Private institutions add FS2 and Grade 1 seats following regulatory changes, while educators stress developmental readiness alongside enrolment pressures.
DUBAI – Private schools across the UAE are rapidly expanding capacity for Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) and Grade 1 classes in response to a significant rise in demand, triggered by recent changes to national age cut-off regulations for school entry.
The adjustment follows updated guidance from education authorities, including Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). In December, the Ministry of Education announced that children could now begin FS1 under the British curriculum if they turn three by December 31 of the academic year—extending the previous August 31 deadline. The change also affects placements for FS2, Year 1, and Year 2.
This shift has led to a surge in applications, with many popular schools reporting FS1 and KG1 classes already at capacity, leaving some families searching for alternative placements. Last week, further clarification from the KHDA prompted several schools to reconsider previously offered FS1 seats, advising parents to enrol children directly into FS2 instead.
“With the new age cut-off, an increase in applications is expected for KG1, KG2, and Grade 1,” said Marah Kadoura, Principal of Woodlem American School in Ajman. “Schools are taking steps to increase seats where possible, though building capacity and class size limits remain key considerations.”
Education providers emphasise that while expanding access, they must balance demand with quality. “Availability is finite,” noted Neil Hopkin, Director of Education at Fortes Education. “Schools are carefully balancing demand with the need to maintain appropriate class sizes, staffing ratios, and learning environments.”
The KHDA has clarified that children born between September 1 and December 31, 2021, who were ineligible for the 2025–2026 academic year, may now register for FS2 or Year 1 in 2026–2027, subject to seat availability and an assessment of the child’s readiness.
This point on readiness is echoed by early years specialists. Vandana Gandhi, CEO of British Orchard Nursery, cautioned, “Not all children meeting the new age criteria may be developmentally ready for FS2. Children will benefit from additional time and targeted support to strengthen emotional regulation, independence, and learning readiness.”
As schools navigate the enrolment wave, clear communication with parents has become essential. Many institutions are holding briefings and readiness programmes to help families understand the changes and prepare children for a smooth transition, ensuring that the push for more seats does not come at the cost of early years education quality.
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