Secondary School

Secondary students at Star International School, Mirdif cultivate curiosity, achieve academic growth and explore diverse subjects between ages 11 and 16. They develop critical thinking skills and build unshakable confidence for future success.

At our British Curriculum Secondary School, students and teachers collaborate through personalised pathways, real-world challenges and a belief that greatness grows here. Together, we nurture tomorrow's leaders - curious minds and compassionate global citizens ready to Go Beyond and make their mark on the world.

Our curriculum

Students at Star International School, Mirdif follows the National Curriculum for England across Key Stages 3 to 4 which prepares students for IGCSEs and training and employment, with emphasis on academic excellence as well as personal growth.

Key Stage 3 - Year 7 to 9

Students progress through a balanced curriculum in Key Stage 3 designed to promote both academic and personal development, where they study a variety of subjects, all of which prepare them for future academic challenges.

  • Core subjects: English, Mathematics and Science
  • Creative & practical subjects: Art and Design, Music, Performing Arts, Physical Education and Swimming
  • Languages: French and Arabic
  • Humanities & Social Studies: History, Geography, Social Studies, Moral Education and Islamic Studies (for Muslim students)
  • ICT
  • Pastoral care
  • STEAM+

Key Stage 4 - Year 10 and 11

Students continue to develop their academic strengths in Key Stage 4 while exploring subjects that align with their interests and future aspirations. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in core subjects such as English Language, English Literature, Mathematics and Science, while offering a range of optional courses including:

  • Business & Enterprise (BTEC)
  • Design & Technology
  • Fine Art
  • Food & Nutrition
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • Economics
  • Business Studies
  • Drama
  • French
  • Arabic
  • Islamic Studies
  • Triple Science Option

Core pillars of learning

At Star, Mirdif, students lead their own learning journey through personalised academic support, leadership roles like Prefect and House Captain, global programmes such as Model UN and Virtual Buddy Exchange and career guidance including university fairs and talks from professionals across diverse industries.

Academic achievement

Enjoy personalised learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding

Academic achievement

Enjoy personalised learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding

Life competencies

Gain essential life skills to thrive in academics, as well as careers and personal lives

Life competencies

Gain essential life skills to thrive in academics, as well as careers and personal lives

Multilingualism

Develop proficiency in at least one world language, while being supported in home or first languages

Multilingualism

Develop proficiency in at least one world language, while being supported in home or first languages

International opportunities

Try global skill-building programmes and activities that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership

International opportunities

Try global skill-building programmes and activities that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership

Life & career pathways

Benefit from personalised guidance for university and career choices, supporting your chosen path

Life & career pathways

Benefit from personalised guidance for university and career choices, supporting your chosen path

Entry-level assessments

Students complete a CAT4 assessment on entry to assess their skills and compare them with those of their peers.

 

Key Stage 3: Instead of traditional week-long exams, students take subject-specific tests to assess their progress.

 

Key Stage 4 and beyond: Students take topic-based assessments and formal examinations, including mock examinations for Years 11-13. Exams can be taken at the end of Year 10 for some subjects.

Transition to the next level

Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 4 - Year 10 options: Students experience an Options Evening in Year 9, along with informative booklets and taster sessions to help them explore their options. Support is provided to help Students receive support make informed choices, with personalised advice from the Future Pathways Coordinator.

 

Key Stage 4 to Key Stage 5: Students make choices based on their academic achievements and personal preferences. Options are confirmed following receipt of their GCSE/BTEC results. They confirm their options after receiving their GCSE/BTEC results. Year 10 also includes valuable work experience to prepare students for their future.

A typical day at school in our Secondary

Every day at Star International School, Mirdif is filled with exciting learning experiences and unshakeable confidence. While the timetable varies between year groups, here's an example of what happens in our Secondary School.

Please note - On Fridays, pick-up time for all students is at 11.30am. Lessons and activities conclude before lunch to allow for weekly staff training and preparation.

Thanks to the support from Star International School Mirdif, I felt fully prepared when choosing my IGCSE subjects. My teachers guided me through every step and helped me focus on what truly excites me.

Hala, Student 2025

When to enrol

At Star International School, Mirdif, we offer flexible enrolment for our Secondary programme throughout the academic year. Our admissions team is here to discuss your needs and guide you to select the right start date for your child.

Enquire now

Enrol your child at our Secondary School in Dubai, where our British curriculum delivers academic excellence, with expert IGCSE preparation and a proven track record of success.

Accreditations