Victoria International School of Sharjah – not listed, why?

Hi, I have children at this school and have had my share of roller coaster rides.  The school claims that they were awarded an Outstanding ranking by some British body (haven’t seen anything on print; based in Sharjah hence out of scope for KHDA).  Can you please shed some insights on findings? Thanks.

Momoftwo Default Asked on March 28, 2015 in Which School.
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Dear Mom of two,

I visited VISS just over a year ago now. My understanding is that the school is transitioning from the Australian Victorian State curriculum to the IB curriculum. We did ask the school to complete a school profile and review so that we could feature them on our website, but unfortunately, have not been able to receive this information from them. It would be very helpful for other families to have your impressions of the school.

Default Answered on May 2, 2015.
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Thanks for your response. Here’s my personal feedback:

Overall Pros: State of the art facilities, individual development plan and children feel safe and very happy. Large libraries, fields and everything indoor is completely covered in carpet! Students are respectful, have good reading habits and work ethics.

Overall Cons: Poor communication and transparency on what is being taught and how children are progressing between parents and school. Curriculum seems lacking ‘meat’, lags behind what’s stated in AusVels. Long school hours (8-3) with what seems that little is achieved within this time. Although they say they are a non-profit school, this year a sharp fees increase with no supporting notice came forth (Feb?) much to the shock of already disappointed parents.

– Nursery/Pre-KG: Outstanding, top-notch, not baby-sitting but structured curriculum

– Early years (KG): Good, could do with more planning and structure before the start of the year

– Primary school (Grade 1-5): Current students are lagging behind by about a year as compared to their Australian counterparts. Relaxed setting is worrying with middle school fast approaching. Disconnect with middle school is clear.

– Middle school: Seems more intuned in preparing children.

– Senior school: Graduating students are in very low count.

Above are my personal views over the last few years and a few other parents I’ve met share the same concerns.

Default Answered on May 2, 2015.
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