Children will not be forced to repeat a grade if they are not ready; despite changes in the school entry age laws in the UAE.
The Ministry of Education announced that the final decision regarding students enrolled in the British system will be up to parents and schools.

The Ministry of Education of the UAE announced that children studying in the British educational system, despite changes in the age threshold for school entry, will not be forced to repeat a grade when starting school.

It was previously announced that the cut-off date for determining the age for student admission would change from August 31 to December 31, and this law will be implemented from the 2026-2027 academic year.

This change applies to children entering Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) in the British system or Pre-K in other educational systems and includes up to Year 2. Accordingly, children born between September and December will be able to qualify for school up to four months earlier than under previous regulations.

This issue raised concerns among many parents and educational experts; as in some cases, children might enter school at a level higher than their actual readiness. However, the Ministry of Education has emphasized that such an occurrence will not happen.

The ministry stated in a post on social media:
«Children born between September 1 and December 31 who will not turn three by the start of the academic year can be assessed for readiness to enter FS1.»

It further stated:
«The assessment and final determination of the grade level will be jointly conducted by the school and the parents. If it is determined that the child is not ready, they can enroll in FS1 in the following academic year. Additionally, the school and parents can jointly decide whether FS1 or FS2 is the most suitable option for the child.»

Source: National News