Emirates American School branch Sharjah - Al Falah 6
Executive Summary
Emirates American School (EAS) has achieved an overall effectiveness rating of Good, marking a significant improvement from its previous inspection. The school demonstrates strong commitment to student safety and well-being, with particular strengths noted in its provision for Phase 1 children and the support offered to students with special educational needs. Students also show a commendable understanding of Islamic values and a deep appreciation for UAE heritage and culture.
Academically, the school has made good progress across most phases, with particularly rapid progress observed in Phases 1, 3, and 4. Teaching and learning are now rated as Good, supported by effective use of assessment to tailor instruction to student needs. Leadership and management have also improved to Good, with a clearer vision for school development and accurate self-evaluation. The school has seen positive trends in international MAP testing scores.
The curriculum is rated Good, and arrangements for student protection, care, and guidance are Very Good. A change in school ownership in October 2023 has led to a new governing board, and partnerships with parents are also rated Very Good, fostering a supportive school community.
Overall School Performance
Outstanding
Very Good
Good
Acceptable
Weak
Very Weak
Emirates American School branch Sharjah - Al Falah 6 Overall Rating
Good
SPEA Performance Standards
The performance standards used by SPEA to evaluate school quality across Sharjah.
The school demonstrates very good provision for students of determination, with effective identification and support for those with special educational needs (SEN). This commitment ensures that all students receive appropriate care and guidance to facilitate their learning and development. Students of Determinationspecial educational needs (SEN)
Student wellbeing is a significant strength, with very good procedures in place to ensure safety and well-being across the school. The school effectively promotes healthy and safe living through various health-promotion programs and positive relationships between students and staff. safety and well-beinghealthy and safe livinghealth-promotion programmes
The school shows good progress in aligning with the National Agenda, particularly through improvements in international MAP testing scores. Students exhibit a very good understanding of Islamic values and a strong commitment to UAE heritage and culture, actively participating in national occasions and cultural events. MAP testingIslamic valuesUAE heritage and culture
Key Highlights
Standout achievements identified by the inspection team that distinguish this school.
Student Safety & Wellbeing
The school has very good procedures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of students across all phases, fostering a secure and supportive environment.
Phase 1 Provision Quality
The quality of provision for Phase 1 children (Kindergarten) is a key strength, providing a vibrant and effective learning environment for early years.
Cultural & Islamic Values
Students demonstrate a strong understanding of Islamic values, a deep commitment to UAE heritage and culture, and an awareness of other world cultures.
SEN Support
The school excels in the identification and support of students with special educational needs (SEN), ensuring inclusive education for all learners.
Leadership Improvement
Significant improvements have been made in the effectiveness of the school’s leadership, contributing to overall school progress and development.
Academic Performance Breakdown
Students' achievement is good overall, showing improvement from the previous review. Progress is good across the school, though attainment remains mostly acceptable, particularly in Arabic subjects.
Leadership & Management
Effectiveness of school governance, strategic planning, and leadership capacity to drive continuous improvement.
Leadership Approach
The leadership team, strengthened by recent changes and enhanced training, demonstrates a clear understanding of the school's performance. They are effective in driving improvement, ensuring accurate self-evaluation, and fostering strong partnerships with parents and the wider community.
Inspection Findings
Students' Outcomes
Students' achievement is good overall, showing improvement from the previous review. Progress is good across all phases, with attainment mostly acceptable, though better in Phases 1 and 4. Students' learning skills are good overall.
Personal Development
Students' personal and social development and innovation skills are good overall. Children in Phase 1 exhibit very good personal development, and all students show a secure understanding of Islamic values and strong awareness of Emirati and world cultures.
Teaching Quality
The quality of teaching and assessment is good overall. Teachers possess secure subject knowledge and effectively use assessment data to meet student needs, particularly in Phase 1. However, opportunities for independent learning and critical thinking need further development in Phases 2 and 3.
Protection & Care
Arrangements for the protection, care, guidance, and support of students are very good. The school has strong procedures for health and safety, including child protection, and provides effective care and support for all students, including those with special educational needs.
Areas for Development
- •Improve students’ achievement, particularly in Phases 2 and 3, to ensure consistent academic growth across all grade levels.
- •Enhance students’ collaboration and independent learning skills, providing greater opportunities to develop enquiry and research skills.
- •Plan more challenging tasks for all students, especially those identified as Gifted and Talented (G&T), and promote students’ critical thinking skills.
- •Improve the quality and rigour of students’ written work and ensure consistency and quality of marking and feedback from teachers.