British Curriculum
A World-Class British Education, adapted to the context of Oman
At Downe House Muscat, we provide an exceptional education that nurtures intellectual curiosity, creativity, and independent thinking. Our curriculum blends the rigour of the Cambridge Curriculum Programme with the proven excellence of Downe House UK, offering personalised learning pathways tailored to each pupil’s strengths and aspirations.
Recognising the importance of Arabic Language and Islamic Studies, we integrate these subjects into our core curriculum, ensuring a well-rounded and culturally enriching education. With a strong focus on academic achievement, our programme prepares girls for success in IGCSE, A-Level or the Omani GED examinations, equipping them with the skills and confidence to excel in higher education and beyond.
Kindergarten (KG1 and 2)
From September 2025 Downe House will welcome boys and girls for KG1 and KG2. We will nurture curiosity and creativity through play-based learning, developing early literacy, numeracy, and social skills in a warm and supportive environment. Learning spaces have been custom designed for our youngest learners and balances aspiration with warmth, kindness and praise. Small class sizes will enable our talented British trained teachers to get to know their children incredibly well. We know what inspires and ignites interest in each child and, as a result, can tailor each experience to suit their individual style of learning.
Lower and Middle Junior School (Grades 1 to 4)
Our carefully balanced Junior School curriculum is designed to foster a love of learning from the very start. Through a combination of play-based and structured activities, pupils develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and independence. Specialist teaching in Arabic, Islamic Studies, Music, and Physical Education enriches their learning experience, laying the foundation for future academic success.
Upper Junior School (Grades 5 to 6)
As pupils progress to Upper Junior School, they begin to explore subjects in greater depth while continuing to build core skills. Following the Cambridge Primary Programme, enriched by the Downe House UK ethos, our curriculum allows for flexibility to meet individual learning needs. Small class sizes ensure a personalised approach, and from this stage, all lessons are taught by subject specialists, preparing pupils for the transition to Senior School.
Senior School (Grades 7 – 10)
Building on this strong foundation, our Senior School curriculum is designed to promote independent learning, critical thinking, and academic excellence.
In Grades 7 and 8, pupils follow the Cambridge Lower Secondary programme alongside Arabic, Islamic, and Social Studies, encouraging exploration, collaboration, and creativity.
In Grades 9 and 10, pupils enter the principal IGCSE years, where they begin to take ownership of their learning. With guidance from tutors, subject teachers, and the Higher Education support team, they select a balanced range of IGCSE subjects tailored to their strengths and aspirations. This stage prepares them for the academic challenges of Sixth Form while fostering independence and confidence.
Sixth Form (Grades 11 – 12)
In Sixth Form, pupils focus on their chosen A-Level subjects or the Omani GED qualification, gaining in-depth knowledge and preparing for university and beyond.
Both A Levels and the Omani GED are globally recognised qualifications that open doors to the world’s leading universities. In A Level, pupils typically study three or four subjects, allowing them to specialise while developing essential skills for higher education. At GED, there are 5 core subjects and 3 electives. With increased autonomy, Sixth Form pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning while receiving dedicated support from their tutors, subject teachers, and the Careers Guidance team.
At every stage, our tailored curriculum is designed to inspire and challenge, ensuring that every girl leaves Downe House Muscat equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to achieve her ambitions.