Curriculum Insights for Australian Families
British Curriculum
The British system is academically rigorous and clearly structured.
It suits students who:
- Prefer defined expectations and measurable benchmarks
- Are comfortable with increasing exam pressure in later years
While academically comparable to Australian education, wellbeing support depends heavily on individual school leadership rather than curriculum design.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The IB often feels philosophically familiar to Australian families.
It emphasises:
- Inquiry-based learning
- Critical thinking and reflection
- Holistic student development
IB schools frequently align well with Australian values around balance, wellbeing, and global perspective, particularly for families planning international university pathways.
American Curriculum
The American curriculum offers breadth and flexibility.
It may suit students who:
- Thrive with continuous assessment
- Enjoy subject choice and extracurricular involvement
However, structure and academic consistency vary significantly between schools, making careful evaluation essential.
Wellbeing and Pastoral Care:
A Key Priority
Australian families consistently prioritise wellbeing when choosing schools.
While curriculum sets the framework, pastoral care is shaped by school culture. Families are encouraged to look beyond marketing language and ask how wellbeing is supported day to day, particularly for students new to the school or country.
Schools that integrate wellbeing into daily practice tend to support smoother adjustment and long-term engagement.
Making the Right Choice
There is no universally “best” curriculum for Australian families relocating to Dubai.
The right choice depends on:
- Length of stay
- Your child’s learning style and resilience
- Future university plans
- The importance of wellbeing and school culture
Many families find it helpful to step back from curriculum labels and consider the decision more holistically.
For parents who want a structured way to think this through, you may find it useful to read a practical checklist for Australian families choosing a school in Dubai, which breaks the decision into clear, manageable steps.
Final Thought
Choosing a school during relocation is not about finding the most impressive option on paper. It is about finding a learning environment where your child can feel secure, supported, and challenged in the right way.
When those elements are aligned, academic success tends to follow naturally.
Relocating from Australia to Dubai is a major life shift for any family. While logistics can be managed quickly, choosing the right school often feels heavier, because it affects not only academic progress but also a child’s emotional security during transition.
Australian families tend to approach education with a strong emphasis on balance. Academic standards matter, but so do wellbeing, pastoral care, and the overall school culture. Dubai offers a wide range of schooling options, yet not all align equally well with Australian expectations.
This guide outlines the school pathways most commonly considered by Australian families and how they compare in practice.
Option 1: Australian Curriculum Schools in the UAE
For families seeking continuity, the Australian curriculum is available in both Dubai and Sharjah.
Australian Curriculum Schools
Why Australian Families Choose This Path
- Familiar teaching styles and assessment approaches
- Strong emphasis on wellbeing and pastoral care
- Reduced academic disruption during relocation
- Easier reintegration if returning to Australia
This option often feels reassuring, particularly for children who may already be navigating the emotional impact of relocation.
Considerations
- Fewer school choices compared to other curricula
- Senior years may be more Australia-focused, which may not suit all long-term plans
This pathway is often most suitable for families on short- to medium-term assignments or those prioritising emotional stability during transition.
Option 2: Transitioning to a Different Curriculum
Many Australian families choose to move into a different curriculum, especially when relocating for the longer term or when planning for global university pathways.
The most common alternatives are British, International Baccalaureate (IB), and American curricula. Each offers distinct advantages, and the right choice depends less on reputation and more on fit.
How Do Other Curricula Compare to Australian Education?
Overview Comparison
Relocating from Australia to Dubai: School Options for Australian Families