The British School Al Khubairat

Focus

Exceeding expectations

Day fees 2025/26

$12,400-$20,600

Term dates

• Term 1: 25 August to 5 December 2025 
• Term 2: 5 January to 13 March 2026
• Term 3: 30 March to 3 July 2026

Ages

3-18

Pupil count

2,030

Spear’s Review

Founded in 1968, the British School Al Khubairat is one of the longest established of the UK curriculum schools in Abu Dhabi. 

Commonly known as BSAK, the non-profit school serves around 2,000 students of 50 nationalities. The school offers a UK-based curriculum from Foundation 1 (nursery) to Year 13, with senior students sitting (I)GCSE and A-Level examinations. Outside of the classroom, there is an extensive offering of over 65 clubs and co-curricular activities, including the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

The school, which aims to blend its rich heritage with modern, forward-thinking learning, has undergone extensive redevelopment in the past decade. The grounds now boast a purpose-built 340-seat theatre, a large auditorium, a full-size synthetic-turf pitch, a science and innovation centre and two well-equipped libraries. 

Academics

In 2025:

• 60 per cent of (I)GCSE results were grades 7-9
• 50 per cent of A-Level results were A* or A

Head teacher

Mark Leppard MBE has been BSAK headmaster since 2015. Prior to taking on his role in Abu Dhabi, he was principal of Doha College, Qatar, for nine years, and in 2015 he was awarded an MBE for services to education. Leppard holds a Bachelor of Education from Sheffield Hallam University and a Master of Education in educational leadership from the University of Buckingham.

University and college destinations

Graduates of BSAK have secured placements at top universities around the world. Recent graduates have accepted offers from prestigious institutions in the UK, such as Oxbridge and Imperial College London. Others have chosen renowned universities in the US, including Ivy League schools.

Admissions

The admissions process at BSAK is a thorough and structured procedure designed to ensure the best fit for each student. Interested families begin by submitting an online application, which includes necessary documents such as academic records and identification. Depending on the age group, applicants may need to complete an entrance assessment or attend an interview. New students are invited to an orientation session to familiarise themselves with the school environment. Early application is advised, as spaces in certain year groups can be limited.

Accessibility

Zayed International Airport: 30 minutes

Location

Click for more information about the research process and expert insight behind the Spear’s Schools Index.