Overview Dubai English Speaking School (DESS), established in 1963, is the oldest British curriculum school in Dubai. Located in Oud Metha, it serves children from Foundation Stage (FS1) to Year 6, offering a rich and engaging learning environment. The school operates on a not-for-profit basis, allowing for reinvestment in facilities and educational resources to maintain its high standards.
Curriculum DESS follows the National Curriculum for England, emphasizing a broad and balanced education. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and personal development, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future educational stages and life challenges.
Performance DESS has consistently been rated as "Outstanding" by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) for several years. This rating reflects the school's high-quality teaching, exceptional student support, and excellent academic and personal development outcomes. The school's curriculum is well-planned, and teaching practices are first-rate, with strong partnerships with parents and an inclusive culture that encourages creativity.
Facilities The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including:
- Two primary school standard-sized football/rugby pitches with real grass
- An outdoor 6-lane 25m pool and a Foundation Stage pool
- Two netball/basketball courts and two indoor sports halls
- Dedicated areas for the arts, including dance studios, a Zen room, a sustainable garden, and a media hub
- Modern classrooms equipped with the latest technology to support learning
Fees Annual fees at DESS range from AED 41,427 to AED 51,269, depending on the grade level.
Community and Extracurricular Activities DESS places a strong emphasis on creating a nurturing and inclusive community. It offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, performing arts, and various clubs, to ensure the holistic development of each child. The school also maintains a low teacher turnover rate, which contributes to a stable and continuous learning environment.
