ACS International Schools is extending its family of international schools with the opening this September of a fourth school, in Qatar’s capital city, Doha.

The new ACS Doha International School, in the Al Gharrafa district of Doha, will open initially with Early Childhood, Lower and Middle School programmes for children aged 3 – 14. The educational programmes offered at ACS Doha are based on globally recognised American and international standards, with an aim to deliver the same range of academic programmes offered at ACS International’s three UK campuses in Egham, Cobham and  Hillingdon, Surrey.

There are plans to develop a High School and ACS Doha is hoping to offer US College Board Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the American High School Honours Diploma. The school will shortly be a member of the Council of International Schools.

Tom Lehman will make the move to ACS Doha from ACS Cobham as head of school. Mr Lehamn, who has worked with ACS International schools for 25 years, commented,

“At ACS Doha we will apply our successful and proven ACS philosophy of developing confident communicators who are principled, open-minded and caring; socially and emotionally intelligent and able to embrace the importance of a healthy and balanced lifestyle”

“Students at existing ACS schools have a record of going on to attend some of the leading universities around the world, and we hope to establish a similar reputation for high achievement here in Doha.”

The new campus is purpose-built and equipped with enviable technology such as, Wi-Fi throughout and bespoke ICT labs. The school also offers art studios, music rooms, language suites and libraries; plus an external multi-purpose recreational area, modern large sports hall, basketball court and indoor swimming pool.

ACS Doha has already attracted a great deal of interest from local families and expatriate communities, and is expected to open with around 250 students in September 2011.

David Thomas, chairman of ACS International Schools, concluded,  “There is significant demand in Doha for schools which are able to meet the educational and transitional needs of globally mobile families as well as local families looking for an international education. This is a remit we are confident ACS Doha will fulfill.”

“At ACS International Schools, we look forward to welcoming our new students, families and colleagues in Doha to our vibrant and expanding learning community.”

ACS Doha is open throughout the summer to take enquiries for applications.

Further information on the new school, including application details, can be found on at www.acs-schools.com/acs-doha.aspx