Job Discussion Forums

[ozzie2007]

We are looking to move to Dubai in April 2007 and despite lots of "surfing" we are still trying to get a feel for the schools available for our son...14 in May...curently in Yr 9 (first term of second year of High School in Queensland Australia). Current school goes to Year 12. Am across the variance in the school year and understand that an April start would be the last term of the current year with things kicking off again in September.
Thinking is that an English curriculum may be a better fit with Australia but open minded on this.
Dubai Amercian Academy and Dubai English Speaking College have vacancies to join last term of Year 8 and then start Year 9 in September.
Jumeriah College and The English College can take him into Year 9 with a Year 10 start in September 2007...this is our preference but not sure as to whether the level of education is on par or a step up from his current.
Can anyone provide some comment on:
- American vs English curriculum
- GEM's schooling (seems to be fairly common)
- Recommendation in relation to the schools listed above plus Dubai British School and Dubai International Academy (yet to receive a response)
- Whether Yr 10 or Year 9 for 2007 is more appropriate
Any feedback would be very much appreciated.

[umzakaria]

try expatwoman.com they have a wealth of info
http://www.expatmum.com/index.php

[Afra]

Do you know where you'll be living in Dubai? There is an Australian High School on the edge of Sharjah University City which is on the Dubai border. If you are living in the Mizhar, Mirdif, Warqaa or Muhaisnah areas or even Deira, it might be an option.