Primary | Deira International School | Al-Futtaim, UAE

Primary school students posing with arms crossed

Primary School

Primary at DIS follows the National Curriculum for England, building strong foundations in English, Mathematics and Science alongside Computing, Art, Music, PE, Humanities and Arabic. Teachers know every child, use ongoing assessment to guide next steps, and grow learners who arrive in Year 7 ready, confident and curious. 

Learning That Develops the Whole Child


In these years, learning becomes increasingly structured, while still remaining engaging, creative and child-centred.

Teaching during Primary focuses on helping children develop confidence, independence and effective learning habits. 


Primary education builds the bridge between early learning and more formal academic study. 


Learning That Develops The Whole Child

Lessons are carefully planned to build knowledge step by step, while encouraging curiosity, problem-solving and active participation. Students are supported to ask questions, explain their thinking and take pride in their progress.

Primary learning at DIS is not limited to academic outcomes. Equal importance is placed on personal development, wellbeing and social skills. Children learn how to collaborate, manage challenges and develop resilience in a supportive environment where expectations are clear and consistent.

Teachers know their students well and use ongoing assessment to guide learning, identify next steps and provide timely support or challenge. 

This ensures that every child is encouraged to progress at an appropriate pace while building confidence in their abilities.

 

Teacher assisting student with studies in class

Literacy, Numeracy and Subject Knowledge

Strong literacy and numeracy remain a central focus throughout Primary. Reading, writing and mathematical thinking are developed daily, with skills applied across the wider curriculum. Students are encouraged to read widely, communicate clearly and apply mathematical understanding in practical and meaningful ways.

As children move through the Primary years, subject knowledge deepens and connections between subjects become more explicit. This prepares students for the academic rigour and subject specialisation of Secondary education.

A Smooth Transition to the Next Stage

Primary education at DIS is designed with progression in mind. 

By the time students move into Year 7, they are confident learners who are ready to take on greater independence, subject-specific teaching and increased academic challenge.

Strong communication between Primary and Secondary teams supports a smooth transition, ensuring continuity in learning and pastoral care.

 

Primary at DIS provides the academic foundations, learning skills and confidence children need to succeed, not just in the next stage of school, but throughout their education.

 

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