SIA Parent Contract and Handbook AY21/22

PARENT CONTRACT &
HANDBOOK
2021-2022

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Table of Contents

Table of Contents .................................................................................................................... 2
1. General Information...................................................................................................... 5
1.1 Introduction: Parent School Contract ........................................................................ 5

1.2 A brief history of SIG................................................................................................. 6
1.3 Our Vision and Mission.................................................................................................. 7
1.4 National Anthem ............................................................................................................ 9
1.5 School’s House System............................................................................................... 10
1.6 A Brief History of our School........................................................................................ 10
1.7 School Location ........................................................................................................... 11
1.8 School Telephone Number .......................................................................................... 11
1.9 Regular School Hours.................................................................................................. 11
1.10 School Calendar 2020-21 – Important dates ............................................................. 12
2. Communication: ................................................................................................................ 12
2.1 School responsibilities: ................................................................................................ 12
2.2 Parent responsibilities.................................................................................................. 13
2.3 Communication protocols ............................................................................................ 13
2.4 Other Important Contacts ............................................................................................ 14
2.5 Other Communication Channels.................................................................................. 14
2.6 Updating contact information ....................................................................................... 15
2.7 All school email addresses below................................................................................ 15
3. Curriculum Overview ......................................................................................................... 18
3.1 Early Years Foundation Stage..................................................................................... 18
3.2 Key Stage 1 (Years 1 & 2) ........................................................................................... 19
3.3 Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6 English National Curriculum) ............................................. 19
Core Program .................................................................................................................... 19
3.4 Key Stage 3 (KS3): Years 7,8 and 9............................................................................ 19
3.5 Key Stage 4: Years 10 and 11..................................................................................... 19
3.6 Key Stage 5: Years 12 and 13..................................................................................... 20
4. National Agenda Testing ................................................................................................... 20
4.1 GL Assessment: Progress Tests ................................................................................. 20
4.2 GL Assessment: CAT4 ................................................................................................ 20
5. Fees .................................................................................................................................. 20

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5.1 Uniform Fees and Uniform Store: ................................................................................ 22
5.2 Uniform Pack Fees ...................................................................................................... 22
5.3 Transport Fees ............................................................................................................ 23
6.Health & Safety .................................................................................................................. 23
6.1 The responsibilities of the school include: ................................................................... 23
6.2 The responsibilities of the parents include:.................................................................. 24
7. Transportation ................................................................................................................... 24
7.1 Private vehicles............................................................................................................ 24
7.2 Buses........................................................................................................................... 24
7.3 Bus policy .................................................................................................................... 24
8. Student Policies................................................................................................................. 25
8.1. Student Attendance .................................................................................................... 25
8.2. Student Absence ........................................................................................................ 25
8.3. Child Protection .......................................................................................................... 25
8.4. Student Behaviour ...................................................................................................... 25
8.5. BYOD (Bring Your Own Device)................................................................................. 25
8.6. Anti-bullying ................................................................................................................ 25
8.7 Grievance .................................................................................................................... 25
8.8. Uniform ....................................................................................................................... 25
8.9 Scholarship .................................................................................................................. 25
8.10 SEND policy (People of determination) ..................................................................... 25
9. Other Administrative Points............................................................................................... 25
9.1. Lost Property .............................................................................................................. 25
9.2 Photography, Video, Recordings & Social Media ........................................................ 25
9.3 Photo Consent Form.................................................................................................... 26
9.4 Social Media ................................................................................................................ 26
9.5 Our PTA Community.................................................................................................... 27

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Message From the Principal

Dear Parents,
Welcome and thank you for entrusting your child’s education to our team of educators at Scholars
International Academy.
Scholar’s International Academy is one of only two schools in Sharjah accredited by British Schools
Overseas, an organization of the UK Department of Education. In addition, we are a full member of the British
Schools of the Middle East, a network of schools helping school administrators and teachers share best
practice and providing professional educational development. We are proud to be a University of Cambridge
School, delivering an enhanced international British curriculum and programme, We are also affiliated to
Edexcel for A’ Levels. These accreditation and memberships form the foundation of our school programme
and school life.
Through our strong, professional and caring teaching staff, excellent facility and robust education programme,
Scholars International Academy learners prepare for exceptional futures.
With best regards,
Dr. Paul Lieblich
Principal

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1. General Information

1.1 Introduction: Parent School Contract

A constructive relationship between the school and families is key to ensuring that the students’ well-being is
at the core of an effective educational experience. It is beneficial for both parties, the schools, and the
families, if these constructive relationships are based on agreed terms and conditions set out clearly in a
contract form.
In addition to this contract, schools should have effective procedures to address and mitigate parental
concerns and complaints, while at the same time parents should also be recognized and used as a valuable
resource in the educational experience of their children.
To ensure that all parties in this relationship are aware of their duties and responsibilities, families are required
to read this document carefully and to ratify it only after all queries have been addressed by the school.

Definitions:

• Authority or SPEA: Sharjah Private Education Authority.
• Child: the child or children (at any age) admitted by the school to be educated and whose name

appears in this document.
• Contract: this document.
• Educational Services: the services that the school provides in order to support the learning and

development of the students.
• Parent: both parents of the child when both have the legal standing of guardians or are the legal

guardian by court order.
• Policies: the principles, guidelines and/or rules adopted by a school and shared with all stakeholders

for the purpose of achieving specific objectives. These objectives could be related to any issue
pertaining to the operation of the school, such as academics, health and safety or students’ behavior.
• School: Scholars international Academy
• School tuition fees: any amounts owing to the school for a student’s enrolment, education, and
related activities at the school. These fees are clearly communicated and are stipulated in this
contract.
• Student(s): all those who are admitted and registered at the school to be educated at any grade
level.
• Third party: the provider, other than the school, of a specific service for the students via the school.

DISCLAIMER: All SPEA and UAE Health Authority Policies and Procedures on Health & Safety and
Covid-19, will supersede any information placed in this contract and handbook.

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1.2 A brief history of SIG

Our History
Scholars International Group (SIG) has been educating children for over 40 years. We are an organisation
dedicated to providing high calibre, achievement-orientated schools to develop the next generation of leaders.
We empower our educators to create an environment that provides an unparalleled education to all the children
we enrol. From our first school, Dubai Scholars that opened in 1976, to our new school Clarion that opened in
August 2016, our mission has remained to enrich the education provision for the children of the UAE.

Our Philosophy
Scholars International Group schools are environments where children thrive. Our philosophy is to instil within
our educators the power to give every child curiosity for life, quest for knowledge and confidence to achieve at
their highest level. Our classrooms are environments where student interests are broadened, talents are
nurtured, and minds are challenged. We honour your trust in Scholars International Group schools to provide
your child with the best education possible.

Our Success
If success can be measured by where our students are accepted for higher education studies, then we are
gifted with abundance.
The university list (abridged): Boston University, Brown University, Columbia University, Dartmouth College,
Georgetown University, Imperial College London, Johns Hopkins University, London School of Economics,
McGill University, New York University, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Wharton School of
Business, and University of Pennsylvania.

Our Schools

SIA is a rich learning environment where curiosity is encouraged, passion for
learning is nurtured and high academic standards are met. Recognised among the
premiere international schools in Sharjah, our teaching is focused on providing
opportunity for excellence and achievement.

Founded in 1976, Dubai Scholars’ students consistently rate among the top percentiles
globally for the IGCSE’s and A Levels. Academic achievement at Dubai Scholars is paired
with creative performing arts, and a strong sports program to provide students with
opportunities to grow and develop in many areas of interest and talent.

Clarion School is a leading K-12 American school that is redefining the meaning of
educational excellence through a progressive and unique program that deeply engages your
child in deep and intentional learning. The Clarion learning experience has been created to
enable the children to learn deeply, think critically and develop key learning to learn skills so
that they can thrive in any environment.

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1.3 Our Vision and Mission
Our Vision
We envisage empowering unique young men and women from within the student-centred learning
environment that we provide. Our aim is to develop in them the critical skills and the sense of challenge
required for success in a rapidly evolving international society, to make our students respectfully assertive,
yet culturally tolerant and respectful.
Our Mission
SIA aims to fulfil our vision through allowing for individual difference and learning styles, and for the
enjoyment of the educational process we espouse. As befits our strong membership of the British Schools
in the Middle East and British Schools Overseas, we will nurture the whole child and focus on stimulating
equally, in each one, academic, personal, physical and social growth in our safe, environmentally friendly
campus atmosphere.

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1.4 National Anthem

Eishi Biladi Asha-tihada Imaratina
Ishti Li-sha‟ abin

Deenohul Islamu had-yo-hul Qura‟an
Hassuntuka bismil-Allah ya watan
Biladi biladi biladi biladi
Hama-Kil-Ilahu Shurorazza-man-
Aqsamna un nab-ni na‟amal

Na aml nakh-lis na‟ amal nakh-lis mah-ma-ishna
Makh-lis nakh-lis

Damal-amnu wa asha-I-alam ya Imaratina
Ramza-L-Uroobah

Kul-Luna Naf-deeki Bid-dima Narweeki
Nal-deeka bil-arwah ya watan

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1.5 The House System

What is the house system?
The house system is a platform in the school community that brings people together and encourages the
growth of leaders. It gives the students the opportunity to learn teamwork, professional competitiveness and
the ability to communicate and work with people from all age groups. The house system is also a means of
rewarding students for their academic efforts, behaviour and school spirit.

The Four Houses:
Blue House – Shark
Green House – Falcon
Yellow House – Scorpion
Red House – Arabian Horse

Gina Gavin Emma Youds Donal Anthony Sini Tony
Yellow House Green House O’Callaghan Blue House
Red House

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1.6 Brief History of the School

Scholars International Academy (SIA) is a progressive educational institution that focuses on developing the
whole child. The School opened in the Muwaileh district back in 2007 with about 180 children from Foundation
1 to Year 5. Now, in 2021 we have well over 1200 students catering up to Year 13 and have developed into
offering IGCSE and ‘A’ levels.
Our approach to teaching is based on creating dynamic and engaging learning environments. Unlocking each
child’s potential is our goal. Our education pedagogy is directed toward finding and nurturing the learner within
each child by asking the question “How does it contribute to the growth of your child?”.
Students are challenged to achieve their full potential through a rigorous academic program guided by
dedicated professional educators. We are a community school of international learners and teachers from
over 60 countries. Our English National Curriculum, enriched with the Cambridge programme and teaching
methodology, is the international standard for British education. Sports, languages, technology, performing
arts, multi-cultural interactions, and community service are among the many programmes that balance our
strong academic core to promote well-rounded student leaders.
Scholars International Academy follows an interdisciplinary British Curriculum that educates students from 60
different nationalities. SIA has an excellent childhood development programme that helps create a strong
foundation for the students which leads to higher education. Majority of our teachers are UK nationals that are
highly qualified and have immense teaching experience. SIA is one of only 2 schools in Sharjah that is
accredited by British Schools Overseas (BSO). SIA is a full member of British Schools Middle East (BSME).

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1.7 School Location
Scholars International Academy is in the Muwaileh School Zone, P.O. Box 47425, Sharjah.

1.8 School Telephone Number

The main telephone number is 06 519 7000
Sunday – Thursday from 7:15am till 3:15pm
Saturdays from 08:00am till 12:00pm
COVID HOTLINE NUMBER - 056 761 7712

1.9 Regular School Hours

Years 1 –13 FS 1 and 2

Time Session Time Period

7:45 – 8:00 Registration 15 minutes 8:00 – 8:05 Registration 15 minutes
40 minutes
8:00 – 8:40 1 40 minutes 8:05 – 8:40 1 40 minutes
40 minutes
8:40 – 9:20 2 40 minutes 8:40 – 9:20 2 40 minutes
40 minutes
9:20 10:00 Break 40 minutes 9:20 10:00 3 40 minutes
40 minutes
10:00 –10:40 3 40 minutes 10:00 –10:40 Break

10:40 –11:20 4 40 minutes 10:40 –11:20 4

11:20 -12:00 5 40 minutes 11:20 -12:00 5

12:00 –12:30 6 30 minutes 12:00 –12:40 6
12:40 – 1:00 Break 20 minutes
Buses leave at 1:00 – 1:40 7 40 minutes
12:40

1:40 – 2:20 8 40 minutes

Buses leave
2:40
* This Timetable reflects the AY20/21 and could be subject to chance in the AY21/22

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1.10 School Calendar 2021-22 – Important dates

Description Dates

Start of 2021 – 2022 Academic Year for teachers. Sunday, 22 August, 2021 (TBC)

First day of Term 1 for students Sunday, 29 August, 2021

Winter holidays start for students and teachers. Sunday, 12 December, 2021

First day of Term 2 for students and teachers Sunday, 2 January, 2022

Start of Spring holidays for students and teachers. Sunday, 27 March, 2022

Start of Term 3 for students and teachers. Sunday, 10 April, 2022

Last day of school year for students Thursday, 30 June, 2022

Last day of school year for teachers Thursday, 7 July 2022

Total no. of student days including exam days. 182

2. Communication:

As parents, you are our partners in the education of your child. We value your input and strive to maintain
open, frequent and pertinent communication.

Scholars International Academy expects parents to be involved and respectful. Being involved can also mean
attending meetings, volunteering on field trips, contributing your expertise and resources or celebrating your
child’s growth. Your involvement will only strengthen the bonds in the school community. Being respectful can
mean greeting others with a smile and hello, raising larger issues through the appropriate channels, meeting
face-to-face or bringing your child to school on time.

2.1 School responsibilities:

• Communicating to parents all policies, possible changes, and immediate announcements.
• Using all contact details provided by parents to communicate key messages.
• Updating the information about school policies, expectations, programmes, staff and any other

information deemed necessary by the school.
• Informing parents of their child’s progress through regular assessment reports (at least 3 per year) and

meetings. The school will exercise fairness, objectivity, transparency, and credibility in the assessment
reports shared with parents.
• Providing parents, the opportunity to see and review all their child’s work and assessments.

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2.2 Parent responsibilities

• Supplying the school with valid and updated contact details, including home and mobile numbers, e-mail addresses
and home locations.

• Updating the school about any changes in the contact information.
• Referring regularly to established means of communications for any updates about the school.
• Being courteous in their approach to staff when enquiring about their child.
• Attending meetings, conferences and reviews related to their child’s progress and performance. Failure to do so

may jeopardise their child’s progress and learning experience. Parents’ level of participation, involvement and
responsibility in their child’s learning will affect his or her chances for re-enrolment the following year.

2.3 Communication protocols

All responses will be within 48 hours. Emergencies will be responded to immediately.

Your primary contacts are your child’s teachers. If you have a question or concern, we suggest that you
first contact your child’s teacher to discuss. Please contact your child’s teachers through Class Dojo (for
secondary school, please use email).

If you are unable to get a response, please reach out to your Phase Head as above:

Early Years Phase Head Heather French [email protected]
Nazish Sheikh [email protected]
(FS1 – Year 2) Darren Frearson [email protected]
Primary Phase Head

(Years 3-6)
Secondary Phase Head
(Years 7-13)

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2.4 Other Important Contacts

Contacts Name Email
Principal’s PA Tarfa Hussain [email protected]

Head of Operations Meera Rajan [email protected]
Admissions Office Ursula Zeitouny [email protected]

School Clinic Veera Fernandes [email protected]

Accounts Gokul Krishna [email protected]

Transport Office Arivalagan Veerappan [email protected]
Engage enquiries Thenmozhi Alagesan [email protected]

Uniform and Book store Mai Yousef [email protected]

2.5 Other Communication Channels Communication Channel
Engage
Communication Content
School calendar, school announcements, school circulars Curriculum presentations, Parent – Teacher conferences.
Reports on your child’s learning, medical visits and fee Report cards (online on engage)
receipts. Class Dojo
School Program * Secondary School use Email.
Children’s Progress School newsletter, school social media pages
Class homework, class specific announcements, parent School website
teacher communication
School events, pictures, activities, engagements School MS Teams
For all general information about the school – including Call the school phone number
fees, activities, events, open mornings
DL classes, homework, resource provision
For appointments and emergencies

With the Principal

School Principal, Dr. Paul Lieblich, is always happy to talk to you. We invite you to speak first with your child’s teachers then
their Head of Year. If the concern is not resolved then please speak to the respective Phase Heads and if the issue is larger or
school-wide, please book an appointment with Dr. Paul. To do that, you can email: Tarfa Hussain, the Principal’s PA at
[email protected] or call 06-519-700.

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2.6 Updating contact information

To ensure that you receive communications from the school, please take the time to complete the parent contact details on
Engage.

Please follow the steps below

• Login to your Engage parent portal

• Go to “my details” tab
1.
2.

• You can edit the contact details by clicking the “pencil” icon & saving it
If both parents are regularly out of the country, please consider providing SIA with an alternative
emergency contact number. We advise that you email it to your child’s homeroom teacher and copy
the Data manager, Thenmozhi Alagesan, at [email protected].

2.7 All school email addresses below

Name Form or Email ID
Specialist
Jumana Mudrik Teacher [email protected]
Amber Yates [email protected]
Susan Bell 1A [email protected]
Sini Tony 1B [email protected]
Harriet Spall 1C [email protected]
Sana Ashfaq 1D-R [email protected]
Charlotte Law 1E-R [email protected]
Randeep Kaur 2A [email protected]
Madiha Mansoor 2B [email protected]
Chloe Kidd 2C [email protected]
Nurah Tabib 2D-R [email protected]
Catrina Kearns 2E-R [email protected]
Sian Stagg 3A [email protected]
Dara Clarke 3B [email protected]
Katie Jones 3C [email protected]
Charlotte Pickering 3D-R [email protected]
Charles Neale 3E-R [email protected]
Nicole Archer 3F-R [email protected]
Shannon Bryant 4A [email protected]
Georgina Bennett 4B [email protected]
Conor Raftery 4C [email protected]
Oliver Page 4D-R [email protected]
4E-R
5A

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Sinead O’Grady 5B [email protected]
Cari-Anne Martin 5C [email protected]
Connor Sleight 5D-R [email protected]
Ozlem Ozer 5E-R [email protected]
Jason Stanton 6A [email protected]
Eoin Cuddihy 6B [email protected]
Natasha Ashfaq 6C [email protected]
Meg Tinkler 6D-R [email protected]
Nida Ijaz 6E-R [email protected]
Asmaa Abu Amra Arabic [email protected]
Basma Kurdi Arabic [email protected]
Batoul Almasri Arabic [email protected]
Heba AlKurabi Arabic [email protected]
Ilham Deiriah Arabic [email protected]
Mahmoud Raslan Arabic [email protected]
Mahwish Shakeel Arabic [email protected]
Mariam Issa El Mosleh Arabic [email protected]
Menas Abu Hasheesh Arabic [email protected]
Mohamed El-Gizawy Arabic [email protected]
Saad Al Kurdi Arabic [email protected]
Salma Elesawy Arabic [email protected]
Sherin Naeem Arabic [email protected]
Zakieh Alghanem Arabic [email protected]
Joe Jaglasian Arts [email protected]
Natalya Benjamin Arts [email protected]
Rehna Afaq Arts [email protected]
Sumbul Abidi Arts [email protected]
Gina Gavin English [email protected]
Daisy Hutton F1A [email protected]
Roisin Casey F2A [email protected]
Megan Logan F2B [email protected]
Deirdre McCarthy F2C [email protected]
Natalie Oneil F2D-R [email protected]
Arwa Tahir F2E [email protected]
Lauren Lloyd F2F [email protected]
Chloe Cullen F2G-R [email protected]
Melissa Hart F2H-R [email protected]
Hasna Talbi French [email protected]
Mouna Methini French [email protected]
Donal Anthony O’Callaghan Geography [email protected]
Nabil Saheb ICT [email protected]
Ayesha Atif Maths [email protected]
Neha Gupta Maths [email protected]
Sahira Ashraf Maths [email protected]
Shabana Shahzad Maths [email protected]
Elspeth Woodley PE [email protected]

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Emma Youds PE [email protected]
Jonathan Harris PE [email protected]
Oliver Shepherd PE [email protected]
Fareeha Nadkar Pshycology [email protected]
Amani Al Kilani Science [email protected]
Nourhan Abdelaal Science [email protected]
Radhika Das Science [email protected]
Sana Khan Science [email protected]
Sheena Varghese Science [email protected]
Sohail Rehman Science [email protected]
Raisa D’souza SEN [email protected]
Riya Jacob SEN [email protected]
Darren Frearson SLT [email protected]
Heather French SLT [email protected]
Meera Rajan SLT [email protected]
Nazish Sheikh SLT [email protected]
Dhiya Job Supply [email protected]
Romana Yousaf Supply [email protected]
Amani Faris Arabic [email protected]
English and
Jack McGrath history [email protected]
English
Susan Cottam Form 10A [email protected]
Jack Pierce Form 7A [email protected]
Kirsty O’Neill Form 7D [email protected]
Luke McGrath Form 10B [email protected]
Mara Oliva Araujo Form 9B [email protected]
Niamh Murphy Social studies [email protected]
for Primary
Sadia Saleem Form 7B [email protected]
Form 7C
Shamun Sayyeda Admin [email protected]
Shugufta Ashraf Principal [email protected]
IT [email protected]
Paul Lieblich [email protected]

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3. Curriculum Overview

3.1 Early Years Foundation Stage

In the Early Years Foundation Stage learning objectives are organized around seven domains as
noted below. In addition, the program is supported by the document, Development Matters which
provides a system for monitoring and tracking each child’s development milestones.

1 Communication and language development – giving children opportunities to experience a
rich language environment; to develop their confidence and skills in expressing themselves; and
to speak and listen in a range of situations.

2 Physical development – providing opportunities for young children to be active and interactive;
and to develop their co-ordination, control, and movement. Children must also be helped to
understand the importance of physical activity, and make healthy choices in relation to food.

3 Personal, social and emotional development – helping children to develop a positive sense of
themselves, and others; to form positive relationships and develop respect for others; to develop
social skills and learn how to manage their feelings; to understand appropriate behaviour in
groups; and to have confidence in their own abilities.

4 Literacy development – encouraging children to link sounds and letters and to begin to read
and write. Children must be given access to a wide range of reading materials (books, poems,
and other written materials) to ignite their interest.

5 Mathematics – providing children with opportunities to develop and improve their skills in
counting, understanding and using numbers, calculating simple addition and subtraction
problems; and to describe shapes, spaces, and measure.

6 Understanding the world – guiding children to make sense of their physical world and their
community through opportunities to explore, observe and find out about people, places,
technology, and the environment.

7 Expressive arts and design – enabling children to explore and play with a wide range of media
and materials, as well as providing opportunities and encouragement for sharing their thoughts,
ideas and feelings through a variety of activities in art, music, movement, dance, role-play, and
design and technology.

Assessment of children’s progress against Early Learning Goals for each of the above seven Areas of
Learning is ongoing as well as being reported at the end of each term; some pupils may still be
working on some of these goals as they transition into Year 1. An important belief embedded in the
EYFS Foundation Stage is that pupils learn at different rates and the program must be individualized.

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3.2 Key Stage 1 (Years 1 & 2)

In Key Stage 1, at SIA, we use the evidence of how pupils learn, their interest areas, the stage of
development from the findings of the Foundation stage and deliver teaching and learning based on
the National Curriculum of England. Our aim is to encourage learners who are curious and interested
in their own learning. Learning is often based on themes with introductions to the theme employing
‘hooks’, to excite pupils ending a thematic student with a ‘fabulous show case ending’ to show and
celebrate what has been learned. The subjects that are taught are: English, Mathematics, Science;
and other subjects: computing, humanities (history and geography), UAE Social Studies, Arabic (for
Arabic speakers), Arabic (for non-Arabic speakers), Islamic Studies (for Muslim students), Moral
Education (PSHE Year 1 & 2), Art, Drama, Physical Education and Music.

3.3 Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6 English National Curriculum)
Core Program

The National Curriculum provides pupils with an introduction to the essential knowledge they need to
be educated citizens. It introduces pupils to the best that has been thought and said and helps
engender an appreciation of human creativity and achievement.

The national curriculum is just one element in the education of every child. There is time and space in
the school day and in each week, term, and year to range beyond the national curriculum
specifications. The national curriculum provides an outline of core knowledge around which teachers
can develop exciting and stimulating lessons to promote the development of pupils’ knowledge,
understanding, and skills as part of the wider school curriculum.
Children are age 7 -11 and are organized into year groups 3 through 6. The Core subjects are
English, Mathematics and Science. The foundation subjects are Art & Design, Arabic A & B,
Information Communication Technology, Islamic Studies, Personal – Social – Health Education,
French (Years 5 & 6), Geography/History, Moral Education, Music and Physical Education.
Assessment is a daily part of the life of the school. Assessment, marking of student work and
feedback are used, by teachers to inform their teaching and ensure that children know their next step
and what they need to do to improve. More formal methods of assessment provide feedback on pupil
progress and ensure a rigorous approach to curriculum delivery.

3.4 Key Stage 3 (KS3): Years 7, 8 and 9

Aligned with National Curriculum for England (NCFE) and the Cambridge curriculum this three-year
program builds upon the skills across 13 different subject disciplines to ensure students are prepared
to choose and begin their IGCSE courses.
Compulsory Subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, Social Studies, Moral
Education, Arabic, French, PE, Art and Design, Drama, Music and Islamic/Global Perspectives.
Optional Subjects: There are no optional subjects in KS3.

3.5 Key Stage 4: Years 10 and 11

Aligned with National Curriculum for England (NcfE) and the Cambridge curriculum this two-year
IGCSE completes the mandatory core courses of Mathematics, English and the Sciences and allows
the students to pick an additional three option subjects to take to the IGCSE level.

Compulsory Subjects: English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Moral Education, PE,
Islamic/Global Perspectives. Arabic is compulsory for Arabic Passport holders.

Optional Subjects: Geography Business
Business Computer Science Psychology
History
IGCSE PE French
Art

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3.6 Key Stage 5: Years 12 and 13

Depending on the subject students in KS5 follow either the Edexcel International A-Level Course or
the Cambridge A-Level course. They pick either 3 or 4 subjects to complete over the 2 years. The
only compulsory subject within KS5 is Arabic for Arabic Passport holders and Islamic Studies for
Muslim students.

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4
English Language Physics Biology Chemistry
Psychology Business Economics
Mathematics Geography Computer Science BTEC Sport
History

Assessment: Students are assessed in all subjects using a combination of assessment methods.
These range from the traditional exams, oral/written presentations and bookwork. These formative
pieces are primarily used to check understand and provide feedback to the student however, a
minimum of two assessments will be formally recorded in our curriculum management software and
will count towards their mid-year report.

Reporting: Parents receive two full academic reports per year. These are released on the last of the
term in December and June.
For each subject the teacher will record an attainment score which indicates how they are working
against their ability or CAT4 score. Secondly, they receive an attitude to learning score which
combines elements of:
Preparedness
In class behaviour
Participation

**These do not represent a GCSE or AS Grade**

4. National Agenda Testing

4.1 GL Assessment: Progress Tests

GL assessments are used across the Primary department as per SPEA recommendations for British
schools. GL Progression Tests (autumn baseline) will be conducted in Literacy, Numeracy and
Science and again at the end of the academic year. This will help establish an accredited
standardized approach to assessment that enables far more effective internal and external
benchmarking.
Pupils in the following year groups will undertake the baseline external GL progress tests in
November 2020:

1. Year 3 to Year 6– GL Progress Tests in Literacy, Numeracy. (baseline autumn term)
2. Years 4 to Year 6 – GL progress test in Science (baseline autumn term)
3. Pupils in the following year groups will undertake the end of year GL progress tests in May

2021:
Year 3 to year 6 – GL Progress Tests in Literacy, Numeracy, and Science. (End of year
summer term)

4.2 GL Assessment: CAT4

For pupils in Years 4 and 6 we will conduct CAT4 digital testing via an online platform (GL
Assessment's Cognitive Abilities Test). These assessments assess a pupil's ability to reason with
and manipulate different types of material through a series of Verbal, Non-Verbal, Quantitative and
Spatial Ability tasks. This data is then used to guide teaching staff on gaining a far deeper
understanding of how each pupil learns and what their true academic potential may be. This then
helps teachers to decide about the pace of learning that is right for a pupil and whether additional
support or challenge is needed.

These tests will be conducted annually in Years 4 and 6.

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5. Fees
a. Fees for the Academic Year 2021/2022 will be updated and approved by SPEA
b. The school, vouches that no additional mandatory fees will be required from parents during
the academic year 2021-2022 except for fees clearly indicated in this contract.
c. The fee structure at for the Academic Year 2021-2022 can be found on the SIA website by
clicking here.

Fee information:
• Sibling discounts are offered at 10% for 2nd child and 15% for 3rd child.
• Fees can be paid only online with SKIPLY APP or by cash/ cheque/credit at the fees counter

only Saturdays between 8-11.30 am
• Queries and requests can be mailed to [email protected]
• All Tuition and Transport fee payments must be made prior to the commencement of School.

Term 2 and 3 PDC’s to be submitted along with Term 1 fee payment. The cheques are to be
dated as per timelines specified in the timelines mentioned below.
• Please note that students will be permitted to start school only if fee payments are complete.
• Invoices for fee payable per term will be e-mailed across to parents well in advance to enable
parents to meet fee payment deadlines.
• Resource Fees:

• Resource fee for existing students in Grade 10, 11, 12 and 13 is AED 2500 for
Academic Year 2021-2022.

• Please note: There will be an additional charge for all external examinations.
• Tuition Fees payment timelines:

• 1ST TERM FEES –
• Existing students – 15th to 30th August 2021
• New Admissions – Before 30th June 2021

2nd TERM FEES –
• Existing Students and New Admissions – 1st to 15th December 2021

3rd TERM FEES –
• Existing Students and New Admissions – 15th to 30th March 2022

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5.1 Uniform Fees and Uniform Store:

S. no Uniform Price per piece in AED
(Inclusive of 5% VAT)
1 T-shirt (Girls/Boys)
2 Shorts 73.50
3 Trousers (Boys) 99.75
4 Skorts (Girls) 126
5 Socks (Girls/Boys) 99.75
6 Jacket (Girls/Boys) 15.75
7 Cap (Girls/Boys) 157.50
8 P.E. T shirt (Girls/Boys) 10.50
9 P.E. Tracks (Girls/Boys) 63.00
10 P.E. Shorts (Boys) 63.00
11 Hair Scrunchies 52.50
12 Hijab (Girls) 15.75
10.50

5.2 Uniform Pack Fees GIRLS

BOYS FS1 & FS2

T-Shirt (White) x 2 147 T-Shirt (White) x 2 147
Shorts x 2 199.50
Socks 199.50 Skorts x 2 15.75
Jacket 157.50
Cap 15.75 Socks 10.50
15.75
Total 157.50 Jacket 546.00

T-Shirt (White) x 2 10.50 Cap 147
Shorts x 2 199.50
Socks Hair Scrunchies 15.75
Jacket 157.50
P.E. Uniform 530.25 Total 136.50
15.75
Total Years 1 – 4 672.00

T-Shirt (White) x 2 147 T-Shirt (White) x 2 147
Trousers x 2 199.50
Socks 199.50 Skorts x 2 15.75
Jacket 157.50
P.E. Uniform 15.75 Socks 136.50
15.75
Total 157.50 Jacket 672.00

136.50 P.E. Uniform

Hair Scrunchies

656.25 Total

Years 5 – 13

147 T-Shirt (White) x 2

252 Skorts x 2

15.75 Socks

157.50 Jacket

136.50 P.E. Uniform

Hair Scrunchies

708.75 Total

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• Children must wear white sports shoes with white soles (Non-marking shoes and to be bought
from outside).

• Children must wear school winter jackets only.
• Uniform Fees are non-refundable.
• The SIA Uniform Shop is located on the school campus.
• The uniform store has extra sizes (extra charges for the required sizes).
5.3 Transport Fees

6.Health & Safety
It is the responsibility of the school and the parents to secure a safe and healthy environment for the
students. In this regard, the school shall issue and implement various health and safety guidelines
that parents are expected to abide by and ensure their children do so as well.
6.1 The responsibilities of the school include:

• Providing students with appropriate medical care as per the regulations set.
• Providing students with medical conditions the care and attention they deserve while treating

cases with confidentiality.
• Promoting and reinforcing awareness about healthy lifestyle habits, including choice of food

and practice of exercise.

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6.2 The responsibilities of the parents include:

• Sharing with the school all information related to their child's medical condition and history.
• Ensuring that meals and snacks provided to students adhere to the school's policies and

guidelines in this regard.
• Upholding the school's decision to confiscate food and drink items which do not fit the

expectations set by the school.

7. Transportation
The school is responsible for ensuring the students' safety while on school buses, whether managed
by the school or outsourced to a third party. In addition to implementing rigorous safety procedures
outlined in a school policy, the school will also ensure the full implementation of the guidelines
outlined by RTA on the matter.
The following are expectations set by the school for parents at the school.

7.1 Private vehicles

· To ensure the safety of all students, parents driving to school will receive a route map detailing
entry and exit points to the school.

· Parents must abide by the designated entry and exit routes set by the school.
· School personnel and staff helping in the organisation of students' arrival and dispersal times

represent the school and their instructions must be obeyed.

7.2 Buses

· For all intents and purposes, school buses, whether managed by the school or outsourced to a
third party, are considered part of the school premises when being used by students.

· All safety rules and behaviour expectations set by the school and enforced by personnel must
be adhered to by students and parents.

7.3 Bus policy

The bus supervisor and driver are responsible for care and discipline on the buses. If his/her requests
are ignored by any pupil then he/she will report the matter to the Transport Coordinator. The Transport
Coordinator will inform the Head of Operations of incidents of bad behaviour who, where appropriate,
will send a letter to parents informing them of their child’s misconduct. In normal cases a first letter to
parents will result in a severe warning to the child. A second letter may result in suspension from the
bus for a period to be decided by the Principal. If it is felt that behaviour warrants it then immediate
suspension is an option. If it is decided to suspend the pupil temporarily or permanently, the Transport
Co-ordinator will be informed as well as the pupil and his/her parents. When disciplinary action results
in suspension, there will be no refund of bus fees.

1. Students must go directly to the bus assembly area at the end of the school day.
2. Students should move towards the bus when directed in an orderly line, always following

instructions closely. School must be informed in advance if pupil is not travelling on the bus
for any reason.
3. Students shall not board the bus until directed.
4. Students must remain in their allocated seats and wear seat belts at all times when travelling
on the bus.
5. The driver shall take only his assigned route; requests to take a different route will not be
accepted.
6. Students may be dropped off only at their own drop-off point or other drop-off points on the
existing routes. A written request shall be required for any changes in drop-off points.
7. All school rules are applicable during every journey on a school bus. Drivers and Supervisors
are not permitted to smoke.
8. Pupils must always co-operate with the bus supervisors and drivers.
9. Opening of an emergency door in a non-emergency situation is prohibited.

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10. Each pupil must sit on a seat. Students are prohibited from sitting on the floor, doorsteps, or
gearbox.

11. No non-bus pupils will be allowed on the buses.

8. Student Policies

8.1. Student Attendance
Please click here.

8.2. Student Absence
Please click here.

8.3. Child Protection
Please click here.

8.4. Student Behaviour
Please click here.

8.5. BYOD (Bring Your Own Device)
Please click here.

8.6. Anti-bullying
Please click here.

8.7 Grievance
Please click here.

8.8. Uniform
Please click here.

8.9 Scholarship
Please click here.

8.10 SEND policy (People of determination)
Please click here.

9. Other Administrative Points

9.1. Lost Property

Students’ property which is found around the school is placed in a lost and found box near the canteen.
If, by the end of term, the items are not claimed they will be given to charity.

9.2 Photography, Video, Recordings & Social Media

Students are regularly photographed, voice recorded and filmed during a school day (during learning
activities, social events or field trips for example). The content may be used for marketing and
promotional purposes for the Scholars International Group, like for instance in school displays, on the
school website, on social media channels and other media. These contents may show parents,
students and teachers at SIA or outside of SIA, on field trips for example. Teachers and staff will only
use first/forenames or initials to refer to the students, if at all. The school assumes that consent is
granted in the absence of an objection.

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9.3 Photo Consent Form

At the start of school, you can complete the Photo Consent Form to give permission for the image of
your child to be used by SIA. This form offers three options to choose from:

• Give consent for your child’s photo to be used by SIA marketing, promotion, and to be used
internally at SIA, including Class DOJO, annual class photos and yearbook.

• Give consent for your child’s photo to be used by SIA internally for Class DOJO, annual class
photos, and yearbook, but NOT marketing and promotion purposes.

• Not give consent for your child’s photo to be used by SIA in marketing, promotion, or to be
used internally at SIA, including Class DOJO, annual class photos and yearbook.

Failure to return the completed Photo Consent Form to your child’s homeroom teacher may result in y
our child’s inclusion in a photograph or recording and will be treated as consent for the school to utiliz
e that photograph or recording accordingly.

The school retains a list of students whose parents have objected to or who have placed any
restrictions or limitations on the use of their child’s media recording. Staff members familiarize
themselves with the names of the students on that list.

When you submit a completed Photo Consent Form, you are also responsible for removing yourselves
and your child from areas in which photography, recording and filming is taking place, or notifying the
camera operator of your opt-out status. Failure to do so may result in that individual’s inclusion in a
photograph or recording and will be treated as consent for the school to utilize that photograph or
recording accordingly.

9.4 Social Media

SIA and its corporate Parent Scholars International Group maintain official social media accounts
across multiple channels. Our presence on social media not only allows us to share messages,
updates and news with the public, it presents an important opportunity for us to engage directly and
instantaneously with our parents and other UAE communities. These official SIA channels are
consistent with our mission, values and brand identity. Our media content recorder at school, on field
trips, and during education-related or school events of teacher, students and on occasion parents are
for posting. Our purpose is to present the school and our education mission in a positive and
informative way. Parents may share pages when presenting them aligns with our mission and values
and when presented in a positive way. Representing the School, logo or information in an untrue or
inaccurate way are not permitted and are against UAE law. Parents are not given permission by the
school or SIG to create their own SIA pages on any social media channel.
These are the school’s media channels:

School Website: https://scholarsinternationalacademy.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChiysrrq3bdwJAs6TOIqcbg?view_as=subscriber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scholarsinternationalacademy/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScholarsInternational/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/scholars-international-academy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sia_sharjah

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9.5 Our PTA Community
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