Sherborne Mena

PROFILE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

OUR HISTORY

Sherborne School, in Dorset in the UK, is one of the UK’s leading independent boys’ boarding schools and was founded in 1550 under a royal charter granted by King Edward VI.

Sherborne Preparatory School, which opened in 1858, is an independent co-educational school for children aged 3-13 years. The school has a long and distinguished history and an enviable academic reputation as a feeder to many of England’s leading independent schools. Since April 2021, Sherborne Preparatory School has been part of Sherborne School.

Sherborne School for Girls opened in 1899. The school quickly gained a reputation for high academic standards. Today the school is renowned as one of the finest girls’ schools in the UK.

Sherborne International School founded in 1977, gives international pupils the opportunity to transform their English language skills, whilst introducing them to the British education system and British culture. On completion of their course many pupils move to Sherborne or other leading British independent senior schools.

ABOUT

SHERBORNE QATAR

Sherborne Qatar opened in 2009 and is a joint venture between Sherborne School and H.E. Sheikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Thani, Chairman of Sharaka Holdings. It is currently the only overseas school operated by Sherborne School. Members of the Qatari royal family such as the Emir of Qatar, H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, have attended Sherborne and Sheikh Abdulla and his wife Sheikha Amal have sent some of their sons there too.

Sheikh Abdulla was keen that Sherborne should join him in a partnership to bring to Qatar educational opportunities and values that he had seen and liked at Sherborne. He said: “Ahmed, our oldest son, was transformed by Sherborne. The school’s approach helped him to discover different talents in himself and he was greatly nourished by the experience. We are extremely grateful for what a Sherborne education has given him. Sherborne has history, culture, discipline and a willingness to transform a child. That is what it did for our child and that is what we want to give to Qatar. We need to bring a more structured educational experience to our country. Qatar needs Sherborne’s culture, experience and tradition.”

OUR MISSION

Well-educated, well-rounded individuals who have high aspirations and achieve their potential, in a happy and nurturing school.

OUR VALUES

Respect, Honesty, Kindness, Perseverance, Responsibility and Teamwork.

Sherborne Qatar is a founding member of Qatar’s Outstanding Schools Initiative and is overseen by the Private Schools’ Office of Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education. Sherborne Qatar provides an excellent, 21st century British education, taught by predominantly British teachers who all have experience of the British curriculum.

Sherborne Qatar is a self-financed, notfor-loss school with its own Board of Governors, of which Sherborne School has half of the appointed membership. The ethos, brand and educational standards are overseen by and aligned to Sherborne School.

Opening with a Prep School of 170 pupils and 24 staff Sherborne Qatar has grown slowly and carefully into a family of four schools, with a fifth in development and with some 2,000 pupils and nearly 300 staff.

The Executive Committee is chaired by Nick Prowse, the Principal and CEO of Sherborne Qatar. Nick has been at Sherborne Qatar since it opened in 2009 and he was the school’s founding Headmaster. The Heads of all the Sherborne Qatar Schools and the Bursar, complete the Executive which shapes the overall Sherborne Qatar strategy and drives forward our mission which is to produce well-educated, well-rounded individuals who have high aspirations and achieve their potential, in happy and nurturing schools. This mission is underpinned by our core values: Respect, Honesty, Kindness, Perseverance, Responsibility and Teamwork. The Executive’s collective wisdom and experience will help to shape the school we establish with you.

A key feature of Sherborne Qatar is that, whilst all the schools share the same ethos and values, they are also autonomous schools, each with their own Senior Leadership Team to develop and oversee the education which best suits the age groups at their respective school. The shared values and ethos means that staff can move effectively between schools within the family and this has been particularly valuable as we established the newest schools in the family.

The Sherborne Qatar family of schools consists of:

• A co-educational Prep School for pupils from Pre School (3 years old) in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) through to Year 6 (11 years old);

• a co-educational Senior School for pupils in Years 7 – 13, (Years 12 and 13 are the Sixth Form);

• a Girls’ School with a STEM focus, for girls from EYFS to Year 13. The Girls’ School opened in 2020 at a purpose-built site. Year 11 opened this academic year and Year 12 will open in August 2023;

• a co-educational Junior School (to differentiate it from the Prep School) opened in September 2022 for pupils from Reception class (4 years old) to Year 6. In line with our mantra to ‘grow the schools slowly’, growth is being carefully managed to maintain the balance of gender, ability and nationality within each class and across the school.

• The most recent addition, which is still in development, is Sherborne Qetaf, which is the basis of a separate proposal to you.

The Sherborne Qatar family of schools gives parents a choice of educational styles and locations, but the education offered in all the schools is a holistic, quality, 21st century education.

BOARD OF GOVERNORS

H.E. Sheikh Abdulla Bin Ahmed Al Thani Chairman of the Board, Sherborne MENA, Sharaka Holdings and Sharaka Education

H.E. Sheikh Abdulla Bin Ahmed Bin Abdulla Al Thani is a member of the ruling family of Qatar and has led the Sharaka Holdings Group for the past two decades. He founded Sherborne Qatar in 2009 and is currently the Chairman of the Board Sherborne Mena.

H.E. Sheikh Abdulla holds an honours degree in International Relations & Political Economics from a UK university. From 1989 to 2001, he undertook many important government assignments in the ministries of Industries, Tourism, Public Works, Energy and Transportation.

Sharaka Holdings has grown into a conglomerate of over 30 successful companies and continues to scale new heights, earning its reputation of being one of the most credible and diverse business groups in the state of Qatar, London and Jordan.

From 2008 onwards, he has played a key role in transforming and enhancing the quality of education for pupils in Qatar. He always believed that attention needs to be paid to the formative years. H.E. Sheikh Abdulla approached Sherborne UK and opened the first Sherborne school outside of the UK in Qatar.

After 14 years of successful operation in Qatar, H.E. Sheikh Abdulla set up Sharaka Education and aims to make high quality educational pathways and opportunities available to youth in the MENA region. H.E. Sheikh Abdulla is currently the Chairman of Sharaka Education.

H.E. Sheikh Abdulla has been the chairman of Al Khaleej Takaful insurance since 2012. In the past, he has held leadership roles as CEO of Qatar National Hotels, Member of the Board of Directors of the Ministry of Tourism, Qatar National Bank, Qatar Flour Mills and Assistant CEO of Gulf Insurance Company.

H.E. Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Ahmed Al Thani Vice Chairman Sherborne Qatar

H.E. Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Ahmed Al Thani is a member of the ruling family of Qatar. He has considerable knowledge, understanding and prowess in the real estate sector and has been the dynamic force behind the success of Sharaka’s real estate business. Today, Le Mirage,the flagship brand of Sharaka’s real estate sector,dominates the premium residential and hospitality real estate market in Qatar. The company has recently expanded into the United Kingdom.

H.E. Sheikh Abdulaziz brings this great repository of knowledge and experience to Sherborne and Sharaka Education as we look to expand into the MENA region. He is an insightful and organised leader with more than 20 years of experience in managing and shaping business strategies.

Prior to joining the group, Sheikh Abdulaziz held principal positions like Vice Presidents with Deputy Chairman of Doha Bank and Vice President with Deputy Chairman of the International Financial Securities Company.

Sheikha Amal Bint Jassim Bin Mohammed Al Thani Managing Director of Sherborne Qatar and Member of the Board, Sherborne MENA

Sheikha Amal Bint Jassim Bin Mohammed Al Thani is a member of the Board at Sherborne MENA. During her time, she has played a critical role in the development of Sherborne Qatar. She is now actively involved in its expansion across the MENA region.

Sheikha Amal has always had a keen interest in education and held it in high regard; she holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the University of Newcastle and a Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies from the University College London.

CEO Sharaka Holdings, Vice Chairman Sharaka Education and Member of the Board, Sherborne MENA

Mr Amer Fares commenced his journey with Sharaka Holdings in 2007 and he has been leading the group in the capacity of Group Chief Executive Officer since 2019. He is a member of the Board of Sherborne MENA and has taken the lead in realising the vision of Sharaka Education.

His passion and knowledge for real estate led to the realisation of Sharaka’s visionary and aggressive real estate plans. He led the team in the construction of the new Sherborne Qatar School For Girls and played a pivotal role in securing the Senior School at the Mall of Qatar premises. As Sherborne expands into new regions, this experience in local and international business, finance and real estate development will prove invaluable.

Mr Nick Prowse Principal & CEO Sherborne Qatar and Member of the Board, Sherborne MENA

Nick Prowse was the Founding Headmaster of Sherborne Qatar School and established the first school in September 2009. Since then, he has led the development of the Sherborne family of Schools, which now includes a Prep School, a Junior School, a Senior School (CoEd) and a Girls’ School, focusing on STEM. At capacity this will mean that Sherborne Qatar will educate c.3500 pupils and employ approximately 350 academic staff, the vast majority of which are British.

In addition, Nick is working with Sharaka Education to establish a series of Specialist Schools for Children with Special Educational Needs. He hopes the first school will open in September 2023.

Prior to joining Sherborne, Nick was the Senior Boarding Master at The Pilgrim’s School, Winchester where he was the Housemaster to the Winchester Cathedral Choristers and the Quiristers to Winchester College. The Pilgrim’s School is a feeder school to many leading independent schools including Eton and Sherborne.

Nick has a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership from Buckingham University and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.

Mr Amer Fares

Dr Dominic Luckett Headmaster, Sherborne UK and Member of the Board, Sherborne MENA

Dr Luckett took up his appointment as Headmaster and CEO in January 2016. He received a congratulatory first class degree in History from the University of Leicester and then studied for his doctorate on Henry VII at Magdalen College, Oxford.

Dominic taught for eleven years at Harrow School, where he was Head of History and an Assistant Housemaster, before moving to Worth School as Deputy Head. In 2007, he became Headmaster of Mill Hill, an HMC coeducational day and boarding school in north London, and Chief Executive of the Mill Hill School Foundation comprising the senior, prep, pre-prep and international schools.

He is a governor of Westminster School; The Pilgrims’ School, Winchester; Perrott Hill School; King Arthur’s School, Wincanton; and Sherborne Qatar. Between 2009 and 2018 he was member of the Council of the University of Leicester, the university’s governing body. He has published various articles on early Tudor history and in September 2019 was named Best Head of a Public School at the Tatler awards. His interests include music, antique clocks, indoor rowing and skiing.

Mrs Elaine Stallard Governor, Sherborne UK and Member of the Board, Sherborne MENA

Mrs Stallard established her own business consultancy some thirty years ago, working at the highest levels in the public and private sectors as an advisor, negotiator and strategist. She is recognised within the International Education sector for her work in helping to establish Sherborne Qatar and the digital platform Winter’s School Finder.

Her former appointments include Governor of the Purcell School of Music, a lay Director of the Fundraising Standards Board, Vice Chair of Getting London Working and a member of the development committee of the Design Museum. Elaine has been a magistrate since 2007 and is a Governor of Sherborne Qatar. She is a member of the Chelsea Arts Club.

Dr Ruth Sullivan Headmistress of Sherborne Girls and Member of the Board, Sherborne MENA

Since becoming Head of Sherborne Girls in 2018, Dr Sullivan has been committed to the development of 21st century women: empowerment, adaptability, pupil voice, digital agility, resilience and wellbeing. She is passionate about broadening opportunities for all of the girls including through strengthening the unique relationship with Sherborne School and their ‘separate yet together’ offering, where pupils and staff benefit from the best of both worlds.

Sherborne Girls is the fifth school Ruth has worked in with previous roles including Deputy Master, Head of Sixth Form, Head of Department and Housemistress and is an advocate of developing a lifelong love of learning.

Educated at City of London School for Girls and Sherborne Girls, reading Geography at Edinburgh University, taking four years out of teaching in 2007 to complete an MSc and PhD (Epidemiology) at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Ruth has travelled extensively, often on foot or bike, and enjoys completing marathons, and ironman events.

OUR UNIQUE VALUE PROPOSITION

British education is valued the world over and, as verified by our BSO accreditation, Sherborne Qatar is a truly British, highly respected and sought after family of schools in an international environment, with British teachers delivering the British National Curriculum, quality, wide ranging enrichment and outstanding pastoral care.

We offer the following unique value propositions:

• Sherborne has 14 years’ experience and knowledge as guests in Qatar, which means that we have developed an understanding of the regional culture and values. These we assimilate into the day to day running of the family of schools and integrate them with our mission and values. We will bring this experience with us and use it to help us develop the school.

• We are experienced at incorporating local academic requirements within the curriculum. For example, we adhere to all Qatar’s regulations for teaching Arabic and Islamic Studies, but we do so with a British style of teaching so that they link seamlessly with the rest of our curriculum. We bring this experience with us.

• Sherborne Qatar School for Girls is the only British curriculum Girls’ STEM school in Qatar. We offer the benefits of a progressive 21st century STEM education to all pupils who join Sherborne. We believe that STEM is important for modern education in our changing, technologically rich and rapidly evolving 21st century world.

• STEM is a core element of our offering and we will incorporate our STEM approach to teaching for all pupils in all age groups.

• Our unique Sherborne WAY aims to retain the highest academic standards, but also provides a tailormade curriculum that suits and meets every child’s individual needs. The Sherborne WAY achieves this through a fusion of the National Curriculum of England and our values and learning dispositions which give pupils a foundation of knowledge, future skills, self-belief and a joy for learning. In other words, we are preparing the pupils for a life after school. We will incorporate the Sherborne WAY across the school.

• To support our STEM teaching we have developed a suite of audio visual, virtual reality and creative technology spaces and teach the pupil’s the skills needed to use technology effectively.

• Finally, on leaving the school for university or employment, Shirburnians have access to alumni in various professions and organisations around the world who can offer insight, advice and support as they embark on their future paths. This is a powerful network to have at their disposal.

Sherborne’s ethos and approach is designed to help the pupils achieve their full potential and achieve our mission, which is to develop: well-educated, well-rounded pupils who achieve their potential in happy and nurturing schools.

OUR FAMILY OF

OF SCHOOLS

“Sherborne Qatar Prep School is an outstanding school”

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Sherborne Qatar Preparatory School is a co-educational school for pupils aged 3 to 11.

At the Prep School, we set children on an exceptional journey. We believe children learn differently. That’s why we have developed a series of specialist areas to provide memorable learning experiences, which support our belief in the importance of transferable, 21st century skills. Or, as we call them our Learning Dispositions.

These areas which include, a Makerspace, Science Lab, VR Room, ICT Suite, WOW Room, Video Editing Suite, a Recording/ Visual Room and Dance space, help our children discover their brilliance. In these areas they develop their creativity, curiosity, independence, communication, risktaking & resilience skills. These 6 dispositions are woven into our enhanced curriculum, in which we work individually with pupils, supporting them to develop these skills in a caring environment.

Take a tour of the Preparatory School. Please scan the video QR code below.

- British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection report April 2022 WATCH

“The school offers a curriculum that aims to inspire all groups of pupils to develop a lifelong love for learning”.

- British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection report April 2022

SENIOR SCHOOL

Sherborne Senior School is a co-educational school for pupils aged 11 to 18.

The Senior School follows the UK based curriculum in all three key stages taught in the school, using the National Curriculum for England as a guide for Key Stage 3 and the options for i/GCSE and AS/A Levels.

In August 2021 Sherborne Senior School moved to a new, purpose built site at the Grand Zone of the Mall of Qatar. The modern and spacious building is built to the highest of standards and is designed to deliver an outstanding, 21st century education, with small class sizes and age-appropriate facilities. The site boasts 74 classrooms; 12 science labs; ICT and robotics suites; specialist drama, art and music facilities; a 250-seat theatre; a large cafeteria; and, multiple sporting areas, including a 100m running track, two sports halls, a large multi-purpose pitch and a 25m swimming pool.

The site also has multiple, and very attractive, shaded outside recreational areas for pupils to enjoy at break times, along with separate safe areas for physical activities.

Another key area of the Senior School is the Sixth Form Centre that has been designed to help Year 12 and 13 Pupils prepare for top universities and enjoy independent learning. The Sixth Form Centre has a very large common room, a large private study area and six break-out study areas.

Take a tour of the Senior School. Please scan the video QR code below.

WATCH VIDEO

A WEALTH OF OPPORTUNITIES

“Pupil engagement, curiosity and a love of learning produce many wow moments and memorable learning experiences. ”

- British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection report April 2022

SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Sherborne Qatar School For Girls aims to be a truly outstanding STEM school preparing girls to be innovative, confident leaders in their chosen field. We offer an education for girls from Pre School to Year 13 with the aim of enabling young ladies to eventually progress to their chosen universities or careers around the world.

As a STEM school we are dedicated to developing the girls’ confidence, selfesteem and leadership skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths along with offering all other UK curriculum subjects.

We have the facilities and resources to become a leading school in STEM for girls in Qatar. With 5 Science laboratories, 4 IT Rooms, a Maker Space (a dedicated STEM Room), a Virtual Reality Room (VR), large open plan Art rooms and age appropriate libraries the girls are given every opportunity to develop their STEM education. By offering this enhancement in STEM, alongside all that is offered in a regular British Curriculum, we are providing new learning experiences and the opportunity for girls to find their talents, passions and interests.

A 25m swimming pool, a large sports hall, a dance studio, an astro sports pitch, roof top sports courts, indoor play areas, a drama room, two music rooms (with 6 smaller music practice rooms) and multipurpose halls offer your children the chance to develop sporting and creative talents alongside their academic studies.

Our school is kept purposefully small, with a maximum of 72 girls per year group, as we want to know our pupils and to be able to personally focus on their educational needs and individual development.

We develop our pupils to be confident and articulate adults who are ready for the challenges of the 21st century and are able to be leaders in their chosen professions.

Take a tour of the Girls’ School with our Headmistress. Please scan the video QR code below

ADMISSIONS

All prospective pupils are assessed via the Admissions Policy and must demonstrate that they have the ability, skills and knowledge to access the age appropriate curriculum successfully. English is the language of communication throughout the school and in all academic lessons, except Arabic, French, Spanish and Islamic Studies for Arabic speakers. Consequently, prospective pupils must demonstrate that they are sufficiently fluent in English (written and spoken) to be able to communicate effectively within the age group which they are entering. The nature and content of the entry assessment will vary according to the child’s age and stage of education but a full report from their previous educational establishment is a requirement for all.

If a child is accepted but the relevant year group is full, he or she will be placed on the Heads’ waiting list. Places in the school are then granted, as they become available, at the discretion of the Heads, based on criteria such as ability and gender and not on a first come, first served basis.

Once an application is made the Registrar will work with parents at all stages of the process.

CURRICULUM

The curriculum is grounded in the National Curriculum of England 2014, modified to include Qatar’s requirements for the teaching of Arabic, Islamic Studies and Qatar History.

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Pre School and Reception pupils follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum (EYFS) which provides clear topics and learning goals, designed to meet the needs of the pupils in relation to their personal, social, emotional and physical development and their communication and language skills.

Pupils in Pre-Prep are given many choices to play, explore, learn and achieve satisfaction from various toys and equipment. Outside, there are tables and areas for craft, mark making, snack time, Maths and malleable creativity. Areas are also set out for role-play, reading, painting, physical development, investigation, music, construction, sand and water play and information technology. All areas of learning are represented in our outdoor area. Outdoor resources include planting and larger physical resources such as climbing frames and bikes.

The Prep School curriculum for Key Stages 1 & 2 (Years 1 – 6) is broad and varied for all pupils. English (using the Read Write Inc phonics scheme and the Talk for Writing scheme) and Maths (using White Rose Maths) are taught daily. The curriculum includes Science, the Humanities, Languages, Art, Music, PSHE, Qatar History and PE and Games, all of which are on the timetable each week. Languages, Music and PE and Games are all taught by specialists.

In Years 3 - 6 Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) is taught by Form Teachers as well as by the members of Senior Leadership Team (SLT), which helps to ensure our high standard of pastoral care is inter-woven with the curriculum.

The school follows the Qatar Ministry’s requirements and regulations for the teaching of Arabic, Islamic Studies and Qatar History but we tailor these requirements with our own programme of Arabic for non-native speakers and Islamic Studies in English for Muslim pupils who do not speak Arabic. During Islamic Studies lessons, non-Muslim pupils attend World Studies sessions which are intended to enrich and deepen the children’s understanding of the world in which they live. World Studies lessons are based on the National Curriculum’s Citizenship Guidance and Humanities’ topics.

The Prep School follows a thematic Enquiry approach to underpin teaching. Enquiries vary in length from half a term to the whole term and range from why am I super? in Reception to Into the Deep in Year 4, and from The Enchanted Garden in Year 2 to Wars of the World in Year 6. The delivery of the curriculum is monitored by the SLT, who regularly conduct Learning Reviews for each year group on set dates in the year and Drop In visits to classrooms.

Many subjects are incorporated within the thematic approach. So, for example, when Year 5 cover Future World, their English, Science and Humanities will all include work linked to the enquiry. WOW and Landing Days allow all forms in a year group to work collaboratively on aspects of a theme and year group productions are often linked as well. For example, Year 3’s production of a Glint of Gold ties in with their Egyptians Enquiry. This cross-curricular approach allows for all pupils to develop the skills of listening, spoken language, reading and writing. Additionally, these skills are enhanced through events like the annual Public Speaking Competitions, in which all pupils in Years 3 to 6 participate.

Pupils also enjoy learning in The CUBE, a series of educational teaching spaces. The CUBE consists of a Makerspace, Science Lab, VR Room, ICT Suite, WOW Room, Video Editing Suite and a Recording/Visual Room.

We also hold focus weeks, such as Book Week and Healthy Living Week, which include special events and the School Council are often involved in the planning of these events. Each year we welcome visiting speakers.

The PE curriculum is broad ranging and all pupils are challenged and presented with the opportunity to develop their skills in a variety of sports with a curriculum which takes into account the weather in Qatar.

LEARNING THE SHERBORNE WAY

In September 2021, we introduced The Sherborne WAY into the Prep School. The Sherborne WAY fuses the school’s moral values and learning dispositions with enriching thematic approaches, developing the skills children will need to thrive as adults in the 21st century. The Sherborne WAY has the National Curriculum for England (2014) as its underlying structure but tailors all parts of the learning to Sherborne Qatar pupils, ensuring our content is enriching and purposeful and has our moral values and learning dispositions at its core. The aim is that pupils will leave us equipped with independent learning skills, the ability to think critically and solve problems, together with the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with others. We aim to produce considerate young people who are ready to thrive in a life after school.

ASSESSMENTS

Pupils in EYFS are assessed through observations. As they learn through play and purposefully planned activities, Form Teachers gauge starting points during the initial weeks in Pre School and Reception. This baseline information is then used to map out the expected progress for every pupil.

Formative assessment plays a key role in identifying progress in KS1 and KS2. Teachers are continuously assessing pupils through engagement in learning, contribution to class discussions and responses to tasks. Where pupils are supported by the teacher or teaching assistant, aspects of the learning continue to be assessed. Feedback is used either to move learning on in an appropriate, timely way or to provide opportunities for re-teaching, consolidation or challenge within specific objectives. Outcomes in lessons are judged against learning objectives.

Termly summative assessments take place in Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, focusing on core subjects. Outcomes from these assessments are used in conjunction with teacher judgements that have been made through formative assessments. The data gathered is analysed to gauge trends in learning across the school. Data analysis also includes monitoring progress made by various groups based on gender, ethnicity and learning needs within each year group. This information is used at class level by teachers to modify medium term planning and at school level by subject leaders to drive forward curriculum changes.

SENIOR SCHOOL

The Senior School follows a UK based curriculum in all three key stages taught in the school, using the English National Curriculum, modified for the local setting in Key Stage 3 (Years 7 – 9) and the options for i/GCSE and AS/A Levels.

We strive to create an environment that nurtures a desire to learn, encourages pupils to be inquisitive, allows individuals to gain confidence and enables all our pupils to achieve success in their adult lives. Typically, pupils will complete their Year 11 studies with between 8 and 10 i/GCSE qualifications, their Year 12 studies with 4 AS Levels and their Year 13 studies with 3 A Levels.

The curriculum is broad throughout Key Stage 3 and pupils study: English, Mathematics, Science, French or Arabic, Spanish or Islamic Studies, History, Geography, ICT/Computer Science, Physical Education, Music, Drama, Art, Design & Technology and Qatari History. Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) is delivered during tutor time and through collapsed days.

In Key Stage 4 (Years 10 & 11) pupils are encouraged to follow a traditional curriculum pathway consisting of a broad range of i/GCSE qualifications, including English, Maths, two or three Science subjects, a language (Arabic, [compulsory for native speakers] French or Spanish) and a humanities subject. The curriculum for all these subjects follows the syllabi of the relevant examination board.

In the Sixth Form pupils can choose from a broad and growing range of subjects. Generally, pupils in Year 12 will study four subjects for AS Level and three subjects for A Level in Year 13. As a rule, a minimum of 5 i/GCSE passes at grade 4 or above is required (including English Language and Mathematics) to study AS Levels. Sixth Form pupils also offers an extensive Careers Advice programme which helps them to choose what they would like to do when they leave schools, helps them to prepare for university and offers them guidance on making their university applications.

ASSESSMENTS

The Senior School has a well-defined Assessment procedure. All departments undertake routine assessments at half termly (approximately six weekly) intervals and keep department records There is continuous informal assessment of pupils’ progress and the results are used by staff to inform future planning. This can be at both an individual pupil level, to assess the next steps for that pupil and at department level to identify areas of development for a particular department. Any particular pupil or areas of concern are identified to the Head of Department, Head of Year, or at periodic Heads of Department Meetings. HoDs are then responsible for analysing the impact of these assessments on pupils across the key stages. This evaluation informs teaching and learning, assigning subject priorities and future curriculum development and direction.

Progress Meetings take place after each assessment cycle. Through regular discussions about pupil performance, teachers can identify strengths and development areas and establish the next steps in relation to teaching and learning. Each year the i/GCSE, AS Level and A Level results are analysed to see what improvements can be made to the various courses.

STEM

STEM is an acronym of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths and describes a blended and holistic curriculum which we believe is important for modern education in our changing, technologically rich and rapidly evolving 21st century world.

STEM Education is a cross-disciplinary approach to teaching the four interrelated subjects, with problem solving at its heart. We appreciate that all subjects, as well as the four that make up the acronym, are part of our STEM education. STEM skills are embedded into every stage of the Girls’ School curriculum, from EYFS onwards. STEM focuses on incorporating learning activities with real-world applications, which help children to understand how their education is relevant and how they can use it in the future. STEM embraces the 4 Cs: Creativity, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Communication, all key in today’s society.

Jobs in the real world are interdisciplinary and pupils now need to know how subjects integrate and work together. They need to develop diverse skill sets and a passion for exploration and wider thinking. They do not need only to memorise random facts, but they need to know how to think critically and evaluate and apply information. They need to know how to research and to problem solve. STEM education helps to foster a love of learning and a lifelong passion to learn more and develop oneself.

By building a school rich in STEM Education we aim to prepare our pupils for future, 21st century, employment opportunities around the world. As stated in our unique value proposition page 14, STEM is a core element of our offering and something and is an approach that Sherborne would wish to offer to all pupils in all age groups.

ENRICHMENT

The curriculum is further enhanced by a broad Enrichment programme which takes place after school each day. The Enrichment programme is designed to extend pupils’ skills and interests and Sherborne Qatar offers a wide range of sporting artistic, musical and cultural clubs including debating and a model United Nations. The programme is not compulsory, but pupils are encouraged to participate and most are involved in two or three activities a week.

Pupils are encouraged to enjoy and develop interests which they already have but also, perhaps more importantly, to take on the challenge of something they have not done before. There is also an extensive programme of sporting fixtures, concerts and drama productions which are now getting back into full swing after the Covid-19 restrictions.

Pastoral care is at the heart of all that we do in our schools. Form Teachers and Tutors have the prime responsibility for the pastoral welfare of the pupils within their groups and regularly talk to their pupils about their progress and general wellbeing.

We strive to create a stimulating educational environment for our pupils, where they can achieve academically and holistically, preparing and equipping them for life, nurturing their skills, their ambitions and their moral and cultural development whilst, at the same time, growing their creative talents and their love for learning. We want to help all our pupils discover and develop what they can do and use this to help them overcome the difficulties of things they find more challenging.

There is a chain of responsibility from Form Teachers and Tutors to Heads of Key Stage in the Prep School and Heads of Year in the Seniors and on to the Deputy Heads and then the Heads. The PSHE curriculum includes a variety of personal development issues and it is underpinned by our values. This is also supported by assemblies and the House system which allows for vertical support. Assemblies, with themes that stem from our values and learning dispositions, are led by members of the Senior Leadership Team.

There are also periodic special assemblies for events such as the one on Remembrance Day, Pupils also have the opportunity to hold various positions of responsibility or be elected to the School Council for their school, and so develop their leadership skills throughout the schools.

We want our pupils to be polite, well behaved and responsible. We want them to act independently when the opportunity arises. We want them to be caring and considerate of all others in the school community and have respect for each other and the school staff. Heads of Key Stage and Year Leaders work closely with Form Teachers and Tutors to ensure pupils are happy, of healthy minds and ready to learn. We want our pupils to feel valued within our community. Most adults know many pupils by name and the positive relationships teachers build with pupils continue to grow even after children move into the following year group or phase. We want our pupils to be enthusiastic about their learning.

REWARDS

The school Rewards system is designed to reinforce what we expect from our pupils. It is designed to reward them for good conduct and work and, when things go wrong, help them explore what is going wrong and why by reflecting on their actions. Through this system we want them to learn to make appropriate judgements when they are faced with choices, based on what is the right thing to do. In this regard, we believe that praise is the greatest motivator. In line with this the sanctions, policy is based on an ethos that, ‘Behaviour mistakes are learning opportunities’.

Through our pastoral programmes we wish to extend the children’s consideration for others, encourage them to be willing to help others, take pride in their school and want to look after it. Through charity events we encourage pupils to consider people who are less fortunate than themselves. We work in close collaboration with Qatari charity Education Above All (EAA) which was founded by Sheikha Moza. The school has a long-term commitment to support British charity, United World Schools (UWS) and specifically Som Roung and Prey Meas Schools in Cambodia, via the UWS Partner School scheme. We teach the pupils about the work of UWS in Cambodia and provide pupils with the opportunity to raise funds for our partner schools.

HOUSE SYSTEM

We have a House system throughout the family of schools and all pupils and all staff, except for Senior Leadership Team (SLT), belong to one of the Houses and staff and pupils’ allegiance to their House is strong. Siblings will be placed in the same House and although the Senior School Houses have different names the House colours are the same throughout and pupils from the Prep and Junior Houses will move to the same colour House in the Seniors.

The Houses are named after eminent Old Shirburnians from the UK, eminent Qataris and other inspirational people. The House system is central to Sherborne’s culture (both here and at Sherborne in the UK) and is something which we believe sets us apart from other schools. Staff and pupils wear House shirts, in their House colours, for House events. Pupils in KS2 and throughout the Senior School wear House ties with their uniform shirts. This is a wonderful way of identifying a pupil’s House during the normal school day, especially when the child is identified by a member of staff from a different phase who is in the same House as the child.

Through the various Interhouse activities pupils learn to work together as a team and to support and encourage each other in a positive manner. The House system also encourages both vertical and horizontal peer support and provides a vehicle through which all pupils can participate in a variety of events and develop their confidence and self-esteem. These are particularly evident in the whole school House Days which take place six times a year and each has a particular theme. The various Interhouse events are well supported by pupils, staff and parents with many pupils participating in sports and activities which they had not tried before.

Through our traditional House system, and our strong emphasis on outstanding pastoral care, we provide further avenues for our pupils to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and selfconfidence. Each House strives to be the best and allegiance to the House is a great motivator for both pupils and teachers in a range of friendly competitions and activities throughout the school year.

EXAM RESULTS

Pupil performance is shared regularly with parents. Teachers work hard to build positive relationships with parents, and part of this includes frequent informal discussions with parents about their child’s progress. Where areas of learning need reinforcing at home, teachers communicate this with parents early on. Similarly, when good progress is to be celebrated, parents are informed about this too.

LEARNING SUPPORT

To ensure that all pupils make good progress through the Prep School, the Intervention Department works closely with Form Teachers. The department has excellent relationships with pupils, parents and staff and therefore is able to support the learning needs of pupils effectively.

Through differentiated teacher input and planned tasks all pupils are helped to succeed, with almost all pupils being able to access their year group’s objectives through Quality First, in class teaching. Wave 2 support is offered to pupils who have been identified at Pupil Progress Meetings to receive small group interventions with a Teaching Assistant (TA). Those who receive Wave 3 intervention are usually withdrawn from lessons where their brief absence will have the least impact on their academic progress and social interactions.

In the Seniors, some pupils may be offered an alternate curriculum pathway and they receive extra support through the Learning Support Department. Other pupils who need Learning Support are identified through formative assessment. Sherborne Qatar also has a School Counsellor, a qualified social worker, who works closely with the Learning Support teams in relation to pupils’ social and emotional well-being.

Sherborne Qatar School for Girls follows a very similar curriculum in both its Primary and Senior sections but has a unique feature amongst the Sherborne Qatar family of schools which is its STEM approach to teaching and learning.

ACCREDITATIONS

British Schools Overseas (BSO)

The UK’s Department for Education has put in place a voluntary scheme for the inspection of British schools overseas, whereby schools are inspected against a common set of standards that British schools overseas can choose to adopt. The purpose of the inspection is to provide information to parents, teachers, senior managers and the school’s management on the overall effectiveness of the school, the standard of education it provides and its compatibility with independent schools in the United Kingdom.

The Senior and Preparatory schools were reinspected on the three-year cycle in 2022. Both schools fully meet all the accreditation standards for British Schools Overseas (BSO). The inspectors’ overall judgement is that the Prep School is an Outstanding school and that the Senior School is a good school with significant outstanding features. The inspection reports noted that both schools have many strengths, including:

the excellent British curriculum which supports all pupils;

the outstanding pastoral care offered to all pupils and

the high level of respect between pupils and teachers and between teachers and pupils.

The BSO accreditation also allows the schools to be members of British Schools in the Middle East (BSME), the Association of British Schools Overseas (AoBSO) and the Independent Association of Prep Schools (IAPS).

The Girls’ School and the Junior School will apply for BSO status in due course.

Qatar National School Accreditation (QNSA)

The State of Qatar launched QNSA for private schools in 2011 as an initiative to ensure that all programmes offered by private schools are up to international standards in terms of performance and quality. The accreditation system provides quality assessments on schools based on their academic, educational and administrative performances.

The Prep and Senior Schools were reinspected in 2022 and both achieved the top grade of ‘highly effective’ schools and were given five year accreditations. Amongst many strengths the accreditation teams found that:

• the school has a clear mission and values which are effectively integrated into the school;

• Islamic and Qatari values and national identity are effectively promoted and enhanced;

• there are clear and comprehensive policies;

• there is a broad and balanced curriculum which includes clear goals for, and expectations of, the pupils;

• there is an effective extra-curricular programme;

The Girls’ School currently has candidacy status with the full QNSA accreditation visit due at the end of January 2023. The Junior School will apply for candidacy status in due course.

SHIRBURNIANS

Shirburnians follow a diverse range of careers at the highest levels and include world leaders, diplomats, politicians, journalists, actors, poets and musicians.

OUR SHIRBURNIANS

UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS IN 2022

On completing their studies at Sherborne Qatar, pupils continue onto top universities in the UK and worldwide.

Business-related subjects, law, history, politics, medicine, biochemistry, dentistry, engineering, and computing continue to be the most popular courses.

WHY SHERBORNE?

Sherborne Qatar offers an outstanding 21st century British education within an international setting and we would now like to bring the benefits of that education to you. We bring:

• 14 years of experience as guests in the region, we understand local culture, values and customs. Our schools are inclusive, family orientated and friendly;

• Our excellent British and British trained teachers aspire to deliver a holistic education which develops future leaders;

• The outstanding pastoral care that Sherborne provides including a British independent school House system, will nurture and develop pupils at your school;

• Considerable experience in adapting the National Curriculum of England to the requirements of the local Ministry of Education. We bring this knowledge and expertise with us;

• Small class sizes at Sherborne offer a generous pupil / teacher ratio;

• A belief that all children can succeed with the correct level of support in relation to their needs;

• A belief that Enrichment activities, including sport and the arts, are essential to the children’s all round development;

• Opportunities for pupils to take responsibility and develop leadership skills;

• Parents have a vital part to play in the successful education of their children. We bring a strong Home / School ethos, with opportunities for parents to be involved and visit school;

• The utilisation of the latest educational ICT and a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) scheme;

• Preparation for life after school, including university and careers advice.

SHERBORNE?

Together we can deliver our mission, which is to produce: Well-educated, wellrounded individuals who have high aspirations and achieve their potential, in a happy and nurturing school, underpinned by our core Values: Respect, Honesty, Kindness, Perseverance, Responsibility and Teamwork.

a Sherborne Education means Education for Life!

SHARAKA EDUCATION

Sharaka Education W.L.L., is the educational flagship of Sharaka Holdings, which is one of Qatar’s leading business conglomerates.

Sharaka Education has exclusive rights to franchise the Sherborne brand in the MENA region.

Our Founder

H.E. Sheikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Thani

A visionary who is passionate about creating distinguished pathways in Qatar. Striving to provide a legacy of opportunity for young people. Importantly, he is keen to strike the right balance between education and culture so that future generations benefit from quality education without losing connection to their traditional culture and values.

Our vision

We aim to bring high quality, internationally recognised, technologically advanced and globally certified educational opportunities to the people of Qatar and the region.

Our purpose

We will inspire our young people to dream big by providing role models and experiences that support their aspirations.

By planting the seeds and providing the right environment for generations to come, we believe Sharaka Education will effect positive change and make strides towards building a better world.

What can Sharaka Education offer you?

Credibility that comes with being pioneers

We have been leaders in education for more than a decade. Our pupils make positive changes to the world in fields ranging from technology and medicine to education and politics.

Strong brands in our portfolio

The strong brand equity of brands in our portfolio give us a competitive edge.

An in depth understanding of the region

Our experience in the education industry brings with it an in depth understanding of the needs, behaviours and challenges people face. This knowledge is invaluable and can often mean the difference between success and failure.

A collaborative team of educators, professionals and industry leaders

Sharaka Education is led by a team of educators and professionals who bring varied skills sets as industry leaders. This dynamic group of people are united by a common passion for education and life long learning.

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE

MADE IN SHERBORNE MADE FOR LIFE