The Apple International School vs The Westminster School

	T The Apple International School Dubai, United Arab Emirates	T The Westminster School Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 6,993 - 20,131	Fees / year AED 9,930 - 18,771
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,036	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size 25	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The Apple International Community School is located at 29A Street, Behind Karama Centre, near Karama Park in Al Karama, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It sits in central Dubai in a densely developed area with convenient road access. The Karama Centre reference point and the Al Karama address help nearby residents identify the campus easily.	Location The Westminster School is in Al Qusais 1, Dubai, located on School Zone – Baghdad Street (10th Street). The campus sits in a busy residential and commercial area in the Al Qusais district. It is accessible by car via the E311 corridor and Baghdad Street, and by public transport with the Dubai Metro Green Line stopping at Al Qusais and several nearby RTA bus routes. The school's address is Al-Qusais1, School Zone, Baghdad Street, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Stages	Stages Foundation Stage (FS1–FS2) prepares children aged 3–5. Primary covers Year 1 to Year 6, and Lower Secondary covers Year 7 to Year 9. KHDA data also shows the UK National Curriculum framework extending to Year 10 in the school's profile.	Stages Foundation Stage to Year 13. Foundation Stage includes FS1 and FS2; Primary covers KS1 and KS2; Secondary covers KS3 and KS4; Sixth Form includes Year 12 and Year 13.
School type	School type Co-educational private day school. The school operates under LEAMS Education and delivers a British curriculum in Dubai. The KHDA inspection confirms the school uses the UK curriculum and serves both boys and girls.	School type Co-educational (mixed gender) day school; there is no boarding facility.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Public data from KHDA's DSIB (2023–2024) lists 1 Emirati student out of 1,036, with the largest nationality group being Indian; total enrollment was 1,036 students. This implies a predominantly international pupil body with a single local student in that inspection period.	Pupil nationality mix The school draws students from over 70 nationalities. The largest nationality group is Pakistani, and there are 68 Emirati students; total enrollment is reported around 5,224, indicating a predominantly international student body.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school supports learners with additional needs and requests relevant documentation (e.g., IEPs or therapy reports) as part of the admissions process. KHDA's Dubai Schools Inspection notes ongoing provision for learners with diverse needs and reports on the school's care and support as part of its overall assessment.	Additional learning support The school operates an inclusion framework aligned with Dubai's Inclusive Education Policy, with a Head of Inclusion and an Inclusion Governor to coordinate support. The regulator KHDA notes provision for students of determination, with 188 such students enrolled.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation United Kingdom. The school follows the English National Curriculum (UK curriculum) as part of its stated curriculum.	Country affiliation United Kingdom. The Westminster School follows the National Curriculum for England and delivers a British curriculum.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation: None. The school follows the UK National Curriculum and UAE MOE requirements, with Islamic and Arabic studies taught as appropriate under KHDA guidelines.	Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation; the school emphasises Islamic education and Islamic values as part of the UAE context.
School day structure	School day structure The school's official working hours for the campus are: Monday–Thursday 7:30 AM–4:30 PM; Friday 7:30 AM–12:00 PM and 2:00 PM–4:30 PM; Saturday 8:00 AM–1:00 PM. These hours pertain to school administration and operations.	School day structure The typical day runs from 7:00 to 16:15, Monday to Thursday, with Friday from 7:00 to 12:00.
Bus service details	Bus service details The school provides outsourced student transport at an affordable cost, managed by a reputable transport company. Fees depend on the area of residence, with transport arrangements and routes coordinated by the school; the transport contact is transport@applecommunityschool.ae.	Bus service details Transport is outsourced to School Transport Services LLC (STS). Buses are equipped with video surveillance, GPS, and attendance scanners. STS is ISO 9001:2008 and OHSAS 18001:2007 certified and has received industry recognitions. Routes are checked after requests to ensure safe pick‑up and drop‑off points.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fee - Application fee: AED 525 (non-adjustable, inclusive of VAT), payable at the time of registration. Registration (enrolment) deposit - Registration fee deposit: 10% of the annual tuition fee. This deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable and may be adjusted against the first term tuition. Tuition fees by year group (annual and term breakdown) - FS1: Annual tuition AED 15,850. Term 1 (40%) AED 6,340; Term 2 (30%) AED 4,755; Term 3 (30%) AED 4,755. - FS2: Annual tuition AED 15,850. Term 1 (40%) AED 6,340; Term 2 (30%) AED 4,755; Term 3 (30%) AED 4,755. - Year 1: Annual tuition AED 16,980. Term 1 (40%) AED 6,792; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,094; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,094. - Year 2: Annual tuition AED 16,980. Term 1 (40%) AED 6,792; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,094; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,094. - Year 3: Annual tuition AED 17,980. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,192; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,394; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,394. - Year 4: Annual tuition AED 17,980. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,192; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,394; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,394. - Year 5: Annual tuition AED 18,499. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,400; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,550; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,549. - Year 6: Annual tuition AED 18,499. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,400; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,550; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,549. - Year 7: Annual tuition AED 19,131. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,652; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,740; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,739. - Year 8: Annual tuition AED 19,131. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,652; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,740; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,739. - Year 9: Annual tuition AED 19,550. Term 1 (40%) AED 7,820; Term 2 (30%) AED 5,865; Term 3 (30%) AED 5,865. - Year 10: Annual tuition AED 20,100. Term 1 (40%) AED 8,040; Term 2 (30%) AED 6,030; Term 3 (30%) AED 6,030. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is invoiced and payable in advance at the start of each term. Termly instalment option: Term 1 = 40% of annual tuition; Term 2 = 30%; Term 3 = 30%. - For instalment payments in the referenced school schedule, the first-term payment is due before 25 August 2025, with the remaining two term payments to be provided by post‑dated cheques dated 25 December 2025 and 25 March 2026. Cheques are deposited on their due dates and cannot be postponed. - Tuition invoicing begins from the student's date of admission; if a student enrols during the term, tuition will be charged starting from the beginning of the month of enrolment. Boarding fees - No boarding provision or boarding fees are listed; boarding is not applicable. Transport (bus) is offered as a separate charge. Other costs and fees - Transport: Bus/transport is charged separately and varies by area of residence. Transport is arranged through an associated provider; transport fees and route availability are provided by the school. The minimum period for transport is one month; one month's fee applies even if the student is enrolled for a shorter period. Transport fees are charged per term depending on commencement date. - Books and learning resources: The annual tuition includes books (workbooks and textbooks), e-learning resources and online apps, computer and laboratory resources, external exam fees, medical and related resources, and robotics. The tuition does not include optional Ministry books and optional French books. - Uniform: One set of regular uniform and one PE uniform is included in the annual tuition. Accessories, blazer and cardigan, and certain optional items are excluded; an additional charge of AED 30 applies for special-size uniforms. - Application fee is non-refundable in all circumstances. The registration deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. Specific transport discontinuation and refund rules apply to transport (see transport notes). Refund information - The application fee is not refundable under any circumstances. Refunds of school fees follow the school's published calculation method: for very short enrolments there are deductions (for example, if a student was enrolled for two weeks or less a month's fees is deducted according to the school's stated refund rules). Transport refunds and discontinuation are governed by transport-specific rules (minimum one month charge, term‑based charges). Registration deposit is non-refundable. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods: cash, credit card, and cheque payments at the school fee counter; online payment via the parent portal (transaction charges may apply, typically 1%); wire transfer (account details available from accounts representative). The school also supports payments through the Zenda mobile app and offers online “Pay Now” (credit/debit card) and “Pay Later” options. Important notes about discounts and inclusions - The published tuition schedule includes certain discounts applied to the KHDA‑approved fees; discount levels and the final discounted tuition are shown in the fee schedule. One‑time payment and sibling discounts have been offered under the school's published terms in previous fee schedules; details and eligibility are specified in the school's payment policy. The tuition inclusions and exclusions listed above apply to the published fee schedules.	Fee details Application fees - Application fee: AED 525 (one-time charge at the time of new registration). 5% VAT is applicable on the application fee. Tuition fees by year group (breakdown per term and total) - FS1 (Foundation Stage 1): Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 9,362.00; Term 1 AED 4,312.50; Term 2 AED 2,809.00; Term 3 AED 2,808.00; Total yearly fees AED 9,929.50. - FS2 (Foundation Stage 2): Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 9,362.00; Term 1 AED 4,312.50; Term 2 AED 2,809.00; Term 3 AED 2,808.00; Total yearly fees AED 9,929.50. - Year 1: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 11,565.00; Term 1 AED 5,193.50; Term 2 AED 3,470.00; Term 3 AED 3,469.00; Total yearly fees AED 12,132.50. - Year 2: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 11,565.00; Term 1 AED 5,193.50; Term 2 AED 3,470.00; Term 3 AED 3,469.00; Total yearly fees AED 12,132.50. - Year 3: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 11,565.00; Term 1 AED 5,193.50; Term 2 AED 3,470.00; Term 3 AED 3,469.00; Total yearly fees AED 12,132.50. - Year 4: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 11,565.00; Term 1 AED 5,193.50; Term 2 AED 3,470.00; Term 3 AED 3,469.00; Total yearly fees AED 12,132.50. - Year 5: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 11,565.00; Term 1 AED 5,193.50; Term 2 AED 3,470.00; Term 3 AED 3,469.00; Total yearly fees AED 12,132.50. - Year 6: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 11,565.00; Term 1 AED 5,193.50; Term 2 AED 3,470.00; Term 3 AED 3,469.00; Total yearly fees AED 12,132.50. - Year 7: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 12,482.00; Term 1 AED 5,560.50; Term 2 AED 3,745.00; Term 3 AED 3,744.00; Total yearly fees AED 13,049.50. - Year 8: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 12,482.00; Term 1 AED 5,560.50; Term 2 AED 3,745.00; Term 3 AED 3,744.00; Total yearly fees AED 13,049.50. - Year 9: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 14,686.00; Term 1 AED 6,441.50; Term 2 AED 4,406.00; Term 3 AED 4,406.00; Total yearly fees AED 15,253.50. - Year 10: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 14,686.00; Term 1 AED 6,441.50; Term 2 AED 4,406.00; Term 3 AED 4,406.00; Total yearly fees AED 15,253.50. - Year 11: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 18,203.00; Term 1 AED 7,848.50; Term 2 AED 5,461.00; Term 3 AED 5,461.00; Total yearly fees AED 18,770.50. - Year 12: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 18,203.00; Term 1 AED 7,848.50; Term 2 AED 5,461.00; Term 3 AED 5,461.00; Total yearly fees AED 18,770.50. - Year 13: Annual fee AED 367.50; Computer fee AED 200.00; Tuition fee AED 18,203.00; Term 1 AED 7,848.50; Term 2 AED 5,461.00; Term 3 AED 5,461.00; Total yearly fees AED 18,770.50. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition fees are payable in advance of attendance and are due prior to the start of the academic year; fees are invoiced from the time of admission and are payable at the start of each term. - When fees are collected as three instalments, the first instalment may be up to 40% of the annual tuition fee, the second instalment up to 30%, and the third instalment up to 30%. Schools may also choose to collect annual tuition fees as 10 equal monthly instalments. - Tuition invoices are issued to enable payment in advance of attendance; late or unpaid fees may lead to sanctions such as suspension of services or withholding of reports as set out in the school's fee and registration policies. Boarding fees - There is no boarding provision for this school; it operates as a day school. Other costs and fees - Computer fee: AED 200.00 per student (charged in the fee schedule). - Annual administrative/annual fee: AED 367.50 per student (charged in the fee schedule). - Transportation: Transport is charged separately by route. Example annual transport fees by route include AED 4,960; AED 5,220; AED 5,380; AED 5,690; AED 5,860; AED 6,930 depending on area/route. Booster pads/child seats are charged at AED 300 per seat per student. Transport fees are charged for the academic year and full payment for each term must be made irrespective of usage. - Uniform: A prescribed uniform is required and the school sets the uniform regulations; the uniform cost is not listed on the fee schedule. - VAT: 5% VAT is applicable on annual fees and on the application fee. Refund information - Application fee: refundable if the school does not offer a place; non-refundable if the school offers a place and the family chooses not to accept it (per the registration and refund rules). Registration deposits are deductible from the first term's fees where applicable. - Tuition fee refunds: tuition fees paid prior to the start of the academic year are refundable with the registration/re-registration fees deducted. If a student leaves after enrolment, deductions are applied depending on the period of enrolment (examples: if enrolled two weeks or less, a month's fees are deducted; if enrolled between two weeks and one month, two months' fees are deducted; if enrolled for more than a month, a full term's fees may be deducted). Refund calculations are applied according to the school's registration and refund policy. - Non-payment consequences: the school reserves rights such as suspension of access to learning, withholding of reports, and refusal to re-enrol for the following year for unpaid fees, as described in the registration and refund policy. Fee payment options - Use of the FAB GEMS co-branded credit card is accepted for payment of annual tuition fees and may provide discounts or promotional benefits when paying fees in advance. - Common payment methods used across GEMS schools include online payment via the parent portal, bank transfer (school bank details provided on request), and in-person payments at the school counter by debit/credit card, cheque or cash. Parents are invoiced in advance and payment methods follow GEMS payment procedures. (End of fees overview)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform includes 1 set of regular uniform and PE uniform; accessories, blazer and cardigan are not included. The uniform is included in the annual tuition.	Uniform requirement The Westminster School has a prescribed school uniform. The uniform includes a house-colour tie and belt, worn at all times. Uniforms are purchased from the school suppliers.
Food options	Food options —	Food options The School Cafeteria sells healthy snacks and drinks during break times. Hygiene and balanced nutrition are prioritized in food provision.
House system	House system Apple International Community School uses a house system to foster teamwork and leadership. Students participate in house-based activities and there are leadership roles and a student council as part of house life.	House system The Westminster School uses a house system; the House structure has been strengthened. Inter-House competitions, including the Annual Inter-House Sports Festival, are part of student life.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The Apple International Community School is governed by its Governing Body and is part of LEAMS Education. The Governing Body includes the Chair of Governors and other LEAMS Education directors; LEAMS Education provides governance and oversight for the school.	Governance and ownership The Westminster School is part of the GEMS Education group. As a GEMS school, it is accredited and affiliated with international education bodies, and KHDA rates it as Good.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The Apple International Community School in Dubai delivers a British-style education with the curriculum organized into Foundation Stage, Primary and Lower Secondary. Foundation Stage (FS1–FS2) follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework for ages three to five, preparing children for learning in Key Stage 1. Primary (Years 1–6) delivers the English National Curriculum, aligned with UAE Ministry of Education requirements, and includes Arabic A/B, Islamic Studies A/B, and Moral, Social and Cultural Studies, alongside Foundation Subjects such as Art and Design, Music, Design and Technology, Computing, Geography, and History. Lower Secondary (Year 7–9) provides a broad KS3 program with Core Subjects (English, Mathematics, Science) and Foundation Subjects (PE, Geography, History, Computing, Design and Technology, Art & Design, Music, Modern Foreign Languages) plus UAE MOE subjects (Arabic A, Arabic B, Islamic A, Islamic B, Moral, Social and Cultural Studies). The KS3 curriculum is described as tech-enabled, incorporating Robotics and Artificial Intelligence to develop 21st-century skills; published KS4/IGCSE details are not provided on the site.	Curriculum details The Westminster School Dubai follows the National Curriculum for England and prepares students for IGCSE, AS and A Level examinations offered by Cambridge and London boards. The Foundation Stage (FS1–FS2) uses the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, and Years 1–8 progress through NCfE with integrated STEAM and coding across the primary years. In Year 9 students begin IGCSE preparation, with Years 10–11 studying IGCSE subjects and Years 12–13 pursuing AS and A Levels. The core curriculum includes English, Mathematics, Science, Arabic, Islamic Studies, Social Studies and Moral Education, supplemented by humanities, languages, the arts, sports and technology, with Arabic ABT for eligible learners and emphasis on Digital Citizenship. The curriculum aligns with UAE MOE/KHDA requirements and the school holds a KHDA rating of Good.
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 The Apple International Community School prioritizes holistic social and emotional learning (SEL) through a formal wellbeing framework and a dedicated wellbeing team. The team includes the Principal (Leader of Wellbeing), the School Counselor, the Head of Inclusion and Wellbeing, Wellbeing Officers, the Inclusion Team, and Student Council, and they respond to students' personal, social, emotional, and academic concerns in a caring, non‑judgmental environment. Mental health awareness is embedded in the PSHE curriculum and the wellbeing programme, with the inclusion department coordinating well‑being activities and awareness weeks. A mindfulness programme operates as part of the wellbeing provision, including a Morning Mindfulness routine, breathing and reflection breaks, and daily gratitude, and it draws on the Oxford wellness curriculum and Jigsaw. The school maintains a wellbeing calendar and nurture initiatives (Nurture Hub) with partnerships such as Seeds Center and Thriving Souls to support student wellbeing, while staff receive regular safeguarding and mental health training as part of child protection CPD. The school emphasizes listening to the voices of children, teachers and parents and signposting to internal or external pathways for support, strengthening a school‑wide wellbeing culture.	Social & emotional learning The Westminster School uses a comprehensive Well-being Policy that promotes a whole‑school approach to students' social, emotional and physical well‑being. It defines five aspects of well‑being: culture, curriculum, policy and planning, relationships, and health, and aims to create a safe, respectful and equitable learning environment where students can express themselves. Resilience is embedded in the program, with life‑skills development such as stress management, conflict resolution and problem solving, supported by a multi‑disciplinary team including counsellors and mental‑health resources. The Well‑being Policy specifies a Well‑being Team, including roles such as Head of Pastoral, Head of Inclusion and student counsellors, alongside safeguarding colleagues, to identify and respond to well‑being needs. There is a central wellbeing resource hub, the TWS Wellness Web, hosting wellbeing information and guidance for students, families and staff.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Inclusion Department (ID‑AICS) leads SEND support and includes an Inclusion Governor, Inclusion Champion/Principal, Vice Principal, Leader of provision for Students of Determination, School Counselor, Special Educators, Learning Support staff, and Parents. The school uses a graduated approach with services such as initial screening, 1:1 interventions, small group intervention, in‑class support, modified/reduced curriculum, and exam access arrangements to meet diverse needs. Individualised Plans (IAP, ILP, IEP, BMP, BSP) are drafted to support learners with barriers to learning and are shared with parents and staff and reviewed termly. The Inclusion Team provides support for needs categorized under KHDA's Categorisation Framework and can coordinate with external providers if more intensive support is required. Admissions procedures for Students of Determination involve internal observations and assessments, with differentiated planning and accommodations to enable appropriate placement, including the development of Individual Education Plans in collaboration with parents and specialists. The school commits to inclusive education in line with KHDA and UAE law, seeking to remove barriers and ensure equal opportunities for all learners.	Special educational needs (SEN) The inclusion policy states The Westminster School is committed to inclusion and welcomes Students of Determination, providing appropriate provision, resources and curricular options in mainstream settings or in withdrawal settings where appropriate. The school follows the Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework, and an Inclusion Department coordinates support across the school, led by the Head of Inclusion and supported by Learning Support Assistants, Learning Support Teachers, Student Counsellors and a Career Guidance Counsellor. Identification and support operate through a three‑level model: Level 1 in‑class quality teaching, Level 2 Individual Education Plans, and Level 3 external specialists such as speech therapists, occupational therapists or psychologists. English language learners (ELL), learners with additional needs, and Gifted and Talented pupils are explicitly recognised, with regular progress follow‑ups involving parents. The Admissions process integrates inclusion considerations, with the Inclusion team assessing needs to determine appropriate support and accommodations.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose a separate EAL program in its published policies or public pages. The published materials describe inclusive education and support for students with special educational needs rather than a dedicated EAL service; external providers may be engaged if needs exceed standard school provision. Some curriculum pages indicate language offerings (e.g., Arabic language tracks and English‑language instruction within KHDA frameworks) but there is no explicit EAL policy or staffing detail described. The inclusion framework notes that support can be extended for students with various needs, including those requiring additional services from external providers. Admissions emphasize inclusion and appropriate placement for diverse learners, but EAL is not specifically documented as a distinct program. If EAL needs arise, the school can provide differentiated planning and accommodations as part of its inclusion approach.	English as an additional language English language learners (ELL) are explicitly identified within the Inclusion Policy as a learner group requiring attention. The Inclusion Department's staffing supports language needs, including Learning Support Assistants and a Head of Inclusion who coordinates language support within the school's broader inclusion framework. ELL and other language‑related needs are addressed through mainstream inclusion provisions rather than a separate stand‑alone EAL program published on the site. The Inclusion policy also notes that English language learners sit alongside other groups such as learners with additional needs and Gifted and Talented pupils, with parent involvement in ongoing progress discussions.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is a central element of the wellbeing policy, with a focus on promoting mental, physical and emotional health through the PSHE curriculum and wellbeing activities. The school runs a well‑being week and implements mental health awareness activities to educate students and staff safely and sensitively. The Mindfulness Programme includes a Morning Mindfulness routine, guided breathing, and mood checks, along with daily gratitude practices; the Oxford wellness curriculum and the Jigsaw programme underpin this approach. The Wellbeing Team (including a Wellbeing Governor, a School Counselor, and Inclusion leads) coordinates emotional, social and academic support and provides targeted, individualised assistance when needed. Staff receive regular child protection training as part of safeguarding and mental health CPD to recognize and respond to concerns. The school also runs nurture initiatives (Nurture Hub) and partners with external organizations (Seeds Center, Thriving Souls) to support wellbeing beyond the classroom.	Mental wellbeing Mental health and well‑being are central to The Westminster School's Well‑being Policy, which aims to empower students and staff to lead happy, fulfilling lives in a culture of tolerance, innovation and creativity. The policy outlines building life skills and resilience, including stress management and coping strategies, and specifies a Well‑being Team responsible for implementing wellbeing initiatives and monitoring cases. It designates roles such as Student Counsellors and Heads of Pastoral as part of the wellbeing structure, with staff training and a formal referral process for concerns. A dedicated wellbeing platform, the TWS Wellness Web, provides wellbeing resources and guidance for the school community. Early identification of wellbeing concerns is described, with staff able to refer to the Well‑being Team and to multi‑disciplinary support when needed.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is embedded in the school's wellbeing and inclusion practices, with a designated child protection and safeguarding officer and ongoing staff training as part of standard child protection CPD. The PSHE policy explicitly addresses safeguarding within personal, social, health and economic education, equipping learners to recognize risks and take appropriate action. The Wellbeing policy emphasizes systems for listening to children and signposting them to internal or external pathways for support, reinforcing safeguarding across the school. The Inclusion Head leads on safeguarding within the Inclusion Team and coordinates with staff and external specialists as needed. Staff are trained to recognize warning signs and are instructed to report concerns to safeguarding leads or emotional wellbeing leads as appropriate, with parents informed where relevant.	Safeguarding GEMS Safeguarding Policy provides the formal framework for safeguarding at The Westminster School, including a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and deputies responsible for safeguarding and child protection. The policy requires staff to undertake safeguarding training and to record concerns on the Guard safeguarding case management platform, with the DSL or Deputy DSL notified as appropriate. It aligns with UAE law (including Wadeema's Law) and local guidance, assigning responsibilities to the Central Safeguarding Team and an Allegations Manager for safeguarding matters involving staff. The school's safeguarding documents, including the GEMS Safeguarding Policy AY 2025‑26, are listed in the Key Documents and Policies and cover whistleblowing, complaints, and safer recruitment. These safeguards ensure procedures for reporting, safeguarding online safety, attendance, and bullying are embedded in policy and practice.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The Apple International Community School is located in Al Karama, Dubai, United Arab Emirates and operates as a LEAMS Education school offering British education. The school provides a safe, nurturing, and positive environment where every member of the community is valued. It offers outstanding academic, sporting, and performing arts facilities, including a football field, indoor swimming pool, lawn tennis and badminton courts, basketball court, dedicated music, drama, and visual arts rooms, a well-stocked library, and shared play areas for younger learners.	Facilities overview The Westminster School operates on a purpose-built campus to support learning across all phases. The campus houses 180 classrooms and a covered play area for Kindergarten. There are three libraries, music and art and craft rooms, an activity room, a clinic and multimedia facilities. Science and ICT facilities include six science laboratories and five computer rooms with internet and multimedia equipment. Outdoor spaces include a basketball court and an outdoor track.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The Apple International Community School provides a sprawling football field, an indoor swimming pool, lawn tennis and badminton courts, and a basketball court. These facilities support the school's broad sports programme as part of its British education offering.	Sports facilities The school offers a broad range of sports. Outdoor Sports include Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Football, Hockey, Throwball, Volleyball and Cricket. Indoor Games include Carom, Chess, Table Tennis and Gymnastics. The school provides a basketball court and an outdoor track to support practice and inter-school competition.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Foundation Stage follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework as part of an enriched version of the English National Curriculum. The Primary curriculum complies with the English National Programme and includes Arabic and Islamic Studies, Moral Education, and UAE Social Studies. Lower Secondary (KS3) includes core subjects (English, Mathematics, Science) and foundation subjects such as Physical Education, Geography, History, Computing, Art & Design, Music, PSHE for Non-Muslim Students, Design and Technology, and Modern Foreign Languages, plus UAE MOE Arabic A/B, Islamic A/B, and Moral, Social and Cultural Studies. The curriculum is tech-enabled and includes Robotics and Artificial Intelligence.	Academic facilities Academic facilities include six science laboratories for Biology, Chemistry and Physics, and five computer rooms with Internet and multimedia capabilities. The school also provides extensive audio/visual equipment and multimedia facilities to support teaching and learning.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The Apple International Community School offers opportunities in sports and performing arts, supported by facilities for football, swimming, tennis, badminton, basketball, music, drama, and visual arts.	Extra curricular facilities The Westminster School hosts inter-school events such as The Marathon and the Junior Soccer. Art, craft and music rooms support creative activities, providing a broad range of extra-curricular opportunities.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Apple International Community School (AICS) is the newest addition to LEAMS Education, a Dubai-based group that administers UK- and CBSE-curriculum schools. LEAMS Education has a history spanning more than 40 years in the UAE and operates multiple campuses offering British curricula. The Apple Nursery at Karama opened in 1981, The Oxford School began in 1984, The Apple International School started in 1994, and The Apple International Community School opened in Karama in 2021. AICS follows the English National Curriculum across year groups and emphasizes affordable, high-quality education with substantial facilities. Abdul Lahir Hasan serves as Chairman of LEAMS Education, anchoring the group's long-running commitment to education.	History The Westminster School, Dubai, was founded in 1995 and is located in the Al Qusais area. It is a private school that offers education from Foundation Stage to Year 13 and is part of the GEMS Education group. The school serves more than 5,000 students from over 70 nationalities, making it the largest English-curriculum school in the UAE. KHDA rates The Westminster School as Good. It has been recognized as a Microsoft Showcase School and a Common Sense Digital Citizenship Certified school since 2016.
Community	Community Apple International Community School is built on a safe, nurturing environment where every member of the community is valued and treated like family. The school's motto is Justice, Equality and Unity, guiding its approach to leadership and citizenship. It follows the National Curriculum of England across year groups and offers a broad co-curricular program that fosters leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurship. The campus provides facilities such as a football field, indoor swimming pool, lawn tennis and badminton courts, a basketball court, and dedicated spaces for music, drama, and visual arts, along with a well-stocked library. The school emphasizes strong partnerships between parents, staff, and peers as part of its community.	Community The school has an international character, with students from over 70 nationalities and a culturally rich environment that encourages collaboration across cultures. Students study and work with peers from diverse backgrounds, and the school offers widely diversified academic and extracurricular activities for the school community. A broad co-curricular program includes clubs such as the Environment Club, Multimedia Club (with TWS Radio and TWS Newsroom), Cultural Club and Literary Club, supported by student leadership and ambassador roles. Evidence of cultural programming includes International Day events, which bring together families to celebrate nations with stalls, displays and performances.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association LEAMS Education coordinates parent involvement through the LEAMS Gateway – Parent Portal, which The Apple International Community School uses to share updates and involve families. The LEAMS community emphasizes partnership with parents, students, and staff as a core principle of its schools. Parent testimonials on the AICS site show ongoing engagement and positive collaboration with teachers and school activities. LEAMS supports community development programmes and after-school and creative activities that involve families. In 2022, AICS students participated in the NASA Space Apps Challenge, achieving recognition in the Abu Dhabi region, reflecting family-supported, project-based learning.	Parent teacher association Parent involvement is not described as a formal PTA by name on the site; instead, parent participation is organized around events and communications. A signature event is International Day, where families are invited to participate and set up country stalls, with the program indicating participation from 67 nations. The school communicates with families through circulars describing events (for example, the International Day circular). Newsletters document cultural celebrations such as UAE Flag Day on 3 November 2025 and UAE National Day celebrations later in the month, illustrating ongoing family participation in school life. The student clubs and events shown on the site imply active family engagement in school life, even though a formal PTA body is not named on the site.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The Apple International Community School delivers a British education using the English National Curriculum in Primary. Foundation Stage (FS1 and FS2) covers ages three to five and prepares children for Key Stage 1. The curriculum includes Arabic A for Arab students and Arabic B for non-Arab students, Islamic A for Muslim Arab students and Islamic B for Muslim non-Arab students, and Moral, Social and Cultural Studies as required by KHDA. The Lower Secondary program (Year 7–Year 9) provides a broad, standards-aligned program with integration of UAE Ministry of Education subjects, and the curriculum is tech-enabled with Robotics and Artificial Intelligence to support 21st-century learning.	Academic & intellectual The Westminster School offers field trips, trekking, educational trips and projects. Debating, elocution and public speaking are provided as interest-based clubs. Inter House competitions include quizzes and essay writing, providing academic challenges beyond class.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The school provides dedicated spaces for music, drama, and visual arts. There are performing arts facilities and a well-stocked library to support reading and creative work. The infrastructure supports arts and creative pursuits as part of the overall curriculum and school life.	Arts & creative Arts and Craft, Creative Writing, Debating, Drama, Elocution/Public Speaking and Music are among the arts and creative activities. Mural Painting, Needlework and reading are also offered as part of the arts programme. These activities are guided by specialist teachers and run during the school day and after school.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English is the language of instruction. Arabic A for Arab Students and Arabic B for non-Arab Students are provided, as are Islamic A for Muslim Arab Students and Islamic B for Muslim non-Arab Students, in line with KHDA regulations. Moral, Social and Cultural Studies is taught from Year 2. Modern Foreign Languages are included as part of the Foundation Subjects within the curriculum.	Cultural & language Drama, Debating, Elocution and Public Speaking develop language skills and confidence. Reading is offered as part of the extra-curricular programme. Inter House competitions include public speaking and essay writing.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The school offers extensive sports facilities, including a sprawling football field, indoor swimming pool, lawn tennis and badminton courts, and a basketball court. There are dedicated spaces for music, drama, and visual arts, and shared play areas designed for younger learners. The provision aims to balance academic and non-academic pursuits to support holistic development.	Social & hobbies Many activities are team-based, enabling students to work together and develop social skills. Interest-based clubs provide opportunities to pursue hobbies and collaborative projects. The programme includes field trips and educational trips that encourage group exploration.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional Leadership Camps are offered as part of the extra-curricular programme. Activities are guided by specialist teachers, enabling students to develop new skills and talents. The programme supports leadership development and teamwork.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school provides a safe, nurturing, and positive environment. Its facilities support physical activity and wellbeing, including a football field, indoor pool, and multiple courts. LEAMS Education emphasizes state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities at an affordable cost, supporting holistic learning and lifelong development.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Inter House competitions are held in sports, public speaking, dance, quizzes, art, music and essay writing. Physical Education is part of the programme. Facilities such as a basketball court and an outdoor track support outdoor and sports activities.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The language of instruction is English. The Apple International Community School follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and the English National Curriculum.	Language provision —
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards The school is recognized by KHDA and the UAE Ministry of Education and has affiliations with Cambridge International, Oxford AQA, and Pearson Edexcel Boards. It has been named a Microsoft Showcase School and a Common Sense Digital Citizenship Certified school since 2016.
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations The Westminster School is a GEMS Education school in Dubai, established in 1995 in the Al Qusais area. It educates students from Foundation Stage through Year 13 (ages 3–18) and has a student population of over 5,000 from more than 70 nationalities.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Online Application: Complete the online enquiry and registration via the school's online portal. You will receive an online reference number and guidance on the following steps. The online portal centralizes submissions and communications. 2. Registration and Payment: Pay the AED 525 application fee online or by visiting the school. The fee is refundable if the school does not offer a place and non-refundable if a place is offered but not taken, and it is not deductible from the tuition. The school requests the listed documents and notes that the child's previous school reports will be reviewed, followed by an interview and a written assessment if required. 3. Assessment: The child is invited for an assessment or interview by the School Registrar. CAT4 or other written assessments may be used, or the previous school report may be reviewed. Results are notified by email or phone. 4. Admission Confirmation: The Admission Officer sends confirmation letters to successful applicants, subject to seat availability. A seat-confirmation deposit of 10% of total tuition is payable, non-refundable and deductible from tuition. The first term tuition and the annual fee are due within 10 working days of confirmation; if not paid, the admission may move to the waiting list. 5. Tuition Payment & Waiting: Tuition is payable at the start of each term and is structured in three terms. The seat confirmation deposit and first-term payment are due within 10 working days of offer; delayed payment may move the student to the waiting list. The fee structure is KHDA-approved and payments can be made by various methods. 6. KHDA & Eligibility: Admissions are subject to KHDA approval; KHDA regulations apply to all places. 7. Age & Year Placement: AICS places students in age-appropriate year levels in accordance with Ministry of Education and KHDA regulations. Use the country comparison to align grades with international naming conventions. Age as of August 31 maps FS1 to age 3, FS2 to age 4, Year 1 to age 5, Year 2 to age 6, Year 3 to age 7, Year 4 to age 8, Year 5 to age 9, Year 6 to age 10, Year 7 to age 11, Year 8 to age 12, Year 9 to age 13. 8. Location and affiliation: The Apple International Community School is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and is part of LEAMS Education.	Admissions 1. Admissions depend on vacancies in each class. There will be an entrance assessment prior to accepting a student. Registration is completed online through the school website. Places fill quickly, with admissions beginning for Foundation Stage 1 and Foundation Stage 2 in November; a waiting list is maintained with places allocated using fair and published criteria. 2. English is the language of instruction in all grades, and the ability to access the curriculum within a reasonable time is the guiding principle for admission. The English language assessment is essential. FS1 may be admitted even if English proficiency is not yet strong, while older year entries require basic competence in English (and Mathematics for some levels). 3. Admissions are governed by KHDA guidelines. The process includes entrance assessments for Years 1–11, and Year 12 entry is based on performance in prior board examinations (IGCSE and AS Levels) with minimum grade expectations. Registration and admission are completed online, and KHDA guidelines apply to all admissions. Documents are verified as part of the process. 4. The school year begins in early September and is divided into three terms. There are admission priorities for Emirati national students, staff children, and siblings, as well as transfers from other GEMS schools. The school maintains a waiting list when demand exceeds available places.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships The school offers sibling discounts and other discounts; the Fees and Payments page lists a 'Sibling Policy and other discounts' option.
Waitlist	Waitlist There is a waiting list for admissions when a place is not immediately available. Admission may be moved to the waiting list if the seat deposit or fees are not paid within the required timeframe, and seats are offered by turn.	Waitlist The Westminster School has a waiting list with places allocated using fair and published criteria.
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