At Victory Heights Primary School – City of Arabia, Basil represents more than a school mascot. He symbolises the care, courage, and sense of belonging that define our community. From welcoming our youngest children to appearing throughout school life, Basil reflects our belief that a school is built not only through buildings, but through relationships, kindness, and shared experiences.
Meet Basil
At Victory Heights Primary School – City of Arabia, Basil is more than a mascot. He represents the spirit of our school — kindness, courage, and the sense of belonging that sits at the heart of our community. Basil is the cousin of Victor, the much-loved Victory Heights Bear from our sister school in Sports City. Just as Victor has become a familiar and reassuring presence for children and families, Basil represents the beginning of a new chapter as our City of Arabia community continues to grow. For many of our youngest children, Basil is also a symbol of comfort and reassurance. Each child joining FS1 receives their own bear, representing the nurture, care, and support we believe every child deserves. Starting school can feel like a big step, and Basil provides something familiar to hold onto as children build confidence, independence, and new friendships.
Building a School Together
In his first year at City of Arabia, Basil wears his orange overalls and toolbelt. This choice is intentional. When we first visited the site that would become Victory Heights Primary School – City of Arabia, the construction teams working tirelessly to build the school were dressed in orange. Their work laid the physical foundations of our campus, and Basil’s clothing recognises their efforts and the pride taken in creating a place for children to learn and grow. More importantly, it reflects a belief that a school is never truly finished. While buildings may be completed, a school continues to be shaped every day by the people within it. Families, staff, and children are all part of building something together — a community that evolves, strengthens, and grows over time.
A Name That Reflects Courage
The name Basil is derived from the Arabic word associated with courage and bravery. This meaning resonates strongly with our journey as a new school. Opening a new school requires courage — from families who choose to join something new, from staff who commit to building a culture from the ground up, and from children who take their first steps into unfamiliar surroundings. Basil represents that shared courage and the trust placed in our community as Victory Heights Primary School – City of Arabia continues to grow in the heart of Dubai.
Basil Around Our School
Basil appears throughout school life, from classroom displays and reading initiatives to events, celebrations, and school communications. He is a familiar and friendly presence that helps connect different parts of the school experience, particularly for younger children as they settle into routines and new environments. Whether appearing in school visuals, welcoming new families, or quietly appearing in corners around the campus, Basil serves as a reminder of the warmth, care, and sense of community that define Victory Heights Primary School – City of Arabia.