Key Stage 5 Curriculum

Arcadia provides a unique opportunity for every student who enters our academic programme and this is particularly true of the sixth form. With world class teaching and learning in an environment that provides real-life experiences within a nurturing and challenging ecosystem, we expect every student to be future ready when they complete their journey and move on to the next important stage of their lives. Arcadia has firmly established itself as one of the leading international schools in the Middle East offering English National Curriculum subjects throughout the school. Rated as a ‘Very Good’ school by the Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau in only the second inspection visit, we strongly believe that our educational programmes offer the best preparation for students looking to move on to higher education and the world of work. The A level programme is still regarded as the global gold standard of post-16 qualifications, giving universal access to universities worldwide and providing a concrete backbone of learning allowing for smooth transition to university programmes. Arcadia will also cater for those looking to graduate from alternative learning opportunities with BTEC (Business and Technology education council – UK) programmes also available as stand-alone or blended programmes. At Arcadia we offer our sixth formers a supporting and caring environment in which to navigate an exciting and pivotal stage of their educational journey. The needs of the individual is at the heart of everything we do, and a strong commitment to pastoral care means that every student has a personal tutor to support and guide them every step of the way. This high level of support will bridge the connections between socio-emotional, academic and career development and allow our students to get the very best from their education. Above all, we have a commitment to high quality teaching and learning in small classes with personalised academic and career support ensuring our sixth formers gain the best possible qualifications. This ethos, coupled with an exceptional extra-curricular offering and service led profile will provide the environment for a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

Alexander Gray is an experienced educator and leader originally from North Birmingham in the UK. He holds a BSc in Human Biology and a PGCE in Science from Loughborough University, as well as a Master's degree in Education from the University of Bath. Alex taught science in grammar and boarding schools across the West Midlands early in his career, before serving as Head of Biology at Bishop Vesey's Grammar, a highly academically selective school founded in 1527. Seeking to broaden his experience, he moved to Dubai in 2015 and has been the Head of Science at Dubai British School Emirates Hills since 2019. In his five years at the KHDA Outstanding-rated Dubai British School, Alex has spearheaded numerous science and STEM initiatives. He is highly experienced teaching varied science curriculums including AQA, IB, A level and Edexcel programs. Professionally, Alex is a published author and member of the Chartered College of Teachers. He boasts coaching certifications from the Rugby Football Union and as a Qualified High Performance Coach. He has recently completed the National Professional Qualification for Leading Teaching and Learning (NPQLTD) with University College London. Beyond the classroom, Alex is highly involved in professional learning networks across the UAE, having delivered keynote speeches and professional development sessions at major conferences such as GESS Dubai. He has been involved in webinars and workshops for international education networks as a recognised leader and expert in pedagogy and science instruction, and most recently AI implementation in the classroom. Outside academics, Alex enjoys playing and coaching rugby, videography, and photography. He resides in Dubai with his wife Kerrie, an interior designer, and their two daughters, Ava and Olivia.