English Curriculum
Our English teaching at Doha Academy is based on the Cambridge Primary Framework. Each year group is provided with textbooks and story books to aid in their learning. Daily English lessons are taught using a text type approach and include elements such as clear learning objectives, differentiation, and integration of Islamic values and Qatar identity links. Grammar, punctuation, spelling, and vocabulary are integrated into English lessons, and a dedicated English display board serves as a working wall.
Reading is a top priority in all lessons, and students are given opportunities to read independently or with a partner. Phonics are taught in Early Years to Year 3, and guided reading is taught in Years 4-6. Additionally, all classes are read to every day for at least 10 minutes. To track independent reading progress, students record their independent reading in a reading record once a week.
Reading and RWI Phonics
The school prioritizes reading and uses the RWI Phonics program to teach children to read. Reading is incorporated into all lessons, and class teachers work with focus groups to plan reading activities. Children are also read to for 10 minutes every day, and independent reading is encouraged. The RWI Phonics program is structured, and sessions include speed sound, word time, story reading, and story time. Due to COVID restrictions, small groups are used, and a typical session includes an introduction, main activity, and plenary.
Maths
Doha Academy uses the 'Power Maths' scheme for Maths Mastery. It emphasizes understanding over speed and individual learning journeys. Teachers have access to resources on the ActiveLearn website and follow a specific lesson structure. Differentiation is based on outcome, and children are encouraged to reason and talk using correct mathematical language. The goal is for students to enjoy learning Maths and believe in their ability to succeed.
Science
lessons at our school are engaging and hands-on, encouraging children to explore through experiments and investigation. We now use the Cambridge Primary Science scheme, which includes a Workbook, Student Book and Teacher's guide with comprehensive coverage of the curriculum. Students have two 45-minute Science lessons per week, and we follow a clear planning template and format of Starter, Main and Plenary. We have a dedicated Science display in the classroom and a Science laboratory on the second floor with many resources available for teaching and learning.
Humanities
At Doha Academy, our Humanities program is designed to provide students with a holistic understanding of the world around them by integrating English text types, Science, and Art. Our curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking skills, cultural appreciation, and empathy in our students. We use PlanBee resources to ensure that our curriculum is comprehensive and engaging, and our teachers are passionate about providing a learning experience that is both meaningful and fun.
Art
We believe that the arts play a critical role in the development of well-rounded individuals, and that is why we offer a comprehensive Art program at Doha Academy. Our Art curriculum follows the English Curriculum and the PlanBee scheme of work, providing engaging and inspiring lessons that equip children with the skills and confidence to experiment and create their own artwork. Our teachers provide students with a supportive environment that encourages creativity and self-expression, and we believe that every child has the potential to be an artist.
PSHE
At Doha Academy, we believe that personal, social, and health education (PSHE) is an essential part of every child's education. Our PSHE program is embedded in all our lessons through interactions with the children, focusing on Islamic values to encourage children to develop their own ethos and the Islamic ethos of the school. We believe that by instilling our students with a strong sense of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and empathy, we can help them become responsible and compassionate members of society. We encourage children to express themselves through art and other creative avenues, enhancing their personal growth and development.
Arabic/Religion
At our school, each class has a dedicated Arabic/Religion teacher assigned for the year. They follow the Ministry curriculum and use textbooks and copybooks for each lesson. The Arabic department is led by a coordinator who ensures that the curriculum is delivered effectively. We believe that learning Arabic and Religion is as important as the rest of the curriculum, and class teachers work closely with the specialists to ensure that students receive the best possible learning experience.
Qatar History
One lesson a week is taught by dedicated Qatar History teachers. This subject is particularly important for our students to learn about the culture and history of Qatar. For G-class students who are non-Arabic speakers, an English-speaking specialist teacher teaches Arabic and Religion. The Class Teacher is responsible for teaching Qatar History to the G-class and must follow the approved textbook and complete reports.
French, ICT, and PE French
Are taught once a week for 30 minutes by a specialist teacher. ICT is also taught once a week, and students are taken to the assigned ICT suite by their Class Teacher. They cover various topics such as coding, programming, using Office suite, and website design. PE is taken once every other week by a specialist teacher, and students enjoy learning various sports and activities.