Two British schools in Dubai are set to merge at the end of January next year.
Manor Primary School in the Emirate will join forces with The English College.
The former teaches children from Foundation stage one to year six, while The English College takes pupils from grade seven to 13.
The development means the new merged school, which will continue as The English College, will take pupils from FS1 to Year 13.
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"The schools have been operating successfully as two independent schools,” said Greg Martin, principal of The English College.
“Given they’re looking at significant building works; this is a sensible time to merge them.”
School authorities hope the merger will provide children with a more consistent educational journey.
The schools' accompanying upgrades and redevelopment plans – which include new classrooms, laboratories and gymnasium - should also boost its performance from good to outstanding, a rating awarded by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority's annual inspection.
“The board of both schools made a decision to spend a significant amount revamping the secondary school and there are new facilities coming up," said Mr Martin.
"The transition from year six to seven is traumatic for pupils. Some manage well, but not all.
"Parents and staff are energised and are looking forward to having a consistent education journey.”