Al Diyafah High School

Al Diyafah High School LLC was founded 34 years ago, in September 1982, by Late Mrs. Winnie D’Cunha. It started as a Nursery with only 2 children in a small villa located on Al Diyafah Street, in Dubai. That’s how it got its name.

To accommodate the growing numbers, the school moved to a new campus in 2001, where we are presently located The school now has over 1,480 students from several nationalities, all studying together as one big family. It has indeed grown, in name and number. The students are offered a wide range of subjects from the Science, Commerce and Humanities streams. The primary section has progressed to a very competent senior school and as the vision continues to take flight, we now move on to greater heights.

The school’s objective is best expressed through its mission statement of attempting to create competent, caring and confident students through its holistic based education. Our students actively support social issues like environment, literacy, relief and endeavor to become leaders in their own right. Such an all-rounded system of education has helped Diyafah produce an ever- increasing list of alumni who have gained admissions in several Universities in Canada, USA, Australia and the sub-continent.

Our Mission

We are committed to a holistic based education in a caring and enlightened environment. We aim to foster creative thinking, courage of convictions and a positive attitude to draw out the highest potential in every student’s mind, spirit and body.

Summary of KHDA Inspection

• Children in the Foundation Stage (FS) make good progress and reach acceptable standards in English, mathematics and science. Progress and attainment are good in these subjects in the primary school, very good in the secondary school, and at least good in Post-16. Attainment and progress in Islamic education and Arabic as a first language are acceptable. In Arabic as an additional language, attainment is weak and progress is acceptable. Students’ learning skills are good across the school.
• Students’ personal and social development are strong in secondary and post-16, where their attitudes and behaviour are exemplary. Students’ understanding of Islamic values is good in FS and primary, and outstanding in higher grades. Their social responsibility is very good in FS and primary, and outstanding in higher grades.
• Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge in most subjects. In higher grades, teachers routinely involve students in problem-solving, independent research, and critical thinking. Lesson plans contain differentiated success criteria. This is most effective in FS, especially in literacy and numeracy activities. There are comprehensive assessment systems in place across the school. Data are analysed and used to inform teaching and curriculum review, although this is less effective in Islamic education and Arabic.
• The curriculum is generally effective in supporting the development of students' knowledge, skills and understanding, particularly in the secondary and post-16 phases. Modifications made to the curriculum for different groups of students, especially those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), are also very effective.
• The school pays close attention to students’ health and safety. Relationships across the school are excellent. The well-maintained premises provide a very good learning environment. Students are well aware of safe and healthy life choices. Successful systems ensure very good attendance and punctuality. There are effective procedures and support for students with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and those who are gifted and talented. Care and support for all students is a high priority and of a high standard.
• Leadership is effective and has resulted in significant improvements to student outcomes. Improved self-evaluation provides school leaders and the governing board with a clear understanding of areas that require further improvement. Relationships with parents are excellent and partnerships with the wider community are a significant strength. The management, facilities and resources are of good quality.

School’s strengths

• The effective leadership of the principal and senior leaders promotes a shared commitment to ensuring all students do as well as they can.
• Students’ progress in English and mathematics in the secondary and post-16 phases is very good.
• The personal and social development of students are outstanding in the secondary and post-16 phases.
• The attention to ensuring students’ health and safety, and the quality of support are outstanding
• Partnerships with parents and the wider community are outstanding.