A highly-rated, value-for-money American
curriculum school offering a world-class education
Why choose GEMS American Academy Qatar?
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, selecting the right school for your child is a paramount decision. At GEMS American Academy Qatar (GAAQ), we understand this critical choice and are committed to offering an educational experience that goes beyond the classroom. Here’s why GAAQ stands out as a premier institution in Qatar, fostering academic excellence, community spirit, and holistic development.
We offer a rigorous American curriculum combined with a holistic, globally-minded education. Our extensive Advanced Placement (AP) program and innovative teaching methods ensure academic excellence. We foster personal growth through inquiry-based learning and a supportive, diverse community. Committed to environmental stewardship, our award-winning sustainability programs prepare students to be responsible global citizens.
GAAQ’s core values are:
Purpose,
Leadership,
Innovation,
Respect and Tenacity.
Our Curriculum
Qatar’s most robust AP program
GAAQ is proud to offer the most comprehensive AP program in Qatar. We were the first school in the country to introduce the rigorous AP Capstone Diploma in 2022, setting a benchmark for academic excellence. With 24 AP classes—the highest in Qatar—our students consistently outperform the global average in AP exams, demonstrating our commitment to high academic standards and college readiness. This expansive AP program allows students to delve deep into subjects of their interest, fostering critical thinking and academic rigor.
College acceptance
One of the hallmarks of GAAQ is our 100% college acceptance rate. Every year, all our graduating students secure places in top universities worldwide, underscoring our dedication to preparing students for successful futures. This achievement is a testament to the rigorous academic training and comprehensive support system in place, which includes college counseling, standardized test preparation, and personalized guidance throughout the college application process.
Literacy and Early Years innovation
In 2023, we introduced the Benchmark Literacy program in our elementary school. This comprehensive, cross-curricular curriculum is both vertically and horizontally aligned, ensuring a cohesive and enriched learning experience for our young learners. The program emphasizes the development of strong reading and writing skills, which are fundamental to academic success across all disciplines.
Additionally, GAAQ became one of the first early years "ambassador schools” globally, a testament to our pioneering spirit in early childhood education. Our early years teachers are trained in creative curriculum’s inquiry-based learning programs, fostering curiosity and a love for learning from a young age. These innovative approaches ensure that students build a solid foundation for future academic pursuits.
The Creative Curriculum for early years is a comprehensive, research-based curriculum designed to foster the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of young children. It emphasizes an inquiry-based, hands-on approach to learning, encouraging children to explore and discover the world around them through play and guided activities.
Our Holistic Approach
GAAQ is committed to nurturing well-rounded individuals through our award-winning sustainability programs, excellence in arts and sports, and robust leadership initiatives.
Award-winning sustainability programs
Environmental stewardship is a core value at GAAQ. We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of sustainability education in Qatar. In 2018, GAAQ became one of the first schools in Qatar to earn the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag Award, recognizing our outstanding environmental efforts. That same year, we established a self-sustaining aquaponic greenhouse, which provides students with hands-on learning opportunities about sustainable agriculture. Our dedication to environmental initiatives was further solidified when we earned first place in Qatar’s World Cup Zeeenah Initiative.
Our students are at the heart of our environmental efforts. The Eco-Club, comprising both elementary and secondary students, spearheads numerous projects emphasizing sustainability. Their initiatives include establishing an aquaponic greenhouse, implementing recycling programs, promoting reusable produce bags, and planting green walls, palm trees, and other plant life. These projects have earned multiple awards, including the FEE Eco-Schools Green Flag Award and the QGBC School Sustainability Award, underscoring our commitment to creating environmentally conscious global citizens.
Excellence in arts and sports
At GAAQ, we believe that excellence extends beyond academics. Our students shine in both the arts and sports, demonstrating talent and dedication in various extracurricular activities. Our students have secured two first place awards and a second place medal in the last three National Battle of the Bands competitions, showcasing their musical prowess. These achievements highlight our commitment to nurturing creative talent and providing a platform for students to express themselves artistically.
GAAQ’s sports teams are consistently top ranked in Qatar, and our programs have produced many national team players. These achievements reflect our dedication to providing a well-rounded education that nurtures all aspects of student development. Our comprehensive sports program encourages students to develop physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership skills, which are essential for personal growth and success.
Accreditations
As part of the GEMS Education network, the largest operator of K-12 private schools globally, GAAQ leverages this robust framework to offer unparalleled educational opportunities. Our school is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), ensuring rigorous international standards are met. We’ve been recognized as one of the "10 Best International Schools in Qatar” and "Most Valuable Schools to Watch in the Middle East” by The Knowledge Review magazine. These accolades affirm our position as a leading educational institution and our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of education.
Leadership and volunteer opportunities
We believe in fostering leadership skills and community involvement from an early age. High school students can take advantage of various leadership and volunteer opportunities, including a 1-credit Coaching Course that provides theory-based education and practical experience in coaching athletes. Academically successful students can participate in the Student Teacher Aide Program, a 1-credit apprenticeship under a teacher in a specific subject area. Additionally, we encourage students to start, operate, and lead clubs, both in-person and online, with the support of the Head of Student Life. These initiatives, combined with our robust after-school programs and clubs, help students develop into well-rounded individuals. An abundance of leadership and volunteer opportunities enables students to develop essential life skills such as responsibility, empathy, and effective communication.
State-of-the-art facilities
Our 20,000 square meter campus is designed to inspire and support dynamic learning experiences. Highlights include:
BlackBox theatre, 2D and 3D art studios, ceramics, pottery, and sculpture rooms
Individual music practice rooms, piano lab, instrumental music spaces, and music production studio
CrossFit zone, multipurpose sports hall, rooftop sports court, football pitch, shaded playgrounds, indoor mini-gyms, and professional dance studio
Parent Café, Lower School dining area, Upper School café, and outdoor eating spaces
NAAAS aquaponic greenhouse, interactive science labs, dual libraries, ICT labs, Grade 12 lounge and outdoor area, quiet work spaces, and Lower School resource rooms
These state-of-the-art facilities provide students with the resources they need to excel in their academic and extracurricular pursuits. The diverse range of facilities ensures that students have access to cutting-edge tools and environments that support a holistic educational experience.
Our Community
Exceptional parent satisfaction
GAAQ consistently achieves one of the highest parent satisfaction rates in the GEMS network, with a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 52 this year, considered excellent. This score reflects our commitment to maintaining open communication and meeting the needs of our students and their families. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure that parents are well-informed and involved in their children’s educational journey, fostering a collaborative and supportive school community.
Diverse and inclusive environment
Our student body represents over 80 nationalities, creating a rich, multicultural environment that fosters an appreciation for different perspectives and lifelong friendships across cultural boundaries. This diversity enriches the learning experience, as students are exposed to a variety of cultures, languages, and viewpoints, preparing them for a globalized world. Our inclusive environment encourages students to embrace diversity and develop a global mindset.
High staff and student retention
With a teacher retention rate of over 91% in 2024 and a student turnover rate of less than 9%, GAAQ ensures stability and continuity in delivering high-quality education. Additionally, 91% of parents state they would highly recommend GAAQ, highlighting the trust and confidence our community has in our educational approach. High retention rates indicate a strong, supportive community where both staff and students feel valued and engaged.
Join the GAAQ family
Choosing GEMS American Academy Qatar means choosing a school that is dedicated to your child’s academic and personal growth. With our robust curriculum, vibrant community, holistic approach, and state-of-the-art facilities, we are committed to nurturing tomorrow’s leaders today. Discover the difference that a GAAQ education can make. Visit us to learn more and become part of our thriving international community.
Experience excellence and innovation at GEMS American Academy Qatar – where your child’s future begins.
Location:
Mian Street, Al Wukair,
Al Wakrah, Qatar