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Licensing a Private Schoolin the State of Qatar

Handbook for ApplicantsFor the Academic Year

2015 - 2016

2

Licensing a Private School in the State of Qatar – Handbook for Applicants 1

Contents

1. Introduction

2. The application process

3. General conditions and requirements to be met by applicants

4. Guidance on completing the application form

5. The evaluation of private school effectiveness and legal compliance

Appendices

1. A summary of the stages of the licensing process (process map)

2. The application form (including templates for the Organizational Plan, the

Education Plan, the Business Plan and the Premises Plan).

3. An exemplar of a completed school organization plan and Education plan.

4. The Site Inspection Process.

5. Documents to be acquired and submitted by the applicant once the site

inspection has resulted in the approval of the SEC.

6. Frequently asked questions and answers.

7. Contact information for applicants

8. Links to important SEC policies

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1. Introduction

The Supreme Education Council (SEC) is committed to ensuring that the educational

needs of all children of school age in the State of Qatar are fully met, either by attending

an independent school or a private school.

In both the independent school sector and the private school sector the focus is on the

provision of outstanding educational experiences for students of all ages.

The SEC believes that students, parents, the business sector and the local community

should have confidence in the quality of education services provided by individual

schools. Consequently, all schools are held to account by the SEC through an integrated

process of licensing, monitoring and evaluation. All schools are required to publish data

about the services they provide, and the SEC publishes data about school effectiveness.

Such a process ensures that parents have sufficient information to allow them to make

informed choices about the education of their children.

The SEC seeks to respond to the requirements of parents in terms of school location, the

curriculum, the language of instruction and graduation certificates. The SEC also seeks

to safeguard the interests of parents and students and ensure that all schools comply

with agreed policies and practices.

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2. The application process

Applications to open a private school can be submitted on two occasions during the

year. The “application windows” are for one month from either March 1st or November

1st. Applications received at other times will not be considered.

Each application will be allocated a licensing case manager, who will be responsible for

managing a portfolio of applications and ensuring that the review process timetable is

adhered to. The licensing case manager will also be there to provide support and advice

to applicants, as required.

It is anticipated that the licensing process will take approximately three months once the

initial application has been submitted. The SEC will ensure that the process is as speedy

as possible but it should be noted that the outcome is also dependent on the actions of

other ministries and on those of the applicant.

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Action Responsible

persons / Office

Process Completion period

(working days) 1. Initial applications should be submitted

electronically on the standard application form

(see appendix one).

Applications will be logged and the applicant

will receive notification of the name of member

of the Private Schools Office (PSO) who will be

act as licensing case manager (point of contact).

The applicant.

Private School Office

(PSO).

Three days

2. Initial screening of the application will take

place to ensure that all compulsory elements

have been included. Reference will be made to

the Essential Information Checklist, a part of

the application form.

If the application is not complete in any way, it

will be returned to the applicant with an

explanation of the problem. The applicant will

have the opportunity to re-submit within three

days.

If the application meets initial screening

requirements, sections will be sent to relevant

departments for review and the applicant will

be provided with an official letter from the

PSO, allowing them to acquire a letter of

clearance from the Ministry of the Interior.

As soon as the applicant has acquired the letter

of clearance, they should present the original to

the case manager.

PSO case manager Three days

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Action Responsible

persons / Office


(working days) 3. The application will be reviewed as follows:

- Section Two: Applicant Information

- Section three: School Information

- Section Four: The School Organization Plan

- Section Five: The Education Plan

- Section Six: The Business Plan

- Section Seven: The Premises Plan

- Section Eight: Proposed Timetable for

Opening

The PSO, CSO and FO will provide a written

and signed report (fully meets criteria / meets

most criteria / fails to meet criteria). In cases

where a section does not fully meet criteria, the

report should indicate the reasons, which will

be relayed to the case manager, who will then

convey this information to the applicant.

The GSD will conduct an inspection of the

proposed site and building(s) and advise both

the applicant and the case officer as to whether

the specific and general criteria are met. Where

the criteria are not fully met, the GSD will

inform the applicant in writing and request

PSO

PSO

PSO

Curriculum

Standards Office

(CSO)

Finance Office (FO)

General Services

Department (GSD)

PSO

Offices as above

Five Days

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Action Responsible

persons / Office


(working days) necessary modifications. Once all requirements

have been met, the GSD will inform the case

manager. Reference should be made to the

inspection process identified in appendix three.

4.

The PSO case manager will review the feedback

and contact applicants, as appropriate:

Applicants whose application fails to meet

criteria will be informed that their application

has been rejected and that they will not be

allowed to resubmit until the next scheduled

submission date.

Applicants whose application meets most

criteria will be informed of any weaknesses

and invited to attend a meeting to discuss the

application. The PSO case manager will

arrange the meeting. Relevant Offices will be

invited to attend the meeting and provide

verbal feedback to the applicant.

The applicant will be asked to resubmit the

amended application to the PSO case manager.

The PSO case manager will forward sections of

the revised application to responsible Offices

for final review.

Responsible offices will provide the case

manager with their final verdict.

PSO case manager

Five Days

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Action Responsible

persons / Office


(working days) 5. Applicants whose applications fully meet

criteria (either initially or after revision) will be

informed that their application meets

requirements. The PSO will provide formal

letters of introduction from the PSO, which

allow applicants to visit other Ministries in

order to acquire the following items:

- Civil Defense Clearance

- Traffic Office Clearance

- Municipality license

- Commercial license

It is incumbent on the applicant to acquire

these documents as quickly as possible.

PSO case manager

Ministry of interior

(MOI)

MOI

Ministry of

Economy and

Commerce (MEC)

MEC

Three days

6. Once the applicant has acquired all four

documents, they will present these to the PSO

case manager. The case manager will then

approve the application and forward it to the

Private Schools Committee (PSC) for

ratification.

The applicant will be required at this point to

provide a Bank Bond.

PSO case manager

PSC

Applicant

Three days

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Action Responsible

persons / Office


(working days) 7. The PSC will review the application and the

recommendations of the case manager and

either ratify the approval or call for additional

information.

PSC

Within ten days

8. The PSC will officially inform successful

applicants that their license has been awarded.

PSC Three days

9. The case manager will set up a meeting with

the applicant to agree the schedule for opening.

PSO case manager Five days

10. The applicant will submit a full CV and

clearance note for the proposed principal and

the case manager will set up an interview with

the owner and proposed principal to ensure

suitability for the post.

Applicant and PSO

case manager

Two months before

opening the school

11. The case manager will arrange for the school to

be visited by appropriate SEC staff, as

appropriate, prior to opening.

PSO case manager One month prior to

opening

12. PSO staff will monitor the school during the

first year of operation.

PSO During the first year

of operation

13. Arrangements will be made to inspect the

school at the end of the first year of operation.

Evaluation Institute

(EVI)

During 18 months

from opening.

Please refer to the process map in appendix one.

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1. General conditions and requirements to be met by applicants

1.1. Introduction and general remarks:

The accuracy of information, data and documents provided in the application and in

support of the application is the responsibility of the applicant. In situations where

errors occur, the applicant will be held accountable and this may lead to the subsequent

cancellation of the license.

1.2. Conditions and requirements

1.2.1 The SEC has the right to access all records and documents relating to the

school and its employees or students, as well as the right to use all of the

above when issuing various public reports;

1.2.2 The SEC retains the right to undertake exploratory, inspection and

evaluation visits in order to determine the extent to which the school is

compliant with legal requirements as defined in the license and national

regulations and laws;

1.2.3 The license that is issued to the proprietor / partners cannot be sold to a

third party. Nor can it be transferred or replaced without the approval of

the Supreme Education Council;

1.2.4 The school will provide the SEC with all required data and information,

as requested;

1.2.5 Required data and information should be maintained in a central file and

continually updated;

1.2.6 The school should be a legal entity. This entity and the individual

responsible for it are responsible before the law and the concerned

authorities;

1.2.7 With reference to the Law Number (7) of 1980, Article Number (8), the

applicant or any of their partners or shareholders should not be a

government sector employee or be included in the Central Register.

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2.Guidance on completing the application form

When completing the on-line application form, the applicant should refer to this set of

guidelines and, where appropriate, the information contained in the appendices. The

applicant should ensure that all information is correct and in sufficient detail. In cases

where the application is incomplete, it will be returned to applicant, who will be

required to make a new submission.

SEC staff members are available to advise the applicant, as required. Applicants are able

to access the on-line application form as follows:

https://elr.sec.gov.qa/apps/ELR/Arabic/pages/contact-us.aspx

Section One: Essential Information Check List

a) The Essential Information Check List is provided so that the applicant can check

that all initial application requirements have been fully met. The list will be

reviewed as part of the initial screening process.

b) Items in blue must be submitted as part of the initial application.

c) Items in yellow should be submitted as part of the initial application if they are

available. Where they are not currently available, they will need to be supplied

at a later point, prior to the awarding of a license. An explanation regarding the

non-availability of items should be provided in the appropriate column.

d) Items in brown should be submitted at a later date, as described in the

application process (step 5).

e) Please note that it may be necessary to submit some items in hard copy format

only e.g. the site-plan.

Section Two: Applicant information

a) It is recognized that the “applicant” might be:

- A company that is already registered in Qatar;

- An international company that is currently not registered in Qatar;

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- An individual or a consortium, who would seek to establish a company in

Qatar once the initial application has been approved.

b) When completing the application form, the applicant should complete the

appropriate section (company or individual).

Section Three: School information

a) The applicant should provide information about the proposed name of the

school, the phases to be covered (kindergarten, primary, secondary); the gender

of students; the projected maximum student numbers; and the proposed

structure of the school year and calendar.

b) The proposed structure of the school year should indicate the number of terms /

semesters, the number of proposed student contact days, the number of

additional days set aside for staff development, and the proposed dates of school

holidays.

c) The school calendar should be consistent with the following requirements of the

SEC:

- The school year should begin in September on the date announced by the

SEC

- Qatar National Day (December 18th)

- Qatar Sports Day (the Tuesday of the second week in February)

- Eid Al-Adha (dates to be announced annually)

- Eid Al-Fitr (dates to be announced annually)

- The dates of all other holidays are at the discretion of the school

d) All schools will be provided with information about national holidays in January

each year

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Section Four: The School Organizational Plan

a) The School Organizational Plan should provide information about the following

aspects: the governance structure; the management structure; the staffing

structure; the administration structure; role definitions and qualifications

requirements; the proposed number of staff; the proposed ratio of teachers to

students; the proposed average class size; the proposed international

accreditation status; arrangements for staff appraisal; arrangements for school

self- review, the evaluation of school effectiveness and quality assurance; student

transport arrangements.

b) The school should aim, over time, to attract a minimum of 25% Qatari students

(this requirement does not apply to community schools);

c) Points 4.1., 4.2., 4.3. and 4.4. can be illustrated by means of a single organizational

chart;

d) The SEC encourages the school to appoint suitably qualified and experienced

Qatari staff where possible, as long as they meet standard requirements. A

professional development support plan for Qatari staff would be welcomed;

e) Qualifications requirements for school staff should meet SEC regulations:

- Teachers should hold a recognized teaching qualification from their country

of origin;

- Teachers should be experienced in the curriculum they will be required to

teach;

- Teachers will be qualified to teach in the phase of education in which they are

employed;

- Teachers will be qualified to teach the subjects for which they are expected to

teach.

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Section Five: The Education Plan

a) The Education Plan should provide information regarding the student

population, the assessment of student progress, student welfare, the curriculum,

the language of instruction, the pedagogical approach, strategies for engaging

with parents, strategies for enhancing the professional capacity of staff.

b) The school‟s vision, mission, ethos and values should be consistent with national

requirements. Please refer to Qatar Vision 2030, the National Development Plan

and the Vision and Mission Statements of the SEC;

c) There should be a particular focus on promoting and supporting the national

identity of Qatari students;

d) The school must provide a curriculum which follows either the Qatari National

Curriculum Framework and Standards or an approved national / international

curriculum;

e) All private schools are required to take part in international student assessments,

where appropriate, as requested by the SEC (e.g. PISA, PIRLS, TIMSS).

f) All schools are required to teach the following three compulsory subjects, either

in discrete lessons or as part of an integrated programme:

Islamic Studies 1). Private schools which follow the Qatari “National Curriculum” (e.g. most Private

Arabic Schools).

Schools must teach Islamic Studies in accordance with the requirements of the

SEC‟s curriculum standards for Islamic Studies;

The lessons are to be delivered in Arabic;

Teachers of IS in primary schools are not required to have a specialized

qualification in Islamic Studies but must be qualified teachers of Arabic

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(minimum requirement). Teachers of IS working with post-primary students

must be qualified teachers of Islamic Studies;

The SEC provides resources to support the delivery of the IS curriculum;

Students should be provided with 4 x 45 minutes of lessons per week;

Students should participate in the SEC‟s annual QCEA examinations.

2). Community and International Schools

All Community and International schools must provide lessons in Islamic

Studies for all Muslim students as part of the mainstream curriculum;

They should follow the SEC‟s curriculum standards for IS but Community

Schools may seek the approval from the SEC (CSO) for a modified version;

Teachers of IS in primary schools are not required to have a specialized

qualification in Islamic Studies but must be qualified teachers of Arabic

(minimum requirement). Teachers of IS working with post-primary students

must be qualified teachers of Islamic Studies;

Lessons are to be taught in Arabic. However, Community Schools wishing to

offer the subject in a language other than Arabic may seek prior approval from

the SEC (CSO)


Students should be provided with a minimum of 2 x 45 minutes of lessons per

week

Students are not required to participate in the SEC‟s annual QCEA examinations.

Arabic 1). Private schools which follow the Qatari “National Curriculum” (e.g. most Private

Arabic Schools).

Schools must teach Arabic to all students in accordance with the requirements of

the SEC‟s curriculum standards for Arabic;

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Teachers must be qualified teachers of Arabic;


Students should be provided with not less than 4 hours of study per week.

Students should participate in the SEC‟s annual QCEA examinations.

2). Community and International schools.

Schools must provide lessons in Arabic for all Qatari and Arab students as part

of the mainstream curriculum;

It is recommended that lessons in Arabic are offered for all other students

(optional);

Schools should follow the SEC‟s curriculum standards for Arabic or seek the

approval from the SEC (CSO) for a modified version;

Students can be taught and assessed in accordance with either age or language

competence, whichever is the most appropriate option;

Teachers must be qualified teachers of Arabic;

The SEC provides resources to support the delivery of the Arabic curriculum;

Students should be provided with a minimum of 4 x 45 minutes of lessons per

week;


Qatari History All private schools must provide lessons in Qatari History for all students;

Schools should follow the SEC‟s curriculum standards for Qatari History;

Schools may teach the subject either in discrete lessons or as part of an integrated

social studies programme;

Lessons can be taught in the language of instruction adopted by the school;

Teachers must be appropriately qualified;

The SEC provides resources to support the delivery of the Qatari History

curriculum;

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There is no statutory requirement in relation to the number of hours of study per

week. However, the applicant must demonstrate that sufficient time will be

allocated.


Sector Six: The Business Plan

a) The Business Plan should cover a period of three years. Year one should be

prepared in full detail, with an outline projection for years two and three. The

plan should provide information about the following aspects: the projected

growth of student numbers in the school; projected operational costs; projected

income; and the proposed level of student tuition fees.

b) The applicant must be able to demonstrate that they have the financial capacity

to manage and operate the school;

c) When calculating a proposed student fees structure, the applicant should

demonstrate that they have conducted a thorough review of the market and that

the quality of provision justifies the proposal.

Section Seven: The Premises Plan

The applicant will be expected to employ the services of a private consultant to complete

this section of the application form and ensure that all information is accurate and

complete.

The applicant will be required to provide information about the proposed site and

building. In addition, the applicant will be required to provide a number of essential

documents when submitting the initial application (see appendix 3).

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Staff from the Architect‟s Office will only undertake an inspection of the proposed

building and site once all required documents have been received and the information

sheet has been completed.

Additional documents will be required at a later stage, once the Architect‟s Office has

inspected the proposed building and approved it as fit for purpose (see appendix 3).

When completing the initial application form and when preparing for the site

inspection, the applicant should consider the following requirements;

a). General requirements The school building must only be used for education purposes;

The school building must not be used for residential purposes e.g. for school

employee accommodation;

All rooms must be appropriately lit, well ventilated and air-conditioned;

The school building must only be used for the specific age range of students

identified in the application;

Buildings should have activity rooms and halls that are appropriate to the

educational phase they serve;

The school building must be appropriately equipped with furniture and

equipment;

A maximum of two security-guards may remain on the premises overnight;

Schools and kindergartens should provide comfortable air-conditioned buses.

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b). The size and capacity of the premises and building.

The SEC requires that the school premises should meet the following minimum

standards in terms of area and capacity:

Size Requirements

Education Phase

Kindergarten (KG)

Primary (P) Preparatory (Prep)

Secondary (S)

Two Phases

Three Phases

(P, Prep., S)

Four Phases (KG, P,

Prep., S)

Minimum land area

1,250 m2 2,750 m2 3,500 m2 3,500

m2

Add the minimu

m for two

areas

8,500 m2 9,750 m2

Minimum classroom space per student

2 m2 2 m2 2 m2 2 m2 2 m2 2 m2 2 m2

Minimum outdoor space per student

5 m2 7 m2 10 m2 10 m2

Average of the

minimum size

for both phases

9 m2 8 m2

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c). General requirements which will be checked as part of the inspection of the

proposed building

The Plot and the School Building

Aspect Requirement

Location

The location of the school must not be adjacent to or close to

sources of noise, commercial or industrial sites, or hazardous

locations such as petrol stations.

The site should be in an appropriate, easily accessible

location, with entrances not close to highways and main

roads.

Construction

The use of wooden structures is prohibited, except in cases

where special permission from the General Directorate of the

Civil Defense has been secured. Buildings must be

constructed of concrete.

Number and type of

buildings

There should be a maximum of three buildings on the site.

Buildings intended for residential use, such as flats and

villas, cannot be used for educational purposes.

Entrances and exits Entrances and exits should be in positions where access can

be observed.

Hallways

The width of internal hallways should not be less than 2.5

metres if classrooms are located only on one side, and 3.5.

metres if classrooms are located on both sides.

Classroom shape All classrooms should be quadrilateral in shape with four

parallel sides.

Classroom size Classrooms should have a minimum size of 2 square meters

per student.

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Aspect Requirement

Number of rooms

All schools should have:

A minimum of six classrooms, a fully equipped learning

resource centre (library), a science laboratory, an art room, an

ICT laboratory, a gymnasium, a prayer room, a fully

equipped nurse‟s or first aid station, a principal‟s office, a

vice principal‟s room, a secretary‟s room, a store-keeper‟s

room, a social worker‟s room, a staff room, a storage room, a

reception area, a guard room and toilets.

Preparatory and secondary schools should have laboratories .

Access to drinking

water

One drinking water cooler must be provided for every 50

students and they should be located away from toilet areas.

Each water cooler should be placed on a metal base and

provided with a container to collect dripping water. They

should be linked to the drainage system.

Toilets

The building should have adequate, well-ventilated toilets

that are built in accordance with health regulations. These

should be distant from classrooms.

Cafeteria There should be a fully equipped cafeteria

Play area allocation

A minimum of 5 square meters per child (kindergarten)

A minimum of 7 square meters per child (primary)

A minimum of 10 square meters per child (preparatory and

secondary)

Outside sports area

There should be a minimum of one outdoors sports court

that meets legal dimensions (e.g. for volleyball, basketball or

handball)

Sunshades There should be at least one 15 x 15m sunshade made of

appropriate material.

Outside waiting area There should be a suitable outside waiting area for students

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Aspect Requirement

Fire- fighting

equipment

The building should be fully equipped with fire-fighting

equipment (e.g. fire-extinguishers)

Emergency exits There should be more than one emergency exit.

Communications

equipment

Schools should be equipped with at least one telephone

system and have access to fax and email services.

Access for disabled

persons

The building and classrooms should enable access for

students with disabilities (e.g. special toilets, ramps, lifts,

emergency exits, low level drinking fountains)

Parking space

The site should provide adequate parking spaces and access

points for school buses. Their location needs to take into

account the safety of students.

d). Special requirements (kindergarten buildings)

Students should have access to a garden, with a minimum size of 20.2 square

metres.

The playground area should have a soft tartan surface.

Toys should be made of non-metal materials and comply with safety

requirements.

e). Requirements (Electrical system)

Power supply should be provided from a main government source, not a

generator;

If a school provides a back-up generator in addition to the main source of

supply, it should be a muffler type and should be placed in a closed and safe

room, away from students;

All electrical panels should be placed inside ventilated and closed rooms or

inside key-locked cupboards, away from students;

23


All electrical supply panels should be labeled for easy maintenance and repair

and for easy access in emergency situations or when the power supply is

disconnected;

All lighting units used in bathrooms and kitchens and outside the building,

which might be exposed to wet conditions or the weather, should be encased in

waterproof material;

All electrical wires outside the building that are exposed to weather conditions

should be placed into GL PIPE;

The electricity room should not be used as a storage area;

Schools are required to follow Kahramaa instructions regarding the location of

the electricity room and the wiring or installation works in the school building.

f). Requirements: (the air-conditioning system)

Schools should use split units or central air-conditioning systems in classrooms

and other activity areas;

Where split units are installed, the external unit should be placed on a concrete

or metal base, with a circuit breaker placed near each unit;

Water pumps should be on a concrete base with a metal cover;

Air conditioning pipes should be combined together and be linked to the nearest

drainage point.

Section Eight: Proposed Timetable for Opening

The applicant should identify key milestones and associated dates leading up to the

opening of the school. Once the application has been approved and the license has been

awarded, the details of the timetable for opening the school will be discussed again with

the case manager and adjustments may be made.

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3. The evaluation of private school effectiveness and legal compliance

Once the school is operational, regular monitoring and compliance visits will be made

by representatives of the SEC. The school will be required to demonstrate that it is

adhering to the requirements of the licensing agreement.

In addition, the effectiveness of the school will be evaluated periodically through a

process of external inspection. Evaluation criteria will be published and the school is

expected to refer to these when engaging in its own school self-review and quality

assurance activities. The outcomes of the external evaluation process will be published

and will impact on decisions regarding requests for increases in student fees.

Appendices:

Appendix 1. A summary of the licensing process (process chart

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Appendix 1. A summary of the licensing process (process chart)

During first year of operation

Licensing case manage to have received

feedback from SEC departments

6) reevaluation against set criteria by relevant departments.

5) Submission of final application by client to licensing case manager.

4 b) if partially compliant, licensing case manager to arrange a meeting with applicant and provide feedback on required adjustments for resubmission of application

Partially or fully meets set certificates.

Recommendations from licensing case manager as

whether partially compliant or fully compliant.

Does not meet set certificates as required. Applicant

informed by Licensing case manager and no reapplication

allowed until next window.

Each department to send feedback and decision to PSO and feedback given to candidates

2)Each applicant to be given a licensing case manager as a single point of contact from Private School Office

3) Application sections to be sent to the relevant SEC departments for evaluation against set criteria

1) Applicant to submit application online.

SEC to release statement on projected need for the education sector annually in January Not all required

documents received

Licensing case manager to request missing documents

4 a) if fully compliant, applicant sent to private schools committee for review and approval.

Fully meets set criteria. Recommendation from

licensing case manager as fully complied.

Does not fully comply or rejected. Applicant to be informed by

licensing case manager. Reapplication required at set

windows.

Client to clarify and adjust plan according to SEC feedback from

SEC meeting

All required documents

received

Official SEC letters to be issued to applicants for Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Economy and Trade in order to secure official licenses.

The timeframe for obtaining the required external ministries certificates is not within SEC’s control and will be in addition to the stipulated days. Applicants are requested to swiftly expedite the process of obtaining the set certification as the final decision on licensing the school cannot be made until the four required external ministry certificates are received.

Bank bond will need to be submitted at this point from applicant

13) school evaluation completed annually against set criteria to ensure compliance and quality of provision

Finish

7) Private Schools Committee meet as per published timetable to give final recommendation

SEC to monitor

Case manager will arrange school visit

prior to opening.

Principal details to be sent to SEC as soon as Principal employed. Meeting undertaken with SEC, principal and owner.

Ongoing

One month prior to opening

Applications can be submitted by the first of Nov and March

Start

12) school will be monitored during fist year

11) school opens

10) monitoring and evaluation of applicant process against agreed opening plan

9) implementation plan for school opening agreed by PSO and Applicant

8) Feedback officially given to applicant from licensing case manager

Legend: Stage Process Timeframe Decision Non SEC requirements for applicant

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Appendix 2. The application form

Application to Open a Private School in the State of Qatar

Section One: Essential Information Check List

Refer to the relevant notes in part four of this document, “Guidance on Completing the Application Form”, when completing this section.

By completing this checklist, the applicant acknowledges that all sections have been completed and that all required attachments have been included. The applicant also guarantees that all information is accurate.

ITEM Check if included

(applicant)

Reason for non- inclusion of items

(applicant)

Comment by SEC

Check if approved (SEC)

1.1. A completed application form, including an Organizational Plan, an Education Plan, a Business Plan and a Premises Plan.

1.2. A certificate of good conduct from the concerned authorities in the country of origin of the proposed proprietor of the school.

1.3. The CVs of the proposed proprietor and the shareholders.

1.4. Copies of the passports or identity cards of the proposed proprietor of the school and individual shareholders.

1.5. If the proprietor is more than one person, a copy of the company’s contract must be provided, in addition to a certificate of good conduct from the

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ITEM Check if included

(applicant)

Reason for non- inclusion of items

(applicant)

Comment by SEC

Check if approved (SEC)

concerned authorities of the country of origin of each partner;

1.6. A copy of the proprietor’s and individual shareholders’ signatures.

1.7. If the proposed school is a community school, a letter from the embassy of the country should be provided.

1.8. Documents indicating the financial capacity of the applicant (a bank Guarantee).

1.9. Evidence of the Commercial Registration of the company, indicating the company’s name, address, type, date of incorporation, the names of partners and the amount of its capital.

1.10. A copy of the property ownership document in cases where the property is owned by the proprietor of the school, or a copy of the lease agreement if it is rented;

1.11. The CV of the principal. 1.12. A certificate of good conduct for the principal. 1.13. A copy of the passport or ID card of the principal. 1.17. Civil Defense Clearance. 1.18. Traffic office Clearance. 1.19. Municipality License. 1.20. Commercial License.

28


Section Two: Applicant Information


The following information should be provided (companies)

Required Information Applicant’s Response SEC comment SEC approval 2.1. The name of the company.

2.2. The name of the owner.

2.3. The address of the company.

2.4. Telephone number (landline).

2.5. Mobile telephone number.

2.6. Fax number

2.7. e-mail address

2.8. Does the company currently own a

school?

2.9. If the company currently owns a

school, please provide details of the

name and address.

29


The following information should be completed (individuals)

Required Information Applicant’s Response SEC comment SEC approval 2.10. Full name.

2.11. Address.

2.12. Telephone number (landline).

2.13. Mobile telephone number.

2.14. Fax number

2.15. e-mail address

2.16. Does the individual currently own a

school?

2.17. If the individual currently owns a

school, please provide details of the

name and address.

30


Section Three: School information


Required Information Applicant’s Response SEC comment SEC approval 3.1. The proposed name of the school.

3.2. The phases to be covered

(kindergarten, primary, secondary).

3.3. The gender of students.

3.4. The projected maximum student

number.

3.5. The proposed structure of the school

year and calendar.

31


Section Four: The School Organizational Plan


Required Information Applicant’s Response SEC comment SEC approval 4.1. The governance structure. Please insert an organizational chart here:

4.2. The management structure.

4.3. The staffing structure.

4.4. The administration structure

4.5. Role definitions and qualifications requirements.

4.6. The proposed number of staff.

4.7. The proposed ration of teachers to students.

4.8. The proposed average class size.

4.9. The proposed international accreditation status.

4.10. Arrangements for staff appraisal.

4.11. Arrangements for school self-review, the evaluation of school effectiveness and quality assurance.

4.12. Student transport arrangements.

32


Section Five: The Education Plan


Required Information Applicant’s Response SEC comment SEC approval

5.1. The vision and mission of the school.

5.2. The values and ethos of the school.

5.3. Student gender and age range.

5.4. Entrance requirements.

5.5. The curriculum to be offered.

5.6. Extra-curricular activities to be

offered.

5.7. Strategy for integrating the

compulsory subjects (Arabic, Qatari

history and Islamic Studies).

5.8. Arrangements for assessing student

learning needs, progress and

outcomes.

5.9. Arrangements for meeting the

differentiated learning needs of

33



students (e.g. students with learning

difficulties and students who are

gifted and talented).

5.10. Arrangements for meeting the needs

of students for whom the language of

instruction is a second language.

5.11. Arrangements for ensuring the

health, care and safety of students.

5.12. Arrangements for ensuring

appropriate discipline.

5.13. Arrangements for engaging parents

in the education process.

5.14. Arrangements for the professional

development of staff.

34


Section Six: The Business Plan


Summary of Projected Financial Reports (To be supported by Detailed Business Plan for 5 Years)

1 Proposed Name of the School

2 Location of the School

3 Name & Address of the Company

4 Details of the Sponsor:-

a Name

b Address

c Profession

35


d Contact Numbers

5 Type of Company

6 CR Number

7 Registered Capital

8 Number of Partners (If Any)

9 Working Partners Name, Designation & Address (If Applicable)

Name Designation Address

a

b

c

d

e

10 Budgeted Total Investment Evaluation Points

11 Partners Capital Contributions

36


12 Estimated Borrowed Funds

13 Pre - Operational Expenses (Opex)

14 Period of Amortization of Pre- Op Expenses

15 Yearly Spend on CAPEX :- (First Year) Item Descriptions:- Amount Share to Total

CAPEX % to Revenue Evaluation Points

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Total CAPEX

37


16 Yearly Estimates of OPEX :- (First Year) Annual Amount Share to Total

OPEX % to Revenue Evaluation Points

a Staff Salaries

b Staff Accommodation & Allowances

c Building Rent

d Utilities

e Transportation

f Administration Expenses

g Academic & Curriculum Related

h Franchisee Fees

i Royalty Charges

j Other Expenses

Total OPEX

17 Forecasted Incomes:- (First Year) Annual Amount Share to Total Income Evaluation Points

a Tuition Fees

b Registration / Admission Fees

38


c Special Fees

d Others if any:-

Total Incomes

18 Expected Profit (Loss)

19 Expected rate of Return on Investment

20 Number of Students Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4

a Year

b Year Total Forecasted

21 Number of Teachers Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4

a Year


22 Number of Administration Staff Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4

a Year


23 Classes and Grades

24 Curriculum & Syllabus

39


25 Franchisee Agreement

26 Type of Management

27 Infra-Structure Development

Plans

28 Other Expansion Strategy

29 Additional Capital Investment

40


Section Seven: Premises Plan


7.a. The following table should be completed by the owner of the school:

Required Information Applicant’s

Response (attached / not attached)

SEC comment SEC approval

7.a.1 A copy of the land ownership document. 7.a.2 A copy of the building construction completion certificate.

7.a.3 A copy of the general site plan, highlighting the required information.

7.a.4 A copy of the ground floor plan for each building on the site. 7.a.5 A copy of the first floor plan for each building on the site.

7.a.6 Copies of additional floor plans if the building has more than two levels.

7.a.7 The site information table, completed by an engineering consultant. (hard copy and electronic copy – word file on CD plus an AutoCAD file)

7.a.8 The building / buildings information table, completed by an engineering consultant. (hard copy and electronic copy – word file on CD plus an AutoCAD file)

7.a.9

A copy of a report issued by an engineering consultant, stating that the building has been inspected in terms of its construction and that it technically complies with construction safety standards.

41


7.b. Site information (to be completed by the engineering consultant appointed by the applicant):


7.b.1. The overall size of the plot of land s described in the land ownership document

7.b.2. The education phase / phases that requires licensing

7.b.3. The town

7.b.4. The area

7.b.5. The area number

7.b.6. Land pin-number / s

7.b.7. The year of construction of the building

7.b.8. The street name and number

7.b.9. The number of streets surrounding the site

7.b.10. The number of sections and annexes that constitute the building

7.b.11. The number of gates

42



7.b.12. A description of the playground and areas allocated for sport activities

7.b.13. Are there shaded areas in the outdoor spaces? (provide details)

7.b.14. Is there a security booth?

7.b.15. Are there sufficient car parking and bus parking spaces? (provide details)

7.b.16. Other relevant information

43


7.c. Building information (to be completed by the engineering consultant appointed by the applicant)

A separate table should be completed for each building. Each building should be allocated a number and this should tally with the number recorded on the site plan indicated in 7.a.3., above, and on the floor plans. Each room should be allocated a number and this should tally with the number recorded on the floor plans indicated in 7.a. above. The following table should be used to provide detailed information about the size and proposed use of the room. An electronic copy (CD) of the room information tables should be submitted to the PSO as part of the initial application.

Example :

Proposed usage Size Room Number Floor Building

Room no.1 GF 1

Room no. 2 GF 1

Room no. 3 GF 1

Room no. 4 etc. GF 1

44


Section Eight: Proposed Timetable for opening the school



8.1. Key milestones and dates.

45


Appendix Three : An example of completed school organization plan and Education plan Section 4 : School Organization Plan


4.1. The

governance structure.

Please insert an organizational chart here: Our Board of Directors consists of a twelve member Board, three of whom are

elected by parents and the remaining nine members appointed by the

chairperson. The officers are Chairperson, Vice Chairperson and Treasurer.

The Board maintains school policies and appraises the school‟s performance.

The Board establishes and approves a yearly budget, ensures the school‟s

goals and objectives are met and evaluates the performance of the school

according to the school‟s mission, vision and strategic plan.

The permanent committees are Finance and Personnel. There are also work

groups consisting of Governance, Strategic Development, and other areas that

are formed on “as needed” basis.

The Board meets monthly during the school year, both as a whole board and

in working committees. Dates, times and locations are posted in a school”

every month. Regular meetings consist of Executive Sessions and Public

Sessions.

4.2. The

management structure.

4.3. The staffing structure.

4.4. The

administration structure

46



Director

Principal

Secretary

Vice Principal

Accountant

HR Manager/

Transport Manager

Registrar

Advisory council

Supervisor for seniors

Supervisor for Juniors

Staff secretary

Councilor

Head of the departments

Curriculum developers

Text book advisors

Examination officers

Class teachers

Drivers

Caretakers

Nurse

Nanny

47


Required Information Applicant’s Response SEC

Comment SEC

Approval 4.5. Role

definitions and

qualifications requirement.

Position Qualification Remarks

School Principal

University Degree and

Qualified Teacher Status

Experience of not less than 5 years in school administration + 2 years in teaching

Key Stage Leader



Experience of not less than 5 years in teaching including 2 years of relevant leadership experience

Foundation Teacher

University Degree or Diploma.

Qualified Teacher Status desirable

Not less than 2 years‟ experience teaching KG stage (where possible)

Primary Teacher



Not less than two years of teaching the primary stage (where possible)

Subject Teacher



Not less than two years of teaching the subject at the appropriate Key Stage

48



Comment SEC

Approval Teachers of

Arabic / Islamic

Studies/Qatar History

University Degree and approval to teach the subjects

Not less than three years of relevant teaching experience

Secretary /Receptionist /

Registrar

Diploma

Secondary School certificate

Not less than 2 years‟ experience in secretarial area of work.

Librarian Diploma (2 years after secondary school) or equivalent

Special experience related to this field of work

Teacher Assistant

Secondary School Certificate In Kindergarten and Primary Stage only

Accountant

MBA / a Membership of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India / UK or CIMA or ACCA or any such similar qualifications.

Minimum of 6 to 8 years post qualification experience, 3 years of which, at full responsibility of finance functions, with special emphasis on management accounting, budgetary control

Admin Officer

Appropriate degree or qualification (e.g. B.Com, B.E., Management Dip)

At least three years‟ experience in Staff Management

49



Comment SEC

Approval 4.6. The proposed

number of staff.

Total number of teaching staff as shown in the table below is 217 Total number of administrative staff is 35

4.7. The proposed ratio of

teachers to students.

Description Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5

A Student Teacher Ratio 15 17 17 17 18 B Teaching staff (Total): 25 43 71 101 120 a Coordinators 1 2 4 5 6 b PGT - Point 2 - - 2 2 2 c TGT - Point 2 - - 3 3 3 d PRT - Point 2 23 37 54 80 97 e Arabic Teacher 1 4 8 11 12 f Teaching Assistant * 5 12 20 23 24

g KG Teaching Assistant * 8 12 16 18 18

h (* not part of PTR)

C Admin and support staff (Total): 22 33 43 46 63

a Principal 1 1 1 1 1 b Vice Principal 1 1 1 1 1 c Head of Section 0 1 2 2 3 d Assistant HoS 0 0 0 0 3 e Support staff 20 30 39 42 55

Total 58 97 146 184 217

50



Comment SEC

Approval 4.8. The proposed

average class size.

Grade level Average class size

KG 1 up to grade 3 25

Grade 4 27

Grade 5 up to Grade 12 28

4.9. The proposed international accreditation status.

Qatar National School Accreditation (QNSA)/ Council of International Schools (CIS).

4.10. Arrangements for staff appraisal.

The governing body of our school will appraise the performance of our Principal. In turn, the Principal of the school is responsible for ensuring the review of the performance of every other school leader, teacher and member of support staff employed at our school.

Appraisal meetings will be held during normal working hours and will be scheduled

for at least one hour or longer if necessary. The purpose of the appraisal meeting is to review the employee‟s current job, their

performance and their future plans. More specifically, the meeting will also be an opportunity to discuss how the employee can contribute to the wider work of the school and to agree and set a number (typically three) of objectives (there is no minimum or maximum number of objectives).

51



Comment SEC

Approval 4.11. Arrangements

for school self-review, the evaluation of school effectiveness and quality assurance.

We use a contionous improvement cycle with the following stages that are continous:

1. Assess - Action: Take the self-assessment. 2. Analyze - Action: Review the results from the self-assessment with the leadership team. 3. Prioritize - Action: Choose two to three elements on which to focus school improvement

efforts. Include contextual factors in the process of determining priorities. 4. Plan - Action: Use the school-level benchmarks to formulate plans, keeping in mind that it is

imperative to include "Sustainability" in school improvement plan. 5. Implement - Action: Implement school improvement plan. 6. Monitor - Action: Track school improvement efforts and make adjustments as needed.

This flowchart represents our approach to self-review (whole school review, departmental review, and individual employee review).

4.12. Student transport arrangements.

Arrangements will be made for a transportation company to provide a school shuttle service for students who require this service. It will be provided at a minimal cost.

52


Section Five : The School Education Plan

Required Information Applicant’s Response SEC comment

SEC approval

5.1. The vision and mission of the school.

We will develop compassionate, open minded, confident and brave young people who strive to achieve personal and academic excellence beyond all expectation.

5.2. The values and ethos of the school.

The School will be a pioneer of educational innovation, best practice pedagogy and outstanding learning and teaching. We ensure social and academic excellence, consistently high levels of student engagement and empowerment, which go uniquely beyond the standard subject learning opportunities provided by a more traditional school. Our 3-18 school is inclusive and seamless in operation, providing a highly progressive, leading edge curriculum experience and ensuring the development of the whole child.

5.3. Student gender and age range.

Key Stage Age on entry Year Group

Early Years Foundation Stage 3 years

4 years

Foundation Stage 1 (Nursery)

Foundation Stage 2 (Reception)

Key Stage 1 5 years

6 years

Year 1

Year 2

Key Stage 2

7 years

8 years

9 years

10 years

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Year 6

53



SEC approval

Key Stage 3

11 years

12 years

13 years

Year 7

Year 8

Year 9

Key Stage 4 14 years

15 years

Year 10

Year 11 AS Level Examinations 16 years Year 12

A Level Examinations

17 years

Year 13

5.4. Entrance requirements.

There will be a standard entrance examination for all students. This will be based on age-related level descriptors associated with the English National Curriculum. Students will be given an offer based on the results of the entrance examination and a one on one interview with the principal.

5.5. The curriculum to be offered.

The school curriculum will be based on the English National Curriculum. Our curriculum approach is commonly referred to as „British‟ and is extensively used by international schools around the world. It is a detailed, planned and integrated scheme covering a student's whole school experience, from the age of 3 to the age of 14. It is a skills-based curriculum, served by many excellent textbooks and media resources, with its own integrated assessment arrangements. The intention is that the school will offer iGCSE (post age 14) and Advanced Level (A/AS) courses (post 16) in the secondary, thus school preparing students for entry into universities around the globe.

54



SEC approval

5.6. Extra-curricular activities to be offered.

In order to provide curriculum enrichment, support and challenge there will be a range of extra-curricular activities that enhance the academic curriculum. These may include subject interventions for students in need of learning support or for gifted pupils There will be activities that build on new 21st century skill requirements such as coding through robotics and app design, through enterprise and entrepreneurial enrichment activities. As the school expands, our older students should have opportunities to participate in local debating competitions, TEDx events, World Scholars‟ Cup, Model United Nations and Student Leadership Groups There will also be after school extra curricula activities that are sports-based and that develop children‟s sporting abilities and encourage and healthy and active lifestyles. The sports clubs will change each term and will include football/soccer, cricket, netball and gymnastics.

5.7.

Strategy for integrating the compulsory subjects (Arabic, Qatari history and Islamic Studies).

Subject Course Hours of study

Social Studies 10 -13

As per curriculum Scope and Sequence (provided), with Qatari history integrated

127.5 hours per year

Arabic Language 10 -13

As per curriculum Scope and Sequence (provided) 127.5 hours per year

Islamic Studies Programed in accordance with Ministry guidelines

Hours in accordance with Ministry regulations

55



SEC approval

5.8. Arrangements for assessing student learning needs, progress and outcomes.

On entry to school we conduct a standardized screening assessment and, if necessary, more detailed diagnostic assessments. Students who are identified as needing additional support will be provided with an individual education plan, which will be developed in consultation with parents. Formative assessment activities are integrated within our curriculum plans and influence decisions about the need for additional support or extension activities for students who are gifted and talented. Summative assessment activities are conducted at the end of each year in the form of tests or assessment activities. Student progress is reported to parents in the form of monthly progress reports, end of term reports and end of year reports. We recognize that some students will require accommodations in order to participate in the summative assessment process. We will follow SEC policy in relation to reporting details of student progress and will participate in international tests, as requested by the SEC.

5.9. Arrangements for meeting the differentiated learning needs of students (e.g. students with learning difficulties and students who are gifted and talented).

The school will work closely with parents in the support of those children with special educational needs. We encourage an active partnership through an on-going dialogue with parents. Parents have much to contribute to our support for children with special educational needs. We have regular meetings each term to share the progress of children with their parents. We recommend the need of outside intervention to parents and we share the process of decision-making by providing clear information relating to the education of children with special educational needs. Students will go through an initial diagnostic assessment. Where a student is identified as needing further more in-depth assessment due to potential AESN need the AESN coordinator in school will undertake a more intensive assessment to establish the support needs required. We have developed the above forms to ensure the recording of AESN condition and support needs as per each student‟s needs. This will be reviewed and revised annually and

56



SEC approval

all teachers will be required to write regular reports on the child‟s progress against a set of objectives as set by teacher. Where children are referred with a medical report the AESN coordinator will implement the relevant support required. Where a child is identified as gifted and talented a learning plan will be developed for each lesson that ensure the child is challenged at the relevant level and there will be a weekly session set for gifted and able children. Within this class gifted and talented children will be given specific tasks and challenges that could include project work or learner support roles for less able children. See appendix 1 on meeting students’ needs and AESN policy

5.10. Arrangements for meeting the needs of students for whom the language of instruction is a second language.

English as an Additional Language (EAL) Support Service Aims of our Service

To support the learning and teaching of pupils with a mother tongue other than English in our school, so that they reach their full potential

To improve access, ensure inclusion and raise achievement across the mainstream curriculum

To aid the process of assessment To boost the self-esteem of pupils for whom English is an additional language To promote equality of opportunity and curriculum access

We plan to appoint two EAL teachers, who will support children in the classroom and also in special withdrawal sessions. Specialist dual language resources will be purchased. Older students will be encouraged to enroll in courses provided by the British Council.

57



SEC approval

5.11. Arrangements for ensuring the health, care and safety of students.

The health and safety of all students and employees at school is paramount of importance to us. All staff will undertake an online health and safety coursed when they start at the school and updated training will be timetabled in annually. There will be a full time member of staff who will have the responsibility and title of Health and Safety Officer. They will be required to regularly patrol the school and observe any health and safety negligence whereupon action will be taken. We will also ensure annual health and safety checks from fire services and the like. We will ensure our health and safety certificate from the relevant ministry is updated and current. The school has a health and safety policy that is attached

5.12. Arrangements for ensuring appropriate discipline.

Our approach to behaviour management is fully explained to parents and students on enrolment. It is based on the “Whole School Positive Behaviour Support” approach. We operate a balanced approach, which includes the following elements:

A clear set of negotiated statements of acceptable and expected behaviour; The explicit teaching and modeling of expected behaviour patterns; A system for rewards for students who consistently exhibit acceptable behaviour; A system of sanctions for students who fail to meet expectations.

Please find attached our policy on school discipline

58



SEC approval

5.13. Arrangements for engaging parents in the education process.

Student participation In our school we encourage children to take responsibility and to make decisions. This is part of the culture of our school and relates to children of all ages. The work in the each Key Stage recognises the importance of children developing social as well as educational skills. Alongside this we recognise the importance that parents play in a child‟s educational and behaviour development. With this in mind we will ensure that all parents are given information at the beginning of each year of the curriculum that will be covered with detailed information on levels expected. Alongside this there will be 3 reports that go to parents annually. During the course of the year there will be 2 official parents‟ evenings where teachers and parents will have set appointments to discuss the child‟s progress. Alongside this each child belongs to a form / tutor group and there tutor for the year can be contacted at any time and asked any questions on any of the child‟s academic and social progress at school. The form tutor will be the conduit for communication between the parent and others school staff and can set up meetings at any time required. Parents will also be given various opportunity during the year to come into the school and witness the work done by the children.

5.14. Arrangements for the professional development of staff.

All staff both administrative and teaching will take part in an annual evaluation. Within this evaluation process training needs will be identified and we will seek to ensure that current and relevant training is delivered to all staff. This will be provided by a mixture of in-house training, external courses and online courses. We have a staff training coordinator in the HR division, who will be responsible for all aspects of coordinating staff training. We hope to negotiate agreements with independent schools so that they will allow their staff to participate in our PD program from time to time.

60


Appendix Five. Documents to be acquired and submitted by the applicant once the site inspection has resulted in the approval of

the SEC.

Certain documents are required once the applicant has been informed that the initial application has been approved.

Letters will be issued by the PSO, allowing the applicant to obtain the following documents. The applicant should allow sufficient time to acquire the documents. More detailed information can be found on the relevant websites.

Civil Defense Clearance (from the Ministry of Interior):

The Civil Defense Department will undertake additional safety checks on the proposed school building to ensure compliance with national regulations. They will issue the applicant with a certificate of clearance. The certificate is renewable every two years and it is incumbent on the school owner to seek renewal.

Contact Details: www.moi.gov.qa

email : [email protected]

Telephone number : 44895191

Traffic Office Clearance (from the Ministry of Interior):

The Traffic Office will assess the suitability of the building in relation to access and the capacity of roads surrounding the proposed school campus. The certificate is renewable and it is incumbent on the school owner to seek renewal.

Contact Details: www.moi.gov.qa


Telephone number : 44890666

61


The Municipality License (from the Ministry of Economy and Commerce)

The municipality license provides clearance for the owner to operate a school and ensures that the school can access municipal. The certificate is renewable every two years and it is incumbent on the school owner to seek renewal.

Contact Details: www.mec.gov.qa


Telephone number: 40122222

The Commercial License (from the Ministry of Economy and Commerce)

The commercial license allows the owner to operate a school in the State of Qatar. The certificate is renewable every two years and it is incumbent on the school owner to seek renewal.

Contact Details: www.mec.gov.qa


Telephone number: 40122222

62


Appendix Six. Frequently asked questions and answers

Question Answer

1 When can an application to open a private school be made?

Applications can be made during two application widows (one month commencing on either March1st or November 1st). See Section Two of the Handbook for Applicants.

2 What are the steps involved in opening a private school?

See Section Two of the Handbook for Applicants.

3 What are the fees involved in opening a private school?

No fee is required but you will be required to provide a bank guarantee. If you are opening a kindergarten, the bank guarantee will be for the sum of 200,000 QR. If you are opening a primary or secondary school, the bank guarantee will be for the sum of 400,000 QR.

4 Can I open a school without having a Qatari business partner? Yes.

5 Is it possible to add a subsidiary branch that will operate the school to an existing company?

Yes, as long as this meets with Qatari company law regulations.

6 Can I rent a building for use by the school prior to receiving a license to operate a school?

The SEC does not involve itself in decisions about the renting or purchase of a school building. The applicant should keep in mind that there is no guarantee that the application will be approved by the SEC. Therefore, the applicant should exercise caution when making the decision.

7 Can the child of a government employee apply for a license to operate a private school?

Yes.

8 Can I make my application in hard copy format?

No. All applications must be made electronically.

9 What are the documents I need to submit with my application?

See Appendix Six of the Handbook for Applicants.

10 Does the SEC need to approve the proposed curriculum?

The applicant is required to submit an Education Plan as part of the initial submission. Applicants may propose a national curriculum, adopt an international curriculum or develop their own hybrid curriculum. The SEC will determine whether the curriculum proposal is appropriate.

63


Question Answer

11 Can the SEC provide my school with an approved curriculum?

Schools may choose to adopt the Qatari National Curriculum. They will then be entitled to access support materials for students and teachers.

12 Can an individual own a private school or should it be a company?

Either a private individual or a company can own a private school.

13 Is it possible to re-submit an application if the initial application is not approved?

There are restrictions on the re-submission of applications. See Section Two of the Handbook for Applicants.

14 How can I follow up on the progress of my application?

You can follow progress through reference to the SEC website. In addition, when you submit your initial application, a named licensing case manager from the SEC will be identified and you can contact this person to check on progress

15 Must my school include any compulsory subjects in the curriculum?

Yes. All schools must offer Arabic, Qatari History and Islamic Studies for certain groups of student. See Section Four of the Handbook for Applicants.

64


Appendix Seven. Contact information for applicants

General information to Contact the Private Schools Office:

Telephone + 974 44044771 / + 974 4404772 / + 974 4404773

Email [email protected]

Address SEC building Al Dafna, Doha, Qatar

Once an initial application has been received, the SEC will appoint a case manager. The case manager will then become the main point of contact for the applicant.

Appendix Eight. Links to important SEC policies

Applicants should refer to the following SEC policies when completing their application form. Access to these items can be achieved via the SEC website.

Student registration Student Assessment. The Management of Student Behavior.