Brighton College Dubai

Here’s a glimpse into Brighton College Dubai—its striking, purpose-built campus nestled in Al Barsha South, blending modern architecture with thoughtful learning spaces and top-tier facilities.

Brighton College Dubai: Key Highlights

Overview & Ethos

• Launched in 2018, Brighton College Dubai is an all-through British independent school, welcoming students from Early Years (FS1) up to Sixth Form (Year 13)

• Guided by the core values of Curiosity, Confidence, and Kindness, it mirrors the ethos of its UK sister school and fellow branches in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

• Led by Head Master Simon Crane, who previously held senior roles at Brighton College Abu Dhabi, the school emphasizes excellence in academics and pastoral care.

Accreditation & Recognition

• Rated Outstanding across all categories in the British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection (2022), with exceptional marks for academic attainment, curriculum, teaching quality, student behaviour, well-being, and leadership.

• Awarded Very Good overall by Dubai’s regulator, KHDA, with 82% of evaluations rated Very Good or higher and 16 Outstanding judgements

• A proud COBIS member, recognized for its safeguarding practices, and a leading BSME school for the International Primary Curriculum (IPC).

Curriculum & Academic Achievement

• Implements the Brighton College Curriculum, rooted in the English National Curriculum, culminating in iGCSEs and A-Levels. The curriculum is both broad and balanced, with strong co-curricular integration.

• GCSE results (2023):

  • 61% achieved A*/A, 76% A*-B, and 97% A*-C. Subjects like Further Maths and Physics saw 100% scoring 9–7 grades.

• Known for high value-added performance, roughly equating to a +2 grade uplift per pupil, and consistently robust academic outcomes.

Campus & Facilities

• Located on a generous purpose-built campus of around 40,000–42,000 m², situated in Al Barsha South, between Hessa Street and Umm Suqeim Street

• Facilities include:

  • Nature-inspired play areas for Early Years

  • Creative Learning Centre, ceramics studio, black-box theatre

  • Science labs, design/technology and STEAM suites with robotics

  • Sports amenities: 25m pool + practice pool, football and rugby pitches, 400 m athletics track, courts, fully equipped sports hall, and fitness suite (open to parents too)

Inclusion & Pastoral

• A strong commitment to inclusive education, tailoring support to learners of all needs—from additional help to gifted & talented—celebrated during COBIS accreditation.

• Emphasis on pastoral well-being is evident, with reports highlighting exemplary behaviour, vibrant classrooms, and a deeply embedded culture of kindness.

Admissions & Fees

• Admissions: Candidates undergo assessments (on-site or online) and interviews. Non-native English speakers may be required to take an additional language proficiency test. Application carries a non-refundable fee (~AED 525).

• Fees (2025–26 estimates) range from around AED 61,000 (FS1) up to AED 100,700 (Year 13), placing the school in the ultra-premium category.

• Sibling discounts: 5% off for 2nd & 3rd child, 10% for 4th, and 15% for 5th onwards. Referral-based discounts available too.

• Scholarships: Up to a 50% fee reduction available for high achievers entering from Years 7–10 via assessments in English, Maths, and an elective, plus an interview.

Community & Reputation

• Built strong ties with Brighton College UK, earning “Best New School in the UAE (2018–2024)” and early-year accolades for excellence

• The school fosters a vibrant co-curricular culture with over 200 activities (e.g., MUN, sailing, sign language), a House system, and leadership roles for pupils.

School Summary

In short: Brighton College Dubai stands out as one of Dubai’s most prestigious British independent schools. It combines exceptional academic performance, world-class facilities, and a deeply caring culture. A great fit for families seeking excellence and holistic development—though it's important to consider its premium fee structure and align expectations accordingly.