DP5.2/10

The British International School Abu Dhabi

Behind Abu Dhabi University, Al Ain Road, Abu Dhabi, -, U.A.E.

1

IB Programme

5.2/10

Rating

3

Reviews

$25K - $40K

Salary Range

At a Glance

TypePrivate
BoardingBoarding available
LanguagesEnglish
IB RegionIB Africa, Europe, Middle East
GenderCo-educational
LanguageENGLISH
IB Authorized04 April 2013
University CounsellorYes

IB Programmes

DP

Diploma Programme
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Accreditations

International BaccalaureateCambridgeCognia

Teacher Reviews

Canadian International School Abu Dhabi is a small community school following Alberta curriculum standards, located in a city with strong work/life balance opportunities. Teacher feedback suggests the school faces significant leadership and retention challenges, with reports of high staff turnover and concerns about management approaches, though some appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and parent community.

Pros

  • +The school has a warm and welcoming feeling with an outstanding parent community that values education.
  • +Abu Dhabi offers excellent work/life balance with many activities and opportunities to save money while working in the UAE.
  • +Some housing in Khalifa City B provides spacious, non-shared accommodations that are well-furnished and teacher-only.
  • +The school maintains Alberta Education curriculum standards and provides some professional development opportunities.

Cons

  • Leadership instability is a significant concern, with three different principals in three years and questions about administrative qualifications and experience.
  • Teachers report feeling undervalued with insufficient support, constant monitoring, and a management style described as authoritarian with harsh consequences for non-compliance.
  • Staff retention is a major issue, with approximately 40 percent of teachers choosing not to return due to concerns about the overall employment package.
  • Housing arrangements are inconsistent, with some teachers required to share small accommodations in communities where students also live.
  • Facilities and resources are described as merely adequate and deteriorating, lacking key amenities like an auditorium and sufficient high school space.

Contact

Behind Abu Dhabi University, Al Ain Road, Abu Dhabi, -, U.A.E.