Sixth Form (Years 12 & 13)
Preparing learners for university and beyond
How Sixth Form at Al Diyafah supports academic excellence, leadership and future pathways with a focused British curriculum.
Sixth Form
Sixth Form
At Al Diyafah High School, our Sixth Form provides a dynamic and enriching learning experience that equips students for success in higher education and future careers. Following the British Curriculum, students pursue internationally recognised qualifications within a stimulating academic environment that promotes excellence, independence, and intellectual curiosity.
As students progress through this important stage of their educational journey, they are encouraged to take greater responsibility for their learning while benefiting from expert subject teaching, personalised mentoring, and strong pastoral support. A wide range of academic pathways enables students to tailor their studies to their strengths, interests, and future aspirations.
Beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to develop leadership, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills through student-led initiatives, community outreach programmes, enrichment opportunities, and co-curricular activities. Comprehensive university and careers guidance ensures that students make informed decisions about their future pathways, with access to support for applications both within the UAE and internationally.
Our aim is to nurture confident, compassionate, and globally minded young adults who are well prepared to excel in an ever-evolving world and make a positive impact on their communities and beyond.
Academic programme
The Sixth Form (Key Stage 5) provides students with a challenging and rewarding pathway to higher education and future careers. Students progress from Year 12 (AS Level) to Year 13 (A2 Level), completing internationally recognised A Level qualifications valued by universities worldwide.
At Al Diyafah High School, we offer A Levels through Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) and Pearson Edexcel, ensuring a rigorous and flexible academic experience. Since introducing A Levels in 2006, our Sixth Form has grown to offer 14 A Level subjects across the Science, Commerce, and Humanities streams, alongside two Pearson BTEC International Level 3 qualifications.
Students may choose a traditional pathway of three or four A Levels or a blended pathway combining A Levels and BTECs. This flexibility allows learners to personalise their studies according to their strengths, interests, and future aspirations while developing the knowledge and skills required for success at university and beyond.
Cambridge / Pearson Edexcel Advanced Level Subjects:
| 1. PHYSICS | 2. ECONOMICS | 3. SOCIOLOGY |
| 4. CHEMISTRY | 5. ACCOUNTING | 6. ENGLISH LANGUAGE |
| 7. BIOLOGY | 8. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT* | 9. HISTORY |
| 10. MATHEMATICS | 11. PSYCHOLOGY | 12. ART & DESIGN |
| 13. BUSINESS | 14. MEDIA STUDIES |
(ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT: offered only at AS level by CAIE.)
BTEC International Level 3 Advanced Subsidiary Diploma:
BTEC International Level 3 Advanced Subsidiary Diploma:
- BTEC INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
- BTEC BUSINESS
Mandatory Subjects
- Islamic Studies for Muslim students, Value Education for Non-Muslims
- Arabic A, Islamic A & Moral Education for native Arabic speakers
- Physical Education
Curriculum Enrichment Programmes: Skill 16
At Diyafah, education is driven by purpose. While academic excellence remains a key priority, we are equally committed to developing the personal attributes, life skills, and experiences that prepare students for success in higher education and the world beyond school.
The SKILLS16 Programme is a dedicated post-16 enrichment initiative designed to support the holistic development of our Sixth Form students. As part of the curriculum, students participate in a weekly enrichment lesson that provides opportunities to develop essential skills both inside and outside the classroom.
Personal growth lies at the heart of the Diyafah experience. Through SKILLS16, students are encouraged to explore new challenges, broaden their horizons, and develop the confidence to thrive in an ever-changing world. Leadership, resilience, perseverance, communication, and time management are among the many qualities that our students cultivate as they progress through their Sixth Form journey.
Some of the core skills we focus on are:
1. Student Well Being:
Student wellbeing is central to academic achievement and personal success. This strand focuses on supporting the emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing of students, enabling them to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Key areas include:
- Stress management and coping strategies
- Self-care and personal wellbeing
- Mindfulness and emotional resilience
- Building a positive mindset
- Maintaining a healthy work-life balance
- Workshops, group discussions, and mentoring opportunities with counsellors and staff
2. Essential Life Skills
This strand equips students with the practical skills and knowledge required for everyday life, fostering independence and preparing them for adulthood.
Key areas include:
- Time management and organisation
- Financial literacy and budgeting
- Goal setting and personal planning
- Effective communication and conflict resolution
- Developing independence and responsibility
Practical activities may include:
- Basic sewing and garment care
- Tyre changing and basic vehicle maintenance
- Preparing quick and nutritious meals
- Professional dress and personal presentation
- Interactive workshops and real-world problem-solving activities
3. Community Outreach
Community Outreach encourages students to engage positively with society, develop a sense of social responsibility, and make meaningful contributions to the wider community.
Key areas include:
- Volunteering and community service
- Leadership and teamwork development
- Social responsibility and civic engagement
- Building positive relationships and networks
- Understanding local and global community needs
Learning opportunities may include:
- Community service projects
- Volunteer programmes
- Charity initiatives and fundraising activities
- Student-led leadership projects
- Partnerships with local organisations and community groups
The Impact of SKILLS16
The SKILLS16 Programme ensures that our students leave Diyafah not only with outstanding academic qualifications but also with the confidence, character, and transferable skills required to succeed at university, in the workplace, and as responsible global citizens. Through this comprehensive enrichment programme, students are empowered to become adaptable, compassionate, and future-ready individuals
Comprehensive Career Counselling Programme at Our School
Our school is committed to empowering students with the guidance, skills, and opportunities necessary to excel in their future careers. Our holistic programme includes a wide range of activities and resources designed to support students at every stage of their career development:
- UCAS,OUAC,UC and Common App Guidance: Assistance to streamline university application processes and enhance admission success.
- Career Fairs: Interactive events featuring industry professionals, offering students the chance to explore diverse career paths and network with experts.
- Mock Interviews: Practice sessions to build confidence, sharpen interview skills, and prepare students for real-world opportunities.
- Internships: Facilitated placements to provide practical industry experience and deepen industry understanding.
- Career Workshops: Engaging sessions on resume writing, career planning, skill enhancement, and other essential topics.
- Insight into Industry: Expert talks, industry visits, and seminars to give students current insights into various sectors and trends.
- Alumni Mentorship Program: Connecting students with alumni working across industries for mentorship, guidance, and networking.
- Soft Skills Development: Workshops focused on communication, teamwork, leadership, emotional intelligence, and other vital workplace skills.
- Global Exposure Opportunities: Virtual exchange programs, international internships, and webinars with global industry leaders to broaden horizons.
- Entrepreneurship Workshops: Resources and support for students interested in startups, innovation, and entrepreneurial ventures.
- Parent Orientation Sessions: Informative events to involve parents in their children's career planning process.
- Follow-up & Feedback Mechanisms: Regular progress reviews and personalized feedback to ensure ongoing support and guidance.
This comprehensive programme aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed career decisions and succeed in an ever-changing global landscape.
For questions about careers, qualifications, or higher education, please contact our Career Counsellor, at careercounsellor@diyafahschool.com.
Model United Nations (ADMUN)
Model United Nations (MUN) is an educational simulation that replicates the proceedings of the United Nations. In Diyafah International School, MUN provides students with a platform to research global issues, develop diplomatic skills, & engage in debates, fostering a deeper understanding of international relations and diplomacy. Participants assume the roles of UN delegates representing different countries and work collaboratively to draft resolutions, negotiate, & address pressing global challenges, such as climate change, human rights, & peacekeeping.
The very first DISMUN was organized solely for the students of Diyafah in 2022 and some. With great efforts and time, in the following year, 2023, its doors were thrown open to other schools in the UAE.
The benefits of participating in ADMUN are multifaceted. It enhances critical thinking and public speaking skills as students articulate their viewpoints and defend their country's position. It also cultivates research abilities, negotiation skills, and teamwork, as students must collaborate with peers to reach a consensus. Additionally, MUN promotes cultural awareness and empathy, as participants learn about diverse perspectives and international issues. It encourages confidence and leadership, helping students become proactive and responsible global citizens.
The theme for this year's ADMUN is "Securing Tomorrow: Redefining Peace in an Uncertain World", it emphasizes the need to adapt our understanding of peace in the face of evolving global challenges. It calls for innovative approaches to conflict resolution, emphasizing diplomacy, mutual understanding, and cooperation. In an era marked by rapid technological advances and unpredictable geopolitical shifts, redefining peace means fostering resilience, inclusivity, and sustainable solutions to ensure a peaceful and secure future for all.
We are excited to announce that this year we are reaching out to a greater number of schools in the UAE while reaffirming our commitment to provide an intellectually and creatively challenging platform for our delegates.
DISMUN is a non-profit MUN conference, organized on the UNA-USA model of MUN. As it grows, it will become creative by the year, and continue to create global-minded, forward-thinking citizens.
Duke of Edinburgh's International Award (DofE)
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) is a youth awards program that encourages personal development and community involvement for young people from the ages of 14.
Overview
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award was established in 1956 by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and has since expanded to 144 countries. The programme aims to recognise adolescents and young adults for completing a series of self-improvement activities that help them develop essential life skills and confidence.
Structure of the Award
The DofE program consists of three progressive levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Each level has specific requirements that participants must complete, which include:
- Volunteering: Contributing to the community or environment.
- Physical: Engaging in physical activities to improve fitness.
- Skills: Developing new skills or hobbies.
- Expedition: Planning, training for, and completing an expedition (required for all levels).
- Residential (Gold only): Participating in a shared activity with others in a residential setting.
Benefits of Participation
Participating in the DofE program offers numerous benefits, including:
- Personal Development: Participants gain confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills.
- Social Skills: The program encourages teamwork and communication, helping young people make friends and build networks.
- Career Readiness: The skills developed through the DofE are recognized by employers and can enhance CVs and university applications.
Eligibility
The DofE is open to all young people aged 14 to 24 years, regardless of their background or abilities. It is designed to be inclusive and adaptable, allowing participants to choose activities that align with their interests.
Conclusion
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a valuable program that empowers young people to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and make a positive contribution to their communities. It provides a structured framework for personal growth and is widely recognized for its impact on youth development.
Book a School Tour
You can call our admissions team from
7:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday
- Email id: registrar@diyafahschool.com
- +971 4 2671115 Ext. No - 223 / 214
