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British School Salalah

Oman, Salalah

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees OMR 1,910 - 4,640
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 250
Type Co-educational
Opened 1970
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)
Taught languages Arabic, French
Strengths Outdoor Education, Languages, Sport
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Social and Hobbies
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction

British School Salalah is a not-for-profit British international day school for boys and girls aged 3–18. It follows the English National Curriculum and offers iGCSEs and International A-Levels. The school is located in the heart of Salalah, on Al Rakha Street (Way 33023, Building 44, Dhahriz), with the main postal address PO Box 71, 214 Salalah, Oman. The site is described as warm and welcoming, set in a green environment, and the curriculum integrates Oman's mountains, beaches, wadis and deserts to enrich learning. The school serves Foundation Stage through Sixth Form in small class sizes. It is COBIS-accredited and offers a broad enrichment programme, including expeditions and trips, languages, drama, and sport. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is available to senior students. The school emphasises pastoral care, wellbeing and global citizenship, preparing students for international higher education. Relocation support is available to new families. It helps settling and continuity.

Ar Rakha St, Salalah, Oman

The Essentials

British School Salalah has 250 pupils, instruction in English.

Location
British School Salalah is located in the heart of Salalah, on Al Rakha Street, Way 33023, Building 44, in the Dahariz area. The postal address is PO Box 71, 214 Salalah, Oman. The campus sits in central Salalah and is accessible by road within the city. It forms part of the local international school community.

Stages
The school serves children aged 3 to 18, from the Foundation Stage (FS1–FS2) through to Year 13, i.e., an all‑through setup with a sixth form. It follows the English National Curriculum and offers iGCSEs and International A‑Levels.

Type
The school is co‑educational and not‑for‑profit. It is a British international day school delivering a British‑style education, including iGCSEs and International A‑Levels.

Additional learning support
Special Educational Needs (SEN) provisions are limited; the school states it is currently unable to meet the needs of all children with learning difficulties, and the site is not accessible to children with significant physical disabilities.

Country affiliation
Affiliation is with the United Kingdom as a British international school. The curriculum is the English National Curriculum.

Religious affiliation
There is no explicit religious affiliation listed for the school.

School day structure
Foundation Stage runs from 7:30am to 1:30pm (with a staggered start). Primary runs from 7:30am to 2:00pm (staggered start), and Senior School runs from 7:30am to 2:00pm.

Bus service
A published bus service is not described on the school site; families should contact the school to discuss transport arrangements.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Uniform is simple and consistent across the school; all students from Foundation Stage 1 to Year 11 wear school uniform, while Sixth Form follows a dress code. The Uniform Shop stocks items including swimwear, bags, hats, sportswear and house shirts, and serves as a key purchasing channel. Parents may also buy uniform from other retailers. The shop is usually open during term time, prior to the start of each academic year and on orientation days.

House System
There are four student houses: Oryxes, Wolves, Falcons and Leopards. Senior School House Captains represent their houses and lead activities during Inter House Competitions and school events such as Sports Day. House points are awarded for attainment, effort and ethos, and students also fundraise for their chosen house charities.

Governance and Ownership
British School Salalah is a not-for-profit institution governed by a Board of Governors. Daily management is delegated to the Head of School, with the Board comprising local business and parent representatives and national-level oversight by the Chair of the British School Muscat; the school also works in partnership with British School Muscat. A Safeguarding Governor is shared with BSM.
Fees

Annual tuition at British School Salalah ranges from OMR 1,910 to OMR 4,640 for 2026/27.

Tuition fees (amounts in OMR)

- FS1–FS2: Term 1 OMR 770; Term 2 OMR 570; Term 3 OMR 570; Annual total OMR 1,910.
- Year 1–Year 2: Term 1 OMR 1,160; Term 2 OMR 870; Term 3 OMR 870; Annual total OMR 2,900.
- Year 3–Year 4: Term 1 OMR 1,220; Term 2 OMR 900; Term 3 OMR 900; Annual total OMR 3,020.
- Year 5–Year 6: Term 1 OMR 1,350; Term 2 OMR 1,010; Term 3 OMR 1,010; Annual total OMR 3,370.
- Year 7–Year 9: Term 1 OMR 1,620; Term 2 OMR 1,220; Term 3 OMR 1,220; Annual total OMR 4,060.
- Year 10–Year 11: Term 1 OMR 1,670; Term 2 OMR 1,250; Term 3 OMR 1,250; Annual total OMR 4,170.
- Year 12–Year 13: Term 1 OMR 1,850; Term 2 OMR 1,395; Term 3 OMR 1,395; Annual total OMR 4,640.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Fees are payable in Omani Rials (OMR). Term payment split: Term 1 = 40% of the annual fee; Term 2 = 30%; Term 3 = 30%. Invoices are issued at least two weeks before the end of the previous term. All fees must be paid in full on or before the first day of term. The school may charge interest for late payments and may take action in extreme cases; a dishonoured cheque is a criminal offence in Oman. Fees will not be refunded or reduced for pupils leaving unless prior notice of at least 30 days is given and this is agreed with the Head of School and the Accounts and Operations Manager.

Admissions / application fees and sibling discount

- Admissions Fee (one-off payment, secures the place):
- FS1 entry: OMR 300.
- Year 1 & Year 2 entry: OMR 400.
- Year 3 to Year 13 entry: OMR 450.
- Sibling concessions on the Admissions Fee: 25% off for a second child; Admission Fee waived for a third child (limited-time offer).

Boarding fees

- There is no boarding provision; the school operates as a day school and therefore does not charge boarding fees.

Other costs and fees (uniform, documentation and incidental charges)

- Uniform: School uniform is required. Uniform items are available through the school's uniform provision and orders are submitted to the school (uniform ordering and the uniform policy are administered by the school). Parents are instructed to complete the uniform order and submit it to the school administration. Specific uniform items and guidelines are set out in the school's uniform policy. Prices for uniform items are charged separately to tuition and are not listed as part of the term tuition figures above.
- Additional one-time or incidental charges (for example, assessment, exam fees, trips, resources or refundable deposits) are not detailed in the tuition schedule above and, where applicable, are billed separately. The school identifies and invoices these items as required.

Refund information

- Fees will not be refunded or reduced for pupils leaving unless prior notice of at least 30 days is given; any exception is managed in consultation with and at the discretion of the Head of School and the Accounts and Operations Manager. The Admissions Fee is a one‑off payment used to secure the place. The school reserves the right to withhold refunds where notice requirements are not met.

Fee payment options and bank details

- Accepted payment methods: cheque (payable to British School Salalah), cash payments accepted at the school office, and bank transfer. For bank transfers, parents should inform the school by email and include proof of payment. The school's bank details for transfers are provided below.

- Bank: Oman Arab Bank. Account name: British School Salalah. Account number: 3160 - 593800 - 501. Address: Sultan Qaboos Street, Ghubra, PO Box 2010, PC112 Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman. Swift code: OMABOMRU. Parents should notify the school by email with proof of transfer when paying by bank.
Academics

British School Salalah teaches British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage) for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum
The British School Salalah delivers a British-style education for ages 3–18 and follows the English National Curriculum, with COBIS accreditation. In Primary (Foundation Stage 1–2 and Years 1–6), the curriculum is the English National Curriculum contextualised for an international setting; Arabic begins in Year 1 and French is introduced in Year 5. In Senior School (Years 7–11), GCSE courses are offered in core subjects (Maths, English Language, English Literature, Biology, Chemistry, Physics) with Arabic and French also taught; Computer Science is available online. Key Stage 5 (A Levels) began in 2022, with A Level subjects varying by demand; FlexEd provides blended routes to GCSEs and A Levels through in-school, online and independent-study modes. Enrichment includes the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award for ages 14–18 and a programme of expeditions and trips to extend the curriculum.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Social and emotional learning (SEL) is supported by British School Salalah's Pastoral Care, which focuses on personal and social development and well-being as part of a broad, balanced curriculum aimed at building self-esteem and healthy lifestyle choices; this is reinforced by student leadership programs and a four-house system (Oryxes, Wolves, Falcons, Leopards) that promote responsibility, teamwork and social values, with House Captains leading activities.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The Admissions Policy states the school can provide support for English language acquisition and for pupils with certain special educational needs, but capacity is limited and significant additional support may not be available; pupils with additional needs are assessed to determine if the school can meet their needs, and if not, the school will help identify a more suitable placement.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Entry requirements require an age-appropriate level of English, and the Admissions Policy notes capacity to provide English as an additional language support; pupils with EAL or SEN will meet with staff to determine if the school can help them access the curriculum, and guidance exists on developing English as an Additional Language.

Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is supported through Pastoral Care, which aims to foster personal and social development and self-esteem, with additional structures such as the Student Leadership program and the House system that promote belonging, collaboration and social responsibility.

Safeguarding
Safeguarding is a core priority with clear procedures to safeguard pupils, families and staff and to promote welfare; all staff and volunteers are expected to uphold this commitment.
Parent Experience

History
British School Salalah was founded in 1970 by John Edwards MBE as the Salalah English Speaking School. It was granted a Royal Charter in 1973. The school moved to its current premises in 1980, and the new site was opened by British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher on 23 April 1981. In May 2019, BSS formed a partnership with British School Muscat, and governance has since come under that school. In 2022, COBIS Compliance was achieved, making BSS the only school in Salalah to meet COBIS standards.

Community
The school places emphasis on enrichment opportunities, with pupils going on day trips from Foundation Stage through Year 12 to learn about local businesses, history, science, geography and art. Residential and Edventure trips begin from FS1, with pupils exploring Oman's wadis, beaches, mountains and deserts. Primary students visit historical and UNESCO sites, forts, mountains, wadis and beaches, and Years 6–8 participate in activities such as orienteering and kayaking. Year 9 and above may participate in the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, the world's leading youth achievement award, which emphasizes service, physical recreation, skill and expedition components.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
FoBSS stands for Friends of British School Salalah, a committee of parents who help arrange community events and fundraise for school projects that benefit students. Core Members are the main point of contact for parents and the Head of School regarding events and fundraising, and they organize community events while prioritising fund use for the benefit of all students. Volunteers contribute their time on regular or one-off events, helping with projects such as the library, cooking, gardening and Sports Day, with responsibilities delegated by the Core Members. Existing BSS parents who want to join FoBSS can email islamt@britishschoolsalalah.com. FoBSS provides a structured channel for parental involvement in events and fundraising alongside the Head of School.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
British School Salalah sits on a green campus with dedicated spaces for different age groups. The EYFS has an outdoor play area, and there are dedicated Primary and Senior School blocks with modern classrooms and study spaces. The grounds include a well-equipped playground and an Astroturf area for year-round sports, plus state-of-the-art science laboratories for practical science learning. The school emphasises outdoor learning and uses Oman's environment to enrich the curriculum.

Sports Facilities
The Astroturf area is a key feature, supporting football, tennis and other activities throughout the year. A well-equipped playground provides space for outdoor activity during breaks and after-school hours.

Academic Facilities
The Senior School Block provides modern classrooms and study areas to support an advanced British curriculum. Science labs are described as state-of-the-art, enabling hands-on experiments and practical enquiry.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Enrichment programmes include Arts & Crafts, Board Games, Construction & Lego, Chess, Drama, Design Technology, Languages, Music, Photography, Science, Sport and Yoga.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The enrichment programme at British School Salalah includes clubs and activities with an academic focus, such as Science, Chess, Languages, and Design Technology. These offerings give pupils opportunities to pursue subject-specific interests and to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills beyond standard classes. The programme also extends learning through field trips addressing local history, science, geography, and art, as well as residential and Edventure experiences. Older students (Year 9 and above) may participate in the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, which emphasises service, skill development, physical recreation, and expeditions.

Arts & Creative
Arts & Crafts, Drama, Music, and Photography are core components of the enrichment slate. These activities provide formal and informal avenues for creativity, performance, and artistic skill-building beyond timetabled lessons. The enrichment menu supports a broad range of creative pursuits from Foundation Stage through Senior School.

Cultural & Language
Languages are included in the enrichment offerings, giving pupils opportunities to develop language skills beyond the classroom. Through Expeditions & Trips, students learn about local history, science, geography, and art, including visits to historical and UNESCO sites and outdoor environments. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award also fosters global citizenship and personal development, reinforcing intercultural awareness.

Social & Hobbies
Social and hobby activities are supported by Board Games and Chess as part of enrichment. The school further strengthens social life through the House System, where students participate in inter-house events and competitions, with House Captains leading their teams. Parents contribute to community life via Friends of British School Salalah (FoBSS), which coordinates community events and fundraising.

Community & Service
The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award includes a significant Service component for eligible students aged 14–18. FoBSS coordinates community events and fundraising activities that benefit students and school projects, with volunteers working on initiatives such as library, cooking, gardening, and sports-day support. The House System also includes fundraising for House Charities, integrating service into daily school life.

Leadership & Professional
Student Leadership is prioritised with a range of programmes and opportunities designed to develop leadership skills. Senior students hold House Captain roles, leading their Houses in inter-house competitions and events. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award also fosters leadership, independence, and project management alongside teamwork.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
The physical education programme runs from Foundation Stage to Year 12, emphasising participation, health, and lifelong exercise. Enrichment also includes Yoga as a wellbeing activity, supporting mindfulness and balance alongside sport. The campus features facilities such as an Astroturf area for versatile outdoor activity and sports, alongside modern science labs to support hands-on learning.
Languages

Language Provision
The school follows the English National Curriculum and uses English as the language of instruction. Arabic is taught as a language from Year 1, with specialist Arabic lessons beginning in that year. French is introduced in Year 5 as an additional language alongside Arabic. There is guidance on developing English as an Additional Language, indicating language support for non-native speakers.
Reputation

Awards
Finalist: British International School of the Year - Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2022. This status marks the school as a leading international school contender in 2022. Shortlisted: Digital Technology in Learning - International School Awards (ISC Research) 2022. This recognises excellence in applying digital technology to learning. Runner up: FlexEd with British School Muscat (ISC 2022). This acknowledges collaborative innovation in an online/online-plus learning program.

Accreditations
COBIS Accreditation: British School Salalah is COBIS-accredited, reflecting adherence to the Council of British International Schools' quality standards. The school holds a COBIS Patron's Accreditation Report (2023) following an accreditation visit from 28 February to 2 March 2023, with a prior compliance check in March 2022 and the next compliance check due in March 2027. COBIS represents over 250 British international schools worldwide, indicating the global standard of COBIS accreditation. The school is explicitly described as COBIS Accredited on its homepage.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Inquiries and document preparation. Read the Home School Agreement and the Admissions Policy before applying. Prepare the required documents and complete the Admissions Form.

2. Submit the application and space check. After you submit, the school checks whether a space is available for your preferred start date. If no space is available, the child is placed on the waiting list. You will be notified by email of the status within 5 working days.

3. Space availability and entry testing. Space availability triggers the assessment. If space is available, you will be asked to pay the Admissions Fee to hold the space, which is a one-off payment that secures the space; non-payment may lead to losing the place. Entry criteria vary by age and may include assessments or CAT tests: FS1-2 have an assessment day; Years 1-6 require CAT with age-appropriate tasks; Years 7-11 require CAT and an interview. SEND considerations are noted, and a positive reference from the previous school is required.

4. Offer, acceptance, and start arrangements. Following an offer, you will be contacted to pay the Admissions Fee to secure the space and confirm the start date. You will receive a formal offer letter and the Home School Agreement. Details about the first day, including uniform purchase, will be provided. Pupils can start within one week after receiving the offer once the tuition fees are paid.

Scholarships
There is no publicly advertised scholarship or bursary program. No information about a formal scholarship program is available on the admissions or fees pages.

Waitlist
If no space is available, a space is not guaranteed and the child is placed on the waiting list. The school informs applicants by email of the status within 5 working days. If a space becomes available, families proceed with the standard admissions steps, including any required testing or offers.
School Events
The school has not added events
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