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Sahara Cairo Members Login عربي

About

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David Bassily

PRINCIPAL, SAHARA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL CAIRO

MESSAGE FROM THE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

It has always been a dream since the first day I’ve walked in to Sahara International School to give something different for our students; something that’s worth their capabilities and broadens their mindsets allowing them always to dream BIG and reach their dreams!

I found this dream inside all Sahara associates who started taking steps towards achieving their dream back to 1990 since the very first day of this warm atmosphere, charming place called Sahara had started. This dream to deliver the finest education in a caring atmosphere is becoming true every day with all those teachers and staff who are giving their students not only knowledge but values and beliefs. I thank all Sahara’s big family whom I consider partners and story writers, writing a successful story in each and every student's life. I am privileged and honoured to work with such a devoted team every day.

I consider teaching as one of the most difficult professions ever. A good teacher works with all his/her senses just to deliver a proper concept or something worthwhile to a student’s knowledge. However, nothing can be more rewarding and heartwarming than raising a student’s awareness, developing a child’s skill or even changing someone’s life. As Aristotle said, “the roots of education are bitter but the fruit is sweet.”

For our valuable teachers and staff, on behalf of all Sahara’s parents, students, and board of directors: No words can express how thankful we are, we truly appreciate your efforts. Please keep your spirit always high, as you’re shaping a new generation, very distinguished and full of passion.

I thank our students whom we consider our leaders tomorrow and who are genuinely our utmost reward of success. They are giving real meaning to what we're doing and a value to all our efforts. You are different, passionate, distinguished and glowing personalities. We are proud of you, and we will always be there for you till you shape your journey the way you want it to be.

We always thank our parents who give us the trust and have great faith on our hands that bring up the most precious thing in their life: their children!

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David Bassily

PRINCIPAL, SAHARA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL CAIRO

BRITISH EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM

The British System is a system that incorporates the curriculum of the United Kingdom and runs all the way from K to12.  It is a system that highly encourages critical thinking and analysis.

The school follows the British Curriculum as stated by Cambridge University. The school gets to enjoy access to a variety of resources offered to us via the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) board. The school also selects the books which are on the CIE recommended list. 

The British System of education is highly recognized and revered worldwide and students who graduate from this type of education are generally well known for their academic candour.

Early Years Foundation Stage at Sahara International School follows the UK National Curriculum Framework, which believes that EVERY child deserves the best possible start in life and the support that enables them to fulfil their potential. Children develop quickly in the early years and a child’s experiences between birth and the age of five have a major impact on their future life chances. A secure, safe and happy childhood is important in its’ own right. Good parenting and high-quality early learning together provide the foundation children need to make the most of their abilities and talents as they grow up.
At Sahara International School, we care to implement the four guiding principles that should shape practice in early years settings. These are:
• Every child is a unique child, who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured.
• Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships.
• Children learn and develop well in enabling environments, in which their experiences respond to their individual needs and there is a strong partnership between practitioners and parents and/or carers.
• Children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates. The framework covers the education and care of all children in early years’ provision, including children with special educational needs and disabilities.
EYFS curriculum at Sahara International School covers Literacy, Numeracy, Understanding the World, French and Arabic, in addition to other activities that are necessary to their development as Art & Design, Physical Development, ICT, Music and Character Building.
Moreover, based on Sahara’s vision, teachers at Sahara International School get professional training in child psychology and classroom positive discipline periodically. They believe that kids perform better when they feel better.

Early Years Foundation Stage at Sahara International School follows the UK National Curriculum Framework, which believes that EVERY child deserves the best possible start in life and the support that enables them to fulfil their potential. Children develop quickly in the early years and a child’s experiences between birth and the age of five have a major impact on their future life chances. A secure, safe and happy childhood is important in its’ own right. Good parenting and high-quality early learning together provide the foundation children need to make the most of their abilities and talents as they grow up.
At Sahara International School, we care to implement the four guiding principles that should shape practice in early years settings. These are:
• Every child is a unique child, who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured.
• Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships.
• Children learn and develop well in enabling environments, in which their experiences respond to their individual needs and there is a strong partnership between practitioners and parents and/or carers.
• Children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates. The framework covers the education and care of all children in early years’ provision, including children with special educational needs and disabilities.
EYFS curriculum at Sahara International School covers Literacy, Numeracy, Understanding the World, French and Arabic, in addition to other activities that are necessary to their development as Art & Design, Physical Development, ICT, Music and Character Building.
Moreover, based on Sahara’s vision, teachers at Sahara International School get professional training in child psychology and classroom positive discipline periodically. They believe that kids perform better when they feel better.

Development Matters EYFS

Our academic curriculum has been based on the Cambridge framework which has its roots in the British National System of education. The Primary Checkpoint for stages one to six covers the core subjects of English, Math and Science. Additionally, the school has introduced a fourth subject – French – which together with the other three subjects forms the final grade. Our students develop essential skills in literacy, numeracy and scientific inquiry while covering a good knowledge base.
Our teachers who have been trained by both Cambridge and the publishers providing the academic books as approved by Cambridge have adopted several teaching methods to deliver the skills and knowledge as outlined in the framework. Among these methods are group work, teacher-led learning, exercises from workbooks and worksheets, individual work, visits and field trips, games and imaginative play, practical work and information technology integrated techniques.
The testing system is based on a wide range of progression tests aiming to monitor the progress of our children towards the end of the primary stage. At this point, they sit for a Cambridge Primary Checkpoint Achievement test conducted and marked by the Cambridge International Examinations Board. Such tests provide the students with a benchmark for their performance in the following stage, namely Cambridge Lower Secondary Checkpoint (Years 7 and 8).

Our academic curriculum has been based on the Cambridge framework which has its roots in the British National System of education. The Primary Checkpoint for stages one to six covers the core subjects of English, Math and Science. Additionally, the school has introduced a fourth subject – French – which together with the other three subjects forms the final grade. Our students develop essential skills in literacy, numeracy and scientific inquiry while covering a good knowledge base.
Our teachers who have been trained by both Cambridge and the publishers providing the academic books as approved by Cambridge have adopted several teaching methods to deliver the skills and knowledge as outlined in the framework. Among these methods are group work, teacher-led learning, exercises from workbooks and worksheets, individual work, visits and field trips, games and imaginative play, practical work and information technology integrated techniques.
The testing system is based on a wide range of progression tests aiming to monitor the progress of our children towards the end of the primary stage. At this point, they sit for a Cambridge Primary Checkpoint Achievement test conducted and marked by the Cambridge International Examinations Board. Such tests provide the students with a benchmark for their performance in the following stage, namely Cambridge Lower Secondary Checkpoint (Years 7 and 8).

Our secondary curriculum known as IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) spreading over years 10, 11 and 12 has been supplied by both Cambridge and Edexcel in reference to the school's accreditation. Our students who have progressed from the Checkpoint stage, ending with a Checkpoint Achievement Test, to the secondary level are enrolled in classes according to their preferences, skills and desires for university education.
The students study several OL, AS and A level subjects covering the requirements for university admission and sit for the respective Cambridge and/or Edexcel examinations. Our IGCSE instructors are acclaimed university lecturers and professors, one of the best-known/experienced professors in Egypt. Graduates of our IGCSE Department have become reputed specialists in the fields of Medicine, Engineering and Business.

Our secondary curriculum known as IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) spreading over years 10, 11 and 12 has been supplied by both Cambridge and Edexcel in reference to the school's accreditation. Our students who have progressed from the Checkpoint stage, ending with a Checkpoint Achievement Test, to the secondary level are enrolled in classes according to their preferences, skills and desires for university education.
The students study several OL, AS and A level subjects covering the requirements for university admission and sit for the respective Cambridge and/or Edexcel examinations. Our IGCSE instructors are acclaimed university lecturers and professors, one of the best-known/experienced professors in Egypt. Graduates of our IGCSE Department have become reputed specialists in the fields of Medicine, Engineering and Business.

OUR MISSION

At Sahara International School Cairo, we believe that each student is capable of learning and excelling. As a school, we are determined to give you just that. Excellence is the goal that we will not compromise in achieving. We believe that by providing the right atmosphere, facilities, and highly qualified, motivated staff, we will be able to deliver what we believe our students deserve: The best!

OUR Vision

Our vision is to spread across Egypt the holistic educational concept in an inspiring and disciplined environment, bringing up unique individuals who can attain their full potential and contribute to making their world a better place to be.

OUR VALUES

iconExcellence.

Excellence is the criterion we set in everything we do, when we study, field trip or on our fun activities.

iconResponsibility.

Students learn to behave as mature individuals who take responsibility for their words and actions and stand up for their beliefs.

iconDiversity.

Our strength is not in our similarity but in the diversity of methods and ideas we enrich one another with.

iconIntegrity.

We are individuals whose beliefs rest on honesty and truth.

iconTeam Spirit.

Teamwork is the key to success. Anything we undertake is accomplished by teams who are diverse and knowledgeable.

22

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

34

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

3

LANGUAGES TAUGHT FROM FS1 STAGE

9 : 1

STUDENTS : TEACHERS RATIO

10

TEACHERS’ AVERAGE YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

2024/2025 International School Calendar

Accreditations and partnerships

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CIS is a membership community working collaboratively to shape international education through professional services to schools, higher education institutions, and individuals. The CIS vision is to inspire the development of global citizens through high-quality international education: connecting ideas, cultures, and educators from every corner of the world.              

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ECIS, the Educational Collaborative for International Schools is a global membership organisation that provides professional learning, quality assurance, school services, research, advocacy, and grants and awards for the benefit of its members. It was founded in 1965 and it's mission is to transform and impact lives through international education.        

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The University of Cambridge is the second-oldest university in the English-speaking world and the world's fourth-oldest surviving university. The history and influence of Cambridge have made it one of the most prestigious universities in the world.

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Edexcel is a multinational education and examination body owned by Pearson. It regulates school examinations under the British Curriculum and offers qualifications for schools on the international and regional scale.

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OxfordAQA is a joint venture between Oxford University Press, a department of the University of Oxford, and AQA, the UK's leading academic awarding body. Drawing on over 100 years of exams experience, OxfordAQA is meticulous about how the qualifications are developed. 

Meet Sahara Associates

Mrs. Irene Isaac
Mrs. Irene Isaac

One of Sahara’s brilliant English leaders. Her passion towards teaching is always reflected on her students' passion towards language. She taught and inspired Sahara’s English team in full devotion. For more than 20 years, Sahara’s members consider Mrs. Irene their cornerstone as her students consider her a second mum.

Mrs. Lorita Aziz
Mrs. Lorita Aziz

She has been among our family for 20 years. History and Geography classes are always unique and different for her students. Mrs. Lorita is always known for her ultimate care to teach her students in new ways. Her students are extremely aware of their history and are enthusiastic to build their future passionately.

Dr. Mounir Magdy
Dr. Mounir Magdy

One of our distinctive Science department leaders. Due to his continuous efforts, our students are in love with science. Experiments and science fairs have always been part of his plan to put science into practise. His care and love to his team have made the science team work in full commitment and harmony.

Mrs. Naglaa Abdel Aziz
Mrs. Naglaa Abdel Aziz

One of the main pillars of Sahara's family. She has been among our family for 30 years. She is greatly respected and beloved by all Sahara’s students. Mrs. Naglaa is considered a second mother; her never-ending care and giving spirit are shown since the first day she stepped in Sahara.

Mme. Elham Aziz
Mme. Elham Aziz

One of our passionate French leaders. She was the one who first created our French books from FS1. Her love for her students and her understanding for how different and special they are, has made French for them a language that is interesting to learn.

Ms. Maha Gouda
Ms. Maha Gouda

The first teacher to be hired at Sahara back in 1990. Throughout her 30 years, she has given all her energy and youth imprinting great values and good citizenship for her students. We, Sahara’s members, along with thousands of students and more to come will remain learning from Ms. Maha every day.

Mrs. Antonia Draganova
Mrs. Antonia Draganova

She was our school director for 6 years. She had a great impact on developing curriculums while considering students’ interests. Her managing system was very well organized where everything used to take place on the right time.

Dr. Rose Ghobrial
Dr. Rose Ghobrial

One of the most influencing teachers you can ever meet. Her passion towards her students was always obvious from everyone. Her presence at school used to make a difference in not only her students’ life but her colleagues as well.

Mrs. Azza Anis
Mrs. Azza Anis

Since she became our school director, her spirit, energy and creativity continuously impress everyone. Her passion is dedicated towards stretching our team's capabilities. She always believes that no child should be left behind. Sahara's family members are blessed to have Mrs. Azza as their inspiring leader.

Mrs. Nivine Morris
Mrs. Nivine Morris

One of the most energetic leaders inducing positive spirit to all Sahara’s family members. She led the school for several years and boosted school’s level academically. Our big family of students, parents and teachers will never forget her.

Mrs. Mary Maher
Mrs. Mary Maher

An awesome leader who used to have a very positive impact on her team. Her spirit can easily spread where she is. Her love to her students and her belief in them was always clear especially on theater at any of our school’s performances.

Mrs. Jill Anwar
Mrs. Jill Anwar

One of the kindest persons who will always be remembered. She led our English team to apply the correct methodology of English teaching. Our students have never forgot her pure heart, smile, care and warm treatment.

Outstanding Students

Ahmed Ayman

Class 2018

Outstanding Cambridge Learner Award for achieving the Top in the World result in Chemistry.

Daniel Joseph

Class 2024

Top score in Africa Mathematics Advanced Level

Fady Saweeres

Class 2016

Hussein Mahmoud

Class 2016

Top score in the World Math Ordinary Level

Mark Adel

Class 2017

Music passionate and used to be in our School Band

Amgad Adly

Class 2017

Photographer and is taking our professional photos in most of the school events.

Philopatir Marcous

Class 2018

2 Silver Medals and 1 Bronze in Karate.

Jonathan Robert Ramsis

Class 2018

3 medals in Judo championships across Egypt.

Kareem Wael

Class 2018

Participated in 6 championships in Gymnastics. Got 3 Gold medals and 3 Silver medals.

Manuel Bassem

Class 2018

Silver Medal in Karate

Mark Maged

Class 2018

1st Rank and Gold Medal in Karate

Raval Remon

Class 2018

3 medals in Gymnastics; 1bronze and 2 silver.

Zeina Ayman

Class 2018