Wednesday 24 / April / 2024
Muscat: Which is the best school for my child? All parents of young children find themselves losing sleep over this question. School has a defining influence on a child’s life. Choosing the right school is quite an easy task if you can choose the right curriculum.
Prior to 1970, there were only 3 schools in the Sultanate of Oman. But now, we are spoilt for options to choose from, thanks to the massive revolution that happened in the field of education during the 1970s!
How to choose the right curriculum?
Each child is different and hence are their requirements. Not all kids learn at the same pace. It is crucial to recognise the requirements of your child before choosing the curriculum. So, it is safe to say that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to choosing education.
The most popular curricula in Oman
1. British Curriculum
There are around 16 schools following the British curriculum in Muscat Governorate alone. This is a curriculum that has gained popularity in the country over the years. Being the national curriculum of England, the British curriculum follows a flexible approach and enhances creativity and critical thinking. However, this system is rigorous in its own terms and sets milestones to achieve at each stage. It is also important to note that the British curriculum gives due importance to art and craft as well.
Points to ponder:
2. American Curriculum
Though there are only 2 schools in Oman providing purely American curriculum, there are few other schools that amalgamate American with Omani and Arabic curricula. American curriculum is popular for providing the students with ample options to choose from when it comes to subjects they wish to learn. An array of co-curricular activities and skill-development lessons are an add-on.
Points to Ponder:
3. International Baccalaureate
Popularly known as the IB, this is hands down one of the most popular curricula of recent times. Being a student-centred curriculum where the children are given a sense of independence and freedom when it comes to learning, IB is considered to be a stress-free mode of education. Critical thinking and creativity is stressed upon more than grades and exams. Co-curricular activities are also encouraged and hence IB is not just a parents’ favourite but also students’. Oman has a total of 7 IB schools, out of which 3 teach in Arabic and 4 in English.
Points to Ponder:
4. Cambridge IGCSE
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education, developed by the University of Cambridge is an extended version of the British curriculum designed majorly for international students. This curriculum is designed in a way so as to accommodate mother tongue along with English. As for students who plan to pursue their education in the UK post schooling, an IGCSE certificate might help better. This curriculum is better for kids who can assimilate knowledge and produce it during a written exam which is also why it is not for all students. The downside for this system of education is that it is too much dependant on written exams in determining a child’s capabilities. IGCSE is one of the most popular curricula in the Sultanate.
Most of the Pakistani and Sri Lankan schools in Oman also follows the IGCSE curriculum
Points to ponder:
5. Indian Curriculum/ CBSE
The Indian Curriculum is one of the most preferred systems of education among the expatriate Indian community here in Oman. The Central Board of Secondary Education designed system focuses mostly on getting the students ready for the All India CBSE Exams (at 16-19years). The students are assessed solely on written exams. A downside of the CBSE curriculum is that it is largely teacher-centered besides the fact that very little stress is given to extracurricular activities.
Points to ponder:
6. Public Schools in Oman
The Public schools managed by the Ministry of Education in Oman can be attended by expatriates as well and is free of cost. However, except for English, all other subjects are taught in Arabic. The primary education has an integrated system of education where the boys and girls attend the same class whereas the middle and high school has separate classes/schools for girls and boys. The curriculum is a hybrid of different curriculum like American, British or IB but accommodates Islamic Studies as well. The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Architecture, Mathematics) education system is quite prominent in most of the public schools.
Points to ponder:
As for a parent, there is no bigger dream than providing their children with the best quality education. Most of the time, it is the most difficult task as well. The bottom-line is understanding your child and their needs. Not all kids are meant to excel in Mathematics and not all kids can score an ‘A’. But that shouldn’t be the sole determiner of their calibre. No matter what school you choose, believe in them and they will fly high!
*Fees mentioned in the article has been sourced from school websites, which may be subject to changes.*
