New Ajyal school looks to focus on 21st century skills, inclusion

A new private school in the Ajyal community will offer a unique educational experience for students based on science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM), the English language, and an inclusive education model that will provide opportunities to students with mild developmental disabilities.

The school, scheduled to open in August, will accept Aramco dependents as well as students not affiliated with the company. The school plans to enroll up to 1,260 boys and girls from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade. A comprehensive early education program will be provided for the pre-kindergarten students.

Pricing, admission requirements, and details about how to enroll will be announced in May, when the school will begin accepting enrollment applications.

Cutting-edge instruction

The new school will incorporate STEAM into a comprehensive system of education that includes core academic subjects, physical education, art, and theater, as well as a wide variety of extracurricular activities. The new school campus will include cutting-edge instructional features such as smart classrooms, laboratories, virtual reality and augmented reality tools, athletic facilities, and a modern library with the latest research aids.

Another key component of the new private school’s mission will be its inclusive education model for children with mild developmental disabilities. These students may be recommended by the nearby ACCEL International Center, and the new private school will develop plans and accommodations to ensure their success.

One of 30 Ajyal schools

Aramco’s involvement in the new school is specific to the design and construction of the facility. The administration and day-to-day operation of the school will be independent. The school is one of 30 — three of which are private — being built in the Ajyal community.

The new school will focus on quality. A structured governance model for the school will provide leadership and strategic planning. A rigorous student evaluation system will include summative and formative assessments. This emphasis on quality will ensure that the school ranks among the best private education institutions in the Kingdom, and that students are well-prepared to take advantage of all the opportunities offered by Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a global technological and business leader.