Welcome to Secondary School
As you move into Secondary at GNS, you will be guided by specialist teachers delivering a British education deeply rooted in Emirati values, fostering academic excellence and personal growth for every student.
About
Secondary School
Our Secondary School offers a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that follows the English National Curriculum, culminating in GCSE exams in Year 11 and A-Levels and BTECs in Years 12 and 13. This curriculum is globally recognised, preparing students for higher education in the UK, UAE, and beyond.
Our curriculum includes core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Sciences, Arabic (First and Second Language), Islamic Studies (for Muslim students), and UAE Social Studies. Additionally, students can explore subjects like Humanities, ICT, Modern Foreign Languages, Art, and Physical Education.
Our Secondary students also benefit from activities like Model United Nations, STEM clubs, Arabic literature, cultural exchanges to Japan, and university and career preparation programs.
At GNS, we inspire curiosity, foster independence, and nurture academic excellence in a supportive environment.
Meet our
Head of Secondary Georgina Michaelides
Georgina is an experienced school leader with a strong track record in education spanning over two decades. She has extensive expertise in school leadership, curriculum development, and enhancing student outcomes.
Her career began in the UK, where she quickly progressed to Head of Mathematics before joining the senior leadership team at Chelsea Academy. Her contributions played a key role in the school's ongoing success, earning her recognition as an outstanding teacher and leader. In 2020, she moved to Cyprus as Principal of a large British international school, where she made a significant impact on academic achievement, student wellbeing and the school’s expanding student body.
Now serving as Head of Secondary at GNS, Georgina is passionate about nurturing young people and shaping future leaders. She values the opportunity to work with the exceptional students who make up the school community and finds great fulfillment in supporting their growth and development, helping them reach their full potential.
Explore Our
Secondary School Curriculum
In our Secondary School, students continue their academic journey, building on the strong foundation laid in primary education. This pathway begins with a bespoke KS3 curriculum, tailored to our students’ needs and culminates in GCSE examinations in Year 11, followed by A-Levels and BTECs in Years 12 and 13. Our curriculum ensures that our students graduate with the knowledge, skills, and qualifications needed to thrive in higher education, whether in the UK, UAE, or beyond.
An Inclusive
Education
At GEMS National School Al Barsha, our curriculum is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that every student receives the support and challenge they need to thrive. We recognise that each learner is unique, and we cater to a diverse range of abilities through targeted interventions, adapted teaching strategies, and a broad curriculum with multiple pathways. Whether through GCSEs, A-Levels, BTECs, or alternative qualifications, we provide flexible options to suit individual strengths and aspirations.
Beyond the classroom, students benefit from enrichment opportunities, extracurricular activities, and tailored literacy support to enhance their learning experience. By fostering an inclusive environment, we empower all students to reach their full potential, equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed in their future endeavours.
A Nurturing
Community
The Secondary School fosters a nurturing and supportive environment where every student is valued. With small class sizes grouped by gender, ability, and need, students benefit from personalised attention, enabling them to thrive academically and socially. Teachers build strong relationships with both students and parents, creating a collaborative and positive learning experience.
Student wellbeing is at the heart of our school community. An experienced pastoral team, supported by form tutors and a dedicated school counsellor, ensures that students feel safe, happy, and supported. Student voice is highly valued, with leadership opportunities, councils, and forums allowing learners to express their ideas and shape their school experience.
frequently asked
questions
How are students supported academically and personally?
Our Secondary students benefit from personalised mentoring, strong pastoral care, career guidance, and industry-linked learning opportunities.
How does the curriculum differ from Primary School?
The National Curriculum for England marks a clear progression from Primary to Secondary education, increasing both depth and complexity. In Secondary, students benefit from specialist teaching across all subject areas and engage with more advanced concepts, particularly in Science and Mathematics. Assessment becomes more structured, leading to formal examinations at the end of Key Stage 4 (GCSEs). Students also enjoy a broader choice of subjects, allowing them to explore their interests in greater depth.
How do you prepare students for Post-16 education?
From Year 9 onwards, students receive tailored academic counselling, leadership development opportunities, and preparation for A-Level and/or BTEC pathways.