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How The English College, Dubai Prepares Students for Global Success

by Anwesha Sengupta
Students conducting a science experiment in the lab at The English College

At The English College, Dubai (EC), students are encouraged to always try their best and aspire towards excellence. The school’s aim is clear: to empower learners with the skillset, knowledge, and mindset to thrive in an ever-changing world. Its educational approach is rooted in academic excellence, individualised pathways, and a culture of curiosity and character development — a winning combination that continues to deliver exceptional outcomes.

Sixth Form students at The English College, Dubai seated on wooden steps
Sixth Form students at The English College, Dubai seated on wooden steps

A Legacy of Excellence in British Education

With over 30 years of experience delivering high-quality British education in Dubai, EC has earned a strong reputation. The foundation of this success lies in the dedication of its teachers, who use personalised approaches and innovative learning techniques to support every child—regardless of their academic starting point.

Equally, students at EC embody values of Aspiration, Gratitude, Integrity, Resilience and Respect. This synergy between staff and students is central to the school’s identity and success.

Students from different year groups at The English College posing in front of campus
Students from different year groups at The English College posing in front of campus

Global University Acceptances and Cambridge Success

This academic year, EC proudly celebrates the acceptance of a Year 13 student into the University of Cambridge to study Land Economy, having been awarded a prestigious 90% scholarship. This incredible achievement reflects not only academic excellence, but also the ambition, dedication, and determination the school strives to nurture in all its students.

Other university offers received by EC students span top institutions across the globe. These include:

  • UK: King’s College London, The University of Edinburgh, The University of Manchester, and Durham University
  • Australia: University of New South Wales
  • Netherlands: Erasmus University
  • USA: University of Texas at Dallas
  • UAE: NYU Abu Dhabi and University of Birmingham Dubai

Academic Distinction with Pearson Awards

Reinforcing its academic excellence, 22 EC students received the prestigious Pearson High Achiever Awards in 2024. Among them, nine students achieved the highest mark in the world for their subject, while another earned the top score in the Middle East. 12 students also received the Outstanding Learner Award. These achievements underscore EC’s commitment to exceptional academic standards.

Future Pathways: Tailored to Every Student

Future Pathways are central to EC’s educational approach. Students benefit from:

  • Personalised academic journeys
  • A choice between GCSEs, A-Levels, and BTEC qualifications
  • Career guidance that evolves with their goals

The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing each student to pursue the qualifications best suited to their future—whether that’s entrance to a top-tier university or a global career.

Secondary students studying and collaborating in the library at The English College
Secondary students studying and collaborating in the library at The English College

Sixth Form Support and University Preparation

The school’s Sixth Form programme offers:

  • Tailored careers and university counselling
  • One-on-one mentorship
  • Personalised guidance on personal statements
  • Access to global university fairs

Whether applying to Oxbridge, Ivy League institutions, or top universities in Europe, Canada, or the UAE, EC students are supported every step of the way.

ISP Scholarships and Leadership Development

To further expand opportunities available to their students, the school recently introduced the ISP Secondary Scholarships Programme. This initiative is designed to recognise and nurture exceptional students in three key areas:

  • Academic Excellence
  • International Learner
  • Tomorrow’s Leaders

These scholarships offer financial support and access to advanced development initiatives, encouraging students to stretch their abilities beyond the classroom.

Sustainability and Student-Led Change

As part of ISP’s wider sustainability efforts, EC students launched the ‘Switch to Save – Spark Sustainability’ initiative, reducing the school’s energy consumption by over 20% weekly.

Sixth Form students studying in the relaxed lounge space at The English College
Sixth Form students studying in the relaxed lounge space at The English College

Additionally, the school’s Eco Warrior (ECA) team received a £500 grant to redevelop the learning gardens as part of their Farmers Market Project. These gardens will soon provide fresh produce—grown and sold by students themselves.

The school also just recently received ‘Most Committed to Whole School Sustainability’ award and a AED 25,000 at the ISP Class of Change Summit, highlighting the whole school’s commitment to sustainability. 

A Culture of Respect, Growth, and Purpose

The English College Dubai consistently introduces new initiatives that nurture academic, social, and emotional growth. While the school has many achievements to celebrate, what truly defines EC is its culture of encouragement, respect, and ambition.

More than just outstanding learners, EC students are confident changemakers—ready to lead, influence, and make a lasting impact on the world around them.

Teacher and students engaged in a classroom activity at The English College
Teacher and students engaged in a classroom activity at The English College

To find out more, visit The English College website.

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