 3 OMR 1,003; Total per year OMR 5,013. - Grade 3: Term 1 OMR 2,005; Term 2 OMR 2,005; Term 3 OMR 1,003; Total per year OMR 5,013. - Grade 4: Term 1 OMR 2,207; Term 2 OMR 2,207; Term 3 OMR 1,103; Total per year OMR 5,517. - Grade 5: Term 1 OMR 2,228; Term 2 OMR 2,228; Term 3 OMR 1,114; Total per year OMR 5,570. - Grade 6: Term 1 OMR 2,419; Term 2 OMR 2,419; Term 3 OMR 1,209; Total per year OMR 6,047. - Grade 7: Term 1 OMR 2,450; Term 2 OMR 2,450; Term 3 OMR 1,226; Total per year OMR 6,126. - Grade 8: Term 1 OMR 2,640; Term 2 OMR 2,640; Term 3 OMR 1,319; Total per year OMR 6,599. - Grade 9: Term 1 OMR 2,725; Term 2 OMR 2,725; Term 3 OMR 1,363; Total per year OMR 6,813. - Grade 10: Term 1 OMR 2,725; Term 2 OMR 2,725; Term 3 OMR 1,363; Total per year OMR 6,813. - Grade 11: Term 1 OMR 3,244; Term 2 OMR 3,244; Term 3 OMR 1,623; Total per year OMR 8,111. - Grade 12: Term 1 OMR 3,244; Term 2 OMR 3,244; Term 3 OMR 1,623; Total per year OMR 8,111. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition may be paid in full at the start of the academic year or by three instalments payable in advance of each term. - A 5% tuition discount is available for families who pay the full year's fees in a single payment at acceptance; this full-payment discount is only applicable when paying by bank transfer, cheque, or cash. - Re-enrolment fee for the 2026/27 academic year is due before the end of Term 2 (March 2026); the first term's payment for 2026/27 is required by June 2026 (re-enrolment/payment timetable described in the school's fee policy). - Failure to pay the required deposit or fees within the stated deadlines may result in an offer being withdrawn. Boarding fees - Cheltenham Muscat does not list or operate a boarding programme for pupils; there are no boarding fees published for this school. Other costs and additional charges - Tuition fees do not include school lunches, school transportation, educational trips, or extracurricular activities run by external providers; these items are charged separately. - School bus service is available for KG1 to Grade 12; routes cover a wide range of Muscat areas and transport fees and timings are published/managed through the school's transport team (transport is a separate charge). - Uniform: uniform items for Cheltenham Muscat are supplied through a specialist school uniform provider; uniform costs are separate from tuition and are purchased directly from the supplier. - Extra charges may apply for certain external-provider extracurricular programmes, optional trips, examination fees, and other services not included in tuition. Sibling discounts - A 5% discount is available for the third and subsequent child enrolled at the school; this sibling discount is applicable only when payment is made by bank transfer, cheque, or cash. Refunds and refund conditions - Refunds are processed in accordance with Ministry of Education (MoE) regulations in Oman. Tuition fee refunds are subject to specific conditions and timelines with deductions based on the length of enrolment. Deposits are non-refundable except in exceptional cases. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods referenced in the school's fee policy include bank transfer, cheque and cash. The 5% full-payment and sibling-discount conditions specify those three payment methods as qualifying options for the discounts. (Parents should use bank transfer, cheque or cash where discount eligibility is required.) Notes - All fee figures and policies above are presented in OMR and have been approved by the Ministry of Education (MoE). Fees are reviewed annually and may be adjusted with MoE approval. Payment of tuition fees confirms acceptance of the school's terms and conditions.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding is not offered at British School Muscat. The school operates as a not-for-profit British international school for pupils aged 3–18. There is no information about boarding facilities or options listed on the site.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement BSM has a simple uniform that changes slightly as pupils progress through the school. All students from Foundation Stage to Year 11 wear the school uniform; Sixth Form students follow the Sixth Form dress code. Uniform can be purchased from the ZAKS Uniform Shop (Al Muzn Mall near Al Mouj) or from other retailers; the Uniform Shop stocks a range of clothing including swimwear, bags, hats, sportswear and house shirts, and there is a second-hand rail.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options —	Food options Healthy food choices are promoted as part of the Cognita Be Well Charter.
House system	House system BSM uses a house system. The uniform includes house shirts, indicating house identity within the school. The site does not publish house names or competition details.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Governance is provided by a Board of Governors with representation from the business community, parents and staff; the President of the School is the British Ambassador, whose representative attends Board meetings. The school is a not-for-profit institution; there are no owners or shareholders receiving profits, and fee income is used to operate and develop the school.	Governance and ownership The school is part of the Cognita family of Schools. It is part of the Cheltenham College Family of Schools network.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details British School Muscat delivers the English National Curriculum from Foundation Stage (ages 3-5) through to Key Stage 5. Foundation Stage uses the English Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, and Key Stage 1–2 curriculum is the English National Curriculum adapted for an international context, with specialist lessons in PE, Swimming and Music, and language provision including French from Year 3–4 and Arabic introduced in upper KS2. In Senior School (Key Stages 3-5), the programme aligns with the National Curriculum, with GCSEs offered in Years 10-11 and a pathway to Post-16 study; the KS4 materials describe GCSE and Level 2 BTEC qualifications and a typical 9-subject load including core English and Maths plus a modern foreign language and three option subjects. Years 7–9 provide a broad KS3 curriculum across English, Maths, Science, MFL, PSHE, PE, and creative subjects such as Art, Computing, Drama, Design Technology, Geography, History and Music, all underpinned by High Performance Learning and a strong feedback culture. Post-16 options include A Levels and Level 3 BTECs, with entry typically requiring five GCSEs including Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above, and students usually studying four post-16 subjects.	Curriculum details Cheltenham Muscat delivers a British-style education that blends Cheltenham College UK heritage with the Cambridge International Curriculum, adapted for Oman. The Pre-Prep covers KG1–KG2 (Pre-school and Reception) with the Curiosity Approach, and Grades 1–2 follow the Cambridge Primary Programme; classes are small and teaching includes specialist Arabic, Islamic Studies, PE and Swimming. The Prep School (Grades 3–8) uses the Cambridge International Primary Programme with a subject-specialist approach; core subjects are English, Arabic, Maths, Science, Islamic and Social Studies (for Arabic speakers), alongside Art, Music, PE, Geography, History, French and Spanish. The Senior phase (Grades 9–10) pursues IGCSEs and offers either a 2-year or a 3-year pathway, with a full range of subjects including Business Studies, Art, Music, Drama, PE, Computing, ICT, History, Geography, Philosophy, French and Spanish. The Sixth Form (Grades 11–12) provides A Levels or the Omani GED, with university guidance support and access to Cheltenham College UK colleagues for further career and university planning.
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 Pastoral Care provides personal and pastoral support as a core element of SEL at British School Muscat. It covers personal and social development and well-being, helping students build self-esteem, interact effectively with others, and participate in society. The school aims for a broad and balanced curriculum to support these aims, and the British School Overseas inspection notes that students' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding. Learning Support complements SEL by addressing emotional/behavioural needs within a four-area framework and by monitoring progress with parental involvement. The school teaches in English and emphasizes inclusive support to enable all students to access the curriculum.	Social & emotional learning Pastoral care at Cheltenham Muscat focuses on nurturing happy, resilient, and adaptable learners, with dedicated teachers providing personalised support to each pupil. The school applies Cognita's Be Well Charter to promote wellbeing and social engagement, described as a six-pillars framework. Safeguarding measures ensure a safe and secure environment for pupils to thrive. Be Well emphasizes healthy food choices and regular physical activity, embedded in daily routines. The Sparkle Foundation partnership enables students and families to participate in meaningful giving and volunteering activities.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) BSM Learning Support covers four areas of learning: speech and communication, cognition and learning, emotional/behavioural, and sensory and physical. Support is provided within the classroom and in separate specialist classes as required, and English is the language of instruction. The Learning Support team works with specialists including speech therapists, educational psychologists and occupational therapists in Oman and overseas. Pupils' progress is carefully monitored with consultation and feedback to parents. The school notes that it cannot provide one-to-one full-time support for any pupil and may not be able to support pupils with significant difficulties or complex needs. When considering admissions, where there is evidence of additional educational need, discussions and appropriate assessments are carried out before an offer is made, and individual learning needs should largely be met within the mainstream classroom.	Special educational needs (SEN) Cheltenham Muscat offers Learning Support for mild-to-moderate Special Educational Needs (SEN). Each pupil requiring support has an Individual Education Plan (IEP), and specialist staff work with classroom teachers to integrate strategies into lessons. Support can include individual or small-group sessions and targeted interventions to access the curriculum. The site describes EAL separately but indicates that SEN support exists; it does not describe the school as a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English is the language of instruction at British School Muscat. The Learning Support team is highly experienced in supporting children who speak two or more languages. Pupils receive support both within the classroom and in separate specialist classes as necessary. The approach is inclusive, with multilingual learners supported within the mainstream and through targeted assistance as appropriate. For new entrants to English, the Admissions policy states that children will be immersed in English throughout their day, and may need time to adjust to using English socially and academically.	English as an additional language Cheltenham Muscat provides an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme to support pupils learning in a non-native language. EAL includes group sessions, one-to-one tuition, and access to online activities and mentoring, with regular progress assessments. EAL support may be identified at admission or as a pupil progresses, and specialist EAL tuition incurs additional charges.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental health and wellbeing are addressed as part of the safeguarding framework at British School Muscat. If a staff member has concerns about a student's mental health, the concern is logged in CPOMS and escalated to the Safeguarding Team, which coordinates with the Pastoral Team to support the student via an Individual Support Plan. The Safeguarding Policy notes that the safeguarding and pastoral teams are supported by the school counsellor, Salma Ali, who can be contacted through the Primary or Senior School Office. The Wellbeing of pupils is supported through safeguarding processes and access to counselling where appropriate. The policy also provides a Wellbeing Button on the Student Portal to contact the pastoral care team.	Mental wellbeing Cheltenham Muscat follows Cognita's Be Well Charter, a six-step framework for lifelong physical and mental wellbeing, and wellbeing is embedded in daily life across the school. Global Be Well Day is observed within the Cognita network to highlight wellbeing across schools. The Be Well Charter uses a Voice of the Student Survey to capture student perceptions of wellbeing and drive improvements. Digital wellbeing is addressed through Be Well Digital resources, and the Sparkle Foundation partnership broadens wellbeing through community service and volunteering.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding British School Muscat is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils, with clear procedures in place to support children, families and staff. The Designated Safeguarding Persons (DSPs) at the school are: Saima Akhtar (Deputy Head of Primary School, Designated Safeguarding Lead), Robert Hughes (Deputy Head of Senior School, Designated Safeguarding Lead), Gemma O'Sullivan (Primary School Deputy DSL) and Chris Short (Senior School Deputy DSL). All staff receive safeguarding training on an annual basis. A member of the Board of Governors serves as safeguarding link between the school and the board. The Safeguarding Policy is dated September 2025 and is reviewed annually (next due September 2026).	Safeguarding Cheltenham Muscat follows Cognita safeguarding principles, which apply to all Cognita schools and promote the welfare of every child. Staff are educated to recognise abuse and to act in the best interests of the child. The safeguarding framework requires that every adult who works with pupils is safe to do so, and to uphold universal safeguarding standards. The Cognita Safeguarding Specialist Team develops safeguarding policies and ensures implementation across Cognita schools.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school has a campus in Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat. The campus features an award-winning facility that has been upgraded over the past decade. The complex includes a theatre/auditorium, a floodlit all-weather pitch with spectator grandstand, three large multi-purpose halls and two large sports halls. It also houses a dance studio, three swimming pools, a health centre run by professional nurses, large outdoor playgrounds and shaded lunch areas. Two well-resourced libraries, ten science laboratories and specialist facilities for art, design technology, drama, music, media and computing support teaching and learning.	Facilities overview The campus sits on a purpose-built 45,000 square metre site in Muscat. Inside, the facilities include modern classrooms, state-of-the-art science laboratories, creative arts studios, and a theatre-in-the-round. The school provides comprehensive academic and creative spaces, including libraries, a STEM centre, an Art and Design centre, music and drama classrooms and practice rooms, and IT laboratories. Sports facilities comprise extensive outdoor pitches, an indoor gym, sports halls, and a competition-standard swimming pool (25m x 6 lanes) with an additional learner pool. The campus is designed to support a continuous learning journey from early years through to sixth form with a broad co-curricular offering.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school has a large floodlit all-weather pitch with spectator grandstand. There are two large sports halls. There are three swimming pools: a 25m x 8-lane pool, a 25m x 4-lane pool and a learner pool. A dance studio is available for movement and dance training. The facilities support a comprehensive physical education and sport programme from Foundation Stage through Sixth Form.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Ten state-of-the-art science laboratories. The campus includes a 500-seat theatre and a university-style Sixth Form Centre. Two well-resourced libraries. Specialist facilities for art, design technology, drama, music, media and computing.	Academic facilities —
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The school runs community clubs that take place at BSM. Examples include BSM Music Hub, BSM Marlins (swimming) and BSM Marlins Masters (adult swimming) and BSM Marlins Swim School. Hoops provides basketball for children aged 5–18, on Saturday mornings in the BSM Sports Hall. BAM Performance offers specialist dance training, and Muscat Flames provides netball for BSM students. BSM Marlins is an elite swimming squad with year-round training and multiple squads, including a development squad and a fitness squad.	Extra curricular facilities —
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History British School Muscat originated as Muscat English Speaking School, opening in 1971 in the house of the BP Manager in Riyam with three children and one qualified teacher. It moved first to the old Consulate Club near the British Embassy and then to a new site in Darsait in 1972, as HM Inspectors visited that year to review British practice. Firms in the business community formed Subscribers who applied for a Royal Charter, which Sultan Qaboos granted on 3 May 1973, after which the school began welcoming pupils from many countries. In 1988 the 15th charter anniversary and the 10th anniversary of the present site were celebrated with the official opening of the new building by Sayyid Thuwainy bin Shihab. Since then the campus has expanded with key facilities including a swimming pool (1991), senior classrooms (1993), a nurse's room (1994), a Sixth Form Centre upgrade (1998; expanded 2017) and the Oryx Theatre (2020), while the school continues to operate as a not-for-profit British international school.	History Cheltenham Muscat is the first overseas school in the Cheltenham College family of schools. It sits on a purpose-built 45,000 square metre campus in Muscat and provides an education grounded in the Cheltenham College tradition of more than 175 years of experience. Cheltenham Muscat opened for admissions in September 2021 and held its formal launch at a ceremonial event on 7 March 2022. The school is partnered with Cheltenham College UK, whose history dates back to 1841, and the Cheltenham College family upholds similar standards of scholarship, community, and continuous excellence. Cheltenham Muscat is part of the Cognita family of Schools.
Community	Community BSM hosts a diverse international community, with students representing more than 60 nationalities. The school runs a broad enrichment program and after‑school clubs, including music, swimming, basketball, dance, martial arts, netball, languages and Model United Nations, with many opportunities open to the wider Muscat community. Dutch language and other partnerships run on site through external providers, integrating families into school life. The on‑site theatre, dance studios and multiple sports facilities support performances and community events that involve families and local residents.	Community Cheltenham Muscat places community at the heart of its ethos, guided by the Cheltenham Values which foreground Curiosity, Creativity, Character, Community, and Continuous Excellence. The value of Community emphasises belonging, responsibility, service, teamwork, and engagement in global initiatives. Public communications show active parent and community engagement through events such as a Meet & Greet coffee morning for parents on 21 January 2026 and the Festival of the World on 24 January 2026. In 2023, Cheltenham Muscat and Oman Sail undertook a Guinness World Records project—the Largest Plastic Bottle Sentence—as part of Project Earthlings, illustrating broad community outreach.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association An Association of Parents and Friends formed early in the school's history and assisted with moving furniture and equipment when the school relocated to the Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos site in 1978. This parent body evolved into a formal association that actively supports fundraising and community events. In 2018 the BSM community organized major charity events, including a 24-hour Run, Pink Day and the International Community Fair, with donations raised for local and international charities; reports record a total of nearly 13,000 Omani Rials raised. Proceeds supported organisations such as the Association for Early Intervention for Children and other Oman-based charities. Parents and staff volunteer at events and act as a liaison between families and the school, reinforcing a collaborative, not-for-profit approach to school life.	Parent teacher association The school maintains a Parent Teacher Association (PTA) as part of its Parent Essentials offerings. Public communications show a Meet & Greet coffee morning for parents on 21 January 2026, providing a forum for dialogue with senior staff and discussion of school ethos and pathways. The Festival of the World, scheduled for 24 January 2026, is promoted as a major family event with ticketing and opportunities for involvement. In 2025, Cheltenham Muscat announced inter-school activities such as the Gold Cup competition and an Academic Scholarship Programme, reflecting active parent–school collaboration and extended opportunities within the Cognita network. The PTA page is listed in the Parent Essentials section of the site, underscoring ongoing parent engagement and participation in school life.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual After-school clubs support academic development and intellectual curiosity. The programme includes Model United Nations, World Scholars Cup, and Languages, as well as Science, Computing, and Design Technology. Other options include Chess, Arts & Crafts, Dance, Music, Photography, Sailing, Speedstacks and Yoga.	Academic & intellectual The Academic Extension Programme invites pupils to explore subjects in greater depth, fostering intellectual curiosity beyond the classroom. The programme includes society meetings, debating, educational trips, and visits. These experiences not only instil a lifelong love of learning but also strengthen university applications. They prepare pupils for future academic success.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Arts & Crafts, Dance, Music and Photography are part of the enrichment programme. The school provides opportunities to develop creative interests through performance and exhibitions.	Arts & creative Pupils participate in a performing arts programme that encourages creativity and self-expression. They have opportunities for individual music lessons, instrumental ensembles, choir performances, and annual school productions. Pupils are encouraged to explore their talents, express themselves, and ignite their imagination. They build confidence and develop a lifelong love for the arts.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Languages clubs are included in enrichment, and global learning opportunities include Model United Nations and World Scholars Cup.	Cultural & language —
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Board Games, Chess, Speedstacks, Yoga and other clubs form part of after-school activities alongside sport.	Social & hobbies Sports for All is a core feature, with Cheltenham Muscat upholding the Cheltenham tradition of competing in over fifteen sports. The school embraces an inclusive ethos, ensuring pupils of all abilities can participate, develop, and compete. State-of-the-art facilities provide a platform to discover potential, whether they are aspiring athletes or simply active participants. Through expert coaching and competitive fixtures, pupils develop teamwork and a lifelong love of physical activity.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service Pupils are actively encouraged to support the local Muscat and Seeb community, engaging in charity work and outreach projects. Sustainability is a core value, with purpose-built school facilities designed to maintain a low carbon footprint. Through hands-on projects, pupils learn to be environmentally responsible and to make a meaningful impact.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is introduced in Years 7 and 8. It includes residential and Edventure trips and supports personal discovery, independence and community involvement.	Leadership & professional Leadership initiatives are part of the extra-curricular programme. Pupils have opportunities to develop leadership skills through these activities. The programme fosters teamwork, initiative, and responsible citizenship.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport is central to the enrichment programme, with Swimming as a key activity in the curriculum and after school. The BSM Marlins offer elite squads and a Swim School open to the wider community, including adults and children of all levels.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport and the extensive co-curricular programme promote physical activity and wellbeing. The programme supports a lifelong love of physical activity and teamwork. State-of-the-art facilities enable active participation across sports and clubs.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the language of instruction and the English National Curriculum is followed. The school delivers English-language teaching; Arabic and French are taught as languages. In Year 3-4, specialist lessons include French, and Arabic is introduced; in Upper Key Stage 2 (Year 5-6), Arabic and French are taught by specialists. The school provides English language development and EAL support for students learning English as an additional language.	Language provision Languages taught include English, Arabic, French, and Spanish. English and Arabic are core subjects, while French and Spanish are studied as part of the curriculum. English as an Additional Language (EAL) provides group and one-to-one support with regular progress assessments; specialist EAL tuition may incur additional charges. Learning Support is available with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and offers individual or small-group lessons integrated into classroom learning.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Children who are new to English at admission are immersed in English throughout their day. Learning Support provides targeted English language development and additional support as needed. Staff are experienced in supporting multilingual learners within an international context.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Applications are accepted at all points during the school year. The admissions team aims to keep the process straightforward. Campus visits can be arranged on request. Reach out if relocating to Muscat or moving within the city. 2. Before applying, read the Home School Agreement and Admissions Policy. To apply, complete the BSM Application Form and the BSM Medical Information form. Provide copies of the child's passport, Oman Resident Card, a passport photo, the latest school report, and copies of both parents' passports and Oman Resident Cards. 3. After submission, we check space for the preferred start date. If space is unavailable, the child is placed on the waiting list. You will be notified by email within 5 working days. The school reserves the right to withdraw an offer if an Oman Resident Card is not provided prior to starting. 4. Entry criteria include attitudes and values that match the BSM Learning Ethos, the ability to thrive in a high achieving environment, and a family engaged with the child's education and English language development. The school teaches on the English National Curriculum and all lessons are taught in English, with EAL and SEND support as available. New entrants to English are immersed in English and may need time to adjust.	Admissions The school uses an easy 5-step admissions process. 1. Make an enquiry: the Admissions Team provides a personalised and seamless experience and guides you toward joining Cheltenham Muscat. 2. Visit Cheltenham Muscat: there are personalised campus tours, opportunities to meet the Leadership Team, and daily tour availability. 3. Submit your application: complete the online application form and upload the required supporting documents. 4. Assessment and offer: after submitting the application, an assessment date is scheduled; remote assessment can be arranged for overseas applicants, with results provided within a few days. 5. Secure your place: accept the enrolment offer, submit the required documents, and pay the enrolment fee within the specified timeframe. Limited availability in some year groups means families are encouraged to begin the process early to secure a place in Oman's leading British international school.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships The scholarships and bursaries programme recognises exceptional talent and potential in key areas of school life. Scholarships are awarded in academics, sports, the arts, and leadership, and scholars receive mentoring, enrichment opportunities, and resources to support their development. Bursaries provide financial assistance to families in need, ensuring access to a Cheltenham Muscat education for students with exceptional potential. The application process involves an application, interviews with senior leaders, evaluation of previous school reports and achievements, and awards in the student's field of expertise. Details on eligibility and requirements can be requested from the admissions team.
Waitlist	Waitlist There are waiting lists for some year groups. Status of waiting lists is discussed with admissions.	Waitlist —
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