Raffles International School vs Victory Heights Primary School - City of Arabia

	R Raffles International School Dubai, United Arab Emirates	V Victory Heights Primary School - City of Arabia Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 34,055 - 86,815	Fees / year AED 40,138 - 54,733
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 11 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Day School	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,340	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size 12	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Raffles International School is located in Dubai, in the Umm Suqeim 3 district opposite the Burj Al Arab on Al Baghla Street. The campus sits in a residential, coastal area near the beach with direct road access via Umm Suqeim Road. The area is served by private transport and taxi services, facilitating access from central Dubai.	Location Victory Heights Primary School, City of Arabia campus, is located in Dubai Sports City within the Dubailand area, adjacent to the City of Arabia development and near IMG World. The campus sits in a family-friendly, residential context with strong road links to central Dubai. It is within easy reach of communities such as Arabian Ranches I-III, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Villanova, Serena, The Villa, Mudon and Al Barari.
Stages	Stages The school runs Nursery through Year 13. The early years follow an EYFS pathway, while the Primary and Secondary curricula align with the English National Curriculum, leading to GCSE/IGCSE options, and the Sixth Form (Years 12–13) offers A-Level or BTEC pathways.	Stages The school serves Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) through Year 6. It follows the Early Years Foundation Stage and British National Curriculum progression, with year groups from FS1 to Year 6 on site.
School type	School type The school is co-educational. It operates as a day school.	School type The school is a co-educational day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix RIS represents students from more than 80 nationalities. The most common nationalities and the local-to-international pupil ratio are not publicly disclosed.	Pupil nationality mix Pupil community includes more than 18 nationalities. The majority of pupils hold British passports. The school enrolls around 973 students aged approximately 3–11 years.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support RIS provides English as a Second Language support and is described as fully inclusive, with provisions to accommodate different learning needs and styles.	Additional learning support Inclusive Learning is central to VHPS. The Inclusion Team provides additional support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEND) and English Language Learners (ELL), including in-class support, targeted maths and literacy interventions, social-emotional groups, and language support.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The curriculum follows the English National Curriculum and UAE MOE Arabic and Islamic Education; RIS is accredited by UK bodies including the British Schools Overseas (BSO) and British Schools in the Middle East (BSME).	Country affiliation Country affiliation: None. The school delivers a British-curriculum programme rather than an explicit national affiliation.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation There is no explicit religious affiliation. UAE Arabic and Islamic Education are included as part of the UAE curriculum requirements, not as a school denomination.	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation: None stated.
School day structure	School day structure School timings are 7:30 am to 3:00 pm from Monday to Thursday, and 7:30 am to 12:00 pm on Fridays.	School day structure The school day varies by year group. FS1 starts around 7:40am, FS2 around 8:00am, and Years 1–6 around 7:30am; end times are 1:15–1:45pm for FS1–FS2 and about 3:00–3:10pm for Years 1–6, with Friday finishes earlier (FS1 11:00am, FS2 11:15am, Years 1–6 11:30–11:40am). The week runs Monday to Friday.
Bus service details	Bus service details A bus service is provided by Arab Falcon Bus Rental LLC. Buses are equipped with seat belts, and safety procedures are followed for the collection and delivery of students to and from RIS.	Bus service details A school bus service is available with routes serving Dubai Sports City and surrounding areas; the main site does not publicly publish the provider name. KHDA-related sources confirm that bus transport is offered.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & assessment fees - Assessment test fee: AED 525 (including 5% VAT; non-refundable and payable at the time of assessment). - Registration fee for new students: 10% of the applicable annual tuition (non-refundable but adjustable against Term 1 fee once admission is confirmed). Specific registration amounts are shown with the new-student fee schedule below. - Re‑registration fee for returning students: 5% of the annual tuition (non-refundable but adjustable against Term 1 fee). Specific re‑registration amounts are shown with the existing‑student fee schedule below. Tuition fees — existing students (2025–2026 academic year, amounts in AED) - FS1 (age 3): Annual fee AED 34,055; Term 1 balance AED 13,621; Term 2 AED 10,217; Term 3 AED 10,217; Re‑registration fee: not applicable for FS1. - FS2 (age 4–5): Annual fee AED 34,055; Re‑registration fee AED 1,705; Term 1 balance AED 11,916; Term 2 AED 10,217; Term 3 AED 10,217. - Year 1 (age 5–6): Annual fee AED 42,092; Re‑registration fee AED 2,105; Term 1 balance AED 14,731; Term 2 AED 12,628; Term 3 AED 12,628. - Year 2 (age 6–7): Annual fee AED 54,080; Re‑registration fee AED 2,705; Term 1 balance AED 18,927; Term 2 AED 16,224; Term 3 AED 16,224. - Year 3 (age 7–8): Annual fee AED 54,080; Re‑registration fee AED 2,705; Term 1 balance AED 18,927; Term 2 AED 16,224; Term 3 AED 16,224. - Year 4 (age 8–9): Annual fee AED 54,488; Re‑registration fee AED 2,725; Term 1 balance AED 19,071; Term 2 AED 16,346; Term 3 AED 16,346. - Year 5 (age 9–10): Applicable annual fee AED 63,881 (KHDA approved shown higher); Re‑registration fee AED 3,195; Term 1 balance AED 22,358; Term 2 AED 19,164; Term 3 AED 19,164. - Year 6 (age 10–11): Applicable annual fee AED 63,881; Re‑registration fee AED 3,195; Term 1 balance AED 22,358; Term 2 AED 19,164; Term 3 AED 19,164. - Year 7 (age 11–12): Applicable annual fee AED 64,950; Re‑registration fee AED 3,250; Term 1 balance AED 22,730; Term 2 AED 19,485; Term 3 AED 19,485. - Year 8 (age 12–13): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Re‑registration fee AED 3,615; Term 1 balance AED 25,292; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 9 (age 13–14): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Re‑registration fee AED 3,615; Term 1 balance AED 25,292; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 10 (age 14–15): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Re‑registration fee AED 3,615; Term 1 balance AED 25,292; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 11 (age 15–16): Applicable annual fee AED 76,619; Re‑registration fee AED 3,830; Term 1 balance AED 26,817; Term 2 AED 22,986; Term 3 AED 22,986. - Year 12 (age 16–17): Applicable annual fee AED 86,815; Re‑registration fee AED 4,340; Term 1 balance AED 30,385; Term 2 AED 26,045; Term 3 AED 26,045. - Year 13 (age 17–18): Applicable annual fee AED 86,815; Re‑registration fee AED 4,340; Term 1 balance AED 30,385; Term 2 AED 26,045; Term 3 AED 26,045. Tuition fees — new students (2025–2026 academic year, amounts in AED) - FS1 (age 3): Annual fee AED 34,055; Registration fee AED 3,405; Term 1 balance AED 10,216; Term 2 AED 10,217; Term 3 AED 10,217. - FS2 (age 4–5): Annual fee AED 34,055; Registration fee AED 3,405; Term 1 balance AED 10,216; Term 2 AED 10,217; Term 3 AED 10,217. - Year 1 (age 5–6): Annual fee AED 42,092; Registration fee AED 4,210; Term 1 balance AED 12,626; Term 2 AED 12,628; Term 3 AED 12,628. - Year 2 (age 6–7): Annual fee AED 54,080; Registration fee AED 5,410; Term 1 balance AED 16,222; Term 2 AED 16,224; Term 3 AED 16,224. - Year 3 (age 7–8): Annual fee AED 54,080; Registration fee AED 5,410; Term 1 balance AED 16,222; Term 2 AED 16,224; Term 3 AED 16,224. - Year 4 (age 8–9): Annual fee AED 54,488; Registration fee AED 5,450; Term 1 balance AED 16,346; Term 2 AED 16,346; Term 3 AED 16,346. - Year 5 (age 9–10): Applicable annual fee AED 63,881; Registration fee AED 6,390; Term 1 balance AED 19,163; Term 2 AED 19,164; Term 3 AED 19,164. - Year 6 (age 10–11): Applicable annual fee AED 63,881; Registration fee AED 6,390; Term 1 balance AED 19,163; Term 2 AED 19,164; Term 3 AED 19,164. - Year 7 (age 11–12): Applicable annual fee AED 64,950; Registration fee AED 6,495; Term 1 balance AED 19,485; Term 2 AED 19,485; Term 3 AED 19,485. - Year 8 (age 12–13): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Registration fee AED 7,225; Term 1 balance AED 21,682; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 9 (age 13–14): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Registration fee AED 7,225; Term 1 balance AED 21,682; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 10 (age 14–15): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Registration fee AED 7,225; Term 1 balance AED 21,682; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 11 (age 15–16): Applicable annual fee AED 76,619; Registration fee AED 7,660; Term 1 balance AED 22,987; Term 2 AED 22,986; Term 3 AED 22,986. - Year 12 (age 16–17): Applicable annual fee AED 86,815; Registration fee AED 8,680; Term 1 balance AED 26,045; Term 2 AED 26,045; Term 3 AED 26,045. - Year 13 (age 17–18): Applicable annual fee AED 86,815; Registration fee AED 8,680; Term 1 balance AED 26,045; Term 2 AED 26,045; Term 3 AED 26,045. Billing schedule and payment terms - The academic year is divided into three Terms: Term 1 (September–December), Term 2 (January–March) and Term 3 (April–June). Payment due dates for the 2025–2026 fee schedules are shown on the schedules and include: Re‑registration date and Term payment dates (examples shown for 2025–2026: re‑registration payable 4 April 2025; Term 1 payable 22 August 2025; Term 2 payable 5 January 2026; Term 3 payable 27 March 2026). - Payment may be made in full or by term. Parents may provide two dated cheques (one per term) or pay by bank transfer, cash or credit card; bank transfers must include student details and remittance evidence should be sent to accounts@rafflesis.com to enable timely reconciliation. Dishonoured cheques incur an administration fee of AED 200 and the school may suspend attendance for unpaid fees. - For mid‑year admissions the school calculates fees pro rata: attending less than two weeks = one month's fee payable; more than two weeks but less than one month = two months' fee payable; attending more than one month in a term = full term fee payable. One month's fee is calculated as annual fee divided by ten. Boarding fees - Boarding is not listed as an offering or fee at Raffles International School (Umm Suqeim). No boarding fees appear in the published fee schedules for RIS; fees shown are for day‑school tuition and associated services. Other costs and commonly payable extras - Stationery and educational materials. - School uniform, team kits and sporting attire. - External examination fees (IGCSE/A‑level/BTEC exam entry). - Meals/cafeteria charges. - Transportation (school bus) charges. - Educational visits, voluntary excursions or tournament participation (charged case by case). - Replacement student ID cards and incidental sundries. - Textbooks for secondary pupils may be purchased from the school at cost price; parents may also buy externally but students must own all specified books. - Insurance: parents are advised to maintain health, accident and liability insurance for their children; insurance costs are not included in tuition. Refund information (key points) - Registration and re‑registration fees are non‑refundable; these fees may be adjusted against Term 1 fees when admission is confirmed but cannot be carried forward or used for a sibling. - If a family withdraws a student who has already presented term cheques for the new academic year, written notice must be received by the Admissions Office no later than the first day of the Term to permit refund calculations. Refunds for students who leave during a term are calculated pro rata by the school's published refund policy: less than two weeks' attendance = one month's fee payable and remainder refunded; more than two weeks but less than one month = two months' fee payable and remainder refunded; more than one month = full term fee payable. Refunds are calculated from the start of the term to the formal withdrawal request date, and 30 days' written notice is required to prepare documentation and refunds. Registration/re‑registration fee, educational materials fee, uniform and sundry items listed in Schedule C are not refundable. Fee payment options and banking details (as published) - Zenda online payment / Zenda app (school payment portal). - Bank transfer to the school (published account): Account Name: Raffles International School LLC; Account No. 019000004615; IBAN AE720330000019000004615; Swift/BIC BOMLAEADXXX; Bank: Mashreq Bank, Branch: DIC, Dubai, UAE. Parents are requested to include the child's ID, name and school name on transfer and to send remittance advice to accounts@rafflesis.com. - Cheque payable to Raffles International School LLC (cheques accepted in person; post‑dated cheques accepted for Term 2 & Term 3). - Credit card payments at school premises. - Cash payments (receipt to be collected). Discounts - Sibling discounts are published: 5% for the second and third child; 10% for the fourth child; 15% for the fifth child; 20% for the sixth child onwards.	Fee details Fee summary for the 2025–2026 academic year - Tuition is charged termly. The term due dates for the 2025–2026 academic year are: 25 August 2025, 05 January 2026 and 06 April 2026. Tuition amounts below are in AED and include 5% VAT where applicable. Application and deposit fees - Application Fee: AED 525 — one-time, non-refundable and payable on submission of the application. - Enrolment Fee (new students): 10% of the annual tuition fee — non-refundable deposit payable on acceptance; deducted from Term 1 tuition. Example enrolment deposit amounts (10% of annual tuition): - Foundation 1: AED 4,015 - Foundation 2: AED 4,378 - Year 1: AED 4,743 - Year 2: AED 4,743 - Year 3: AED 5,108 - Year 4: AED 5,108 - Year 5: AED 5,473 - Year 6: AED 5,473. - Re‑Enrolment Fee (existing students): 5% of the annual tuition fee — non-refundable deposit payable to secure a place for the next academic year; must be received by 15 June 2025. - Medical Fee: AED 525 — optional, non-refundable annual fee payable on enrolment and thereafter each academic year. Tuition fees by year group (term-by-term and annual totals in AED) - Foundation 1 (FS1): Term 1 AED 16,056 · Term 2 AED 12,041 · Term 3 AED 12,041 · Total annual AED 40,138. - Foundation 2 (FS2): Term 1 AED 17,513 · Term 2 AED 13,136 · Term 3 AED 13,136 · Total annual AED 43,785. - Year 1: Term 1 AED 18,973 · Term 2 AED 14,231 · Term 3 AED 14,231 · Total annual AED 47,435. - Year 2: Term 1 AED 18,973 · Term 2 AED 14,231 · Term 3 AED 14,231 · Total annual AED 47,435. - Year 3: Term 1 AED 20,434 · Term 2 AED 15,325 · Term 3 AED 15,325 · Total annual AED 51,084. - Year 4: Term 1 AED 20,434 · Term 2 AED 15,325 · Term 3 AED 15,325 · Total annual AED 51,084. - Year 5: Term 1 AED 21,893 · Term 2 AED 16,420 · Term 3 AED 16,420 · Total annual AED 54,733. - Year 6: Term 1 AED 21,893 · Term 2 AED 16,420 · Term 3 AED 16,420 · Total annual AED 54,733. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is payable each term; the published due dates for the 2025–2026 year are 25 August 2025, 05 January 2026 and 06 April 2026. Payments must be received by the due date listed in the fee schedule. - The KHDA parent contract for the relevant academic year must be signed before the school will accept tuition payments. - Late or non-payment may result in withheld admission, exclusion from school, withholding of school reports/transcripts, and eventual forfeiture of the student's place. Continued non-payment can lead to withdrawal after exclusion. Boarding fees - Not applicable. Victory Heights Primary School does not offer boarding facilities. Other charges and what is excluded from tuition - Tuition fees exclude transport (bus), school uniforms, food services, any English language (EAL) or Special Needs Learning Support required, field trips, additional after‑school/extra‑curricular activities/clubs and holiday camps. These items are charged separately. - Learning Enhancement (LE), EAL support, one‑to‑one (shadow) support and similar additional support services are charged in addition to tuition and may be billed monthly, termly or annually as agreed with school management. - Charges for books and school uniforms are not refundable. Bus/transport refunds follow the same refund conditions set out below. - Sibling Discount: AED 1,000 discount from the third child onwards. - Emirati Discount: 30% off the tuition fee for the youngest Emirati sibling. Refund information and withdrawal charges - Application Fee, Enrolment Fee and Re‑Enrolment Fee are non‑refundable. - Refunds of tuition follow UAE Ministry of Education / Federal Law No. (28) for Private Education rules and the school's published policy: - If a student withdraws prior to the start of the academic year and one full term's written notice has been given where required, the balance of the first term's fees paid will be refunded, except for the Application Fee and Enrolment Fee. - If a student withdraws during the school year, the refundable amount is calculated as follows (monthly fee = total annual tuition ÷ 10): - Attendance of two weeks or less: charge of one full month's fee. - Attendance of more than two weeks but less than one month: charge of two full months' fees. - Attendance of more than one month: the entire term's fees are charged (no refund for that term). - There are no refunds beyond the circumstances described above. Requests for refund of Enrolment/Re‑Enrolment deposits due to relocation outside Dubai/UAE may be considered in writing and require supporting documentation; any refund remains at the school's discretion. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods: UAE‑issued debit/credit card, bank transfer, or cheque payable to ‘Victory Heights Primary School LLC'. Cheque and bank transfer payments must be lodged at least five working days before the due date to allow funds to clear. VAT - All fees include 5% VAT where applicable. (Information provided above is taken from the school's published 2025–2026 tuition fee payment policy and fee schedule.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement RIS uniform is supplied by Zaks Uniforms, with branches in Al Barsha, Motor City and Jumeirah Beach Centre and an online store at zaksstore.com. It is recommended to have at least two complete sets, including the regular school uniform and the RIS PE kit before attending; RIS ties and scarves are optional for Secondary, and PARIS (the parent association) operates a pre-loved uniform service.	Uniform requirement VHPS requires all pupils to wear the full school uniform at all times. The Uniform page lists year-group specific items and outlines safety/appearance rules, such as hair tied back for girls, a single plain stud earring per ear (no hoops), no makeup or nail varnish, backpacks allowed but wheelie bags are not permitted, and no color trainers.
Food options	Food options RIS uses Kalo Hospitality to run its cafeterias. Daily offerings include a live egg station for breakfast, smoothie counters, freshly baked bakery items, salads and sandwiches, and a hot lunch with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Primary students can order pre-packaged meal boxes delivered to classrooms; meals and menus are accessible via the Kalo mobile app, which supports viewing menus, topping up funds, and pre-ordering meals.	Food options The school provides meals through a partnership with Ben's Farmhouse, a farm-to-table provider offering snacks and lunches for students from FS1 to Year 6. A weekly menu is published on the school's mobile site and meals can be ordered in advance.
House system	House system —	House system VHPS uses a four-house system: Oryx (green), Foxes (red), Leopards (yellow) and Falcons (blue). All children from FS2 to Year 6 are assigned to a house, and house activities include house days, social and sporting events, and inter-house competitions. House captains lead teams and coordinate events; house points are awarded for effort, achievement, behaviour and sportsmanship; house shirts are worn on calendar house days and are available through the uniform supplier.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership RIS is governed by a Board of Directors and an Advisory Council; the Board includes the owners and an independent member. RIS is a proud member of the Innoventures Education family.	Governance and ownership Victory Heights Primary School is owned and operated by Interstar Education (Interstar Advisory Services DMCC). The Board of Governors provides governance oversight, stating its purpose and responsibilities and meeting at least once per term. The board comprises a mix of roles, including a Principal/Director of Academics, a Chairman, independent academic experts, an inclusion representative, and staff representatives; the school notes South View School as a sister school.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Raffles International School Dubai follows the National Curriculum for England across all year groups, with Early Years (Nursery, FS1 and FS2) taught under the UK EYFS framework. The Primary years (Years 1–6) use the England NC, supplemented by the UAE Ministry of Education for Arabic and Islamic Education; from Year 3 Mandarin or French are available, Arabic is mandatory from Foundation, and EAL support starts from Year 1. In Secondary (Years 7–11), students continue the England NC at KS3 leading to GCSE/IGCSE options, with English, Mathematics and Science compulsory and Arabic required for Arab students; a wide range of electives is offered, including Art & Design, Business Studies, Computer Science, Economics, French, ICT, Mandarin, Music, PE, Spanish and various BTEC Level 2 subjects. Sixth Form (Years 12–13) provides 3–4 A Levels or a single BTEC Level 3 option, both over two years, with the possibility to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). The GCSE/IGCSE approach emphasises learner-centred, enquiry-based learning to prepare students for higher education and international opportunities.	Curriculum details Victory Heights Primary School (City of Arabia) teaches a British National Curriculum for England, with Foundation Stage (FS1–FS2) through Year 6, for students aged about 3 to 11. The curriculum emphasizes cross-curricular learning and strong literacy and numeracy foundations, with progression across English, Maths, Science, Humanities and the Arts from Year 1 to Year 6. Specialist subjects include Arabic and Islamic Studies (compulsory under KHDA), Spanish (KS2), PE and Swimming, Music, Art, Drama, Computing, and SPARK (STEAM), with SPARK projects linking science, technology, design and engineering. Inclusive Learning provides SEND support with individualised plans and ELL interventions, enrichment for more able learners, and a culture of inclusion. Assessment includes UAE statutory tests (GL Progress Tests in English, Maths, Science for Years 3–6; NGRT for Years 2–6; CAT4 for Years 4–6) and international benchmarking (TIMSS and PIRLS), alongside ongoing teacher assessments and regular reports.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Class sizes are up to 25 students per class; FS1–Year 2 have a teacher and a teaching assistant; Years 3–6 have a teacher and a shared teaching assistant.
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 RIS places student wellbeing at the core of its approach and aims to promote positive wellbeing and a voice for students. The school references Dr Martin Seligman's positive psychology framework and the PERMA model—Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishments. It emphasizes the social, emotional, spiritual, moral and cultural development and mental and physical wellbeing as central to students' attitudes to learning. The curriculum includes Personal, Social and Emotional Development as a key development area in Primary School. The overall approach supports helping students cope with setbacks, grow, build resilience and flourish, with an emphasis on giving students a voice.	Social & emotional learning Wellbeing is a core part of Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia's daily life. Mindful Monday is delivered for Years 1–2 and Wellbeing Wednesday for Years 3–6 to help students explore emotions, develop empathy, practise mindfulness, and reflect on how to care for themselves and others. Topics include gratitude, resilience, healthy friendships, and managing big feelings. Wellbeing is celebrated across the school through themed weeks and awareness days such as Global Love Day, Anti-Bullying Week, and World Kindness Day. ELLI Learning Powers support emotional resilience, self-reflection, and personal growth. The pastoral team works closely with teachers, parents, and specialists to provide emotional support, including 1:1 wellbeing sessions, friendship groups, and outside referral pathways when needed.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) RIS provides support through the RISE team, offering in-class support and small-group withdrawal in RISE hubs to meet students' needs. RIS welcomes students of determination and does not refuse admission solely based on SEND. KHDA Inclusive Education Framework 2017 is referenced as a guiding standard for inclusion. The site does not publish a detailed list of specific SEN categories it can support. RIS is not described as a specialist SEN institution in the publicly available information.	Special educational needs (SEN) Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia describes its approach as inclusive rather than a specialist SEN institution. The school has an Inclusion Team and an Inclusion Champion who provide additional support for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities SEND and for English Language Learners ELL. It uses a Graduated System of Support GSS with Level 1 general support, Level 2 targeted support, Level 3 individualised support, and Level 3+ supplementary support to plan interventions. Identification involves teacher observations, Inclusion Team screening, assessment data, and parental input, with students placed on the Inclusion Register Students of Determination and primary and secondary needs recorded. The school can provide access to internal learning support staff and, when needed, external specialists such as occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, or educational psychologists; an Individual Learning Support Assistant may be used in exceptional cases. For English Language Learners, interventions are included within the AEN framework and documented accordingly.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language RIS welcomes English as an Additional Language (EAL) students, including those with little or no English, and provides support after entry. English is the medium of instruction; Arabic is mandatory for all students up to Year 12; EAL support is offered from Year 1. Starting in Year 3, students choose between French, Spanish or Mandarin as an additional language, with EAL providing language development. EAL applications for GCSE/IGCSE and A Level are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. EAL support is integrated from Year 1 to assist learners developing English language proficiency.	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language ELL is addressed within VHPS's Inclusive Learning approach. The Inclusion Team delivers ELL interventions including bilingual resources, visuals, and small group sessions. ELL support is integrated with SEND and AEN provision to help students access the mainstream curriculum. There is no separate EAL department; support is embedded within the school's inclusive framework. When needed, external specialists may be consulted to support language development.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is a core part of RIS's student experience, with the belief that a happy, safe, welcoming student is more likely to flourish. The school draws on positive psychology and the PERMA framework to promote Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishments. RIS emphasises mental and physical wellbeing and aims to equip students with tools to handle setbacks, build resilience and grow. The curriculum recognises Personal, Social and Emotional Development as a learning framework. Regular collaboration among staff and students supports a voice-heard environment and wellbeing across the school.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is integrated into Victory Heights Primary School's wellbeing framework. Mindful Monday is delivered for Years 1–2 and Wellbeing Wednesday for Years 3–6 to provide regular dedicated time for wellbeing. The sessions help students explore emotions, develop empathy, practise mindfulness, and reflect on how to take care of themselves and others. ELLI Learning Powers support emotional resilience, self-reflection, and personal growth. The pastoral team works closely with teachers, parents, and specialists to ensure that every child is emotionally supported, including 1:1 wellbeing sessions, friendship groups, or outside referral pathways when needed.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding RIS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The staff profiles indicate safeguarding leadership roles, including a designated safeguarding lead and a wellbeing lead in the secondary section. Recruitment materials confirm safeguarding and child protection screening as part of hiring processes. KHDA inclusion practices are referenced in relation to safeguarding and inclusion. The school states a commitment to safeguarding within its recruitment and policies.	Safeguarding Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia has a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy. The policy, version August 2025; last review date August 2025; next review date August 2026. The policy identifies the Designated Safeguarding Lead and deputies and lists other safeguarding roles and contacts within the school. External safeguarding contacts include the Ministry Of Education Child Protection Unit, Dubai Community Development Authority Child Protection Section, Ministry Of Interior Child Protection Centre, Al Ameen Service, Dubai Foundation For Women And Children, and Dubai Police. The policy states it aligns with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025 and Wadeema's Law; it also references the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. It outlines safeguarding procedures, reporting concerns, safe recruitment, and safeguarding through the curriculum.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus is a purpose-built facility occupying almost 315,000 square feet in Umm Suqeim, Dubai, close to the beach and opposite Burj Al Arab. At the heart of the school are three large bright atriums with classrooms opening onto shared spaces to encourage collaboration. The facilities include extensive sporting venues such as competition and training swimming pools, a large sports hall, cricket nets, a multi-use games area, a large playing field and astroturf spaces for outdoor activities. A dedicated music suite, IT facilities and drama spaces support arts and technology across the curriculum. The school also provides specialist learning spaces, a library, a cafeteria and a medical clinic to support student well-being and inquiry.	Facilities overview The Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia is a state-of-the-art British-curriculum primary school located in Dubai Sports City. The City of Arabia campus opened in August 2025 for FS1 to Year 6, expanding the Victory Heights family to a broader community. The curriculum is modelled on the National Curriculum for England and is enhanced by the International Primary Curriculum, with Arabic and Spanish taught as part of the language programme. The Foundation Stage facility is a separate unit with its own dedicated playground, providing a safe, nurturing learning environment. The school provides a technology-rich learning environment with a fully equipped ICT suite, school-wide Wi‑Fi, and devices such as laptops, iPads, Bee Bots, Roamers, and data-logging equipment.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities RIS offers extensive on-site sports facilities, including competition and training swimming pools, a large sports hall, cricket nets, a multi-use games area, a large playing field and astroturf open spaces around the campus. These spaces support PE lessons and a broad co-curricular sports programme. The school coaches more than 40 sports teams, with offerings in football, touch rugby, athletics and volleyball. The mix of indoor and outdoor facilities enables year-round practice and competitions.	Sports facilities The school has an indoor, competition-length swimming pool and a Junior Gymnasium for PE lessons. A large Multi-Purpose Hall is suitable for indoor sports, assemblies, and school productions. Outdoor facilities include several shaded play areas with high-quality playground equipment and safety surfacing. A 3G playing field enables year-round team games such as football, rugby, cricket, rounders and hockey. An outdoor multi-purpose court supports tennis, basketball and netball.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities STEM labs are available in both primary and secondary sections, alongside dedicated science labs and computer labs. There is a school library for learning and research, and a cafeteria as well as a fully equipped medical clinic on site. A dedicated music suite, IT facilities and drama spaces support arts and technology across the curriculum, complemented by a broad range of specialist learning spaces. These facilities collectively support inquiry, collaboration and project-based learning.	Academic facilities The Key Stage 1 & 2 design places each year group in its own wing with access to a spacious shared indoor activity area. All classrooms are well-resourced and include interactive smart boards to support learning. The school has a comprehensive ICT setup with a fully-equipped ICT suite, school-wide Wi‑Fi, and access to laptops and iPads for use across the curriculum. The Early Years Foundation Stage leads into the British National Curriculum, with the EYFS environment designed to be nurturing and enabling. Arabic and Spanish are part of the language offering within the curriculum.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities RIS provides a comprehensive co-curricular activities programme with a wide range of sporting, academic and artistic clubs active on a daily basis. The school also maintains an extensive inter-school sports programme with particular strengths in football, volleyball and swimming.	Extra curricular facilities Trips and events are integrated into the core curriculum, including visits to Expo City, author visits, World Book Day, UAE National Day, theme weeks, and art exhibitions, along with regular sports competitions and swimming galas. Residential trips are offered for Years 3–6. Enrichment after-school activities run five days a week with sessions after 3:00 pm and 3:45 pm (and 12:00–1:30 pm on Fridays). The extracurricular program supports holistic development through a mix of physical, creative, and cultural activities.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Raffles International School in Dubai operates as part of the Innoventures Education group of schools and nurseries. In 2010, Innoventures Education took on the management of RIS, expanding the Secondary program to include a Sixth Form with A Level and BTEC pathways, along with Duke of Edinburgh awards and opportunities for local and international work experience. The school has learners from 86 different countries worldwide, speaking more than 30 languages, and English is the language of instruction with a strong Arabic program and additional Modern Foreign Language options. The governance structure includes a Board of Directors and an Advisory Council; the Board comprises founders Avishesha Bhojani, Abdulla Majed Al Ghurair, and Dr. Anwar Gargash, reflecting ownership and strategic oversight. RIS Dubai maintains strong links with the Emirati community and is part of the Innoventures Education network.	History Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia was established in 2012 as part of the Victory Heights Primary School family. The City of Arabia campus is led by a founding principal, Ben Rothwell, who previously helped grow VHPS Sports City and guide its development. The school is owned and operated by Interstar Education (Interstar Advisory Services DMCC). The City of Arabia campus is located in Dubai's City of Arabia development, reflecting VHPS's expansion beyond its Sports City site. The school is 13 years old in 2025.
Community	Community RIS Dubai hosts a diverse community with learners from 86 countries and more than 30 languages. The school emphasizes wellbeing and holistic development, supported by a broad co-curricular program with clubs, arts, and sports that operate throughout the year. Students participate in inter-school competitions and represent the school in local and international events. The school also maintains an alumni network and an engaged parent community that contributes to school life.	Community Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia is a bright and happy learning hub at the heart of the Dubai Sports City community. The school emphasises belonging and wellbeing within a multicultural environment, with staff and students from diverse backgrounds. It incorporates house events and a calendar of trips and events as part of its community life, with a strong emphasis on well-being and inclusion. The school's ethos includes a global outlook and active community engagement within Dubai's diverse educational landscape.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association PaRIS, the Parent Association of Raffles International School, plays an active role in supporting students and staff in enrichment activities throughout the year. PaRIS sponsors activities including International Day, Spring Market, New Parent Coffee Morning, graduation ceremonies, and a Teacher Appreciation Day. The PaRIS executive committee meets with the Principal weekly to share parent perspectives and plan school improvement. PaRIS members support parent volunteers and initiatives across the school, including Primary class parents and Secondary school parent representatives. All RIS parents are invited to join PaRIS and contribute in any way they can.	Parent teacher association Parental engagement is a core factor at Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia. The school maintains open communication channels with parents both online and offline, and offers flexible participation workshops, training sessions, volunteering programs and other ways for parents to be involved. An Ambassadors program within admissions provides opportunities for parent involvement in guiding prospective families. A Parent Portal offers login access for updates and communications. The school also shares Parental Engagement content on its VHPS Blogs to support active parent-school partnerships.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual RIS follows the National Curriculum for England and Wales and offers GCSE/IGCSE options in Years 10–11. In Years 12–13, students may pursue the A-level pathway or a BTEC course. The Sixth Form also includes Duke of Edinburgh awards and opportunities for local and international work experience. English is the language of instruction, with language support; Arabic, French, Mandarin and Spanish are taught as MFL options from Year 3, alongside mother tongue programmes for native language speakers.	Academic & intellectual Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia follows the National Curriculum for England. From Foundation Stage through Year 6, English, Maths, Science, and Humanities are taught with progression across year groups. Arabic and Spanish are studied as languages as part of International Primary Curriculum enhancements. The curriculum emphasises cross‑curricular learning and aims to develop reading, writing, and mathematical foundations while fostering curiosity across subjects.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative RIS provides a dedicated music suite, drama spaces and art rooms with supporting IT facilities. The co-curricular programme includes a wide range of artistic clubs and daily activities. Many RIS students represent the school in local, national and international competitions.	Arts & creative Creative expression is integrated across the VHPS curriculum. The Curriculum Vision highlights cross‑curricular learning and the use of high‑quality texts to build language and critical thinking. Trips & Events include Art Exhibitions, author visits, and themed weeks such as World Book Day, enriching classroom learning.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English is the language of instruction with a strong Arabic programme and MFL options in French, Mandarin and Spanish from Year 3. Mother tongue programmes are offered in Hindi, Russian, French and Spanish for native speakers. The school draws learners from many countries, totaling over 30 languages taught.	Cultural & language English is the main language of instruction. Arabic and Spanish are studied as languages as part of the IPC enhancements. The City of Arabia campus is located in Dubailand, Dubai. VHPS aims to develop globally minded citizens through its focus on language learning and citizenship.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies RIS provides a comprehensive co-curricular programme with sporting, academic and artistic clubs active on a daily basis. The school runs more than 40 sports teams, with facilities including a large sports hall, swimming pools and outdoor spaces.	Social & hobbies Trips and enrichment are core to learning. Regular highlights include author visits, World Book Day, UAE National Day, CSI Week, art exhibitions, and sports events, with residential trips for Year 3–Year 6. The program supports teamwork, independence, and social development as part of its core curriculum.
Community & service	Community & service Duke of Edinburgh awards are offered, with opportunities for local and international work experience to support broader personal development.	Community & service VHPS promotes responsible global citizenship and a commitment to the community. The Vision & Values emphasise developing social conscience and giving back to society. The Inclusion approach also highlights support for wellbeing and equitable participation.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Duke of Edinburgh awards provide leadership development opportunities for students.	Leadership & professional Leadership development is central to VHPS's approach; the Vision & Values emphasise leadership skills and teamwork. The City of Arabia campus lists a founding principal and leadership team guiding the school. The curriculum also foregrounds character development and citizenship.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is central to RIS, with a wellbeing-focused environment and a pastoral care team supporting students socially, emotionally and academically. There is a fully equipped medical clinic on campus; staff and leadership prioritize student wellbeing and health.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing, character development, and citizenship are central to the school's approach. The Inclusion page describes support for English as an additional language and other wellbeing supports, including social skills and pastoral care. The environment is described as safe, caring, and family‑like.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the medium of instruction; EAL support is provided for learners developing English proficiency. Arabic is mandatory for Arab students (Arabic A); Arabic B is provided for non-Arabs. From Year 3, Mandarin or French or Spanish are options as additional languages, continuing through Year 9 when GCSE/IGCSE language choices are determined. Mother Tongue languages offered include French, Spanish, Russian, Hindi and German; the Mother Tongue Programme provides two to three hours per week of language instruction, scheduled within the timetable or after school, and is delivered by native-speaking teachers. German Mother Tongue includes preparation for exams such as DSH or Goethe.	Language provision The school follows the National Curriculum for England. Arabic is taught; 93% of children achieve at or above the expected standard in Arabic. 95% of children achieve international standards in English, Mathematics and Science.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching English is the school's medium of instruction. Arabic is mandatory for all students up to Year 12. Arabic A is for Arab students; Arabic B is provided for non-Arabs, with beginner, intermediate and advanced groups at every year level. From Year 3, students choose between French, Spanish or Mandarin as an additional language.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Mother Tongue Programmes are offered in French, Spanish, Russian, Hindi and German, taught by native speakers and scheduled during the school day or after school. The programme provides two to three hours per week of language instruction for native-speaking children to maintain their home language, with groups taught in year levels and new groups joining as needed. German Mother Tongue is available with small groups of up to eight participants and includes language development and exam preparation (e.g., DSH or Goethe).	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions RIS Dubai admissions intake is primarily in September, but spaces may be available throughout the year depending on capacity. To begin the process, complete the Online Application Form. An assessment/interview for FS1 to Year 13 is conducted 9:00 am to 11:00 am, Monday to Thursday, by appointment only. There is a non-refundable AED 525 assessment fee payable on the day of the assessment. After the assessment, a senior academic team member reviews the results and prior school reports; a formal offer letter is issued within 2 working days and is valid for five days from receipt. If no place is available at the time of application, the child is placed on a waiting list and notified when a place becomes available. The Admissions Office is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm on site.	Admissions 1. Submit your application and register on the admissions portal. Prepare and upload the required documents: a copy of your child's recent school reports; a copy of the child's passport and Emirates ID; copies of both parents' passports and Emirates IDs. The admissions team reviews submissions and will guide you through the next steps. 2. Pay the AED 525 non-refundable application fee. Payment can be made in person at City of Arabia, by bank transfer, or by credit card. Book an assessment slot; current options are Tuesday 14:00-16:30, Thursday 14:00-16:30, or Friday 10:00-12:00; assessments may also be conducted online for overseas applicants. 3. For overseas families, residency visas are not required at the time of application but must be submitted to KHDA by the KHDA registration deadline. For Dubai-based applicants, a KHDA Transfer Certificate from the current school is required to register. All children entering Year 2 and upwards from overseas or another emirate must provide an original Transfer Certificate. 4. After submission and assessment, the admissions team will contact you to schedule an assessment and communicate admission decisions. Registration requires KHDA Transfer Certificate; without it, registration cannot proceed. The school reserves the right to place your child in the most suitable class according to KHDA guidelines. 5. Campus tours can be booked to learn about VHPS City of Arabia. VHPS COA accepts children from ages 3 to 11, covering Foundation Stage 1 to Year 6. The school is located in Dubailand with a bus service that operates on multiple routes. Fees for 2025-26 are: FS1 40,000 AED; FS2 44,000 AED; Year 1 48,000 AED; Year 2-3 51,000 AED; Year 4-5 55,000 AED; Year 6 57,000 AED.
Scholarships	Scholarships The ACES Scholarship Programme provides merit-based scholarships across three categories: Sports, Academic and Co-curricular, and Emirati Distinction. It is open to students from Year 5 to Year 13 for the next academic year and is awarded as a percentage of KHDA approved annual school fees, up to 20%. The closing date for applications is July 1 each year, and successful applicants are informed at the start of term one of the following academic year. The scholarship may include tailored internships, targeted academic mentorship, personalized performance pathways, and student leadership opportunities.	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist If there are no places available, the student is placed on a waiting list and notified when a place becomes available.	Waitlist —
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