Schools in Oman

[cloudscape]

Hi, DH has been offered a job in Oman, which we're weighing up at the moment. One issue is the schools, we have one DS who will be 16 and two DDs who will be 14 and 12 . We are thinking of the British School, mainly to provide continuity (they are currently in school in the UK). Does anyone have any experience of the British School in Muscat that might help? Many thanks

[Captainladder]

Hi... I never went to school in Oman but my Dsis did, though it was a while ago. She started off at the British School but was moved out by my parents to the Royal Flight (which wont help you as I think its just a primary school.) She then went on to the American British Academy... which seemed like an amazing school and she did really well there. She did do the IB instead of Alevels but I think they translate well for uni etc. I shall ask her her opinion on the British school when I manage to get hold of her!
My parents still live in Oman and I can say that the lifestyle out there is great if you like the outdoors, camping. People are very friendly. Its a great environment for kids.

[cloudscape]

Many thanks Captainladder x

[Captainladder]

Hi Cloudscape...

So Dsis says that the British School is very good in terms of results but is quite cliquey. Most of her friends ended up moving from the British School to the ABA. That was probably 5 years ago though... she doesn't seem to think its changed much though. Probably not what you wanted to hear... but hope its helpful!

[cloudscape]

Thanks Captainladder, maybe not - but all info is helpful :-)

[Vagabond]

Oman is a wonderful place to live. Lucky you!

[SharingMichelle]

For high school age children you have 3 choices; ABA, The British School, and Taism.

There are many more schools in Muscat, and but on an expat package these are the top three choices.

ABA is IB curriculum.
BSM is British curriculum.
TAISM is American curriculum .

These three schools all have plus and minus points, but your primary concern for your children is which curriculum you want them to do. Do you want them to do A-levels? GCSEs? Having spent this much of their education in the British system BSM is probably your best bet, especially if you plan to move back before they're finished schooling.

In a nutshell, TAISM has the best facilities and is the most expensive. ABA has the best curriculum and a great sense of community but is struggling with changes right now. BSM is the best for British expats who want home away from home.

[SharingMichelle]

Waiting lists aren't too bad at the moment because Oman is in recession, lots of expats leaving, but you should still put them on the waiting lists asap.

[ohdearme1958]

There is also this new school which is said to be excellent

agsmuscat.com/

[booklooker]

I am a teacher in Oman,and have been for quite a few years now.

I do not want to say too much for fear identifying myself, but I would go along with what has been written so far.

Feel free to message me if you have any specific questions you think I may be able to answer