Doha, Qatar – A new Wellington College International Qatar campus is slated to open in Lusail City in September 2028, bringing the renowned British curriculum to the country for the first time. The announcement follows a Master License Agreement signed between Al Faleh Educational Holding and Wellington College International (WCI) on December 23, 2023. This expansion aims to bolster Qatar’s growing education sector and provide additional options for international schooling.
The partnership, formalized at Al Faleh Educational Holding’s offices in Msheireb, unites Al Faleh’s local expertise with Wellington College International’s established educational model. Construction of the K-12 campus is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with the school expected to accommodate a significant number of students from diverse backgrounds.
Expanding Educational Options with Wellington College International Qatar
The new school represents a substantial investment in Qatar’s educational infrastructure. According to Al Faleh Educational Holding, the campus will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including expansive learning spaces, advanced laboratories for science, technology, and the arts, dedicated athletic fields, and creative design studios. Emphasis will also be placed on sustainable design throughout the campus.
Al Faleh Educational Holding already operates several well-regarded institutions in Qatar, including Doha Academy and AFG College with the University of Aberdeen. This experience will be crucial in adapting the Wellington College curriculum to the specific needs and cultural context of Qatar. The collaboration aims to create a blended educational experience that combines global best practices with local understanding.
A Focus on Holistic Development
Wellington College International is known for its holistic approach to education, emphasizing not only academic achievement but also character development and global citizenship. James Dahl, the 15th Master of Wellington College, stated the school’s ethos centers on nurturing intellectual curiosity and fostering resilience in students. This aligns with Qatar’s national vision for a knowledge-based society, as highlighted by Dr. Sheikha Aisha Al Thani, Chairperson of Al Faleh Educational Holding.
However, the introduction of another international school also increases competition within Qatar’s private education market. Several other British curriculum schools already operate in Doha, offering families a range of choices. The success of Wellington College International Qatar will depend on its ability to differentiate itself through its facilities, curriculum, and overall educational experience.
Paresh Thakrar, Managing Director of Wellington College International, emphasized the importance of blending global best practices with local insights. This localized approach is expected to resonate with Qatari families seeking a world-class education that also respects their cultural values. The school will likely cater to both expatriate and Qatari students, contributing to a diverse learning environment.
The project is part of a broader trend of investment in Qatar’s education sector, driven by the country’s economic diversification goals. The government has prioritized education as a key pillar of its long-term development strategy, aiming to create a highly skilled workforce capable of supporting a knowledge-based economy. This initiative also supports Qatar’s preparations for hosting major international events, such as the FIFA World Cup 2022, which increased demand for international schooling.
Looking ahead, the focus will shift to the detailed design and construction phases of the campus. The completion of construction in 2026 will be a key milestone, followed by the recruitment of faculty and staff. The opening of Wellington College International Qatar in September 2028 will mark a significant addition to the country’s educational landscape, but ongoing monitoring of enrollment numbers and educational outcomes will be crucial to assess its long-term impact. The availability of qualified teachers and the school’s ability to maintain its high standards will also be important factors to watch.
Learn more about Wellington College International.
Visit Al Faleh Educational Holding.
Read the original article on The Peninsula Qatar.
