Life at JKS and Sharbatly Village

Hey all,

A possible move to Jeddah is a recent decision so I have have lots of research to do but was wondering if anybody working at Jeddah Knowledge School and living at the Sharbatly Compound can offer me any insights to life there.

Basically, this is what I am wondering about:

1) Do people socialise a lot within the compound and is it easy to meet people?
2) I get the impression most expats stay on the compound most of the time - is this correct?
3) What social opportunities is there for a woman living in Jeddah?
4) What are the difficulties within the compound - obviously I know outisde driving/clothing, etc.
4) Would expats recommend it in their opinion?

Any advice would be hugely appreciated. Thanks!

Hi,

My wife and I along with our 2 youngest are moving out to JKS and Sharbatly at the end of the month...

I went out to the school, both their idea and at there expense, to "sort out visa and school issues" I can say that I was very impressed with both what I saw at JKS and also at Sharbatly. The school are building new villas for staff, to a high standard and the compound has many excellent facilities.

School, well I guess that after visiting school for 2 weeks and getting the chance to ask anything and go anywhere then both I and Angela are more than happy to leave family and friends to work at JKS.

I don't know if you are on facebook but if so, if you wish to add me then that's fine and there are many photos on there of Sharbatly and school, taken on my visit. If you would like to the either pm me or just reply on here and I will send you my Fb address.

BTW, which Newcastle are you from? I am living in Newcastle under Lyme, Staffs. But from South Shields...


Tc

Ah, how bizarre - I actually live in South Shields right now!

That was a great offer to visit the school. Definitely a great way to settle your mind about the move.

My main concern is life for women over there but it seems like in the compound it is absolutely fine.

I would love too add you on Facebook and see the photos. Thank you!

Nikki

1967tazz wrote:

Hi,

My wife and I along with our 2 youngest are moving out to JKS and Sharbatly at the end of the month...

I went out to the school, both their idea and at there expense, to "sort out visa and school issues" I can say that I was very impressed with both what I saw at JKS and also at Sharbatly. The school are building new villas for staff, to a high standard and the compound has many excellent facilities.

School, well I guess that after visiting school for 2 weeks and getting the chance to ask anything and go anywhere then both I and Angela are more than happy to leave family and friends to work at JKS.

I don't know if you are on facebook but if so, if you wish to add me then that's fine and there are many photos on there of Sharbatly and school, taken on my visit. If you would like to the either pm me or just reply on here and I will send you my Fb address.

BTW, which Newcastle are you from? I am living in Newcastle under Lyme, Staffs. But from South Shields...


Tc


Hi there

Have seen quite a lot of yourposts and seem quite helpful for me

I have an interview with JKS in a couple of days. Did u have yours over skype aswell? Any tips on what to expect?

How is life within the compounds, can men and women go in the pools together nd females dress as they like? Is their alcohol permitted? Are there clubs etc there?

Welcome to Expat.com Z4trouble!

For info, this thread is dated 2011.;)

Harmonie.

Hi,

I am also a female PE teacher being offered a job at JKS and not sure what life is like out there?

Thanks

Hi peteacherloz,
So... what is your expectation? what kind of life are you looking forward?

I just want to know what to expect?

I know there is not alcohol etc but do people socialise as I am a single female and worried about being lonely in the evenings?

Although Im sure I will spend a lot of time in the gym!!

OK .. fine, i will tell you something, Life in Jeddah is fantastic.
bot, you have to know where you should stay & live ? what places you have to go? where and what activities you should do.

don't be worried if you are single you will find lot of people you can socialize inside of compound.

anyhow if you need any help please feel free to conatct me any time.

actually, i born here and i know well Jeddah life style.


Thanks.

Masha allah you had so many answers .

Well i hope what is the best will happen to you ^_^ TC

Good morning all, my name is Stacey and I am moving to Sharbatly village in August and will be teaching PE at JKS.  Just looking for some contacts to speak to as really excited about moving but also nervous about the move.  Would love to get some ideas and pictures if possible.

I am travelling alone and a single girl.  What are the constraints

Look forward to hearing from you soon

Stacey

Hi I am also a PE teacher coming to JKS IN August, how's it been for you and how did you settle in.  Little nervous but really looking forward to the challenge.
.

welcome to jeddah ,

You will have so many good friends dont worry Shorbatily is one of the best .

count me as one of your friends !! ^_^

Thank you for the reply.  So is there plenty to do in the village.  When we leave the village is there any dress regulations for me, what would I need to look out for.

i beleieve yes there are alot !!

you can go out alot here but with Abaya ! its something you cover your body and hair ^_^

we have red sea mall , Arab mall , Aziz mall ^_^ things are well ^_^

Thanks again,

If my parents and or friends would like to visit, is there anything that would stop them. 

Cheers

Hi Stacey,
I'll be starting at JKS in August as well. I have been in Jeddah for about a year now and if by any chance you haven't gotten a chance to be at the school or the compound yet, let me assure you that you won't be disappointed.

I am also wanting to make contacts with currents staff who will be there in 2014 September or anyone starting in September asap please

can I have tazz fb nme plse

Hey everyone,

I have just accepted a teaching role at JKS for August 2014, teaching in Grade 5.

I am wondering if anyone can tell me more about life in jeddah. Is it ok to drive around and explore or are you encouraged to stay in the compound?

Many Thanks!

Jeddah is a great city, so much to see and do, the compound is an amazing place to live, I think one of the the top 2 compounds in Jeddah. Sadly it is the school that you need to worry about...

Hi, but why would you be wanting my facebook name?

I am Tan, working in Dubai. I came last week to Jeddah from Dubai and I stay in Sharbatly compound, it is really very nice place to live. I didn't meet new people here yet as I was busy with my official work here. I am leaving back to Dubai in few days and hope to come next week again.
I make a long evening walk everyday, it would be nice if some of you like to join.

Tan

Hi,
I am interested in finding out what it is like to work at the school and the accommodation. If there is anyone who can help especially with answers as to what it is like to work at the institution and the lifestyle that would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance  :)

I forgot to mention I am considering working at JKS International School! :p

Do a search on the forum for JKS and also for Sharbatly.  Several threads have been made or updated in the recent past.  Someone (former teacher) completely trashed the school just a week or two ago, so make sure you see that post.

Good advice Trapezius...  :D

I'm moving to Jeddah to work in JKS this August myself. I've read a lot of the negative comments but frankly it sounds like the previous private school I worked in (hopefully it won't be as bad). I'm Irish, currently living in Mexico and previously lived in Italy so this will be quite a culture shock although I'm looking forward to the challenge.