Failing private schools in Dubai say they are struggling to turn their fortunes around due to teacher retention problems and low fees.
This week, six schools attended by more than 10, 000 pupils in total were named 'weak' in the education regulator's annual report. About 80, 000 pupils attend schools rated 'acceptable'.
Those six are designated that due to ineffective teaching and weak leadership.
A school's rating is linked to the amount it can raise fees by every year - last year it was 2. 4 per cent for the lowest ranked, which would be below the current inflation level.
The best schools could hike fees by up to 4. 8 per cent last year. Regulator the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) is expected to set out possible fee increases in the coming weeks.
Dr S Reshma, principal of Gulf Model School in Dubai, said attracting the best staff is difficult when fees are as low as Dh6, 350 per year for final year pupils in grade 12.
“The biggest challenge is to get well qualified and experienced staff, " she said.
"Getting well qualified teachers is difficult as staff licensing requires them to have [English language certificate] IELTS and training as per the guidelines. ”
Another challenge for the school is convincing and encouraging the staff, students and parents to change.
The school has been in the weak category for the last six years and that tag sticks, said Dr Reshma.
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