In September 2016, the unique MiSK Schools opened in Saudi Arabia. Part of the Education branch of the MiSK Foundation established by HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman, MiSK Schools focus on supporting new methods of fostering talent, nurturing potential, and enabling innovation in order to create opportunities for Saudi Arabia’s youth. At present, the schools offer Pre-K-Grade 1 for boys and girls, and Grades 2-5 for boys. MiSK Schools, authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Education, aim to equip students for life in a global economy, by offering project-based and experiential learning in addition to more traditional methods. The campus is located near the Diplomatic Quarter, within ten minutes of Riyadh, a large city with spectacular museums and cultural sites. The compound for teacher accommodation is 10 to 15 minutes from the school.
Currently, 144 K–5 mostly Saudi students are enrolled and using inquiry-based learning to study the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (PYP). Plans are in place to expand to Grade 12, when students will graduate with an IB Diploma. After school each day, two hours are devoted to out-of-the-classroom extended learning activities, a key part of the program. Activities—offered by professionals on the school’s staff as well as experts from outside the school—include options such as dance, art, gardening, drama, football, swimming, badminton, mathematics, languages, cooking, sewing, crocheting, animal care, service projects, and many more. About 15 activities are offered each day, each with a specific learning objective (such as teamwork in group sports). The teaching staff of 45 includes 15 Saudi teachers and 18 from North America and the U.K.
MiSK Schools prefer to hire single teachers without dependents, and will also consider couples and those with a non-teaching wife. Teachers must be certified and hold a degree in the subject they will be teaching. MiSK Schools will consider exceptional, newly-certified candidates as well as those certified in a non-English speaking country. Certified teachers up to the age of 60 may obtain a work visa in Saudi Arabia.
The MiSK Schools’ benefits package is highly competitive, with a non-taxed salary, fully-furnished housing, and coverage of some utilities. Also included is a moving allowance and annual airfare for home leave. The tuition benefit is free for up to two children attending a partner school and 50% off for attendance at other schools. The school will offer in-house professional development with external consultants, but other professional development opportunities may also be available. Fully paid Middle East health insurance plus emergency coverage worldwide (with exceptions) includes dental and emergency evacuation. The MiSK Schools package could add up to enormous savings!
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Please Note: The information presented about this school was valid on the date published. This information may change, and the most up-to-date information can be found on the school profile.
