THE BRITISH SCHOOL AL KHUBAIRAT
SIXTH FORM BOOKLET
WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION
OUR SCHOOL
The British School Al Khubairat (BSAK) is Abu Dhabi’s leading British not-forprofit, co-educational day school From Nursery to A Level (3 – 18) our dynamic school culture offers students an enriching experience and outstanding results.
PURPOSE
A community committed to inspiring our students to create an impactful legacy
Empathy and Care | Respect and Inclusivity | Honesty and Integrity | Endeavour and Resilience
WELCOME TO BSAK
CONTENT
Why BSAK?
Our History
A Global Community
Student Life
Exam Results
Alumni Universities
Careers Guidance Counsellors
Clubs and Societies
Student Leadership
Extended Project Qualification
VESPA and MELs
Student Support
Music
Sports
Performing Arts
BSAK Oaks
Admissions
Summary of Pathways
Summary of Subject Entry Criteria for A level
Summary of Subject Criteria for BTEC and Creative Arts
Overall Best School in the UAE
Which School Advisor 2023
Among the Top 100 leading private schools in the world Spears School Index
70% A*-B A Level Results
100% Distinction/Distinction* BTECs
52% attending Russell Group Universities
Rated Outstanding British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection
Rated Outstanding Local Government Agency inspection (ADEK)
Carnegie Gold Award for Mental Health
Members of IAPS, HMC and BSME
Not For Profit
We inspire and challenge our students, of all academic abilities, to become well-rounded individuals ready to progress to the next stage of their education and life beyond BSAK and Abu Dhabi Through dedicated support for each individual student, we invest in building future leaders.
BSAK was founded in 1968 and generously supported by the late President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, through the donation of land and Amiri Decree No. 5 of 1971.
BSAK was
We are searching for students who answer YES to the following three questions
Are you hoping to work alongside other ambitious students?
Do you have aspirations to enter one of the world’s best universities?
in 1968 founded
We are consistently listed in the Top 10 Schools in the Middle East and Globally We have recently been voted Best Sixth Form and School in the UAE
With over 50 years of heritage, we are the oldest British school in Abu Dhabi
We are proud of our rich history and our status as not for profit school
Our impressive list of alumni have gone on to study at prestigious institutions including; Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, St Andrews, MIT and Browns
Would you like the opportunity to make a difference to the future of this world?
“Bringing together diverse minds and different cultural perspectives, you will make friends from around the globe that will last you a lifetime”
Experience the amazing culture and diversity of our community with almost 300 students and over 30 nationalities While some have been at BSAK for their whole education, every year we welcome many new families and run a lively programme of team building events to enable newcomers to settle in quickly
Houses offer a variety of opportunities which encourage team spirit, a healthy sense of competition and most importantly allow for vibrant self-expression throughout the School
There are numerous academic, sporting and musical events organised throughout the year, which involve Houses competing against each other for House points and the prestigious House Cup at the end of the academic year
“The House system is an integral part of life at BSAK and brings out the very best in our community.”
Student Life
Scan the QR code, or search: ‘Sixth Form’ in our website to find out more.
You will be assigned a personal Form Tutor, who is often described as your ‘School Parent’ This provides you with steadfast support through both the challenges and celebrations of your BSAK journey, ensuring that you feel valued, empowered, and encouraged to follow your aspirations Your Form Tutor will support you through your university application, along with additional lessons and expertise from our Careers Counsellors
The School Day
Form Time
Period 1
Period 2
Break
Period 3
Period 4
Lunch
Period 5
Period 6
* Finish at 12 Noon on Friday
8 Study Periods per week
Mels weekly lesson
Careers bi-weekly lesson
EPQ weekly lesson
Co-Curricular Programme runs from 245 - 445
What our students say
“What I love most about BSAK is that even though studying can be intense, there are so many people around who care about you and support you If you are struggling, the teachers are always there to help you In Sixth Form, the teachers talk to you on their level, as adults rather than children, there’s a sense of freedom, responsibility and trust It sometimes feels like the word is overused, but the sense of community is what makes it special in my opinion Feeling like you belong, feeling comfortable to speak to anyone and being able to make friends in so many different ways I love the fact there are so many different areas dedicated to the Sixth Form You can choose to study alone in the library or in a study room, in groups in a study pod, or collaborate on a project in the Common Room The professional environment inspires me to study. It's also a lot of fun. We work hard and we play hard We get involved in house competitions, also playing netball, football, cricket against staff teams and the Lip Sync Competitions are legendary”
EXAM RESULTS
Our Sixth Form students are highly successful at achieving outstanding academic results, and gaining places at the most academically selective universities and competitive courses around the world.
Last year’s outstanding results have enabled students to progress onto universities such as; MIT, Berkeley, USC and Columbia universities in the USA, LSE, Imperial and Manchester in the UK, and NYU Abu Dhabi
Results 2024
A LEVEL - ALL RESULTS
BTEC RESULTS
ALUMNI UNIVERSITIES
Canadian Universities
US Universities
UK Universities
UAE Universities
As soon as you join BSAK Sixth Form you will be immersed into the wonderful world of careers, university and future skills. Prepare to be amazed by how much of your time is spent thinking about, discussing and preparing for your future life at university and beyond.
Every year a host of universities visit BSAK here in Abu Dhabi Our Head of Sixth Form and Headmaster make regular visits back to the UK to ensure we have an exceptional relationship with all the top universities
If you are aspiring to attend Oxbridge, Russell Group or Ivy League Universities we have the expertise at our fingertips to guide you through the additional demands of this process We had an impressive 8 Cambridge offers this year Our BSAK Alumni are also ready to connect to give you that little bit of extra insight into the courses and universities that they have attended
Should you wish to apply a little further afield, previous students have gone on to Canada, Australia, Germany, France, South Korea and the Netherlands, to name but a few
SUPPORTING YOUR DREAMS
Our expert Careers Guidance Counsellors are here to support and inspire you. As specialists in their field, they are committed to ensuring that you have the very best application, that it is ready to submit on time, to the best and most competitive universities and courses in the UK and around the World.
2 Experienced Careers Counsellors
Bi-weekly careers, university and future skills lessons.
Super curricular to boost your university application
Form Tutor individual support with university application process
Personalised feedback on application statements
Home Status tips and advice for UK applicants
University presentations at BSAK
Visits and links to top universities on Unifrog, our specialist university and careers software
Our clubs are designed to provide you with a plethora of opportunities to enrich and develop your interpersonal skills and knowledge beyond the core curriculum.
Clubs & Societies
As a Sixth Form student, you are encouraged to take responsibility and ownership of leading a club; fostering your communication, organisation and leadership skills whilst deepening your knowledge in your chosen field
When making your university application, the skills acquired through engaging in a club can distinguish you from your peers There are limitless ways within the clubs to develop your expertise: perfect public speaking, foster effective team building, master time management and refine research abilities, to name a few
Whilst many clubs provide academic enrichment there are opportunities to promote your holistic wellbeing, nurture your talents and enjoy your hobbies Sport, Music and Drama offer a whole host of competitive endeavours and performing arts experiences for you to take part in
Participating in clubs not only furnishes intellectual challenge but truly helps you to build on and cultivate a blend of skills to shape you into a well rounded global citizen, equipped for the challenges of universities, careers and life beyond
CLUBS AND SOCIETIES
The enrichment clubs are created, developed and led by the Sixth Form students and are run for students, with teachers on hand to provide guidance as required
Model United Nations (MUN) Engineering Law Society
Computer Programming Medical Society (MedSoc) BSAK Tribune Politics Society Science Olympiad Maths Olympiad
Top Uni BSAK Bulls STEP Chess
Eco Committee Art Charity Committee
British Physics Olympiad
F1 in Schools
Object Oriented Programming
SAT Club
Duke of Edinburgh Award
NEXT GENERATION LEADERS
Prefects
As a role model for younger students, you will mentor and support events for your designated year group You will assist the Senior Prefects Team during key events such as the Sixth Form Open Evening
House Captains
These are our chief organisers of fun in the School If you are lively and outgoing with the ability to enthuse and engage; this is the role for you From LipSyncs to University Challenge and Welly Wanging to Tug of Wars - it Is your job to lead the House with the overall goal of FUN whilst keeping a close eye on the coveted House Trophy at the end of the year.
Sports Leader Awards
Sports Leaders get involved in the action, supporting major sporting events hosted by the school outside of school hours Helping out at Sports days, mentoring younger students, planning and delivering lessons are elements of this UK accredited award Whilst you develop communication, collaboration and team building skills, you will also gain the ‘Level 2 UK Sports Leaders Award’ Great for your CV and university applications
UAE Ambassadors
‘In promoting the identity of Emirati culture and values, our aim is achieving unification of all cultures within the British School Al Khubairat community’ This student-led body seeks to create events and implement initiatives to bring the UAE to life in our school community Our UAE Ambassadors are leaders in promoting the UAE vision and values and cultivating the integration of all cultures at BSAK
Eco Committee
A dynamic part of the Sixth Form Community, if you are passionate about changing the world, then our Eco- Committee needs you This is a proactive and popular group with clear and ambitious goals starting right here at BSAK Reducing the digital footprint, by automating double side printing and limiting students print count, are just a few of the ways they have already made a difference If you come to our Student Cafe you will need to bring your own cup as disposable cups are no longer available You can make a difference too
Charity Committee
Do you care about other people and want to make a difference to other people's’ lives?
Our Charity Committee is busy all year round organising events and raising money for charity. Every year hundreds of Ramadan gift packs are collected and distributed within the BSAK community There is a huge amount of organisation and commitment needed raising the profile of events, collecting and organising gifts
Becoming a Senior Prefect
To become a Senior Prefect in Year 13 you will go through a rigorous interview and assessment process Led by the Head Boy & Girl and supported by Assistants and Deputie Senior Prefects are the highest position in the School Leadership Team To be considered for the role, you must have been a Prefect in Year 12, have an impeccable Year 12 record and be able to demonstrate your contribution across the school community
LEARN HOW TO THINK
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
There are a myriad of reasons to take an EPQ but simply - Universities love them!
An EPQ not only demonstrates your curiosity and intellectual dexterity, but also your ability to manage a project, research independently, write and critique academically.
An EPQ is a great opportunity to choose a topic of interest to you and run with it Perhaps the first time that you will have had such freedom as a student It's liberating, challenging and exciting It also gains you an extra half an A Level for your UCAS application Whatever the topic you choose, you will develop skills and gain a qualification to assist you in further academic studies
DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS
Our research has focused on developing students' study skills around five key areas: VESPA.
Vision - they know what they want to achieve
Effort - they put in many hours of independent study
Systems - they organise their learning resources and time
Practice - they practice and develop their skills
Attitude - they respond constructively to setbacks
Our study skills programme is one of the best in the world, and we work closely with every student to develop each aspect of the VESPA framework
Moral Education and Learning Support Programme (MELS)
The MELS programme provides preparation for life beyond BSAK equipping you with real life skills, tools and strategies to ensure you are university ready
Cooking
Critical Thinking
Personal Safety
Household Maintenance
Job Readiness
Settling into University
Finance & Budgeting
Communication & Presentation Skills
Work Experience
Small Tutor Groups foster a warm nurturing environment allowing you to form strong bonds and relationships with your fellow tutees as well as your Tutor The Sixth Form is a place for you to belong, be yourself and realise your potential As you move into the realms of adulthood, you will notice a marked change as teachers recognise your maturity into young adults and respond accordingly.
Support when you need it
EXPERIENCED COUNSELLING
Students have access to our two full time School Counsellors, who are available to support students on all aspects of their social, emotional and personal wellbeing.
LEARNING SUPPORT
BSAK has a resourceful and friendly Learning Support team to support students in the Sixth Form
The Learning Support teachers and assistants are patient, dedicated and experienced in finding solutions to the difficulties faced by young learners in busy classrooms We aim to help students build on their strengths and reach their goals in a practical, sensible way.
CUTTING-EDGE FACILITIES
Our Music Department is not only the heartbeat of BSAK with music prevailing the building on a daily basis, but a thriving hive of activity, friendship and community.
BEACON OF MUSICAL EXCELLENCE
Our Expertise
14 full-time, specialist instrumental teachers, all professional musicians in their own right, supported by a dedicated Music Administrator
Play with the Best
Join fellow musicians achieving supreme levels of musical excellence
Collaborate & Create
At BSAK we regard music with the highest esteem recognising music as a sign of excellence, demonstrating self discipline, unique expertise, differentiation, patience, and leadership Sixth Form students have created their own bands, string quartets, learned to conduct and developed their pedagogy teaching other students to play
“The
Best Musical School in
the
UAE” is a bold but accurate statement. The opportunities are limitless at BSAK with unrivalled musical opportunities.
Be inspired
Offering a comprehensive and enriching musical education that sets it apart in the UAE and the wider region From state-of-the-art facilities to a team of dedicated teachers, a scholars’ programme and vast performance opportunities, BSAK’s commitment to music education is second to none
Get Involved
Develop your repertoire, experiment with different styles, refine your performance in a dynamic environment:
Recitals
Termly Concerts
Friday Jams
Tiny Desk Concerts
MasterClasses
Performing Arts Collaborations
Unplugged Concerts
Abu Dhabi Youth Choir & Orchestra
Bespoke Individual Instrumental Lessons
British Schools Middle East is a highly competitive International Competition Whilst the competition is tough, there’s a great sense of fun and team spirit at these competitions with a friendly rivalry between the competing teams
BSAK consistently performs well securing a Top 3 place on the Podium Girls and boys compete in 3 Disciplines; Football, Athletics and Netball or Volleyball As well as skill, you will need Dedication, Commitment and Drive along with the right attitude to join this elite squad Competition for places is fierce We look forward to seeing you at the 6am training sessions!
Fitness Ambassadors you might want to gain some practical work experience whilst helping out others Fitness Ambassadors work with younger students in School teaching and encouraging them to make healthy choices in their diet, activities and lifestyle
BSAK 7’s - Hosted at the local Sports Hub, our very own Tri- Series features Netball, Football and Rugby Competing against schools from across Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Alongside the big sporting competitions we have regular School meets competing weekly against other Abu Dhabi schools in the Adissa leagues Whether you're into Netball, Football, Rugby, Swimming or Volleyball there is something for you
THIS IS BSAK
Unique Opportunities
There are numerous ways for you to take part in sport
either at a highly competitive level, local school level or recreationally
Elite Sport
If Rugby or netball is your game, you can expect to travel to Dubai and even compete in the world renowned Dubai 7’s An elite team is put together to compete against the best of the best A fantastic experience to play in or to spectate
Just for the fun of it
Looking to relax and chill out, you might prefer to try out Yoga. You can also enjoy badminton, swimming or table tennis sessions after school for some fun time fitness and stress relief.
External Accredited Qualifications
Gain useful qualifications that you can add to your CV, Job or University Applications and that will also help you earn some extra cash when you need it Accredited certificates include Pool LifeGuarding, Leadership and First Aid
Gym Sessions
Open to you during, before and after School; a privilege reserved for Sixth Form students Should you need any advice, we have personalised trainers on hand to help you in our refurbished Gym
YOUR CHANCE TO SHINE
Whether choosing Drama as an A Level or aspiring to take a role in our annual theatre production, you will have the fortuity to be immersed in a wonderful professional theatrical experience. Take the opportunity to explore technical theatre, costume design, and front-of-house roles, enriching your understanding of all facets of production whilst cultivating physical and vocal confidence
We know that the very best memories are made taking part in school productions.
Leaving your
Legacy
Old Al Khubairat Society (BSAK Oaks)
Our thriving alumni and community networking platform boasts a diverse array of professionals scattered around the world Our continued connection with former BSAK Students allows you to access relevant and up to date expertise and insights and developments in their respective fields.
With over five decades of alumni to draw upon, you can forge professional and networking connections allowing you to explore study programmes, research universities and probe career pathways directly with former students
Each year we host social events and tours of the school as former students come back to visit BSAK
Scan the QR code, or search: “BSAK OAK’s” Website to find out more
How to Apply
Our Admissions team will support you with the application process and will be the point of contact from initial enquiry to making subject choices
For the final step in the Admissions process you will be required to attend an interview, either in person or via zoom, and the Admissions team will be in touch to arrange this once we have received all of the information we need to process your application
Please email registrar@britishschool sch ae if you have any questions
THE RIGHT PATHWAY FOR YOU
Choosing which subjects to study in Sixth Form can be tough. We are here to help. Things for you to consider:
APTITUDE
A Level and BTEC courses are substantial and conceptually much more demanding than GCSEs Make sure you will meet the grade requirements for the subject
BROAD AND BALANCED
Choose a broad and balanced programme of study that will allow flexibility should your aspirations change throughout Sixth Form
PASSION AND ENJOYMENT
Take subjects that you love and enjoy A genuine passion and commitment will help to keep you motivated and succeed when the going gets tough
UNIVERSITY AND CAREER ASPIRATIONS
Do your homework Research the university, courses and their respective subject and grade requirements Ensure these requirements are reflected in your A Level or BTEC subject choices.
A Level or BTEC? What’s Your Aspiration?
A Level Courses
Biology / Business Studies / Chemistry / Computer Science / Drama/ Economics / English Language / English Literature / Fashion and Textiles / Fine Art / French / Further Mathematics / Geography / Graphic Communication / History / Media Studies / Mathematics / Music / Photography / Physics / Politics / Product Design / Psychology / Spanish
We offer 24 different A Levels, providing a great choice of subjects for you to construct a programme of study that meets your needs
Choosing this pathway you will select 3 A Levels and study for 2 years, completing the A Level Qualifications at the end of Year 13
Thinking of taking a Fourth A level subject? Speak to our Head of Sixth Form for advice
BTECs are an alternative route to A Level study with the majority of UK Universities accepting the Level 3 Diploma as equivalent to A Level
With continuous assessment throughout, BTEC’s run over two years with no public examinations at the end This form of study makes the BTEC qualification appealing to universities and businesses as it equips students with much sought after skills such as how to cope with a continuous demanding workflow, representative of the demands of university study
The content will differ depending on the specialism but expect to see hands-on learning, research skills, time management, report writing and portfolio building throughout the duration of the course
BTECs can be studied as a standalone programme or combined with A Level
BTEC COURSES Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Business / Engineering / Esport / Hospitality / Sport
Level 3 Diploma in Sport
“We learn to confidently set ambitious goals, seeking inspiration from all the learning opportunities presented to us, in our fascinating and multicultural world”
CHOOSE YOUR PATHWAY
OPTIONS
We will ask for Option Choices to be made in March and offers will be made to students which will include minimum grade requirements in April
STUDENTS
REQUIRING UAE EQUIVALENCY
The Ministry of Education equivalency certificate is the UAE official high school graduation certificate It is required for study at UAE universities and employment in some government positions following university graduation
All students must complete Year 13 and require a minimum of a D grade in two A Level subjects from the following list of approved subjects as per the Ministerial Resolution 883 BTEC qualifications can also be for equivalency and we are currently waiting for the list of approved subjects
WHAT CAN I STUDY?
We have the widest range of subjects and creative pathways available in Abu Dhabi. Let us tailor the right pathway for you to ensure your success.
5 Grade 6’s at GCSE
Grade 4 in English Language and Maths Refer to the A Level subject criteria
5 Grade 4’s at GCSE (including English Language & Maths)
Grade 4 in English Language and Maths
SUBJECTS
5 Grades 4s at GCSE (including English Language and Maths) Refer to the A Level & BTEC specific subject criteria pages
Grade 4 in English Language and Maths
5 Grades 4s at GCSE (including English Language and Maths)
Grade 4 in English Language and Maths
SUBJECTS
SUMMARY OF SUBJECT ENTRY CRITERIA FOR A LEVEL
The minimum entry criteria for individual subjects is detailed below, please see subject specific pages for full requirements:
SUBJECT GCSE MINIMUM GRADE REQUIRED
Biology
Business Studies
Chemistry
Computer Science
Drama
Design and Technology-
Product Design
Economics
English Language
English Literature
Fashion and Textiles
Fine Art
French
Further Mathematics
Geography
Graphic Communication
History
Mathematics
Media Studies
Music
Physics
Politics
7 or A (or 7/7 in Double Award Science)
6 or B (without GCSE Business, a 6 or B in Mathematics)
7 or A (7 or A grade in Mathematics or 7/7 in Double Award Science)
6 or B (6 or B grade in Mathematics strongly recommended)
6 or B
6 or B
6 or B (6 or B grade in Maths strongly recommended)
6 or B
6 or B
6 or B grade in an Art or a Design Technology subject
6 or B
6 or B
9 or A* (must be combined with A Level Mathematics and only available as a 4th A Level) A pass grade at Level 2 Mathematics is desirable
6 or B
6 or B ( 6 or B grade in Art )
6 or B (6 or B grade in English Language strongly recommended)
7 or A
6 or B
6 or B
7 or A (7 or A grade in Maths or 7/7 in Double Award Science)
6 or B in both GCSE English Language or in GCSE History)
SUMMARY OF SUBJECT ENTRY CRITERIA FOR A LEVEL
The entry criteria for individual subjects is detailed below:
SUBJECT
Psychology
Photography
Spanish
or B
MINIMUM GRADE REQUIRED
Combination of 3 Sciences or 2 Science and Mathematics 6 or B grade in English & 6 or B in Maths 6 or B
8 or A* / 8 or A* / 7 or A (required in any combination)
SUMMARY OF SUBJECT ENTRY CRITERIA FOR BTEC AND CREATIVE ARTS
The entry criteria for Individual subjects is detailed below:
SUBJECT
BTEC Business
BTEC Engineering
BTEC Esports
BTEC Sport
BTEC Hospitality
Overview of BTEC + Course and Combinations
Grade 4s or C (Grade 6 in one Science and Maths) 5 Grade 4s or C
Grade 4s or C
Grade 4s or C
Grade 4s or C
SUMMARY OF SUBJECT ENTRY CRITERIA
FOR BTEC AND CREATIVE ARTS
The entry criteria for Individual subjects is detailed below:
Students that combine a BTEC qualification with an A level subject may select any A level course if they meet the entry criteria. If they do not, BTEC students (only), may access the following ALevel subjects with the following entry requirements:
SUBJECT
Drama
English Language
Design Technology: Product Design
Geography
Media Studies
Business Studies
Photography
Psychology
GCSE MINIMUM GRADE REQUIRED
Grade 4 or C
Grade 5 or B
Grade 4 or C
Grade 5 or B
Grade 4 or C
Grade 4 or C
Grade 4 in GCSE Art or Graphics
Grade 5 or B in GCSE English and Maths
Find yoursubjects
ARABIC A / ARABIC B / BIOLOGY / BUSINESS
STUDIES / BUSINESS BTEC / BTEC
HOSPITALITY/ CHEMISTRY / COMPUTER
SCIENCE / DRAMA & THEATRE / ECONOMICS / ENGINEERING BTEC / ENGLISH LANGUAGE / ENGLISH LITERATURE / ESPORTS BTEC / EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION (EPQ) / FASHION AND TEXTILES / FINE ART /
FRENCH / FURTHER MATHEMATICS /
GEOGRAPHY / GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION / HISTORY / HOSPITALITY BTEC / ISLAMIC
STUDIES A & B / MATHEMATICS / MEDIA
STUDIES / MUSIC / PHYSICS / POLITICS / PSYCHOLOGY / PHOTOGRAPHY / PRODUCT DESIGN / SPANISH / SPORT BTEC