International expansion for King's Taunton

King's College Taunton to open new school in Doha, Qatar

Posted by Stephanie Broad | February 08, 2016 | International

• #kings-college-taunton
• #qatar
• #international-schools
• #independent-schools
• #british-education
• #expansion

A new British independent school is opening in Doha, Qatar. King’s College, Taunton, have announced a second new international school overseas will open in September 2016.

King’s College Doha will provide state-of-the-art facilities, delivering the very best of a British independent school curriculum within a Qatari context. Using modern school design techniques, each space offers teaching and learning opportunities – even corridors are purposefully designed to assist with the learning and play environment.  The design of the internal and external spaces is also focused on harnessing and promoting interaction between all users and visitors to the school. There will be a mix of refurbishment of the existing building and two new-build classroom blocks on the site plus brand new science, music, art and sports facilities.

The project is being sponsored by Sheikh Mansoor bin Jassim bin Thani Al Thani, a member of the Qatar Royal Family. As well as his own portfolio of businesses, the Sheikh works for Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Doha as the Counsellor for European Embassies, having previously been posted to Japan, Russia, Spain and the USA. King’s College Doha is a partnership with EduReach Education, a specialist in exporting premium British education. The EduReach team is highly experienced in founding British schools overseas and will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the school.

A shortage of quality independent school places in the country and a rapidly growing population has led to problems for families looking to move to Qatar. The opening of King’s College, Doha in September 2016 is expecting to provide a traditional British offering for international families who want a first class education for their children.

The development of the existing site is well under way and will provide outstanding facilities for children from three to 11 years.

The recruitment process has now commenced and teachers will be recruited from the UK or from existing British International Schools. Teachers with UK professional training and qualifications will work alongside a small department of Arabic and Islamic Studies teachers. 

Nicholas Gunn, former Head of Prep at Lancing Prep, another Woodard School, has been appointed as Founding Principal.

Commenting on the project, Justin Chippendale, Headmaster at King’s Hall School, the associated prep

school of King’s College, Taunton said: “This is a wonderfully exciting venture and I am delighted that we will be able to offer the richness of experience that children in our school currently enjoy on an international level. I have no doubt that we are creating a very special opportunity and will have an impact in what is a rapidly evolving city.” 

www.kings-taunton.co.uk/kings-college-doha/