Dubai Teachers and Schools

What types of schools are there in Dubai?

For Irish and British teachers, it is most likely that you will be working in British Curriculum, IB Curriculum or American Curriculum schools if you choose to take a position here. Here is a comparison table comparing these curricula: 

Aspect

IB Schools

British Curriculum Schools

American Curriculum Schools

Teaching Approach

- Inquiry-based, student-centered. - Encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and independence. - Teachers act as facilitators guiding students through interdisciplinary learning.

- Subject-focused, structured, and teacher-led. - Emphasizes mastering specific content in a traditional format. - Teachers are specialists in subjects, often following detailed lesson plans.

Assessment

- Continuous assessment and project-based work. - Students complete unique elements like the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). - Teachers must be adept at designing formative assessments and guiding research projects.

- Summative assessment with a strong focus on end-of-year exams like GCSEs and A-Levels. - Teachers prepare students for standardized tests and ensure subject mastery.

- Combines continuous assessment with periodic standardized tests. - Students may take SATs, ACTs, or Advanced Placement (AP) exams. - Teachers often adapt assessments to individual learning needs.

Career Appeal (Teachers)

- Teachers gain globally recognized experience, valuable for future international roles. - Opportunities for professional growth through IB workshops and certifications. - Emphasis on innovative teaching methods enhances teaching portfolios.

- Familiar framework for teachers trained in the UK, offering straightforward transitions. - Experience aligns well with UK job opportunities, especially with GCSE/A-Level familiarity. - Stable, structured teaching environment.

- Broad teaching experience adaptable to diverse student needs. - Flexibility allows teachers to develop creative and innovative methods. - Valuable for teachers who enjoy interdisciplinary teaching or are seeking varied roles.

Career Appeal (Students)

- Prepares students for top universities globally with a focus on critical thinking and research skills. - IB graduates are often seen as well-rounded and academically prepared.

- Offers solid preparation for UK universities and others accepting A-Levels globally. - Students gain subject-specific expertise for specialized career paths.

- Broad educational experience, ideal for students pursuing universities in the US. - Encourages a balance of academics, creativity, and personal interests.