CHANGE IMAGE TO 2026
WORLD-CLASS
EDUCATION
OUR SCHOOL OUR PURPOSE OUR VALUES The British School Al Khubairat (BSAK) is Abu Dhabi’s leading British not-forprofit, co-educational day school. From Nursery to A Level (3 – 18) our dynamic school culture offers students an enriching experience and outstanding results.
A community committed to inspiring our students to create an impactful legacy.
Empathy and Care | Respect and Inclusivity | Honesty and Integrity | Endeavour and Resilience.
WELCOME TO
BSAK
Why BSAK? Our History A Global Community Student Life Exam Results Alumni Universities Careers Guidance Counsellors Clubs and Societies Student Leadership Extended Project Qualification
VESPA and MELs Student Support Music Sports Performing Arts BSAK Oaks Admissions Summary of Pathways Summary of Subject Entry Criteria for A Level Summary of Subject Criteria for BTEC and Creative Arts
Overall Best School in the UAE Which School Advisor 2023 Among the Top 100 leading private schools in the world - Spear’s School Index Top 15 Best Private Middle East Schools The Schools Index By Carfax Education 89% A*-B A Level Results 97% Distinction*/Distinction BTECs 68% attending Russell Group Universities Rated Outstanding British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection Rated Outstanding Local Government Agency inspection (ADEK) Carnegie Gold Award for Mental Health Member of IAPS, HMC and BSME Not For Profit
We inspire and challenge our students, of all academic abilities, to become well-rounded individuals ready to progress to the next stage of their education and life beyond BSAK and Abu Dhabi. Through dedicated support for each individual student, we invest in building future leaders.
BSAK was founded in 1968 and generously supported by the late President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, through the donation of land and Amiri Decree No. 5 of 1971.
BSAK was
Scan the QR code to view ‘Welcome to BSAK Abu Dhabi’ for more information.
We are searching for students who answer YES to the following three questions. Are you hoping to work alongside other ambitious students?
founded in 1968
Do you have aspirations to enter one of the world’s best universities? Would you like the opportunity to make a difference to the future of this world?
We are consistently listed in the Top 10 Schools in the Middle East and Globally. We have recently been voted Best Sixth Form and School in the UAE. With over 50 years of heritage, we are the oldest British school in Abu Dhabi. We are proud of our rich history and our status as a not-for-profit school. Our impressive list of alumni have gone on to study at prestigious institutions including; Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, St Andrews, as well as MIT, Brown and Stanford in the US.
Join our global community
“Bringing together diverse minds and different cultural perspectives, you will make friends from around the globe that will last you a lifetime”
Experience the amazing culture and diversity of our community with almost 300 students and over 30 nationalities. While some have been at BSAK for their whole education, every year we welcome many new families and run a lively programme of team building events to enable newcomers to settle in quickly. Houses offer a variety of opportunities which encourage team spirit, a healthy sense of competition and most importantly allow for vibrant self-expression throughout the School. There are numerous academic, sporting and musical events organised throughout the year, which involve Houses competing against each other for House points and the prestigious House Cup at the end of the academic year.
“The House system is an integral part of life at BSAK and brings out the very best in our community.”
STUDENT
LIFE
You will be assigned a personal Form Tutor, who is often described as your ‘School Parent’. This provides you with steadfast support through both the challenges and celebrations of your BSAK journey, ensuring that you feel valued, empowered, and encouraged to follow your aspirations. Your Form Tutor will support you through your university application, along with additional lessons and expertise from our Careers Counsellors.
The School Day Form Time Period 1 Period 2 Break Period 3 Period 4 Lunch Period 5 Period 6
7.45 - 8.10 8.10 - 9.05 9.05 - 10.00 10.20 - 11.15 11.15 - 12.10 12.50 - 13.45 13.45 - 14.40
* Finish at 11:30 on Friday 8 Study Periods per week MELs weekly lesson Careers bi-weekly lesson EPQ weekly lesson Co-Curricular Programme runs from 2.45 - 4.45
What our students say “What I love most about BSAK is that even though studying can be intense, there are so many people around who care about you and support you. If you are struggling, the teachers are always there to help you. In Sixth Form, the teachers talk to you on their level, as adults rather than children, and there’s a sense of freedom, responsibility and trust.” “It sometimes feels like the word is overused, but the sense of community is what makes BSAK special in my opinion; feeling like you belong, feeling comfortable to speak to anyone and being able to make friends in so many different ways.”
Scan the QR code, or search: ‘Sixth Form’ in our website to find out more.
“I love the fact there are many different areas dedicated to the Sixth Form. You can choose to study alone in the library or in a study room, in groups in a study pod, or collaborate on a project in the Common Room. The professional environment inspires me to study. It's also a lot of fun. We work hard and we play hard. We get involved in House Competitions, also playing netball, football, cricket against staff teams and the Lip Sync Competitions are legendary.”
EXAM
RESULTS Our Sixth Form students are highly successful at achieving outstanding academic results, and gaining places at the most academically selective universities and competitive courses around the world.
This year’s outstanding results enabled students to progress to top global universities, including Johns Hopkins, the University of Pennsylvania, UC San Diego, and Parsons in the US; Oxford, UCL, LSE, Imperial, and Durham in the UK; and NYU Abu Dhabi.
Results 2026
ALUMNI
UNIVERSITIES Canadian Universities
US Universities
UK Universities
European Universities
UAE Universities
As soon as you join BSAK Sixth Form you will be immersed into the wonderful world of careers, university and future skills. Prepare to be amazed by how much of your time is spent thinking about, discussing and preparing for your future life at university and beyond.
Every year a host of overseas universities visit BSAK. Our Head of Sixth Form and Headmaster make regular visits back to the UK to ensure that we have an exceptional relationship with all the top universities. For those aspiring to attend Oxbridge, Russell Group or Ivy League Universities we have the expertise at our fingertips to provide guidance through the additional demands of this process. We had an impressive 8 Cambridge offers this year. Our BSAK Alumni are also ready to connect with current students to give that little bit of extra insight into the courses and universities that they have attended. Should you wish to apply a little further afield, previous students have gone on to Canada, Australia, Germany, France, South Korea and the Netherlands, to name but a few.
SUPPORTING YOUR
DREAMS
Our expert Careers Guidance Counsellors are here to support and inspire you. As specialists in their field, they are committed to ensuring that you have the very best application, that it is ready to submit on time, to the best and most competitive universities and courses in the UK and around the World. 2 Experienced Careers Counsellors. Bi-weekly careers, university and future skills lessons. Super curricular to boost your university application. Form Tutor individual support with university application process. Personalised feedback on application statements. Home Status tips and advice for UK applicants. University presentations at BSAK. Visits and links to top universities on Unifrog, our specialist university and careers software.
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Our clubs are designed to provide you with a plethora of opportunities to enrich and develop your interpersonal skills and knowledge beyond the core curriculum.
CLUBS
& SOCIETIES As a Sixth Form student, you are encouraged to take responsibility and ownership of leading a club; fostering your communication, organisation and leadership skills whilst deepening your knowledge in your chosen field. When making your university application, the skills acquired through engaging in a club can distinguish you from your peers. There are limitless ways within the clubs to develop your expertise: perfect public speaking, foster effective team building, master time management and refine research abilities, to name a few.
Whilst many clubs provide academic enrichment there are opportunities to promote your holistic wellbeing, nurture your talents and enjoy your hobbies. Sport, Music and Drama offer a whole host of competitive endeavours and performing arts experiences for you to take part in. Participating in clubs not only furnishes intellectual challenge but truly helps you to build on and cultivate a blend of skills to shape you into a well rounded global citizen, equipped for the challenges of universities, careers and life beyond.
The enrichment clubs are created, developed and led by the Sixth Form students and are run for students, with teachers on hand to provide guidance as required.
Model United Nations (MUN) Engineering Law Society Computer Programming Medical Society (MedSoc) BSAK Tribune Politics Society Science Olympiad Maths Olympiad Top Uni BSAK Bulls STEP Chess Eco Committee Art Charity Committee British Physics Olympiad F1 in Schools Object Oriented Programming SAT Club Duke of Edinburgh Award
NEXT GENERATION
LEADERS Prefects As a role model for younger students, you will mentor and support events for your designated year group. You will assist the Senior Prefects Team during key events such as the Sixth Form Open Evening. House Captains These are our chief organisers of fun in the School. If you are lively and outgoing with the ability to enthuse and engage; this is the role for you. From LipSyncs to University Challenge and Welly Wanging to Tug of Wars - it is your job to lead the House with the overall goal of FUN whilst keeping a close eye on the coveted House Trophy at the end of the year. Sports Leader Awards Sports Leaders get involved in the action, supporting major sporting events hosted by the school outside of school hours. Helping out at Sports days, mentoring younger students, planning and delivering lessons are just a few elements of this UK accredited award. Whilst you develop communication, collaboration and team building skills, you will also gain the ‘Level 2 UK Sports Leaders Award.’ Great for your CV and university applications. UAE Ambassadors ‘In promoting the identity of Emirati culture and values, our aim is achieving unification of all cultures within the British School Al Khubairat community.’ This student-led body seeks to create events and implement initiatives to bring the UAE to life in our school community. Our UAE Ambassadors are leaders in promoting the UAE vision and values and cultivating the integration of all cultures at BSAK.
Eco Committee A dynamic part of the Sixth Form Community, if you are passionate about changing the world, then our Eco- Committee needs you. This is a proactive and popular group with clear and ambitious goals starting right here at BSAK. Reducing the digital footprint, by automating double side printing and limiting students print count, are just a few of the ways they have already made a difference. If you come to our Student Cafe you will need to bring your own cup as disposable cups are no longer available. You can make a difference too. Charity Committee Do you care about other people and want to make a difference to their lives? Our Charity Committee is busy all year round organising events and raising money for charity. Every year hundreds of Ramadan gift packs are collected and distributed within the BSAK community. There is a huge amount of organisation and commitment needed raising the profile of events, collecting and organising gifts. Becoming a Senior Prefect To become a Senior Prefect in Year 13 you will go through a rigorous interview and assessment process, led by the Head Boy and Girl, and supported by Assistants and Deputies. Senior Prefects are the highest position in the School Leadership Team. To be considered for the role, you must have been a Prefect in Year 12, have an impeccable Year 12 record and be able to demonstrate your contribution across the school community.
LEARN HOW
TO THINK
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) There are a myriad of reasons to take an EPQ but simply - Universities love them!
An EPQ not only demonstrates your curiosity and intellectual dexterity, but also your ability to manage a project, research independently, write and critique academically. An EPQ is a great opportunity to choose a topic of interest to you and run with it. Perhaps the first time that you will have had such freedom as a student. It's liberating, challenging and exciting. It also gains you an extra half an A Level for your UCAS application. Whatever the topic you choose, you will develop skills and gain a qualification to assist you in further academic studies.
CHANGE PHOTO
DEVELOP YOUR
SKILLS
Our research has focused on developing students' study skills around five key areas: VESPA. Vision - they know what they want to achieve.
Moral Education and Learning Support Programme (MELS)
Effort - they put in many hours of independent study. Systems - they organise their learning resources and time. Practice - they practice and
The MELS programme provides preparation for life beyond BSAK equipping you with real life skills, tools and strategies to ensure you
develop their skills. Attitude - they respond constructively to setbacks. Our study skills programme is one of the best in the world, and we work closely with every student to develop each aspect of the VESPA framework.
are university ready.
Cooking Critical Thinking Personal Safety Household Maintenance Job Readiness Settling into University Finance & Budgeting Communication & Presentation Skills Work Experience
Small Tutor Groups foster a warm nurturing environment allowing you to form strong bonds and relationships with your fellow tutees as well as your Tutor. The Sixth Form is a place for you to belong, be yourself and realise your potential. As you move into the realms of adulthood, you will notice a marked change as teachers recognise your maturity into young adults and respond accordingly.
Support when you need it
Experienced Counselling Students have access to our two full time School Counsellors, who are available to support students on all aspects of their social, emotional and personal wellbeing. Learning Support BSAK has a resourceful and friendly Learning Support team to support students in the Sixth Form.
The Learning Support teachers and assistants are patient, dedicated and experienced in finding solutions to the difficulties faced by young learners in busy classrooms. We aim to help students build on their strengths and reach their goals in a practical, sensible way.
CUTTING-EDGE
FACILITIES
BEACON OF MUSICAL
EXCELLENCE
Our Music Department is not only the heartbeat of BSAK with music prevailing the building on a daily basis, but a thriving hive of activity, friendship and community.
Our Expertise 14 full-time, specialist instrumental teachers, all professional musicians in their own right, supported by a dedicated Music Administrator.
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Collaborate & Create At BSAK we regard music with the highest esteem recognising music as a sign of excellence, demonstrating self discipline, unique expertise, differentiation, patience, and leadership. Sixth Form students have created their own bands, string quartets, learned to conduct and developed their pedagogy teaching other students to play.
Play with the Best Join fellow musicians achieving supreme levels of musical excellence
Play with the best “The Best Musical School in the UAE” is a bold but accurate statement. The opportunities are limitless at BSAK with unrivalled musical opportunities. Be Inspired Offering a comprehensive and enriching musical education that sets it apart in the UAE and the wider region. From state-of-the-art facilities to a team of dedicated teachers, a scholars’ programme and vast performance opportunities, BSAK’s commitment to music education is second to none.
Get Involved Develop your repertoire, experiment with different styles, refine your performance in a dynamic environment: Recitals Termly Concerts Friday Jams Tiny Desk Concerts Master Classes Performing Arts Collaborations Unplugged Concerts Abu Dhabi Youth Choir & Orchestra Bespoke Individual Instrumental Lessons
British Schools Middle East is a highly competitive International Competition. Whilst the competition is tough, there’s a great sense of fun and team spirit at these competitions with a friendly rivalry between the competing teams. BSAK consistently performs well securing a Top 3 place on the Podium. Girls and boys compete in 3 Disciplines; Football, Athletics and Netball or Volleyball. As well as skill, you will need Dedication, Commitment and Drive along with the right attitude to join this elite squad. Competition for places is fierce. We look forward to seeing you at the 6am training sessions! Fitness Ambassadors you might want to gain some practical work experience whilst helping out others. Fitness Ambassadors work with younger students in School teaching and encouraging them to make healthy choices in their diet, activities and lifestyle. BSAK 7s - Hosted at the local Sports Hub, our very own Tri- Series features Netball, Football and Rugby. Competing against schools from across Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Alongside the big sporting competitions we have regular School meets competing weekly against other Abu Dhabi schools in the ADISSA leagues. Whether you're into Netball, Football, Rugby, Swimming or Volleyball there is something for you.
THIS IS
BSAK
Unique opportunities There are numerous ways for you to take part in sport either at a highly competitive level, local school level or recreationally. Elite Sport If Rugby or netball is your game, you can expect to travel to Dubai and even compete in the world renowned Dubai 7s. An elite team is put together to compete against the best of the best. A fantastic experience to play in or to spectate. Just for the fun of it
Looking to relax and chill out, you might prefer to try out Yoga. You can also enjoy badminton, swimming or table tennis sessions after school for some fun time fitness and stress relief. External Accredited Qualifications
Gain useful qualifications that you can add to your CV, job or university applications and that will also help you earn some extra cash when you need it. Accredited certificates include Pool Life Guarding, Leadership and First Aid. Gym Sessions
Open to you during, before and after School; a privilege reserved for Sixth Form students. Should you need any advice, we have personalised trainers on hand to help you in our refurbished Gym.
YOUR CHANCE
TO SHINE
Whether choosing RSL CAPA LEVEL 3 as a Sixth Form Subject or aspiring to take a role in our annual theatre production, you will have the fortuity to be immersed in a wonderful professional theatrical experience. Take the opportunity to explore technical theatre, costume design, and front-of-house roles, enriching your understanding of all facets of production whilst cultivating physical and vocal confidence. We know that the very best memories are made taking part in school productions.
CHANGE PHOTOS TO LAST YEARS SCHOOL PRODUCTION?
CHANGE PHOTO TO THIS YEARS GRADUATION
Leaving your
Old Al Khubairat Society (www.bsakoaks.org) Our thriving alumni and community networking platform boasts a diverse array of professionals scattered around the world. Our continued connection with former BSAK Students allows you to access relevant and up to date expertise and insights and developments in their respective fields.
legacy
With over five decades of alumni to draw upon, you can forge professional and networking connections allowing you to explore study programmes, research universities and probe career pathways directly with former students. Each year we host social events and tours of the school as former students come back to visit BSAK.
Scan the QR code, or search: “BSAK OAK’s” Website to find out more.
HOW TO
APPLY Our Admissions team will support you with the application process and will be the point of contact from initial enquiry to making subject choices. For the final step in the Admissions process you will be required to attend an interview, either in person or via zoom, and the Admissions Team will be in touch to arrange this once they have received all of the information needed to process your application.
Please email Mrs Karen Collings registrar@britishschool.sch.ae if you have any questions.
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THE RIGHT PATHWAY
FOR YOU Choosing which subjects to study in Sixth Form can be tough. We are here to help. Things for you to consider:
Broad and Balanced Choose a broad and balanced programme of study that will allow flexibility should your aspirations change throughout Sixth Form.
Aptitude
Passion and Enjoyment
A Level and BTEC + courses are substantial and conceptually much more demanding than GCSEs. Make sure you will meet the grade requirements for the subject.
Take subjects that you love and enjoy. A genuine passion and commitment will help to keep you motivated and succeed when the going gets tough. University and Career Aspirations Do your homework. Research the university, courses and their respective subject and grade requirements. Ensure these requirements are reflected in your A Level or BTEC + subject choices.
A Level or BTEC? Your aspiration A Level Courses Biology / Business / Chemistry / Computer Science / Economics / English Language / English Literature / EPQ/ Fine Art / French / Further Mathematics / Geography / Graphic Communication / History / Media Studies / Mathematics / Music / Photography / Physics / Politics / Product Design / Psychology / Spanish We offer 23 different A Levels, providing a great choice of subjects for you to construct a programme of study that meets your needs. Choosing this pathway you will select 3 A Levels and study for 2 years, completing the A Level Qualifications at the end of Year 13. Thinking of taking a Fourth A level subject? Speak to our Head of Sixth Form for advice. BTECs are an alternative route to A Level study with the majority of UK Universities accepting the Level 3 Diploma as equivalent to A Level. With continuous assessment throughout, BTECs run over two years with no public examinations at the end. This form of study makes the BTEC qualification appealing to universities and businesses as it equips students with much sought after skills such as how to cope with a continuous demanding workflow, representative of the demands of university study. The content will differ depending on the specialism but expect to see hands-on learning, research skills, time management, report writing and portfolio building throughout the duration of the course. BTECs can be studied as a standalone programme or combined with A Level.
BTEC COURSES Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Business / Engineering / Esport / Hospitality / Sport RSL CAPA Level 3
“We learn to confidently set ambitious goals, seeking inspiration from all the learning opportunities presented to us, in our fascinating and multicultural world.”
CHOOSE YOUR
PATHWAY Students Requiring UAE Equivalency The Ministry of Education equivalency certificate is the UAE official high school graduation certificate. It is required for study at UAE universities and employment in some government positions following university graduation. All students must complete Year 13 and require a minimum of a D grade in two A Level subjects from the following list of approved subjects as per the Ministerial Resolution 883. BTEC qualifications can also be awarded equivalency, and the list of approved subjects is currently being updated.
What can I study?
SUBJECT CRITERIA
ADDITIONAL
ENTRY CRITERIA
PATHWAY
We have the widest range of subjects and creative pathways available in Abu Dhabi. Let us tailor the right pathway for you to ensure your success.
1
2
3
4
A LEVEL
A LEVEL CREATIVE ARTS
BTEC + 1 A LEVEL
BTEC + BTEC
5 x Grade 6 at GCSE
5 x Grade 4 at GCSE (including English Language & Maths)
5 x Grade 4 at GCSE (including English Language & Maths)
5 x Grade 4 at GCSE (including English Language & Maths)
Grade 4 in English Language & Mathematics
Grade 4 in English Language & Mathematics
Grade 4 in English Language & Mathematics
Grade 4 in English Language & Mathematics
SUBJECTS Refer to the A Level subject criteria page
Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Media Studies, Photography, Product Design.
SUBJECTS Refer to the A Level & BTEC specific subject criteria pages
Business, Engineering, Esports, Hospitality, RSL CAPA, Sport.
SUMMARY OF
SUBJECT ENTRY CRITERIA FOR A LEVEL
The minimum entry criteria for individual subjects is detailed below, please see subject specific pages for full requirements: SUBJECT
GCSE MINIMUM GRADE REQUIRED
Biology
7 (or 7/7 in Double Award Science)
Business
6 (or 6 in Mathematics)
Chemistry
7 ( or 7/7 in Double Award Science)
Computer Science
6 (6 in Mathematics strongly recommended)
Product Design
6 (or 6 in Design Technology or a similar creative subject)
Economics
6 (6 in Mathematics strongly recommended)
English Language
6
English Literature
6
Fine Art
6
French
6
Geography
6
Graphic Communication
6 (or 6 in Art )
History
6 (6 in English Language strongly recommended)
Mathematics
7
* Accelerated Mathematics Group (For students who would like to be considered for Further Mathematics Pathway)
9 (must be combined with A Level Mathematics and only available as a 4th A Level).
Media Studies
6
Music
6
Physics
7 (7/7 in Double Award Science and a 7 in Mathematics is strongly recommended)
Politics
6 (or 6 in GCSE English Language or History)
SUMMARY OF
SUBJECT ENTRY CRITERIA FOR A LEVEL
The entry criteria for individual subjects is detailed below: SUBJECT
GCSE MINIMUM GRADE REQUIRED
Psychology
6 (or 6 in English Language & 6 in Mathematics)
Photography
6
Spanish
6
Combination of 3 Sciences or 2 Science & Mathematics
8 / 8 / 7 (required in any combination)
Combination of Mathematics and Further Mathematics
9 in Mathematics and at least 6 more grade 8's, including a minimum of a grade 8 in any other subject you chose to study.
SUMMARY OF
SUBJECT ENTRY CRITERIA FOR BTEC AND VOCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS The entry criteria for individual subjects is detailed below: SUBJECT
GCSE MINIMUM GRADE REQUIRED
BTEC Business
5 x Grade 4
BTEC Engineering
5 x Grade 4 (Grade 5 in one Science & Mathematics)
BTEC Esports
5 x Grade 4
BTEC Sport
5 x Grade 4
BTEC Hospitality
5 x Grade 4
RSL CAPA
5 x Grade 4
BTEC Qualification
ALSO KNOWN AS
EQUIVALENT TO
Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma
Single BTEC
1x A Level
Single BTEC
1x A level
Level 3 National Extended Certificate
Teaching Time
6 Lessons per week
SUMMARY OF
SUBJECT ENTRY CRITERIA FOR CREATIVE ARTS PATHWAY
The entry criteria for individual subjects is detailed below: The entry requirements for the Creative Arts pathway is two A Levels from the Creative Arts subject list: Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Media Studies, Photography, Product Design and RSL Creative and Performing Arts, plus one of the A Levels listed below, subject to meeting the entry requirement for that subject.
SUBJECT
GCSE MINIMUM GRADE REQUIRED
English Language
Grade 5
Geography
Grade 5
Business
Grade 4
FIND YOUR
SUBJECTS...
ARABIC A & B / BIOLOGY / BUSINESS / BUSINESS BTEC / CHEMISTRY / COMPUTER SCIENCE / ECONOMICS / ENGINEERING BTEC / ENGLISH LANGUAGE / ENGLISH LITERATURE / ESPORTS BTEC / EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION (EPQ) / FINE ART / FRENCH / FURTHER MATHEMATICS / GEOGRAPHY / GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION / HISTORY / HOSPITALITY BTEC / ISLAMIC STUDIES A & B / MATHEMATICS / MEDIA STUDIES / MUSIC / PHOTOGRAPHY / PHYSICS / POLITICS / PRODUCT DESIGN / PSYCHOLOGY / RSL CAPA / SPANISH / SPORT BTEC
Scan the QR code to view Sixth Form Subjects for more information. 53