At Brighton College Dubai, our Sixth Form is a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment where academic curiosity is not only encouraged but expected. Pupils are inspired to think independently, challenge ideas and explore their subjects in depth, supported by expert teaching across a broad curriculum. Alongside their academic journey, pupils develop confidence through meaningful leadership opportunities and are guided by our core value of kindness.
We nurture inquisitive minds through research, debate and enrichment experiences that go beyond exam specifications. Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, mentor younger peers and contribute positively to the College community with empathy and integrity. We focus not just on guiding pupils into top universities, but on preparing them to thrive—academically, socially, and personally—during their time there and in the years that follow. In the Sixth Form, this bespoke combination of curiosity, confidence, and kindness equips our pupils to flourish both at university and beyond as compassionate global citizens.
Matthew Flower
Head of Sixth Form
Brighton College seeks to impart or provide:
- a love of learning for its own sake;
- a foundation of knowledge and body of skills with which to understand and question the world we live in and to prepare us, through an innovative approach to education, for the world we are likely to inhabit in the future;
- an enthusiasm for the world beyond the classroom – in particular, sport, music and the performing arts;
- a respect for difference in others and a recognition that the efforts and achievements of every individual in our community are valued equally;
- an awareness of the needs of others, and a firm belief that – whatever our age – we can make a difference, locally and globally, right now.
In short, we strive to turn out well-educated, tolerant and intellectually curious young adults who are ready to take a full, active and positive role in the life of our country and of our world.
Our Sixth Formers set the tone for the school, with a wide array of leadership opportunities available. They can become Heads of School, Prefects, College Ambassadors, lead clubs, or mentor younger pupils. Training is provided in mentoring, which many find to be a rewarding experience.
Pupils are encouraged to extend their learning beyond the classroom by reading extensively to deepen their knowledge and cultivate intellectual curiosity. We explicitly teach study skills grounded in neuroscience to equip pupils with strategies for managing university-level workloads, ensuring they become confident, independent learners.
In the Sixth Form, pupils pursue a combination of A-levels and BTECs. The A-level curriculum allows pupils to master three or four complementary or contrasting subject areas, tailored to their interests and career aspirations.
Pupils typically begin with four subjects in Lower Sixth (Year 12), narrowing to three by the end of the year. They receive tailored advice from the Senior Leadership Team to select subject combinations aligned with their university aspirations, with applications submitted in Upper Sixth (Year 13).
BTECs are vocational qualifications that focus on practical, real-world skills and knowledge, making them an excellent option for pupils seeking hands-on experience and preparation for specific career paths or further education.
The Sixth Form experience is designed to prepare pupils for university and working life, offering academic rigour, independence, and personal development.
Our curriculum also supports independent learning, encouraging pupils to pursue subjects independently if they demonstrate the knowledge and skills to do so. Beyond academics, our extensive extra-curricular offerings and LAMDA programs ensure that every pupil has the opportunity to flourish in a well-rounded and balanced environment.
Alumni from Brighton College Dubai are now studying at some of the world's top universities, reading anything from theoretical physics to international relations and law. Last year's graduates headed to Imperial College London, the Sorbonne in Paris and the University of Hong Kong, along with a total of ten Russell Group universities.
Whilst the UK remains Brighton College Dubai's number one destination for our graduating pupils, we support and encourage applications to absolutely anywhere. Whether pupils want to apply to North American colleges, Asian or European universities, or indeed stay here in the Gulf, they will receive personalised bespoke support and guidance throughout the university application process. The College has a full-time and very experienced Futures Counsellor, a knowledgeable and supportive team of tutors and access to the wider network of Brighton College expertise. Pupils in the Lower Sixth are given access to the latest information on how to make their university application stand out. We host a wide range of speakers from global university destinations and organise campus visits and trips to university fairs.
In the Upper Sixth, Brighton College Dubai pupils are provided with detailed and personalised support on the application process itself and assistance with preparing for entrance examinations and/or improving their interview technique. The proof of the effectiveness of our provision can be seen in the quality and range of successful applications and the rich tapestry of alumni now spread across four continents.
The best way to experience what life is like at Brighton College is to join us at an Open Morning, where you will have the chance to talk to pupils and teachers about what makes our school such a special place, and to answer any questions you have about life here.
