Students secure places at leading universities across the UK, USA, Europe, Canada and Australia, highlighting the strength of the school’s academic pathways and university guidance.
Repton Dubai has celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2026 at Dubai Opera, marking an important milestone for 142 students preparing to begin university, military service and other future pathways. The ceremony brought together families, educators and distinguished guests from across the UAE’s education, business, government and philanthropic sectors. It also highlighted the growing success of UAE schools in preparing students for places at some of the world’s most competitive universities.
Held in the presence of Mr Khaled Al Mheiri, Founder and Honorary Chairman of the Repton Family of Schools, the event recognised students from the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), A Level and BTEC pathways.
Repton Dubai Class of 2026 Secures Outstanding University Offers
For parents considering post-16 education, this year’s results reflect the increasing opportunities available through multiple academic pathways at UAE schools.
Collectively, the Class of 2026 received more than 110 offers from universities ranked within the QS World Top 100. Notably, students achieved Repton Dubai’s strongest ever result in the United States with an Ivy League offer from Columbia University.
Graduates also secured offers from leading American institutions including Duke University, Northwestern University, Johns Hopkins University, New York University, UCLA and UC San Diego. Meanwhile, students received offers from prestigious Russell Group universities including Imperial College London, UCL, King’s College London, the University of Edinburgh and the University of Manchester.
In addition, several students earned places at internationally recognised specialist institutions including Parsons School of Design, University of the Arts London (UAL), Bocconi University, IE University, the University of Toronto, the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney.
Alongside university destinations, some graduates have chosen to pursue gap years and military service, reflecting the diverse aspirations of this year’s cohort.
A Graduation That Celebrates Resilience and Community
Senior leaders from Repton Dubai and Cognita Middle East joined students and families for the graduation ceremony.
Attendees included Michael Bloy, Principal; Annette Drake, Vice Principal and Head of Senior School; Matthew Whittaker, Assistant Headteacher and Head of Sixth Form; Glen Radojkovich, UAE Managing Director at Cognita Middle East; Darren Gale, GCC Managing Director; and Ian Wallace, Director of Education.
Michael Bloy, Principal of Repton Dubai, applauded the graduating cohort saying,
“We proudly congratulate our Class of 2026 for embracing every opportunity presented to them during their time at Repton Dubai and navigating a period of uncertainty with exceptional perseverance and character. Watching them grow into thoughtful, globally minded young people has been a source of great pride for the entire school community.”
Preparing Students for Success Beyond School
As competition for places at leading universities continues to grow, schools are placing greater emphasis on academic achievement alongside leadership, service and personal development.
Matthew Whittaker, Assistant Headteacher and Head of Sixth Form at Repton Dubai added,
“This cohort has shown real resilience, maturity and ambition throughout their time in Sixth Form. They have supported one another, embraced opportunities beyond the classroom and grown into confident young people who are ready for the next stage of their lives. We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved and look forward to seeing the contributions they will make in the years ahead.”
The evening also featured a keynote address by Dr Zaki Rakib, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board at BioHarvest Sciences, together with speeches from student leaders reflecting on their school journey.
Student Reflects on a Memorable Final Year
Representing the graduating class, Mira Binlahij Al Falasi, Year 13 student and Head of Repton Dubai’s Emirati Council, reflected on her experience.
“My final year at Repton has been a really memorable one. Alongside completing assessments and university applications, it has been a privilege to serve as Head of Emirati Council and represent such a supportive and diverse student community. Graduation is a proud moment, but it is also a chance to reflect on the friendships, opportunities and experiences that have shaped us. I am excited to begin the next chapter and take everything I have learned at Repton with me.”
Why this Matters for Families
For parents and students planning for higher education, Repton Dubai’s Class of 2026 demonstrates how different sixth form pathways can open doors to leading universities around the world.
The results also reflect the growing reputation of UAE schools in preparing students with the academic knowledge, leadership skills and confidence needed to succeed in an increasingly global higher education landscape.
For more information please visit
Further Reading
- Meet the Repton Dubai Student Who Wrote, Produced and Released His Own Spotify Single at 16
- Repton Dubai Students Showcase Nearly 100 Creative Works at Alserkal Avenue Exhibition