Accreditations

IFBS is the first Saudi school to become an approved Cambridge Early Years Centre

 

Kindergarten at IFBS

Kindergarten (KG), incorporating Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K)

For learners aged 3 to 4 years (Foundation Stage 1 and 2)

IFBS is proud to be the only accredited Cambridge International school offering a comprehensive Early Years program.

The goal of the Kindergarten at IFBS is to build social and emotional self-confidence while developing problem-solving, creative thinking, and foundational study skills. This ensures our students are well-prepared—both intellectually and personally—for the educational journey ahead.

Our curriculum focuses on the development of the whole child, connecting learning with the wider world and the community around them.

We follow an experiential, play-based approach—recognizing play as a vital and natural part of learning in the early years.

Our classrooms are child-centered and feature safe, stimulating indoor and outdoor spaces designed to foster curiosity, exploration, and engagement.

Each student is unique, with individual needs, interests, and abilities. At IFBS, we embrace this diversity by crafting personalized learning pathways that support every child in developing critical thinking, creativity, and strong interpersonal skills.

What do students learn in Kindergarten at IFBS?

We nurture young learners to become global citizens, encouraging them to explore their own culture, identity, and community while gaining an appreciation for the experiences of others around the world. This is achieved through a rich and balanced curriculum, including:

  • English (Communication and Literacy):
    Early language development is supported through speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities. Engaging with stories and texts builds communication skills and fosters a lifelong love for learning.
  • Arabic (Communication and Literacy) and Islamic Studies:
    Students explore Arabic language and Islamic values through creative activities that help them connect knowledge with daily life and cultural identity.
  • Literacy and Numeracy:
    Children develop essential early literacy skills such as letter recognition, tracing, and phonics. Numeracy skills include counting, number recognition, patterns, and basic mathematical concepts introduced through play and exploration.
  • Science and Computing (Understanding the World):
    Curiosity is encouraged through observation, questioning, and exploration. Students gain insights into the natural and digital world, fostering their understanding of their environment.
  • Art & Design and Music (Creative Expression):
    Creativity is nurtured through visual arts, music, movement, and role-play. These subjects allow students to express themselves, develop imagination, and build confidence.
  • Physical Education:
    Through active play and movement, students develop motor skills, coordination, and a positive attitude toward health and physical activity.

All subjects are supported by our strong Well-being Programme, which helps learners build social awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and a confident sense of self.

Primary Years at IFBS

From Year 1 to Year 6

At IFBS, our Primary Years program builds on the strong foundation established in Early Years, guiding students from Year 1 through to Year 6 with a rich, balanced, and internationally recognized curriculum.

Our curriculum is designed to develop confident, independent learners who are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed academically and personally. We focus on fostering critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and effective communication, preparing students for the challenges of secondary education and beyond.

What do students study in Primary Years?

  • English Language and Literacy:
    Enhancing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills through a variety of texts and interactive activities, to develop strong communication abilities.
  • Mathematics:
    Building solid numeracy skills through problem-solving, reasoning, and practical application of mathematical concepts.
  • Science:
    Encouraging inquiry, observation, and investigation to develop an understanding of the natural world and scientific principles.
  • Arabic Language and Islamic Studies:
    Continuing development of language skills and cultural knowledge through engaging lessons that build identity and values.
  • Humanities(History, Geography, and Global Perspectives):
    Exploring local and global cultures, history, and environments to foster global awareness and critical understanding.
  • Creative Arts (Art, Design, and Music):
    Promoting creativity and self-expression through varied artistic mediums and musical activities.
  • Physical Education:
    Supporting physical health, coordination, and teamwork through regular exercise and sports.

Cambridge Checkpoint Exam in Year 6

As an accredited Cambridge International Examination Centre, IFBS proudly offers the Cambridge Checkpoint exams for Year 6 students. This standardized assessment evaluates students’ skills and understanding in English, Mathematics, and Science, providing an excellent benchmark for academic progress as they transition to secondary education.

Preparing for and taking the Checkpoint exam ensures our learners are confident and well-equipped for the next phase of their educational journey, with internationally recognized certification that supports further academic opportunities.

From Year 7 to Year 9

Our Lower Secondary program at IFBS (Years 7 to 9) builds upon the strong foundations laid in Primary Years, offering a challenging and engaging curriculum that prepares students for the next stage of their academic journey.

This phase focuses on developing deeper subject knowledge, critical thinking, and independent learning skills. Students explore a broad range of subjects designed to enhance intellectual curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, while fostering a strong sense of responsibility and global citizenship.

Curriculum Overview

  • English Language and Literature:
    Developing advanced reading, writing, and analytical skills through a diverse range of texts, encouraging critical thinking and effective communication.
  • Mathematics:
    Expanding mathematical understanding and application, emphasizing reasoning, problem-solving, and real-world contexts.
  • Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics):
    A comprehensive program promoting inquiry-based learning and practical experimentation, nurturing scientific literacy and analytical skills.
  • Arabic Language and Islamic Studies:
    Continuing to strengthen language proficiency and cultural understanding through in-depth studies and values education.
  • Humanities (History, Geography, and Global Perspectives):
    Encouraging exploration of historical events, geographical concepts, and global issues, while developing students’ understanding of diverse cultures, global challenges, and their role as active global citizens.
  • Modern Foreign Languages:
    Introducing or continuing additional language learning to broaden communication skills and cultural appreciation.
  • Creative Arts (Art, Design, Music, Drama):
    Providing opportunities for self-expression, creativity, and collaboration across multiple artistic disciplines.
  • Physical Education:
    Promoting fitness, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles through varied physical activities and sports.

Cambridge Checkpoint Exam in Year 9

As part of our commitment to academic excellence, Year 9 students at IFBS take the Cambridge Checkpoint examinations in English, Mathematics, and Science. These externally marked assessments provide valuable feedback on student progress, readiness for IGCSE courses, and help identify strengths and areas for development before entering the Upper Secondary phase.

From Year 10 to Year 12 – IGCSE, AS, and A Levels

Building on the strong foundation of the Lower Secondary program, our Upper Secondary curriculum at IFBS is designed to prepare students for university and beyond through the internationally recognized Cambridge IGCSE, AS, and A Level qualifications.

This phase emphasizes academic rigour, depth of knowledge, and the development of independent research and critical thinking skills. Students specialize in subjects of their choice, tailoring their education to suit their interests and future aspirations while maintaining a broad and balanced curriculum.

Curriculum Overview

IGCSE (Years 10-11):
Students undertake a comprehensive range of subjects that combine compulsory core subjects with optional electives, fostering a broad knowledge base and skills development. The program culminates in the internationally recognized IGCSE examinations.

  • Core Subjects:English Language, Mathematics, Science (Combined or Separate Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Arabic Language and/or French Language
  • Electives:Humanities, Modern Foreign Languages, Creative Arts, and other subject options depending on student interests.

AS and A Levels (Years 12-13):
In these advanced stages, students focus on a select group of subjects aligned with their academic strengths and university goals. The AS Level represents the first year of A Level studies, providing a strong foundation for the full A Level qualification.

  • Academic Focus:In-depth study, critical analysis, and extended research in chosen subjects, encouraging intellectual independence and academic excellence.
  • University Preparation:The A Level curriculum is widely recognized by universities worldwide and prepares students rigorously for higher education demands.

Key Features

  • Personalized Learning Pathways:Students choose from a diverse array of subjects to create a curriculum tailored to their career aspirations.
  • Academic Excellence:Focused preparation for Cambridge examinations ensures students meet international standards and excel in their assessments.
  • Skills Development:Emphasis on critical thinking, analytical reasoning, research skills, and effective communication.
  • Global Perspective:Encouragement of awareness and understanding of global issues, preparing students as informed, responsible citizens.
  • Co-curricular Opportunities:Continued engagement in sports, arts, leadership programs, and community service to foster well-rounded development.