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Downe House Riyadh

Saudi Arabia, Riyadh

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· Reviewed by · B2C Marketing Manager

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees SAR 54,855 - 97,520
Ages 2 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 300
Type Co-educational
Opened 2022
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum British Curriculum, BTEC Qualification, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Pearson Edexcel IGCSE
Taught languages Arabic, French
Typical class size 20
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Academic Enrichment
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Social and Hobbies
Stages Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Introduction

Downe House Riyadh provides a distinctive British education in the heart of Saudi Arabia, blending the heritage of its UK parent school with local culture. Opened in 2022, the school welcomes boys and girls in the early years (ages 2–9) and offers exclusively girls’ education from Year 5 through to Sixth Form. The campus features specialized facilities, including a 560-seat theatre, a semi-Olympic indoor swimming pool, and dedicated science and art laboratories. Students follow the British Curriculum, leading to IGCSE and A-Level qualifications, with a strong emphasis on Arabic and Islamic Studies to ensure cultural fluency. A standout feature is the "Impact and Competency Pathways" (ICPs), a unique programme integrated into the school day that allows students to build personalised portfolios in sports, creative arts, and academic research. With over 60 co-curricular activities, the school ensures a rich educational experience beyond the classroom.

Abi Alhasan Alhsry, Al Aqiq, Riyadh 13511, Saudi Arabia

The Essentials

Downe House Riyadh has 300 pupils, typical class sizes of 20, instruction in English.

Location
Abi Alhasan Alhsry, Al Aqiq, Riyadh, 13511, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The campus is located in the Al-Aqiq district of Riyadh.

Stages
The school serves pupils aged 2 to 18. It admits boys and girls in Pre-Prep and Lower Prep (ages 3-9) and is girls-only from Upper Prep (ages 9-18).

Type
Downe House Riyadh is a British international day school. It operates as co-educational in Pre-Prep and Lower Prep and becomes girls-only from Upper Prep onward.

Additional learning support
There is an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme and a dedicated Learning Support Department. EAL supports language development through group and one-to-one sessions, with additional resources and regular progress assessment. Learning Support provides Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and targeted, small-group support as needed; some specialist EAL tuition may incur additional charges.

Country affiliation
The school is affiliated with the United Kingdom as a British international school and follows a British curriculum as part of the Downe House international family.

Religious affiliation
There is no formal religious affiliation. Arabic and Islamic Studies are integrated into the curriculum to reflect Saudi context.

School day structure
Nursery, KG1 and KG2 begin with a drop-off at 7:30 am, start at 7:45 am, and are collected at 2:30 pm. Year 1 to Year 13 have a drop-off at 7:30 am, start at 7:45 am, and finish at 3:45 pm.

Bus service
There is no available information on school-provided bus service.
Diving Deeper
Fees

Annual tuition at Downe House Riyadh ranges from SAR 54,855 to SAR 97,520 for 2026/27.

Tuition fees — per term and annual

- Nursery:
Term 1: SAR 19,080
Term 2: SAR 19,080
Term 3: SAR 9,540
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 54,855

- Pre‑School:
Term 1: SAR 19,080
Term 2: SAR 19,080
Term 3: SAR 9,540
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 54,855

- Reception:
Term 1: SAR 19,080
Term 2: SAR 19,080
Term 3: SAR 9,540
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 54,855

- Year 1:
Term 1: SAR 23,320
Term 2: SAR 23,320
Term 3: SAR 11,660
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 67,045.

- Year 2:
Term 1: SAR 23,320
Term 2: SAR 23,320
Term 3: SAR 11,660
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 67,045.

- Year 3:
Term 1: SAR 27,560
Term 2: SAR 27,560
Term 3: SAR 13,780
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 79,235.

- Year 4:
Term 1: SAR 27,560
Term 2: SAR 27,560
Term 3: SAR 13,780
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 79,235.

- Year 5:
Term 1: SAR 27,560
Term 2: SAR 27,560
Term 3: SAR 13,780
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 79,235.

- Year 6
Term 1: SAR 27,560
Term 2: SAR 27,560
Term 3: SAR 13,780
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 79,235.

- Year 7:
Term 1: SAR 29,680
Term 2: SAR 29,680
Term 3: SAR 14,840
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 85,330.

- Year 8:
Term 1: SAR 29,680
Term 2: SAR 29,680
Term 3: SAR 14,840
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 85,330.

- Year 9:
Term 1: SAR 29,680
Term 2: SAR 29,680
Term 3: SAR 14,840
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 85,330.

- Year 10:
Term 1: SAR 31,800
Term 2: SAR 31,800
Term 3: SAR 15,900
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 91,425.

- Year 11:
Term 1: SAR 31,800
Term 2: SAR 31,800
Term 3: SAR 15,900
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 91,425.

- Year 12:
Term 1: SAR 33,920
Term 2: SAR 33,920
Term 3: SAR 16,960
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 97,520.

- Year 13:
Term 1: SAR 33,920
Term 2: SAR 33,920
Term 3: SAR 16,960
Annual (inc. 15% VAT where applicable): SAR 97,520.

Application, assessment, registration and deposit fees

- Application (administration) fee: SAR 500 (one‑off, non‑refundable).
- Assessment (professional evaluation) fee: SAR 1,000 (one‑off, non‑refundable).
- Registration (enrolment administration) fee payable after an offer is made: SAR 3,500 (one‑off, non‑refundable).
- Acceptance deposit to secure a place: 50% of Term 1 fees, payable within 7 days of the offer; this deposit is non‑refundable and is deducted from the first term's invoice.
- Note: VAT (15%) is applied to admissions fees for non‑Saudi families where applicable.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- All tuition invoices are payable in advance of each term. Indicative invoice issue and payment months for Academic Year 2025–26 are: Term 1 — invoice issued May, payment due June; Term 2 — invoice issued October, payment due November; Term 3 — invoice issued February, payment due March.
- Tuition may be paid in full at the start of the academic year or in three instalments, payable in advance of each term. A 5% discount is applied to full‑year payment when paid at acceptance (discount only applies where payment is made by bank transfer, cheque or cash).
- There is a late payment fee of SAR 2,000 per month (or part thereof) for overdue invoices. Post‑dated cheques may be accepted by arrangement to avoid late fees.
- Re‑enrolment / seat reservation: a SAR 5,000 seat reservation deposit is payable by the published deadline, followed by 20% of the annual tuition for the year group the child will enter; both payments are non‑refundable and will be credited against Term 1. Places unpaid after the deadline will be released.

Boarding fees

- There is no boarding provision listed for Downe House Riyadh. Boarding fees do not apply.

Other charges and typical additional costs

- School lunches, transportation, educational trips, and extracurricular activities delivered by external providers are not included in tuition and may incur additional charges. Minimum transport/excursion charge for class trips is SAR 50 plus any entrance/activity fees; residential trip charges vary and will be notified in advance. Public/external examination fees (e.g., IGCSE, A‑level) are charged to parents.
- Learning support and EAL/AAL charges where required: one‑to‑one learning support SAR 120 per lesson; small group learning support SAR 60 per lesson; EAL one‑to‑one SAR 4,100 per term; EAL small group SAR 3,100 per term; AAL one‑to‑one SAR 4,100 per term; AAL small group SAR 3,100 per term.
- Breakfast Club and After School Care: a 20% discount is available when a child registers for both provisions in the same term (charges apply; standard session cost is for one hour/5 days a week).
- Uniform: the school shop supplies uniform items; parents must purchase items listed as parent‑purchased on the uniform list from the specified sources.

Refund information

- Refunds are processed in accordance with Ministry of Education regulations and the school's fee policy. Deposits are non‑refundable except in exceptional circumstances.
- If fees were paid annually in full before the due date, a refund of remaining term(s) will be given provided one term's written notice of withdrawal is provided; the 5% annual payment discount will not be applied to any refund. No refund is given for casual absences, sickness, holidays, or periods of exclusion.
- Fees for pupils who join in‑term are calculated pro‑rata to the number of days remaining in the term but will not be less than 50% of the first term's fees.
Academics

Downe House Riyadh teaches British Curriculum, BTEC Qualification, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Pearson Edexcel IGCSE for students aged 2 to 18.

Curriculum
Downe House Riyadh delivers a seamless British education from Nursery to Year 13, combining the UK National Curriculum with the Downe House UK academic approach. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies are embedded in the core curriculum to provide cultural and linguistic balance. From Year 5 onward, lessons are taught by subject specialists across the curriculum. In Years 9–11, students follow the IGCSE programme with core subjects (English, Mathematics and the Sciences) and a range of options, with Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies continuing to be taught. In Years 12–13, students typically pursue A Levels, with BTEC qualifications also available as a pathway. Timetables are structured to encourage increasing independence in learners' study throughout the senior years.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Downe House Riyadh supports social and emotional learning (SEL) through a dedicated pastoral care framework aligned to the Cognita Be Well Charter. Pastoral care aims to nurture happy, resilient, and adaptable learners, with wellbeing at the heart of learning. Dedicated teachers provide personalised care, guiding each girl through her learning journey and helping build resilience and self-esteem. The school emphasises an all-girls environment and Downe House DNA values—Compassion, Collaboration, Resilience, Creativity, Aspiration, Communication, Outward Looking, and Digital Ready—to foster confidence and leadership. Be Well Charter is applied across daily routines, incorporating six pillars, healthy food choices, regular physical activity, and volunteering opportunities such as the Sparkle Foundation to support social engagement. This Be Well framework supports SEL within the school's broader wellbeing and safeguarding culture.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Learning Support for mild-to-moderate SEN is provided through a dedicated Learning Support Department. Every student requiring learning support has an Individual Education Plan (IEP) outlining specific strategies to access the curriculum. Specialist staff work closely with classroom teachers to ensure IEPs are embedded in lesson planning, with targeted support available in one-to-one or small-group sessions. The school describes its SEN provision as inclusive and delivered through the Learning Support Department rather than a specialist external centre. It does not indicate operating a dedicated specialist SEN institution.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English as an Additional Language (EAL) is supported through a comprehensive EAL programme. The EAL provision includes group sessions, one-to-one tuition, and access to online activities and mentoring. Students receiving EAL support are regularly assessed, with progress monitored and interventions adjusted as needed. EAL support may be identified at admission or as a student progresses through the school. Additional charges apply for specialist EAL tuition.

Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is central to Downe House Riyadh's Be Well Charter approach. The Charter guides practice across six pillars intended to support both emotional and physical health. Daily routines include regular physical activity and healthy food choices to promote wellbeing. The Sparkle Foundation partnership engages students and families in volunteering, helping build social connections and a sense of purpose. Wellbeing is embedded in the pastoral framework to ensure students are supported holistically.

Safeguarding
Downe House Riyadh commits to safeguarding by ensuring every child is protected and has a safe, inclusive environment. Safeguarding principles are universal and apply across Cognita schools, developed by the Cognita Safeguarding Specialist Team and aligned with international child-protection standards. Staff are educated about categories of abuse and their duty to act in the best interests of the child. The framework emphasises knowing the children well, offering timely support for adverse experiences, and empowering students to voice concerns. It requires that every adult who works with the school is safe to work with.
Parent Experience

History
Downe House Riyadh opened in 2022 as the Kingdom's first premium British girls' school, extending the Downe House UK ethos into Saudi Arabia. Downe House itself traces its origins to Downe House in Downe, Kent, founded in 1907 by Miss Olive Willis and Miss Alice Carver. By 1922 the school relocated to Cold Ash, Berkshire, bringing buildings from Kent and expanding facilities including classrooms, science laboratories, a library opened by the Duchess of Atholl, a gym and a swimming pool. The centenary celebrations included a service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, alumni reunions, academic conferences, and the commissioning of the opera Olive Triumphant. Downe House Riyadh is part of the Cognita family of Schools, aligning with the Downe House UK heritage while operating within Cognita's international network.

Community
Downe House Riyadh's community is anchored in the Downe House DNA, with eight core values—Compassion, Collaboration, Resilience, Creativity, Aspiration, Communication, Outward Looking, and Digital Ready—guiding learning, play, and personal development. An all-girls environment supports tailored learning within a British curriculum while integrating Arabic and Islamic Studies reflecting local context. Pastoral care emphasizes wellbeing through the Cognita Be Well Charter, safeguarding, and a partnership with the Sparkle Foundation for volunteering. The school presents a warm, caring community focused on wellbeing and development across the classroom, playing field, and stage.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Friends of DHR is the active parent volunteer group at Downe House Riyadh. It is described as the heart of the school community, with parent representatives organizing events and initiatives that enrich school life. The group works closely with the school leadership team, with regular committee meetings to plan activities that bring families together, celebrate milestones, and support the wider school community. Through these efforts, parents enhance their children's educational experience and contribute to the warm, inclusive spirit that defines Downe House Riyadh. Members engage in coordinating community initiatives as part of the school's broader engagement strategy.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The campus is designed by leading Saudi female architects and features state-of-the-art buildings. It includes dedicated libraries, science and IT laboratories, and music studios. A 560-seat theatre supports performing arts. An expansive sports complex includes an indoor swimming pool. The extended school day provides time for students to pursue passions beyond the classroom and to develop leadership skills.

Sports Facilities
The school has an expansive sports complex with an indoor swimming pool. Physical education is integrated into the Downe House Riyadh experience through its broad co-curricular programme. Learning on the playing field is a core part of the Downe House Riyadh DNA. The extended school day provides time for sport and other co-curricular activities.

Academic Facilities
The campus has state-of-the-art buildings with dedicated libraries, science and IT laboratories. Music studios support performing arts and creative learning. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are embedded within the core UK National Curriculum. Pupils prepare for IGCSE, BTEC and A-Level examinations. Timetables are structured to provide pupils with greater independence and time to read around their subjects.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Downe House Riyadh runs a broad co-curricular programme that includes creative arts, sports and personal development. The campus features music studios and a 560-seat theatre to enable performance and creative work. Co-curricular opportunities are underpinned by the Downe House DNA—emphasising collaboration, resilience, creativity and being outward looking. The extended school day provides time for co-curricular pursuits.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Impact and Competency Pathways (ICPs) are year-long programmes in Sports, Creative and Performing Arts, and Academic Exploration that run within the school day to help students explore their passions and develop key life skills such as leadership, resilience, teamwork and creativity. ICPs are structured yet personalised, allowing students to build portfolios and chart a pathway unique to their interests and strengths. The school follows a British curriculum pathway from Nursery to Year 13, with Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies embedded in core learning, and it prepares pupils for IGCSE, BTEC and A-Level examinations.

Arts & Creative
Performing Arts offerings include private music lessons, musical ensembles, school concerts and choirs, and drama provision to develop communication and creativity. The 560-seat theatre serves as the central performing arts facility with advanced audio-visual, acoustic and lighting design. The programme supports students of all ages to explore their artistic and musical potential beyond the classroom.

Cultural & Language
Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies are embedded in the core curriculum, reflecting a commitment to cultural heritage within a British educational framework. In Years 7–8, the curriculum includes Arabic, Islamic and Social Studies alongside the UK Key Stage 3 framework, and Years 9–11 focus on IGCSE with continued emphasis on Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies. In Years 12–13, A Level and BTEC pathways are offered with ongoing attention to Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies.

Social & Hobbies
Impact and Competency Pathways (ICPs) span across Sports, Creative and Performing Arts, and Academic Exploration, enabling cross-age collaboration and portfolio-building. The school promotes leadership, resilience, teamwork and creativity through these year-long programmes, integrating mentors and peers across age groups. The performing arts and sports facilities support broad participation and personal development beyond the classroom.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Sport is a core element of the holistic education, with a ‘Sport for All' ethos that encourages lifelong physical fitness and participation. Facilities include an indoor pool, basketball/football court, squash courts, and fitness spaces, supporting a wide range of age-appropriate activities and well-being initiatives. The performing arts and extended day also contribute to a balanced, well-rounded school experience.
Languages

Language Provision
Arabic Language is taught as part of the core curriculum, with Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies embedded across year groups. In Years 7 and 8, the programme is underpinned by an enhanced UK Key Stage 3 curriculum balanced with Arabic, Islamic and Social Studies. Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies continue to have dedicated time within the curriculum across Years 9–13. English as an Additional Language (EAL) is provided to support students learning in non-native languages, including group sessions, one-to-one tuition, and regular progress assessments.
Reputation

Awards
Top Global School in Arabic Benchmark Test (ABT) (2025): The school was recognized by ABT International as one of the top-performing schools worldwide for its exceptional provision and student achievement in the Arabic language.

Accreditations
COBIS (Council of British International Schools) – Member (Compliance): The school was awarded this status in July 2025, demonstrating that it meets rigorous international standards for safeguarding, student welfare, and governance.

BSME (British Schools in the Middle East): The school is a member of this leading network, which connects high-quality British international schools in the region and supports staff development and student enrichment.

AoBSO (Association of British Schools Overseas): Membership in this association connects the school with the UK government's Department for Education, ensuring it aligns with British educational standards overseas.

Pearson BTEC Approved Centre: This accreditation authorizes the school to deliver BTEC vocational qualifications, providing students with practical, career-focused learning pathways alongside traditional academics.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Centre: The school is an authorized provider of this prestigious youth achievement award, allowing students to gain recognition for their personal development, skills, and community service.

Cognita Family of Schools: Being part of the Cognita network ensures the school operates under a global framework of educational excellence and rigorous quality assurance.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Make an Enquiry. Connect with the Admissions Team, who provide a personalised and seamless experience. They will reach out to understand your family's needs and guide you through the next steps toward joining Downe House Riyadh. With limited availability in some year groups, families are encouraged to begin the process early to secure a place. The Enquiry Form can be completed online to start the process.

2. Visit Downe House Riyadh. Experience Downe House Riyadh firsthand with a personalised campus tour. The Admissions Team offers daily tours at convenient times, giving you the opportunity to explore facilities and meet the Leadership Team. Book a School Tour to arrange your visit.

3. Submit your application. Complete the online application form and upload the required supporting documents to take the next step toward joining Downe House Riyadh.

4. Assessment & Offer. After submitting the application, an assessment date will be scheduled and communicated by email. If applying from overseas, a remote assessment can be arranged. You'll receive the results within a few days.

5. Secure your place. To confirm your child's place, accept the enrolment offer, submit the required documents, and complete the enrolment fee within the given timeframe. A deposit of 50% of the first term's fees is required and is deducted from the first term's fees.

Scholarships
Downe House Riyadh recognises exceptional talent through a Scholarships Programme. Scholars receive mentoring, enrichment opportunities, and resources to help them excel. Applications involve an interview with members of the Senior Leadership Team, evaluation of previous school reports and accolades, and awards in the student's chosen field. Details on eligibility and application requirements can be requested from the admissions team.
School Events
The school has not added events
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