Welcome to
the Primary Years
Welcome to the Primary Years at GNS, where we inspire curiosity, foster independence, and nurture academic excellence in a supportive environment.
About
Primary School
At GEMS Al Barsha National School, our Primary School offers a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that follows the English National Curriculum, enhanced by the Ministry of Education framework for a smooth transition to our Secondary School.
We use renowned programs like Read Write Inc, White Rose, and Accelerated Reader to deliver an education that is both challenging and culturally relevant. Our curriculum includes core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Moral Education, as well as additional subjects like Humanities, Physical Education, Performing Arts, Computing, UAE Social Studies, and Spanish.
Beyond academics, we offer a variety of extracurricular activities, including French Club, Cooking, Art, Technology, STEM, and sports. The use of technology supports our learning goals, preparing students for a dynamic and ever changing world.
At GNS, we inspire curiosity, foster independence, and nurture academic excellence in a supportive environment.
Meet our
Head of Primary- Sarah Lewis
Sarah is an experienced senior leader who has worked in the UAE for 10 years working in at GNS and previously at an outstanding Primary school in Abu Dhabi.
Sarah began her educational career in Birmingham, England where she gained her degree in Primary Education with a specialism in Geography. After working in England for 6 years in 2 schools, Sarah moved to Abu Dhabi to work in a Primary only school where her leadership career began. Sarah has had a variety of leadership roles and her previous school received 2 consecutive Outstanding ratings by ADEK.
Sarah is a passionate educator who has continued her professional development and gained her NPQH accreditation in May 2021. She understands the importance of the balance of providing high quality and culturally relevant education alongside a nurturing and caring environment.
Explore Our
Primary School Curriculum
Bilingual Learning Across Primary
To ensure a smooth transition from our robust Bilingual provision in the Foundation Stage, Year 1 continues this approach by having all Teaching Assistants fluent in Arabic. This allows us to provide consistent support and rich opportunities for language development in both English and Arabic. As students' progress through the school and gain confidence in both languages, we maintain our commitment to bilingual learning across all classrooms.
In every lesson, new vocabulary is explicitly taught, with Arabic translations provided to strengthen understanding and support dual-language development. Our library further enhances this approach by offering a wide selection of bilingual books. For younger readers, many titles feature both English and Arabic on the same page, while more fluent readers can borrow the same book in both languages to deepen their comprehension and literacy skills.
Gender split classes for
Years 5 and 6
In alignment with our school’s identity, which proudly reflects Emirati culture and Islamic values, we introduce boys and girls segregation from Year 5. This allows students to learn in same gender classrooms, creating an environment where they can remain focused and feel comfortable as they continue their educational journey.
While all students follow the same curriculum, we can tailor our approach to meet the specific needs and learning styles of each group, ensuring a more personalised and supportive learning experience for every child.
As students mature, this model also helps them build confidence in expressing their ideas, participating in class discussions, and engaging more fully in their learning. Additionally, this structure provides a smooth transition to secondary school, where boys and girls are similarly taught in single-gender settings.
frequently asked
questions
How do you personalise learning for Primary students?
Our UK-trained teachers tailor lessons to each child's strengths and needs, ensuring challenge, engagement, and support for every learner.
How is technology used in Primary classrooms?
We integrate technology through platforms like Accelerated Reader, White Rose Maths, and blended learning tools to enhance critical thinking and collaboration.
What additional programmes are available for Primary students?
Students benefit from a rich wider curriculum including enterprise projects, leadership opportunities, and a variety of co-curricular activities.