INFORMATION BOOKLET 2021-22
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INFORMATION
BOOKLET 2021–22
01READY F R THE REST OF THEIR LIVES. We created this brochure to answer common questions about ACS Doha – everything from “what curriculum options do you offer?” to “where are you located?” Of course, no brochure could possibly say everything about such a vibrant, international school environment. To find out more, including how our distinctive approach to education ensures our students are ready for the rest of their lives, we encourage you to visit us – either for an individual tour or as part of one of our regular Open Houses. To arrange your visit, just email our Admissions department at doha-admissions@acs-schools.com or call us on +974 3026 6800 *Some of the activities outlined in this brochure may be subject to change as a result of any further Covid-19 restrictions. 02 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL DOHA
03
ABOUT OUR SCHOOL ADMISSIONS
ACS Doha is a co-educational day school for Application procedure
students aged 3–18, from over 70 countries We operate a rolling admissions process
around the world. We offer a rigorous, that enables students to join us at any time
highly-regarded international curriculum that of the academic year, subject to acceptance
includes the IB, Advanced Placement and US and availability.
High School Diploma. In addition to our strong
academic credentials, we are recognised for our Our online application process takes a holistic
exceptional co-curricular and sports programmes. approach, assessing each candidate individually
by reviewing previous school records, references,
We invite you to visit us and see ACS Doha student questionnaire answers and standardised
for yourself, where we can take you on test scores. This helps us understand the
a tour of our landmark new campus. complete student, giving us a real insight
into who they are today and how we can
make them ready for tomorrow.
Offer and acceptance of place
We ask that each application is accompanied
by a non-refundable application fee, paid online.
If your application is successful, we will contact
you with an offer of a place for your child.
To secure the place, we require a non-refundable
enrolment deposit, which we set against the
second semester tuition fees. For more details
of application fees, deposits and tuition costs,
see the School Fees section of our website.
Practicalities for international families
We have many years’ experience guiding
international families through the application
process and the practicalities of moving to
Doha. Our experienced Admissions team is
available to provide advice on your move and
put you in touch with third-party agencies
who can help with relocation services.
04 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL DOHASCHOOL STRUCTURE
Divisions Grade placement
ACS Doha is organised into four divisions: Early Children come to our school from a wide range
Childhood for our youngest students aged 3 to 6, of countries and schools. This table shows
Lower School for 6 to 11-year-olds, Middle School for the equivalent class age and curriculum for
those aged 11 to 14, and High School for our oldest different education systems.
students aged 14 to 18. Each division is run by a
highly experienced principal, ably assisted
by superb teaching staff and support specialists.
AGE US / ACS DOHA GRADES UK YEARS QATAR GRADES
3 PK3 – KG1
4 PK4 Reception KG2
5 KG Year 1 1
6 1 Year 2 2
7 2 Year 3 3
8 3 Year 4 4
9 4 Year 5 5
10 5 Year 6 6
11 6 Year 7 7
12 7 Year 8 8
13 8 Year 9 9
14 9 Year 10 10
15 10 Year 11 11
16 11 Year 12 12
17 12 Year 13 13
05PASTORAL ACADEMIC OVERVIEW
We believe that social and emotional American heritage, global perspective
development is just as important as academic All ACS schools offer a unique educational
achievement. We focus on the whole child, experience, characterised by a bold international
enabling us to create resilient, well-rounded, approach that builds on our proud American
high achieving individuals – ready to face heritage. At the heart of this experience is a
whatever the future has in store for them. commitment to providing exactly the right support
Our team of experienced social counsellors for each student, so they thrive within our culture
is available to students from Early Childhood of high expectations. As part of our commitment
through to High School. Our aim is to provide to diversity and inclusion, we support a wide
our students with the tools to develop their range of student interests and abilities.
social and emotional learning, in order for
them to achieve academic success. Another distinctive feature of ACS culture is our
attitude to exams. We focus on assessment for
We approach this in a holistic way, using a learning, rather than simply preparing for tests.
wellness model that highlights and encourages We use high quality data and feedback on each
students’ strengths and abilities. Building a positive student’s achievement, to adjust our teaching
relationship with each student and being able to strategies, improve individual performance
support them in their daily lives is what makes and celebrate learning.
our work worthwhile. From their first day with us,
you child will become part of a caring classroom The result is a flexible system that works for each
community, where everyone is valued. student, regardless of ability. At the heart of this
is our rigorous academic programme, designed
To support this, we offer a proactive counselling to help highly ambitious learners excel in widely-
programme designed to recognise and prevent respected international qualifications. This supports
issues before they cause difficulties. Our social strong applications to the world’s top universities
counsellors work closely with parents and – including Qatar Foundation’s Education City, Ivy
teachers to identify and address the needs League and the Russell Group. At the same time,
of each student, offering as much or as little we encourage all our students to pursue individual
support as students feel they need. passions and explore personal interests, with
a particular emphasis on sport, the creative
Our pastoral programme extends into every industries, business and enterprise.
subject our students study through the
IB learner profile and their approach to learning. Put all this together and ACS schools deliver what
In addition, we offer co-curricular activities, we call transformational learning: we help students
such as our Model United Nations club, where help themselves, by teaching them how to learn.
students are encouraged to develop their skills. We help them to become effective learners,
confident individuals and caring contributors,
ready for success in a changing world.
06 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL DOHAPremier academic programmes The IBDP’s broad and balanced curriculum
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a requires students to study six subjects during
suite of integrated international educational their final two years of school – three at higher and
programmes for students aged 3 to 18. three at standard level. The curriculum includes
The IB’s four individual programmes encourage languages, science, history, social sciences, business
both personal and academic achievement, management, mathematics and the arts. IBDP
challenging students to excel in their studies results are based on a combination of end-of-course
and in their personal interests. examinations and externally marked coursework.
Developed independently of national standards, In the IBDP’s signature Theory of Knowledge
the IB incorporates best practice drawn from course, students examine the nature of knowing
research and a global community of more than and deepen their understanding of knowledge as
4,000 top-performing schools. It encourages a human construct. IBDP students also complete a
students of all ages to think critically, challenge major independent research project in the form of an
assumptions and adopt a global perspective – Extended Essay, in which they conduct an in-depth
with some students choosing multilingual learning. study of one of their IBDP subjects.
Well-respected national and The IBDP also encourages self-directed learning
international standards through its Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS)
element. Based on the idea of reciprocal service,
The curriculum at ACS schools is informed by
CAS involves students participating in a range of
established standards that provide students
activities alongside their academic studies, helping
with clear milestones, to guide their academic
promote healthy lifestyles, original thinking and
development. Our standards are evidence-
active participation in local and global communities.
based, to prepare students for the demands
of university, career and civic life.
Importantly, the IBDP helps students gain offers
from prestigious universities around the world.
By identifying and prioritising significant content,
Higher education institutions in more than 90
these standards promote deep learning that
countries accept students based on their IBDP
enhances the individual student’s knowledge
credentials, while many US public and private
and skills. Standards also provide a common
colleges and universities offer credit or accelerated
language for parents, teachers and students to
courses of study in the light of strong IBDP results.
discuss education topics, and enable students
to transfer to other schools – national or
The IBDP is ACS Doha’s most demanding and
international – with the minimum of disruption.
frequently-chosen academic programme. It requires
commitment, resilience, excellent time management
High School curriculum
and determination. In return, a growing body of
International Baccalaureate Programme evidence shows the IBDP is excellent preparation for
university, ensuring students are ready for advanced
The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an
study and helping them achieve results that go
academically challenging programme that
beyond anything they thought possible.
ensures students aged 16 to 18 are ready for
success at university and beyond. It addresses
students’ intellectual, social, emotional and
physical wellbeing, and has gained recognition
and respect from the world’s leading universities.
IBDP students take responsibility for their
own learning, developing critical and creative
thinking as well as collaboration, research,
self-management and communication skills.
07IB Career-related Programme • The US College Board offers college-level courses
The IBCP incorporates the vision and to academically-prepared High School students
educational principles of the IB into a stand- • One-year courses are modelled on first-year
out programme specifically developed for university curriculum
students who wish to engage in career-related • Courses culminate in a standardised exam each
learning while gaining transferable and lifelong May; successful scores can earn college credit
skills in applied knowledge, critical thinking,
• Students specialise, choosing subjects of
communication, and cross-cultural engagement.
personal interest and academic strength.
Importantly, the IBCP prepares students for an
ever-changing world of work, asking them to ACS High School Diploma
consider new perspectives, engage in learning All ACS students who successfully complete
that makes a positive difference, develop both the relevant studies receive an accredited
academic and practical skills, think creatively High School Diploma. As part of this, students
and critically, communicate effectively, work choose from an extensive range of traditional
independently and in collaboration, and and contemporary subjects, to create stimulating
become self-confident, resilient, and flexible. programmes of study that reflect their interests.
Importantly for our American students, the
The programme’s three-part framework comprises ACS High School Diploma meets the admission
career-related work, the study of two IB Diploma requirements of US colleges and universities.
courses, and the IBCP Core that connects the
chosen Diploma courses directly with career- À la carte DP and AP courses offer advanced
related studies. The IBCP prepares students for academic rigor in many subjects. Students
businesses and industries that require workers can choose courses of study that specialise in
with self-confidence, community interactions, particular areas of interest and ability, or meet
accomplished personal and professional skills, the admission requirements of more narrowly-
an understanding of global languages, and focused national education systems.
the ability to make ethical decisions.
Middle School curriculum
• Diploma Programme courses provide the Our approach to learning in the middle years
theoretical underpinning and academic rigour emphasises intellectual curiosity, encouraging
• Career-related studies further support the students to look for connections between what
programme’s academic strength and provide they learn in school and the world beyond the
practical, real-world approaches to learning classroom. We develop communication, intercultural
• The IBCP core helps them to develop skills and understanding and global engagement – essential
competencies required for lifelong learning knowledge for future global leaders. As students
develop from childhood into adolescence, our Middle
Advanced Placement (College Board) School offers a caring and supportive environment
that prepares them for High School, and establishes
AP courses give students a first taste of
good habits of mind to encourage lifelong learning.
demanding university-level work. AP students
build confidence and learn the essential time
Our Middle School curriculum framework is
management and study skills needed for college
made up of eight subject groups, known as the
and career success. Importantly, higher learning
Middle Year Programme (MYP). Service in Action
institutions value the rigour of AP courses, giving
is an integral part of this. In the final year of the
applicants a competitive advantage for admission.
programme, students complete in-depth research
for a personal project, through which they apply
From 2022, 12 AP courses and a full range of
what they’ve learned and develop new skills,
AP rewards and recognition will be available.
researching a globally-significant topic of interest.
08 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL DOHAThe MYP builds upon the knowledge, skills ISLAMIC STUDIES AND
and attitudes developed in the IB Primary
ARABIC LANGUAGE
Years Programme (PYP) and prepares students
to meet the academic challenges of the
IB Diploma Programme (DP) and other Arabic Language
advanced academic courses of study. Arabic is the fifth most widely spoken language
in the world. It’s a core subject at ACS Doha,
IB MYP Certificate where the curriculum respects the cultural
At the end of Year 11/Grade 10, optional and social context, with a focus on global and
eAssessments provide opportunities for Doha intercultural understanding. Arabic is part of
students to attain prestigious IB awards and the International Baccalaureate PYP, MYP and
externally validate learning outcomes. The MYP DP programmes, following the Ministry of
certificate requires students to successfully complete Education’s guidelines. We offer Arabic language
a two-hour on-screen examination in four subjects. to native students from Kindergarten to
Students will undertake interdisciplinary learning Grade 12 as an integral part of their studies,
and submit ePortfolios – in language acquisition and to non-native students as a language choice.
and either design, arts or physical and health Our Arabic department organises extracurricular
education. They will also complete an externally- activities and special events to enrich the
moderated personal project, and meet learning learning experience. These include field trips,
objectives for service as action (sometimes writing competitions, Qatar National Day,
known as community service). The result is Islamic celebrations and poetry evenings.
an internationally-recognised celebration of
achievement, to support university admissions. Islamic Studies
Islamic Studies is a mandatory subject for all
Lower School and Early Childhood curriculum Muslim students from Grade 1 to Grade 12
The IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) nurtures at ACS Doha. We offer our Islamic Studies
and develops students aged 3 to 11, creating programme for native and non-native Arabic
caring, active individuals committed to a lifelong speakers, following the Ministry of Education’s
journey of learning. Through an inquiry-led, guidelines. We deliver this through two main
transdisciplinary framework, the PYP challenges resources: Ministry of Education textbooks for
students to think for themselves. We encourage native Arabic speakers, and the ‘Dar Al Salam’
them to explore who we are and how we express textbook for non-native Arabic speakers. Our
ourselves – to discover where we are in space programme is designed to educate students
and time, how the world works and how we about the fundamentals of Islamic knowledge
can all share the planet. and to enable them to properly implement that
knowledge in their life. Fundamental aspects
PYP studies are based on six subject areas: include Akeedah, Fikh, Islamic morals, Seerah,
language, social studies, mathematics, arts, reciting the Holy Quran, Tajweed and Tafseer.
science and personal/social/physical education.
Students also work and play with specialists Qatar History
to explore language, culture, art, music and Qatar History is a mandatory subject for all
physical education. students from Grade 1 to Grade 9 at ACS Doha.
Qatar History gives learners the opportunity to
The whole school community – especially explore the vast history, rich culture and beautiful
parents – are viewed as valued partners heritage of Qatar. Learners study the history of
in learning, actively contributing to a Qatar and recognise the fundamental role that
well-rounded educational experience. Qatar plays in the Middle East and the world.
09LEARNING SUPPORT AND During the MYP years, students increase their level
of knowledge of the target language by developing
ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL
their receptive skills (listening and reading
LANGUAGE (EAL) comprehension) and productive skills (speaking and
writing). Students also become more aware of their
role as part of an international community.
Our Student Support Services department
helps students with learning needs and those
By the time students reach their last two years of
who need a little extra English language tuition.
school, the Language Acquisition programme offers
Teachers provide support in a number of ways
a variety of pathways: The Diploma Programme
– including “push in” support where they team-
(DP) Language B programme and the High School
teach a class with a content or homeroom teacher,
Languages programme which are connected to the
and “pull out” support, where teachers work with
students’ future academic or professional interests.
students in small groups to reinforce foundational
skills. English language learners are identified
during the admissions process and are given the
WIDA English language proficiency assessment. VISUAL ARTS AND DESIGN
Depending on the results, they then receive
appropriate “push in” or “pull out” support.
Visual Arts provide students with an opportunity
The student support service team uses a multi- to express themselves in a variety of methods.
tiered system of support (MTSS) as an entrance Our programme encompasses different forms of
and exit criteria for learning support students. visual arts from the early years through to Grade
Through the MTSS student progress is monitored 12. As part of the International Baccalaureate
regularly and support is modified as needed. PYP, MYP, and DP learning, the Visual Arts
explore global and intercultural concepts through
a range of media and techniques. The Visual Arts
help to develop skills in communication, critical
LANGUAGE ACQUISITION thinking, growth mindset and self-confidence.
Our Visual Arts department strives to create an
At ACS Doha, students from KG to Grade 12 are
enriched programme that provides the opportunity
offered the choice to study French, Spanish or Arabic.
for students to experience hands-on investigations,
extracurricular activities and special events.
During the Primary Years Programme students
These include school exhibitions, field trips,
start becoming acquainted with foreign languages
museum visits, workshops and visiting artists.
by exploring them in a fun and interactive way,
allowing them to appreciate the culture of the
In Design and Technology, Middle High School
foreign language studied by learning simple aspects
students use the design cycle by creating a range
of it through games, songs and meaningful and
of products that will help develop them into critical
communicative activities. This is the age when
thinkers and problem solvers. We examine real-life
students start becoming aware of the importance
problems with an open mind - this helps them look
of being part of a diverse and multicultural school.
for solutions with a reflection on their experiences
as a tool to create wonderful ideas. We balance
In the Middle Years Programme learners have
their understanding of architectural, digital and
the opportunity to choose a language pathway
product design to make students appreciate the
according to their proficiency level of the target
subject even more.
language and their specific interest. Languages
are offered at different levels: Emergent (beginner),
Our new campus features design labs fully
Capable (intermediate) and Proficient (Advanced).
equipped with state-of-the-art equipment
such as 3D printers and laser cutters.
10 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL DOHAPERFORMING ARTS SPORT
Drama Our new campus features state-of-the-art modern
In Lower School, students develop their facilities which can facilitate team and individual
imaginative skills and creativity and apply them athlete preparation in multiple disciplines.
in drama situations and performances. They also
learn about technical aspects like script writing These facilities include:
and the use of props. Drama includes verbal and • Maximum standard dimensions, floodlit,
non-verbal expression where students can express FIFA standard 3G football pitch
themselves, reflect on their performance, and
• Climate-controlled 25m indoor pool to
show appreciation for other people’s ideas and the
aid preparation in all aquatic disciplines
awareness of other cultures and perspectives.
• Functional studios for community and parent
In Middle-High School we offer students the classes - yoga, crossfit, wellbeing, HIIT
opportunity to participate in weekly drama • Fitness suite to aid strength and
clubs, creating their own performances and conditioning in athlete preparation
open-mic nights that are presented to the whole • Double sized multi-functional sports hall
school community. These drama activities build which can accommodate multiple matches
invaluable skills and qualities such as teamwork, simultaneously in volleyball, basketball and
creative thinking and self-confidence. badminton – a competition-ready space with
multiple dynamic viewing options for spectators
The new ACS Doha campus features a state-of-the- • A communal relaxation area with
art theatre, with a flexible seating capacity of up to sports cafe for spectators and visitors
300 people, and professional technical facilities.
In addition, we have developed partnerships
Music
with some of Qatar’s leading sports providers,
PYP students gain an awareness and appreciation including BE Basketball, who will operate at
of music in all its forms from a range of times, our campus from August 2021. Our aquatic
places, and cultures. Through singing songs and programme includes our own successful
playing instruments, students develop the ability Learn-to-Swim classes and after-school swim
to perform accurately and confidently, making lessons. We also offer an extensive range
expressive use of musical elements. They control of co-curricular and after-school activities,
and develop musical ideas in composition and which enhance our students’ experience and
use notation as an aid to storing and refining give them the opportunity to learn new skills.
their ideas. Our Lower School students also
have the opportunity to become members of
the ACS choir, performing at a range of school
events and external competitions. CO-CURRICULAR
In Middle High School, students are offered
an instrumental programme with the Co-curricular activities are a key part of our well-
opportunity to play a variety of instruments, balanced educational programme, giving students
as well percussion. Our aim of the programme the opportunity to socialise, learn new skills and
is to have every student develop the skills have fun as part of after-school (typically 2:30 to
necessary in order to read and perform music. 3:30pm) and Saturday activities. Our programme
includes sailing, horse riding, eSports, robotics
In addition to performance skills, the MYP and gymnastics.
music programme aims to develop students’
ability to work within digital-audio workstations.
Use of these programmes allows students to
expand their composition and theory skills, as
well as expressing themselves through music.
11PARTNERSHIPS OUTDOOR EDUCATION
PROGRAMME
ACS Doha is creating relationships with a wide
range of prestigious institutions to support our We partner with Blue Pearl Camps to run a series
students, connecting them and their families of outdoor adventures for our students. Led by
with an array of opportunities to expand their qualified camp leaders, our camping trips are
horizons. Part of our education strategy is to hugely popular with both students and parents.
recognise personal and workplace skills through The programme is available to students from 6 and
learning beyond the classroom. Our connections 7 years old and starts with overnight camping on
with universities, government ministries, and the beach at one of Qatar’s resorts – where team
businesses provide challenge, inspiration, and games, bonfire storytelling and bushcraft take
personalised learning with special speakers, place. Our 9 and 10 year olds get the opportunity
courses, educational visits, expert advice, to camp for three nights, with more advanced
competitions and school holiday activities. activities like fire building, trap making, kayaking
and bouldering.
These are some of the organisations with
which ACS Doha has developed partnerships: Our aim is to raise awareness of the amazing
variety of nature here in Qatar – from our
• Paragon One mangroves and amazing beaches, to our incredible
• Qatar Cool variety of flora and fauna. Spending time with
• Ministry of Transport and nature really invigorates our students, giving them
Communications, Qatar an opportunity to experience the great outdoors
• Virginia Commonwealth with full support from our wilderness experts.
University of the Arts, Qatar
• University of Calgary, Qatar
• HSBC Qatar UNIFORM
• Millie Group
• Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Our students do not wear a uniform. We believe
College of Law in the importance of independent thinking and
• Georgetown University Qatar creativity, and encourage our students to make
• Qatar Foundation International good choices for themselves. There is a dress code,
which all ACS students are expected to follow.
• Environmental Science Center,
University of Qatar
12 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL DOHAUNIVERSITY AND
COLLEGE COUNSELLING
Our experienced and well-resourced counselling
team comprises two full-time guidance counsellors,
who help students choose a university course that
fits their aspirations; one that reflects their academic,
emotional, geographical and financial needs.
Their advice covers researching university options,
personal statement writing, career selection and
standardised test skills as appropriate, ensuring a
successful transition to university. This attention
to detail significantly improves each student’s
university experience and career options.
ACADEMIC RESULTS
Our latest academic results can be found on our
website www.acs-schools.com/doha or requested
from our Admissions team.
HIGHER EDUCATION
DESTINATIONS AND DEGREES
We are proud to say that ACS Doha students
have a long tradition of achieving excellent exam
scores in the International Baccalaureate.
Many of our graduates go on to attend some of the
most prestigious universities in the world, with the
majority gaining places at their first-choice institution,
including Russell Group and Ivy League colleges.
Popular degrees for ACS Doha graduates include:
• Accounting • Environmental science
• Aeronautical • Law
engineering • Mathematics
• Architecture • Medical sciences
• Art • Modern language
• Drama • Philosophy
• Economics • Physiology
• English and
creative writing
13OUR INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY
Salvad anian
Panamexican
Uruguare
Cosotlo
Bahraini
C m
Bhutan
M ican
a R bian
o an
yan
New Zealander
Azerbaijani
Australian
Jap onesia
Filipino
So M Lienya
se
Tan anes
Braz isian
Chile ian
Tuznanian
Sud ican
uth oro by n
ane
n
India
n
Un
il
Ind
nia
an
Afr ccaan
ite
da
d
K
Ki e
Jor
ng C
i
Eg
ait
n
Sw Sw do a
Sp ed is m me
yp
w
Ku
e
tia
R R a i s A roo es
Po om us nis sh lg n
n
n
r tu an sia h er ia
ia n ba
gu iann n Le
e
Po se i
MoNorw lish an
ldo ay Om i
La va an
t
Italvian
n k ist
ian Pa
ian
Ger Iris lestin
Fremanh Pa
Finn nch
Dut ish
BulgCzecchh
arian
British
Belgia
Austriann
Dominic an
n
Canadia
ian
bad
Bar
Qa
ta
ri
n
ica
er
Am
Turkish
South Ko
Singapore
Saudi
rean
14 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL DOHAACCREDITATION CAMPUS TOURS
ACS Doha is accredited by the New England You can book a place through our
Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) website, email our Admissions team on
and is authorised by the International doha-admissions@acs-schools.com
Baccalaureate to offer the three International or call us on +974 3026 6800
Baccalaureate Programmes (PYP/MYP/DP), to arrange an individual tour.
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
and The Ministry of Education in Qatar.
Accredited
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Location
ACS International School Doha
Building No 10, Street No 161, Zone 70
PO Box. 200568, Al Kheesa
Doha, Qatar
Busing
ACS Doha has partnered with Yalla Transportation
to provide students with a safe and reliable bus
service to transport them to and from school.
The service currently serves the following areas:
• The Pearl, Lusail, Westbay and Al-Dafna
• Gharrafa, Qatar Foundation, Al-Rayyan
• Um Salal Mohammad, Um Salal Ali, Al-Kheesa
15ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
DOHA
Building No 10, Street No 161, Zone 70
PO Box. 200568, Al Kheesa
Doha, Qatar
+974 4474 9000
doha-admissions@acs-schools.com
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