Victory Heights Primary School: A Hub of Excellence in Education
Located in the vibrant Dubai Sports City, Victory Heights Primary School (VHPS) has made a significant mark on the educational landscape since its opening in 2013. This boutique school, offering the National Curriculum for England, prioritizes the academic growth and personal development of its students, while also encompassing the values of inclusivity and community engagement.
Accreditation and Recognition
VHPS has garnered notable accolades, including the Outstanding rating from the British Schools Overseas (BSO) in May 2022 and the KHDA’s Outstanding rating in April 2023. These ratings affirm the school’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards and delivering an exceptional learning environment. The consistent recognition sets VHPS apart as one of the premier educational institutions in Dubai.
A Brief Overview
Celebrity Principal Sasha Crabb states that the school’s vision revolves around "Nurture, Challenge and Excel." This ethos is reflected in the school’s curriculum, which aims to foster not just academic abilities, but also social and emotional growth. With a current enrollment of over 1,000 students, the demographic predominantly comprises British passport holders, ensuring a rich cultural environment that enriches learning.
The Curriculum
Victory Heights Primary School offers the National Curriculum for England, which consistently emphasizes core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science. The teaching methodology focuses on innovative and engaging approaches, encouraging cross-disciplinary learning and interactive lessons. Field trips and creative projects are integral parts of the curriculum, enhancing children’s learning experiences.
The Early Years Foundation Stage is particularly well catered for, creating a solid foundation for the youngest learners. Teachers regularly track students’ progress through formative assessments, ensuring a personalized approach to learning.
Inclusivity at Its Core
VHPS prides itself on being a highly inclusive school. Approximately 8% of the student body is registered with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Feedback from parents highlights the school’s commitment to understanding and accommodating individual student needs. The inspection reports recognize the school’s robust mechanisms for identifying and supporting students requiring additional assistance.
Facilities and Environment
While urban infrastructure around Dubai Sports City poses challenges, such as parking and safety, the school provides a supportive and safe environment. The facilities include well-equipped classrooms, an indoor swimming pool, and play areas designed to foster both educational and physical development. Furthermore, VHPS recently expanded its offerings through the addition of the Victory Heights Foundation Stage building, enhancing accessibility for younger students.
Leadership and Staff
Under the astute leadership of Sasha Crabb, the school has experienced stability and continuous improvement. Her visionary approach and commitment to the well-being of both staff and students have garnered respect within the wider UAE education community. VHPS maintains a low teacher turnover rate, fostering an environment of continuity and committed teaching. The majority of teachers hail from the UK and are highly qualified, making a significant contribution to the quality of education provided.
Student Well-Being
Recent inspections have underscored the school’s emphasis on student well-being. Initiatives to promote mental health and emotional support have created a nurturing environment where students feel safe and valued. Student wellness ambassadors play a pivotal role in advocating for student-led initiatives, enhancing the school’s community spirit.
Parental Involvement and Feedback
Parent feedback has consistently been positive, with many expressing higher levels of satisfaction compared to the UAE average. A survey revealed a 90% positivity rating towards the school, reflecting a strong sense of community and collaboration between parents and faculty. Regular communication and workshops allow parents to engage actively in their children’s education, fostering a holistic approach.
Financial Overview
VHPS operates on a tiered fee structure, with annual fees ranging from AED 39,216 for Foundation Stage to AED 53,476 for upper-year levels. While this may seem steep, parents report a high sense of value for the quality of education and facilities provided. The school’s financial model also includes various fees for enrollment, medical assessments, and additional services, allowing for a transparent understanding of the financial commitments involved.
The Next Steps
As VHPS approaches its 10-year anniversary, plans for expansion are underway with the introduction of a second campus in City of Arabia, set to open in September 2025. This strategic move aims to accommodate the growing demand for quality education in the region.
In summary, Victory Heights Primary School exemplifies the best of modern educational practices, blending rigorous academic standards with a supportive environment that caters to the individual needs of every student. Through its ongoing commitment to excellence, VHPS stands as a beacon for families looking for a nurturing and academically rigorous educational environment in Dubai.
