United Arab Emirates educational institutions are significantly increasing capacity for Foundation Stage 2 and Grade 1 classes to address substantial enrollment demand following recent adjustments to national school entry regulations. The capacity expansion comes as Dubai’s private education sector implements revised age eligibility guidelines issued by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).
In December, the Ministry of Education extended the enrollment cutoff date from August 31 to December 31 for Foundation Stage One admissions within the British curriculum system. This regulatory change has subsequently influenced placement decisions for FS2, Year 1, and Year 2 admissions across the country.
The implementation has created logistical challenges for both families and educational institutions. Numerous parents have reported limited availability at preferred schools, necessitating alternative placement arrangements. Concerns have emerged regarding developmental readiness as some children are being placed in older age groups earlier than originally anticipated.
Marah Kadoura, Principal of Woodlem American School in Ajman, indicated that schools are strategically planning enrollment while prioritizing early applicants. “Although some classes such as KG2 and Grade 1 are approaching capacity, institutions are implementing measures to increase seating availability where feasible,” Kadoura noted, while acknowledging physical infrastructure and class size limitations.
The KHDA has clarified that children born between September 1 and December 31, 2021, who were previously ineligible for the 2025-2026 academic year, may now register for FS2 or Year 1 for the 2026-2027 session. Final enrollment decisions remain subject to individual assessments of developmental readiness and seat availability.
Education experts emphasize the critical importance of transparent communication during this transition. Neil Hopkin, Director of Education at Fortes Education, highlighted their comprehensive outreach to affected families: “We have engaged closely with parents to explain how the updated KHDA guidance functions and its implications for individual placements.”
Developmental considerations remain paramount amidst the regulatory changes. Vandana Gandhi, CEO of British Orchard Nursery, emphasized that “not all children meeting the new age criteria may be developmentally prepared for FS2.” Her organization has implemented an Enhanced Readiness Programme specifically designed to support children requiring additional preparation before transitioning to more formal educational environments.
As the academic community adapts to these regulatory modifications, maintaining educational quality while accommodating increased demand represents the primary challenge facing UAE educational institutions.