Вопросы и ответы

FAQ School of the Future
General Information
    1. What is the school’s educational philosophy?
    – The core philosophy and mission of our school—as a school of the future—is to prepare students for that very future. The future is uncertain, complex, and unpredictable. No matter how skilled we may be at forecasting, we cannot fully anticipate what lies ahead. New technologies may emerge, and unforeseen global events—such as those we've all witnessed in recent years—can drastically shift the landscape.
    Therefore, the central goal of our school is to equip students for a future that is inherently unknown. To do this, we believe the most essential qualities our students must develop are adaptability, resilience, self-care skills, and the ability for lifelong learning.
    Everything we do at school, beginning from the preschool level, is designed to foster these qualities. At the preschool stage in particular, our focus is on helping children realize that they are capable of acting independently in the world. This sense of agency—a well-established concept in education—is foundational.
    Rather than imposing rigid structure or discipline, we strive to create an environment where children can explore the world freely—through touch, taste, sound, and scent—using all their senses. We provide space for exploration and a flexible daily rhythm, avoiding overly strict schedules such as “now we play, now we do rhythmics, now we sculpt,” in favor of more freedom. While some aspects of our approach may resemble elements of the Montessori philosophy, we are not a pure Montessori school—we selectively integrate methods that support our goals.
    Ultimately, our aim is to nurture in children the belief that they are capable of initiating action, asking questions, seeking answers, and creating their own tasks and activities—not just following adult instructions. This foundational sense of agency sets the stage for the development of adaptability and self-directed learning, which are essential for thriving in an unpredictable future.
  • 2. What curriculum does the school follow (e.g., British, American, etc.)?
    – The school offers two main curricula: the British International Curriculum and the Russian State Curriculum. In the early years, instruction is separated based on the chosen track. The British curriculum is taught entirely in English, while the Russian curriculum gradually increases the percentage of instruction delivered in English, except for subjects such as Russian language and literature. Both curricula aim to balance academic content with soft skills development.
  • 3. Is the school accredited, and by which organizations?
    – Our school holds a commercial license, which is a mandatory requirement for all legal educational institutions in the UAE.
    Currently, we are in the final stages of obtaining accreditation from the UAE Ministry of Education (MoE).
    Additionally, we are in the process of receiving official Russian state accreditation, and we are already a member of the Association of Russian Schools Abroad.
  • 4. What are the school’s operating hours?
    – The core school day runs from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Parents may pick up their children earlier if preferred.
  • 5. Does the school offer before/after-school care?
    – Yes, the school provides extended hours and various extracurricular activities after regular lessons.
  • 6. What languages of instruction are used?
    – Instruction is delivered in both English and Russian, depending on the chosen curriculum. Arabic is mandatory as per the Ministry of Education. Additional foreign languages include French, German, Spanish, and Chinese. Other languages may be offered based on demand.
  • 7. Does the school provide support for non-native English speakers?
    – Yes, students wishing to join the British program must pass an English language assessment. If the student’s English proficiency is not sufficient, they may receive supplementary English instruction in the afternoon to help them transition into full English-language learning.
Admissions & Enrollment
  • 8. What is the admissions process, and what documents are required?
    – Admission to the British track requires a language proficiency test. Required documents include vaccination certificates and allergy information. Further details are provided during the admissions consultation.
  • 9. Are there any entrance exams or assessments for students?
    – Yes, we will definitely be conducting assessments. First, there will be an English language test for group placement purposes. Second, there will be a mathematics test, and potentially additional assessments focused on logical reasoning and cognitive speed, depending on the student’s grade level.
    These evaluations serve two primary purposes: firstly, to help us effectively place students into appropriate groups; and secondly, to better understand each student’s starting level, allowing us to offer the most suitable learning path for their development.
    Further details regarding the content and format of the entrance assessments will be communicated closer to the date of administration.
    It is important to note that these assessments are not intended to be selective or exclusionary. Their purpose is strictly diagnostic and placement-oriented, designed to ensure each child is matched with the most appropriate group and program for their needs.
  • 10. What is the age cutoff for each grade level?
  • 11. Does the school have a waiting list?
    – Yes, we currently have a waiting list, which as of today includes approximately 200 families.
  • 12. Are siblings given priority in admissions?
    – Yes, absolutely. As long as there are available places at the school, siblings are given priority in the admissions process. Additionally, families enrolling two or more children simultaneously may be eligible for a discount, subject to the terms of the enrollment agreement.
  • 13. Is there a trial period for new students?
    – Yes, a trial period is possible, although it is relatively brief. In most cases, it consists of a single day, allowing the child to experience the school environment, get a general impression, and begin to understand what it would be like to study with us. We are able to offer this opportunity in certain individual cases.
  • 14. What is the withdrawal process if we need to leave the school?
    – Details on the withdrawal policy, including notice periods and procedures, are provided in the parent-school agreement. (To be confirmed with official documentation.)
Academic Program
  • 15. How does the school assess student progress (e.g., exams, continuous assessment)?
    – The school uses a combination of formative and summative assessments to track student progress. Emphasis is placed on individual growth over absolute academic performance.
  • 16. What is the average class size and student-to-teacher ratio?
    – Each class has a lead teacher and an assistant, ensuring individualized attention. (Exact ratio TBD.)
  • 17. How are teachers recruited and qualified?
    – Teachers are required to undergo specific training aligned with the British and Russian curricula, as well as internal professional development programs.
  • 18. Does the school offer Advanced Placement (AP), IGCSE, A-Levels?
    – We are planning to offer IGCSE and A-Level programs based on the British curriculum in the near future.
  • 19. How does the school support students with learning differences or special needs?
    – The school is inclusive and prioritizes student development over selection. Each child is supported to progress at their own pace, and additional support services are available as needed.
  • 20. Are there gifted and talented programs for high-achieving students?
    – Yes, we support gifted and high-achieving students through a variety of approaches:

    Flexible level-based grouping in subjects like Mathematics and English — students are placed according to their current proficiency level rather than just their age or grade.

    Choice within learning modules — students will have the opportunity to select additional challenges and tasks based on their individual learning pace and interests.

    Extra-curricular enrichment programs — we will offer advanced and Olympiad-level courses in the afternoons for deeper subject exploration.

    Specialization in senior grades — in Grades 8–9 (equivalent to British Year 10–11), students choose several core subjects for in-depth study. They will also have the option to pursue these at an advanced level (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Math, Geography), creating personalized academic paths based on their strengths and aspirations.
  • 21. What is the homework policy?
    – We follow a flexible and student-centered homework approach. Instead of assigning fixed homework to all students, we provide each learner with a clear daily task plan. For example, a student might have 10 tasks to complete during a lesson.

    If they complete all tasks efficiently during class, there is no additional homework.

    If they are distracted or don’t finish all tasks, the remaining part becomes their homework for the day.

    This approach encourages students to use class time effectively and rewards focus and self-discipline.
    Naturally, we carefully balance the workload — the goal is not for everyone to finish early, but for about 10–15% of highly efficient students to potentially complete the full plan in class. Others will take home only the work they didn’t manage to complete during the lesson.
  • 22. How often are parents updated on their child’s progress?
    – Regular updates are provided through communication with teachers and formal reporting.
Extracurricular Activities
  • 23. What sports, arts, and clubs are available?
    – The school offers a broad extracurricular program, including robotics, programming, theater, arts, leadership clubs, and more. The range of activities will grow as the school expands.
  • 24. Are there competitive sports teams or inter-school competitions?
    – Yes, we offer competitive sports teams in football, basketball, and swimming. We actively plan to participate in inter-school competitions across these disciplines, and the list of sports will continue to expand as our program grows.
  • 25. Does the school organize field trips or educational excursions?
    – Yes, educational outings and holiday excursions are part of the school's program.
  • 26. Are there music, drama, or fine arts programs?
    – Yes, the school offers drama, music, and visual arts activities, including school performances.
  • 27. Is there a school choir, band, or theater productions?
    – The school will include theatrical performances and may introduce choirs and bands based on interest.
Facilities & Safety
  • 28. What security measures are in place (CCTV, guards, access control)?
    – The school has a comprehensive security system in place:
    CCTV surveillance will be operational throughout the school premises.
    Professional security staff will be present on-site.
    Access to the school is strictly controlled. Even parents may only enter the school by prior appointment.
    Every day, parents drop off their children at the main reception area, from where the children proceed to their classrooms independently. This protocol applies to all age groups, including preschoolers (younger children are met and accompanied by staff, while older students go on their own).
  • 29. Does the school have a nurse or medical emergency protocols?
    – Yes, the school fully meets the standard medical requirements for educational institutions:
    There will be two on-site medical professionals, one male and one female doctor, to provide care according to gender-based norms where applicable.
    The school conducts emergency drills and maintains protocols for various types of health and safety emergencies.
    Information about students’ allergies and vaccination history is collected in advance to ensure that staff are fully informed of any health risks.
  • 30. Are the facilities modern and well-maintained (labs, library, sports facilities)?
    – Absolutely. Our facilities are modern and well-equipped. We have state-of-the-art science laboratories, a separate library building with a reading room, a swimming pool, a football field, and two multi-purpose sports halls. These halls are adaptable for various sports such as basketball, volleyball, tennis, and dance.
  • 31. Is there a cafeteria, and what are the meal options?
    – Yes, the school offers meals, and parents have several options:
    Families may select from available meal options based on dietary preferences.
    If a child requires highly specific or personalized meals, parents are welcome to send food from home in a lunchbox.
    Students will have access to facilities for reheating food independently.
  • 32. How does the school handle allergies and dietary restrictions?
    – The school takes food allergies very seriously:
    A list of prohibited food items will be established—for example, nuts will be entirely banned from being brought to school, even in a child’s backpack.
    Any restricted food items brought in will be confiscated for safety reasons and may only be collected upon exiting the school.
    This policy is strictly enforced to protect students with severe allergies.
  • 33. What is the school’s policy on bullying and disciplinary actions?
    – We have a clear and transparent anti-bullying and disciplinary policy, published on our website as part of our academic policies. Any case of bullying is treated with the utmost seriousness. An investigation is launched immediately upon receiving a report — whether from a teacher, tutor, student, or parent.
    The process involves the Head of Pastoral Care, the Well-Being Officer, relevant tutors, and if needed, senior leadership. Our school prioritizes safety, openness, and child well-being. We maintain transparency through both policy and design — for instance, open communal areas help deter inappropriate behavior.
    Disciplinary actions are handled case-by-case, with a focus on safety, fairness, and restorative solutions. Psychological support and preventive measures may be applied when needed.
Fees & Financial Policies
  • 34. What is the tuition fee structure, and what does it include?
    – The tuition fee structure is outlined in the official school fee table. Tuition includes all academic expenses and textbooks.
  • 35. Are there additional costs (uniforms, trips, exams, materials)?
    – Yes. While tuition covers all academic fees and textbooks, the following are charged separately: School uniform, Meals, Transportation, Field trips and excursions, External examination fees (e.g., IGCSE, A-Level), Some extracurricular activities or premium clubs.
  • 36. Is there a sibling discount or scholarship program?
    – Yes. Siblings are given priority in the admissions process, and families enrolling two or more children may be eligible for a sibling discount, subject to the terms of the enrollment agreement.
    At this time, there is no formal scholarship program in place.
  • 37. What payment methods and installment plans are available?
    – The school accepts the following payment methods:
    Cards issued outside Russia, including local UAE cards.
    Cards issued in Russia.
    Cryptocurrency wallets.
    Bank transfers to either Russian or international accounts.
    Cash payments.
    Installment plans can be discussed individually with the admissions office.
  • 38. Are there penalties for late payments or early withdrawal?
    – Currently, no penalties are applied for late payments or early withdrawal.
    (Please note that this policy may be subject to change and will be outlined in the parent-school agreement.)
Parental Involvement & Communication
  • 39. How can parents communicate with teachers and administration?
    Parents will have several channels for communication. The primary point of contact will be a dedicated school curator or tutor, who will serve as the parent’s main liaison and will have full knowledge of the child’s progress and well-being.
    Communication with teachers is possible through this curator: if a meeting with a teacher is necessary, it can be arranged via the curator. However, teachers are not to be contacted directly without coordination, unless specifically required, in order to respect their workload.
    If a parent has questions or concerns, they should first contact the curator, who can either address the issue or escalate it to the head of the tutor team, the Vice-Principals, or even the Senior Leadership Team, depending on the seriousness of the matter.
    The school also supports open dialogue with groups of parents, such as through a Parent Council, which may submit collective proposals or concerns.
  • 40. Are there regular parent-teacher meetings?
    – Yes. Parent-teacher conferences will be held once per trimester. Parents will be able to schedule a dedicated time slot to meet with teachers either in person or via Zoom. These sessions are an opportunity to discuss the child’s progress, achievements, and any areas of concern. This meeting is structured and pre-booked to ensure meaningful, uninterrupted dialogue.
  • 41. Does the school have a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA)?
    – While a formal Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) is not explicitly mentioned, the school supports a Parent Council or similar parent group. This body can initiate proposals or voice collective concerns to the school administration, and the school welcomes a collaborative approach to finding solutions.
  • 42. How are school announcements and updates shared (email, app, website)?
    – Parents will receive regular updates through multiple channels:
    The school will use a web-based Parent Portal, with updates provided approximately once a month. This will include feedback about the child’s current progress.
    Teachers may provide additional comments more frequently at their discretion, particularly if they wish to highlight a child’s achievements or areas for growth.
    The school is currently considering a mobile app, but a web version of the portal is confirmed and will definitely be available.
    In case of urgent or broader communications, email or the Parent Portal will be the primary platforms used.
School Calendar & Holidays
  • 43. What is the academic year structure (terms, breaks, holidays)?
    – The academic year at our school follows the official UAE school calendar and consists of three terms:
    • Term 1: August 26, 2024 – December 15, 2024
    Winter Break: December 16, 2024 – January 5, 2025


    • Term 2: January 6, 2025 – March 23, 2025
    Spring Break: March 24 – April 13, 2025


    • Term 3: April 14, 2025 – June 27, 2025 (minimum)
    Summer Break: From June 30, 2025
    In addition to regular breaks, the school observes all official UAE public holidays, including UAE National Day, New Year, Eid holidays, and others.
    During Ramadan, the school day may be shortened (typically 8:30–13:15), in accordance with national guidelines.
  • 44. Does the school follow local or international holiday schedules?
    – The school follows the official UAE public holiday calendar. Additionally, we observe traditional international breaks — such as extended holidays around Christmas and Easter — in line with the practices of international schools.
  • 45. Are there summer/winter school programs?
    – Yes, during school holidays, we offer optional programs for students.
    In summer, these include both on-campus and off-campus camp formats. Similar options are available during trimester breaks, including winter holidays.
    While some periods — such as major international holidays — may be limited due to staff vacations, the school aims to offer enriching programs throughout the year where possible.
Transition & University Preparation
  • 46. What university/career counseling services are available?
    – University counseling is an integral part of our academic program. Since international exams require students to submit university applications with predicted grades approximately one year before graduation, the school actively supports students in this process.
    We assist with choosing suitable universities based on each student’s predicted results, academic trajectory, and personal aspirations.
    Applications are prepared in coordination with the school team, ensuring that choices align with realistic admission chances and academic goals.
  • 47. Does the school help with university applications (UCAS, Common App, etc.)?
    – Yes, the school provides full support with university applications, including through platforms such as UCAS and the Common App.
  • 48. What are the school’s recent university placement results?
    – As this is the school’s first academic year, our students are yet to begin their university application journey. Placement results will be available once our first cohort graduates.
COVID-19 & Health Policies
  • 49. What health and hygiene protocols are in place?
    – The school’s official health and hygiene protocols will be published on our website and will comply with all national education and health regulations.
  • 50. Does the school offer remote learning options if needed?
    – Yes. Remote learning is available in two cases:
    1. If mandated by medical regulations (e.g., during public health emergencies such as COVID-19), in line with the directives of the UAE Ministry of Education and the Ras Al Khaimah Education Department.
    2. In specific individual cases as part of learning support for students who require special arrangements.
    However, the school’s primary mode of instruction is in-person learning.

Religious and cultural questions
  • 51. Do you teach the Quran? What if my child is not Muslim?
    – Islamic Studies is a mandatory subject for all students, as required by the UAE Ministry of Education. The curriculum includes topics such as the Quran in accordance with official guidelines.
  • 52. Do you have separate classes for boys and girls?
    – No, classes are co-educational. Boys and girls learn together.
  • 53. Do you adjust the schedule during Ramadan?
    – The school is open to adjusting the schedule during Ramadan if there is a clear need or request from families. As the number of students for whom this is relevant is currently limited, no final decision has been made yet. Any accommodations will be considered in consultation with parents.
  • 54. Can my child skip Islamic studies classes?
    – No. Islamic Studies is a compulsory subject for all students, regardless of religion, as per the UAE Ministry of Education requirements.
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