Al Marifa International Private School received a rating of Good in its latest SPEA inspection, marking a significant improvement from its previous Acceptable rating in 2018. The school is recognized for its strong leadership and commitment to continuous improvement, which has positively impacted student achievement across various subjects.
The school operates a dual US and UK curriculum in Phase 4, with students showing improved achievement in English, mathematics, science, and all Arabic medium subjects. Teachers are effective and dedicated, fostering an environment where students enjoy taking responsibility for their learning, notably through STEAM initiatives. Student attendance is Outstanding, reflecting a positive school experience.
Furthermore, the school boasts very good facilities, providing a safe, hygienic, and secure environment that effectively supports student learning and wellbeing. The leadership team's vision and strategic direction are key strengths, driving positive outcomes across the school community.
Outstanding
Very Good
Good
Acceptable
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Al Marifa Int. Private School (G.C.S.E) Overall Rating
Good
The performance standards used by SPEA to evaluate school quality across Sharjah.
While students with special educational needs (SEN) generally make good progress, the support provided in lessons is inconsistent. The school aims to become a fully inclusive institution, indicating ongoing efforts are needed to meet the diverse needs of all student groups effectively. SEN studentsinconsistent supportfully inclusive school
Students' personal and social development is very good, demonstrating positive attitudes and empathy. The school provides a very safe, hygienic, and secure environment, with outstanding student attendance and a strong understanding of healthy living, although some inconsistencies in healthy eating choices are noted in Phase 4. Very Good personal and social developmentOutstanding student attendancesafe, hygienic, and secure environment
Students show a very good understanding of Islamic values and Emirati culture, actively participating in cultural activities. While the school uses international benchmarking data, further development is needed in students' deeper understanding of the tourism industry and its effects in Phase 4, and connecting historical events to current affairs. Emirati cultureIslamic valuesinternational benchmarking
Standout achievements identified by the inspection team that distinguish this school.
The leadership team's vision and strategic direction are strong, effectively promoting school improvement.
Students actively form and participate in a wide range of clubs, demonstrating strong initiative and engagement.
Significant improvement in student achievement across all subjects in most phases, reflecting effective teaching and strategic planning.
Enhanced data systems and analysis contribute to informed decision-making and targeted improvements.
Outstanding student attendance, strong personal and social development, and robust arrangements for protection, care, guidance, and support.
Students' achievement overall is Good, with notable improvements in English, mathematics, science, and all Arabic medium subjects since the previous inspection. While internal data often shows higher progress and attainment, lesson observations and external examination results indicate good to very good performance across most subjects and phases. Girls generally make better progress than boys across all phases and subjects.
Effectiveness of school governance, strategic planning, and leadership capacity to drive continuous improvement.
The leadership team at Al Marifa International Private School demonstrates a good and strategic approach, with elements of very good practice. They are committed to continuous improvement, effectively engaging the governing body and stakeholders to implement strategic plans that have led to improved student outcomes and overall school effectiveness.
Students' achievement is Good overall, with notable improvements in core subjects. Students demonstrate good progress across most phases, although internal assessment data often indicates higher levels than observed in lessons. Learning skills are good, with students enjoying learning and taking responsibility, but consistency in critical thinking and problem-solving across all subjects needs development.
Students' personal and social development and innovation skills are Very Good. They exhibit positive attitudes, respect, empathy, and a strong sense of social responsibility, actively participating in community and environmental initiatives. Student attendance is outstanding, reflecting a positive and welcoming school environment.
The overall quality of teaching and assessment is Good. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and use technology effectively, planning purposeful lessons. However, consistency in lesson structure, differentiation for diverse student needs (especially boys), and clarity in feedback for improvement need further development.
The protection, care, guidance, and support of students are Very Good. The school provides a very safe, hygienic, and secure environment. Students demonstrate a secure understanding of healthy living, and the school's arrangements for safeguarding are effective, contributing to outstanding student attendance.