UK Grammar School to Open Campus in Dubai Sports City
A prestigious UK grammar school is set to broaden its horizons by opening a new campus in Dubai Sports City. Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, plans to welcome its first students in August 2026, marking a significant step in its international expansion. This initiative, in collaboration with GEDU Global Education, has received initial approval from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).
Educational Framework and Facilities
The new Dubai campus will follow the National Curriculum for England, providing a comprehensive K-12 educational experience. Initially, the school will cater to students from Nursery through Year 8, with plans for a gradual introduction of Sixth Form classes. Located in Dubai Sports City, the school will offer students access to state-of-the-art sports facilities, enhancing their academic journey through the QE Flourish Programme, which emphasizes holistic development.
Vision for Global Education
Caroline Pendleton-Nash, CEO of Queen Elizabeth’s Global Schools, expressed enthusiasm about the KHDA’s endorsement, stating that it allows the school to pursue its mission of delivering high-quality education to students in the UAE. She highlighted that this is the first instance of a UK state grammar school establishing an international branch, marking a significant milestone in global education.
Neil Enright, Headmaster of Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the commitment to uphold the values and academic standards of the UK institution while integrating Dubai’s innovative spirit. He anticipates that this new branch will foster international exchanges and expand the Elizabethan network, benefiting students and educators alike.
Historical Significance
Founded in 1573, Queen Elizabeth’s School has a rich history of academic excellence, consistently ranking among the top schools in the UK. It was recently recognized as the 2025 Sunday Times State Secondary School of the Year for A-levels, underscoring its commitment to high educational standards. The establishment of the Dubai campus represents a growing collaboration between the UK and UAE educational sectors, reflecting a shared goal of providing quality education.
FAQs
When will the new school in Dubai open?
The new Queen Elizabeth’s School campus in Dubai Sports City is scheduled to open in August 2026.
What curriculum will the Dubai campus follow?
The Dubai campus will implement the National Curriculum for England, ensuring a familiar educational framework for students.
What age groups will the school cater to initially?
Initially, the school will serve students from Nursery through Year 8, with plans to expand to include Sixth Form classes in the future.
Conclusion
The opening of Queen Elizabeth’s School in Dubai Sports City represents a significant advancement in the internationalization of UK education. With a commitment to maintaining high academic standards while embracing local innovation, the school aims to provide a well-rounded educational experience. As the launch date approaches, further developments and details about the school’s programs and admissions will be eagerly anticipated.
The establishment of Queen Elizabeth’s School in Dubai aligns with a broader trend of UK educational institutions expanding their reach internationally. Over recent years, several British schools have opened campuses in various countries, particularly in the Middle East, where there is a growing demand for high-quality education. This trend reflects the increasing globalization of education, as families seek international curricula that prepare students for a competitive global landscape.
Dubai Sports City, the chosen location for the new campus, is known for its focus on sports and wellness, making it an ideal environment for a school that emphasizes physical education alongside academic achievement. The area is home to various sports facilities and academies, which will complement the school’s commitment to fostering a well-rounded educational experience. This integration of sports and academics is expected to attract families interested in a holistic approach to education.
As the school prepares for its opening, it will likely engage with the local community to ensure that its programs meet the needs and expectations of families in Dubai. This engagement may include partnerships with local organizations and participation in community events, further embedding the school within the fabric of Dubai’s educational landscape. The collaboration with GEDU Global Education also suggests a strategic approach to navigating the unique educational environment of the UAE, ensuring that the school’s offerings are both relevant and impactful.
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