curriculum overview
Offering a premium British Education in Dubai Silicon Oasis
At GEMS Wellington Academy - Silicon Oasis (WSO), our curriculum offers a seamless, world-class journey from Nursery through to Post-16.
Built on the National Curriculum for England and enriched with enquiry-based learning, innovation, and personalised support, students develop strong foundations in both academic achievement and personal growth.
As students move through Primary and Secondary, they are guided into personalised pathways including IGCSEs and GCSEs, supported by expert British-trained teachers and a holistic approach to learning. Our curriculum goes far beyond core subjects, embedding wellbeing, enrichment, and leadership development to prepare students for the future.
WSO is proud to offer one of the most diverse and flexible Post-16 pathways in the region: A Levels, BTEC qualifications, the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), and the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP) and a dual stream. Whether aiming for top global universities or professional careers, every learner at WSO graduates confident, capable, and world ready.
Nursery
A nurturing, curiosity-led nursery where young children explore, play, and grow. Rooted in Reggio Emilia and the Curiosity Approach, every child is supported in a calm, inspiring environment.
Early Years
Foundation Stage
Our KHDA ‘Outstanding’ Foundation Stage blends play-based learning, specialist teaching, and strong pastoral care to spark curiosity and build key skills in communication, wellbeing, and early academics.
Primary
WSO Primary balances academic excellence with creativity and wellbeing. Enquiry-led learning and leadership opportunities empower every child to become confident, curious, and ready for the future.
Secondary
We offer a broad, values-driven Secondary education with personalised GCSE pathways, dynamic enrichment, and global awareness. Students thrive academically while developing leadership, independence, and confidence
Post-16
Post-16 students choose from A-Level, IBDP, IBCP, BTEC or combined pathways, guided by expert teachers and careers support. They graduate world-class, world-ready, and prepared for top universities or careers.
frequently asked
questions
What curriculum does WSO follow?
WSO follows the National Curriculum for England from FS1 through to Year 11. At Post-16, students choose from one of the region’s most flexible pathways: A Levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP), BTEC qualifications or they can choose a combined pathway.
How is the curriculum personalised to suit different learning styles?
Every student at WSO benefits from a personalised approach to learning. Through regular assessment, targeted support, and tailored teaching strategies, we adapt the curriculum to meet individual strengths, interests, and goals, ensuring challenge, support, and success at every stage.
How does WSO prepare students for future academic or career pathways?
Preparation begins early through personalised guidance, leadership opportunities, and real-world enrichment. At Post-16, students receive dedicated university and career counselling, supported by a wide range of academic and vocational options, helping them succeed in top global universities and industries.
What languages are offered throughout the school?
Arabic is taught from FS1, with pathways for native and non-native speakers. French is introduced from FS2, with options to study Spanish and German from Year 5. WSO is one of the few schools in the UAE to offer Mandarin lessons for native speakers from KS2 through to Year 11, with a newly introduced iGCSE pathway for older students. Mandarin is also available as an enrichment option for native speakers.