academic excellence

Academic Excellence | Swiss International Scientific School Dubai - Level 2 Page Header With Key FactsAcademic Excellence | Swiss International Scientific School Dubai - Level 2 Page Header With Key Facts
Key Facts
Best-ever results
Our IB Diploma class of 2024 achieved a 100% pass rate – the best in our history – with 60% graduating with a bilingual Diploma. 
World’s top universities 
In 2024, our graduates received an average of four offers from the world’s best universities, including McGill and King’s College London. 
Brilliant bilingual communicators 
Your child will learn in English, French, and/or German, ensuring they become confident multi-language communicators.

A WORLD-CLASS MULTILINGUAL EDUCATION 

At Swiss International School Dubai (SISD), we educate for the future. Our holistic philosophy, flexible language pathways, and globally respected International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes will inspire your child to succeed today and develop the attributes they need to become a global changemaker of tomorrow.

Guided by our specialist teachers, your child will follow an all-through continuum of IB programmes that nurture their intellect, character, and cultural awareness. Unique in the Middle East, our IB curricula are fully bilingual, too, giving each student the flexibility to learn in French and English, German and English, or English.

With adaptable pathways and unrivalled choice, every student forges their own route to success. This includes gaining world-leading IB Diploma results, which open doors to the very best universities in Europe, the US, Canada, and Australia.  

Academic Excellence | Swiss International Scientific School Dubai - Secondary Introduction
Early years
  • Early years
  • Primary
  • Middle
  • Secondary

AN IB JOURNEY TO SUCCESS 

From the Early Years through to Grade 12, every SISD student’s academic journey is underpinned by a continuum of International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes: the Primary Years (PYP), Middle Years (MYP), IB Diploma (IBDP), and the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP).

As well as being academically rigorous – and providing a consistent, high-quality education – our bilingual IB curricula are packed with character-building learning experiences. Every day, your child will immerse themselves in learning that develops the 10 qualities set out in the IB Learner Profile. This will ensure they become a well-rounded, lifelong learner and achieve outstanding results. 

Academic Excellence | Swiss International Scientific School Dubai - Curricula Overview
3 to 6 years old
Primary Years Programme (PYP) 
In dedicated Early Years classrooms and outdoor spaces, our youngest students embark on a stimulating journey packed with experiences that nurture their natural curiosity. Learning takes place across different subjects through meaningful play and exploration, which are led both by our expert teachers and directed by children. With wellbeing at happiness at the heart, our learners develop formative social, thinking, communication, inquiry, and collaborative skills.
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AN IB JOURNEY TO SUCCESS 

From the Early Years through to Grade 12, every SISD student’s academic journey is underpinned by a continuum of International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes: the Primary Years (PYP), Middle Years (MYP), IB Diploma (IBDP), and the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP).

As well as being academically rigorous – and providing a consistent, high-quality education – our bilingual IB curricula are packed with character-building learning experiences. Every day, your child will immerse themselves in learning that develops the 10 qualities set out in the IB Learner Profile. This will ensure they become a well-rounded, lifelong learner and achieve outstanding results. 

Academic Excellence | Swiss International Scientific School Dubai - Curricula Overview
6 to 11 years old
Primary Years Programme (PYP) 
In a vibrant multilingual environment, we deliver a broad PYP curriculum that inspires and engages our Grade 1-5 students. Our Primary specialists use an innovative inquiry-based learning approach that encourages our children to make connections and develop their understanding across different subjects. Students also investigate global concepts and apply their knowledge in real-life contexts, giving learning purpose and meaning, and developing an international mindset. 
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AN IB JOURNEY TO SUCCESS 

From the Early Years through to Grade 12, every SISD student’s academic journey is underpinned by a continuum of International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes: the Primary Years (PYP), Middle Years (MYP), IB Diploma (IBDP), and the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP).

As well as being academically rigorous – and providing a consistent, high-quality education – our bilingual IB curricula are packed with character-building learning experiences. Every day, your child will immerse themselves in learning that develops the 10 qualities set out in the IB Learner Profile. This will ensure they become a well-rounded, lifelong learner and achieve outstanding results. 

Academic Excellence | Swiss International Scientific School Dubai - Curricula Overview
11 to 16 years old
Middle Years Programme (MYP) 
Our innovative MYP builds on the knowledge and principles developed through the PYP, preparing our students for the academic challenges of the IBDP or IBCP. Following flexible language pathways, our learners immerse themselves in themed units of inquiry across eight subject areas. As well as providing an outstanding academic education, our MYP prepares each student for the demands and opportunities of the 21st century by focusing on skill development and transdisciplinary understanding. 
Find out more

AN IB JOURNEY TO SUCCESS 

From the Early Years through to Grade 12, every SISD student’s academic journey is underpinned by a continuum of International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes: the Primary Years (PYP), Middle Years (MYP), IB Diploma (IBDP), and the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP).

As well as being academically rigorous – and providing a consistent, high-quality education – our bilingual IB curricula are packed with character-building learning experiences. Every day, your child will immerse themselves in learning that develops the 10 qualities set out in the IB Learner Profile. This will ensure they become a well-rounded, lifelong learner and achieve outstanding results. 

Academic Excellence | Swiss International Scientific School Dubai - Curricula Overview
16 to 18 years old
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) 
Our IBDP is the gold standard of international education. A comprehensive and challenging pre-university programme, our Diploma nurtures the holistic development of our students through subject-specific learning, an Extended Essay, a Theory of Knowledge course, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) opportunities. This empowers them to become confident, resilient, and globally minded young people, ready to create their own future. 
Find out more
Academic Excellence | Swiss International Scientific School Dubai - Curricula Overview
16 to 18 years old
International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) 
Our two-year IBCP combines the academic rigour of the IB Diploma with practical, future-focused experiences that prepare our learners for the working world. Students develop a breadth of transferable skills by completing the IBCP core programme, which includes service learning and a reflective project. They also study three specialist subjects. This holistic approach sets our learners up for the future of their choice, whether that’s further education, an apprenticeship, or employment. 
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BTEC Business Management and Hospitality 
Aimed at students looking to progress into sector-related higher education courses or employment, our BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma is an experiential qualification tailored to the future. The BTEC covers a variety of areas, including HR, accounting, marketing, and retail, as well as offering practical work experience. Our comprehensive programme sets our students up for success in their chosen careers.
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BILINGUALISM AT SISD 

A UNIQUE MULTILINGUAL ENVIRONMENT

Bilingualism is embedded in our school’s DNA. It’s an integral and unique element of the Swiss-style education we offer here in Dubai, as well as being one of our core values.

From age 3 through to age 18, our students learn in a fully bilingual environment where they communicate, think, and reflect in different languages. In the Early Years and Primary, our students learn in either English, French and English, or German and English. In Middle and Secondary, they choose the language they want to study in subject-by-subject. We also give our learners the flexibility to change this each year.  

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  • Early Years
  • Primary
  • Middle
  • secondary

Age Range
3-6
Average class size
24
Languages taught 
4
English, French, German, and Arabic 
Teacher-student ratio 
1:8

Age Range
6-11
Average class size
24
Languages taught 
4
English, French, German, and Arabic 
Teacher-student ratio 
1:13

Age Range
11-16
Average class size
24
Languages taught 
5
English, French, German, Arabic, and Spanish
Teacher-student ratio 
1:24

Age Range
16-18
Average class size
22
Languages taught
5
English, French, German, Arabic, and Spanish
Teacher-student ratio 
1:22
primary
  • Early years
  • Primary
  • Middle
  • Secondary

A TYPICAL DAY AT SISD

An SISD education is truly holistic, carefully balancing academic excellence with exceptional opportunities for personal growth, wellbeing, and fun. Here, every student’s day is packed with innovative learning experiences, both in and beyond the classroom. 
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A love of language
From a young age, our children develop their communication and phonics skills in more than one language. Specialist lessons nurture formative French, German, and English abilities, as well as encouraging curiosity and cultural awareness. 
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A LOVE OF LANGUAGE
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Outdoor adventures 
Our children run, jump, and climb in our colourful playgrounds, as they develop their balance, coordination, and gross motor skills. Our messy mud kitchen is also a big hit, giving our curious learners the chance to get hands-on.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
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Lunch with friends 
Whether it’s a healthy packed lunch from home or a well-balanced three-course school meal, lunch is a time to come together with friends. After resting and refuelling, our students have fun in one of our three play areas. 
LUNCH WITH FRIENDS
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Taking a dip 
A short walk down ‘STEAM alley’ leads our students to a dedicated Early Years swimming pool. Under the watchful eye of professional instructors, our children learn to swim and develop their confidence in the water. 
TAKING A DIP
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Music, rhyme, and story time 
Inspired by specialist music teachers, our children play instruments and connect with rhythm and song. Our multilingual library is the perfect place to enjoy a story before returning to class with a new book. 
MUSIC, RHYME, AND STORY TIME
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Discovering passions 
It’s never too early to discover your passion! More than 70 after-school activities – from ballet and roller-skating to martial arts – introduce our children to new and exciting experiences. 
DISCOVERING PASSIONS

A TYPICAL DAY AT SISD

An SISD education is truly holistic, carefully balancing academic excellence with exceptional opportunities for personal growth, wellbeing, and fun. Here, every student’s day is packed with innovative learning experiences, both in and beyond the classroom. 
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Aspirational assemblies
In our awe-inspiring auditorium, Primary students come together for uplifting morning assemblies. We discuss global issues, and students present, perform, and showcase their musical talents. 
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ASPIRATIONAL ASSEMBLIES
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Specialist subjects
Our bilingual students immerse themselves in specialist lessons in either German or French, honing both their linguistic skills and subject knowledge. Our English-speaking students, meanwhile, solve stimulating STEAM puzzles set by MIT professors. 
SPECIALIST SUBJECTS
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A well-earned break 
Whether it’s a healthy packed lunch from home or a nutritious three-course hot meal, lunchtime is a chance to reenergise. Our students then tackle our assault course or get active in our multi-sports playground. 
A WELL-EARNED BREAK
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On the move 
Our children love to get moving in our world-class sports facilities. From sprinting on our 400-metre track, serving on our tennis courts, or scoring a goal on our grass football pitch, our campus has everything our ambitious athletes need to thrive. 
ON THE MOVE
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Artistic expression 
Guided by our gifted teachers, our Primary students paint, sculpt, and construct incredible works of art. They then showcase their pieces in themed competitions. 
ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
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Competing against the best 
Our students compete, develop leadership skills, and demonstrate sportsmanship as part of our sports teams. From basketball and volleyball to swimming and athletics, our talented children compete against the best in Dubai.  
COMPETING AGAINST THE BEST

A TYPICAL DAY AT SISD

An SISD education is truly holistic, carefully balancing academic excellence with exceptional opportunities for personal growth, wellbeing, and fun. Here, every student’s day is packed with innovative learning experiences, both in and beyond the classroom. 
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Investigating and experimenting 
Exploring the universe, discovering the biology of a tree, or splitting the atom – in our 10 high-tech labs, our students get hands-on as they transform scientific theory into practice. 
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INVESTIGATING AND EXPERIMENTING
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Inquiry and analysis 
Our bilingual learners explore themed topics spanning the IB Individuals and Societies unit, focusing on inquiry, analysis, and critical thinking. Our Grade 9 and 10 students, meanwhile, immerse themselves in their MYP personal and community projects.    
INQUIRY AND ANALYSIS
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A productive lunch break 
After a hot meal in our dining hall (or a healthy snack from our tuck shop), our students enjoy a range of skill-boosting extracurricular activities. These include lunchtime debates, a Maths Olympiad, and Student Council meetings. 
A PRODUCTIVE LUNCH BREAK
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Essential exam prep 
Our precocious performing arts students enjoy drama and dance sessions in our specialist studios, as they work towards their LAMDA exams. Designated study periods give each learner the time and space to revise, research, and work on projects. 
ESSENTIAL EXAM PREP
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Tech-enriched learning 
Learning comes alive in our dedicated design classrooms and labs, where teachers harness the power of interactive technology – including AI tools and 3D printers – to create innovative hands-on experiences. 
TECH-ENRICHED LEARNING
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Exciting extracurricular experiences 
The exceptional learning experiences don’t stop when lessons end! Enrichment activities – ranging from art and Model United Nations to sailing and golf – give our MYP children the chance to do what they love.  
EXCITING EXTRA-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCES

A TYPICAL DAY AT SISD

An SISD education is truly holistic, carefully balancing academic excellence with exceptional opportunities for personal growth, wellbeing, and fun. Here, every student’s day is packed with innovative learning experiences, both in and beyond the classroom. 
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Subject specialists 
In focused classes, our IB Diploma students deep-dive into their chosen subjects, becoming inquisitive, knowledgeable, and highly skilled learners. Breakout sessions in our dedicated common room encourage collaborative group work. 
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SUBJECT SPECIALISTS
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Learning from the experts 
Our IB Careers-related Programme (IBCP) students learn from the best. This includes industry experts, regular guest speakers, and specialist teachers, who inspire our young people to fulfil their personal and professional ambitions. 
LEARNING FROM THE EXPERTS
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Acting with purpose 
We encourage our students to learn with purpose, whether it’s organising events through our Student Council, role-modelling UN delegates at our Model United Nations group, or championing the environment through our Sustainability Council. 
ACTING WITH PURPOSE
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Planning for the future 
Our IB learners have big plans – and we make sure they achieve them. Our university fair, supported by top UK and US colleges, gives our young people an expert insight into their options. Our College Counselling Team offers support every step of the way. 
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
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Passion projects 
From quantum physics to climate change, the Extended Essay component of the IB Diploma gives our students the chance to explore the topics they’re passionate about. It’s also the perfect preparation for university research projects and assignment writing. 
PASSION PROJECTS
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The choice is yours 
Chess or water polo? Music performance or creative writing? Or how about joining our Wellbeing Council? Our eclectic after-school activity programme offers so much choice, ensuring everyone ends the day doing what they enjoy.
THE CHOICE IS YOURS
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MEET OUR ALUMNI

Learning at SISD is a passport to a global future. We’re incredibly proud of our graduates, who go on to achieve great things at universities and in careers around the world. 

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Armand Finni
Class of 2023
“Whether it’s the unique network of students on campus or the breadth of opportunities on offer, SISD teaches you that education is more than just concrete knowledge. I’ve learnt that a great school experience is about the people you meet, the relationships you create for yourself, and the pathways you take.” 
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Estelle Nouhra
Class of 2024, Former Class President
My name is Estelle Nouhra and I now attend the University of Warwick to study Economics and Politics.
My message to the school community is to always push yourself to do your best. Sometimes it may feel like you cannot achieve more than you currently are, but you always can. It's just that sometimes it's harder and sometimes it isn't. The biggest mistake to make during your schooling is to waste your potential, because this is the moment to exceed it.
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Marta Fernandez
Class of 2024
I am Marta Pérez Fernández, and I am now studying Architecture at the Universidad CEU San Pablo in Madrid, Spain. 
I spent two years at SISD, where I began my IBDP journey. Studying here has been an incredible learning opportunity. I have learned to understand my capabilities, manage tasks effectively, thrive through challenging moments, and feel proud of my accomplishments. Although these two years were sometimes stressful, they were also filled with memorable moments—whether from school events, lessons with teachers, or friendships made. These experiences will always stay with me.
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HOW WE TEACH

A HOLISTIC APPROACH

Our teachers’ International Baccalaureate (IB) experience, passion for languages, and commitment to our BEST values will ensure your child excels academically and blossoms as an individual.
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teaching excellence

PASSIONATE IB SPECIALISTS COMMITTED TO YOUR CHILD 

One of just 50 International Baccalaureate (IB) World Schools globally, SISD attracts the finest International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO)-trained teachers. Many of our exceptional staff are qualified IB examiners, too. This ensures our students benefit from cutting-edge teaching and learning – and know exactly what it takes to achieve success.

Our teachers proudly share our BEST values and set the highest standards, too. Native French, German, and English speakers, they’re also truly passionate about languages. This means that, whichever pathway your child follows, they’ll learn from mother-tongue educators who are committed to bilingualism, cultural immersion, and personalised teaching. 

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OUR STATS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

sub title
100%
of our IBDP class of 2024 achieved their Diploma.
60%
of our 2024 IBDP graduates gained either a bilingual or advanced bilingual Diploma.
Our IBDP point score was significantly above the global average. 
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"One of only two UAE schools to provide boarding, SISD is located on a spacious, state-of-the-art campus by the Dubai Creek. It features impressive facilities such as climbing walls, a ski club and opportunities for sailing. With a focus on STEM and a commitment to nurturing true IB learners, pupils here are curious, open-minded, and adaptable. The school equips them with the skills and mindset to thrive as global citizens in an ever-changing world."
- CARFAX EDUCATION

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UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS

A PATHWAY TO A BRIGHT FUTURE

At SISD, we educate with the future in mind. Ensuring our students are equipped with the skills, qualities, and knowledge they need to get into – and flourish at – the university of their choice is central to our holistic approach.

With the expert guidance of our College Counselling Team, our students research, plan, and work towards their university ambitions. These long-term plans empower them to shape their own pathway to the course or destination of their dreams. This includes places at top 100 universities like University College London, McGill, and Edinburgh.

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SUPPORTING EVERY STUDENT

The SISD community is diverse and inclusive – we’re a school where every student is treated as an individual.

We support learners with a variety of preferences, including those with special educational needs (SEN). In a nurturing environment, we get to know each child and provide the personalised support and adjustments they need to make outstanding progress and realise their full potential. 

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LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCES 

From awe-inspiring international trips to after-school sports, arts, and academic activities, we offer a myriad of experiences that unlock talents, build character, and create passionate lifelong learners. 

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