Latest news with #studentachievement
BBC News
08-07-2025
- General
- BBC News
Guernsey International Baccalaureate results 'among best ever'
Guernsey's International Baccalaureate (IB) students are continuing to perform better than the global average, the latest results students took the diploma instead of A-levels and achieved a pass, mirroring the performance in 2024. The top result in the IB is 45, while 24 points is a pass equivalent to three grade Bs at Form Centre principal Kieran James said the results were a testament to the hard work of students and their teachers. Future studies He said: "They are among our best results ever. We're thrilled with them this year."The average diploma score this year is 35, compared to a world average of around 30, so we're really thrilled with the general scores of our students."Two of our students have achieved 43 and 42 points respectively and are going on to university in Cambridge."Another IB student has been awarded the Brock scholarship, an undergraduate placement open to one local student at Brock University in Gracia van Zutphen and Lea Ackermann said they were looking forward to future studies in higher said she was planning to study biomedical science at university in the Netherlands, and then enrol on a masters degree."Just the two years that I've been at sixth form, I managed to work hard and get the results that I wanted," she said. Lea is taking a gap year to work at Guernsey's hospital before heading to King's College London to study said: "I got the exact points I needed to go to the university I wanted, so I'm also pleased with what I said they studied IBs over A-levels due to extra subjects offered, including compulsory foreign languages, maths, science and said: "I wanted to take a broad range of subjects and I did the IB because I wanted to study abroad, so it's an international program and that's why I did it."Lea agreed: "I guess I also wanted that breadth that IB offered, and, at the time, I didn't really know what I wanted to do, so it kept my options open."Nick Hynes, the island's Director of Education, said: "This is a very impressive set of results and a credit to both students and staff at the Sixth Form Centre."However, the post-16 International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) run has been paused for the 2025/26 academic year, due to a low number of students signing up.
Zawya
07-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sunmarke School Class of 2025 IBDP Results: A Testament to the Positive Education Approach
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Sunmarke School is thrilled to announce the outstanding results of its International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) Class of 2025. This year, Sunmarke students have once again surpassed global standards and set new records, demonstrating the exceptional quality of education and student achievement at the institution. The Class of 2025 has achieved an average IBDP score of 36.4, more than 6 points above the global average. Nicholas Rickford, Principal of Sunmarke School, expressed immense pride in the achievements of the Class of 2025. "Fortes Education is extremely proud of Sunmarke students' achievements this year. We are seeing so many students, who have been with Fortes Education for their whole time in Secondary, achieve such outstanding results. It is a testament to our educational philosophy and the way we nurture students over a long period of time. Students have bought into our ethos, and we could not be prouder of what they have achieved." Key Highlights: Average score of 36.4, more than 6 points above the world average 28% of students scored 40+ points 90% of students exceeded the world average 66% scored 35 or more points The highest individual score was 44 points – out of a possible 45! Thomas Housham, Head of 6th Form at Sunmarke School, highlighted the comprehensive nature of the IBDP and the balanced achievements of the students. "The IBDP is a challenging programme for students, and I have great admiration for the broad range of academic success they have achieved. I am equally proud of the impact that they have had on the wider school community. From being members of the student leadership team and Eco Committee to representing sports squads and participating in performances, our IBDP students have left a legacy. They will not be forgotten, and, for the Sunmarke community, they will always be more than scores on a piece of paper.' Sunmarke's IBDP graduates are set to attend some of the world's most prestigious universities, including University College London, New York University, Trinity College Dublin and the University of Toronto. The students' diverse university destinations across the UK, Netherlands, USA, and Canada reflect the global recognition of their talents and the comprehensive preparation they have received at Sunmarke. The IBDP's comprehensive approach to education has been instrumental in preparing students for their future academic endeavours. One student shared, "I have enjoyed the IBDP because subjects don't focus solely on academics and memorising facts; rather, they help students gain a deeper understanding of topics as well as developing critical thinking skills, enabling us to deduce solutions ourselves." Parents have also expressed their gratitude for the school's support. One parent commented, "As parents, we are grateful that our son has been studying his last two years at Sunmarke; it was a good decision. Your academic support and guidance during these two years has been invaluable to him and will stay with him forever." Looking ahead, Sunmarke School is committed to maintaining this standard. The school's focus on personalised learning, critical thinking and global awareness continues to prepare students for the challenges of higher education and beyond. As part of the Fortes Education group, Sunmarke School's success reflects the organisation's broader commitment to educational excellence. Fortes Education, a leading education provider in the UAE, has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in student achievement. The group's innovative approach to learning, combining rigorous academics with character development and real-world skills, has been pivotal in shaping the success of Sunmarke and its sister schools. Fortes Education's vision of creating "happy children, confident individuals and successful learners" is exemplified in the achievements of Sunmarke's Class of 2025. By fostering an environment that encourages curiosity, resilience, and global mindedness, Fortes Education continues to set new standards in international education, preparing students not just for university, but for life as future leaders and changemakers in an increasingly complex world. As Sunmarke School celebrates this milestone, it looks forward to continuing its tradition of excellence, inspiring future generations of students to reach their full potential and make a positive impact on the world. About Sunmarke School Sunmarke School, a part of the Fortes Education family, is a leading educational institution in Dubai known for its innovative and character-building approach to learning. Recognised as one of the top five schools in the region, Sunmarke School boasts outstanding results in both the International Baccalaureate (IB) and A-Level programmes. It also takes pride in its successful university placements and student corporate internships, testifying to its commitment to academic excellence. The school is globally recognised as a leader in Positive Education. At Sunmarke School, students are encouraged to thrive not just intellectually, but also emotionally and socially. This holistic approach to education ensures that students are equipped with the necessary skills to navigate the challenges of the modern world confidently. Located in JVT, Sunmarke School offers a vibrant and dynamic learning environment. About Fortes Education Fortes Education, founded over 40 years ago by Mrs. Shakuntala Mankani, is a global leader in delivering world-class, holistic education. The organisation operates schools and early education centers that foster academic excellence, character development, and well-being. With a team of over 900 passionate educators and innovators, Fortes Education is home to two prestigious schools, Regent International School and Sunmarke School, and a leading early education brand, Jumeirah International Nursery. Regent International School, a top-tier institution in the UAE, offers an enriched British education that emphasises not only academic achievement but also personal growth and values. Sunmarke School, recognised as one of the most transformative schools in the Middle East, provides an ambitious, values-based education that secures top university placements for its students. Jumeirah International Nursery, with nine branches across the UAE, sets the standard for early education excellence. The cornerstone of Fortes Education's approach is Positive Education, a unique blend of Positive Psychology and best teaching practices that allow individuals, schools, and communities to flourish.
Khaleej Times
07-07-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
Fomo in studies? UAE's IB toppers say passion, 'fear of missing opportunities' key to scores
As IB results were announced on Saturday, some UAE students achieved scores that rank them among the top 0.1 per cent of IB Diploma candidates globally. But when asked what got them there, rather than long hours of last-minute cramming, most spoke of purpose, curiosity, and staying true to themselves, even when things were unpredictable. Aanya Khandelwal, a student of GEMS Modern Academy (GMA) and part of the Rahhal programme, was one of the few to achieve the perfect score of 45. But her journey through the IB wasn't typical. While others were in classrooms, Aanya was often representing youth voices at the United Nations. 'I actually worked for the United Nations (UN),' she shared with Khaleej Times, describing a demanding schedule where she regularly missed school. 'Very often I would miss school because, nearly every Thursday, I would have UN calls that I needed to attend. And at least for a month, every semester or so, I would have a UN conference to attend elsewhere.' Balancing global diplomacy and academics might seem overwhelming, but Aanya found a rhythm that worked for her. 'Consistency with many hours of studies is not something that I'd pride myself on… I generally used to study close to test dates,' she admitted. 'I think consistency is something that's more integral with something that is more content based, like biology.' Taking four Higher Level subjects while being on Rahhal pushed her limits, but Aanya said the IB gave her space to grow intellectually and emotionally. 'Subjects like English, literature, politics, economics; a lot of them were interpretive. I was really lucky that my exposure with the UN gave me a deeper understanding. I didn't have to push myself as much when it came to politics, for example, because I already had context.' Staying present in the classroom For Melis Yilmaz, another perfect scorer from Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills, the challenge was more traditional — but no less personal. She is now preparing to study medicine at Imperial College London. 'I took Biology HL, Chemistry HL; those were the hardest subjects for me, yet, I enjoyed them the most and felt less pressure,' she said. Melis wasn't someone who studied endlessly throughout the year. During regular terms, it was a couple of hours a day. 'But four to six weeks before exams, I started studying five to six hours a day,' she said. What helped her most was staying present in the classroom. 'I would emphasise the importance of giving a 100 per cent of your effort during class, because then you have less to revise over in exam times since you understood everything properly the first time around. Also, I had the best teachers who always answered my excessive questions, and made time for me whenever I asked for it,' added the Turkish expat. Unlike many others, Melis found coursework like the Internal Assessments, the Theory of Knowledge essay and the Extended Essay more stressful than the final exams. 'But again, what helped was selecting topics for my coursework which I actually felt interested in,' she said. 'Academic excellence is only possible when you like your subjects and feel passionate about the fact that there is so much knowledge in the world and you want to get to know as much as you can.' Excel sheet to track revision progress At DIA Al Barsha, Kanishka Kesharwani topped her school with 44 points and is headed to Durham University to study law. For her, success came from a deep sense of self-awareness — combined with a little fear. 'I believe my motivation was largely self-driven, and a big part of that came from the supportive environment my family provided — they never imposed any academic pressure on me,' she said. 'I've always seen potential in myself, but I'm also deeply aware of how overconfidence can lead to missed opportunities. That awareness kept me grounded and motivated.' After underwhelming mock results, she turned to structure for comfort. 'I immediately created a color-coded Excel sheet to track my revision progress out of fear. But watching topics shift from red to green gave me a unique sense of fulfillment,' she added. To her peers and juniors, she offered a simple piece of advice, 'don't let go of opportunities just because they require extra effort.' Kanishka also made it a point to plan ahead. 'College applications took up most of my time until October, followed by internal assessments through December. Between December and the February mock exams, I made it a point to spend time with friends and family. Those memories are just as valuable as the academic milestones.'
Zawya
06-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Top IB results for 2024/2025 reflect Repton Dubai's academic strength
RELATED TOPICS EDUCATION RELATED COMPANIES Univer College Cognita Schools Cognita Limited 100% of students awarded the diploma, scored 26 points and above. Maryam Perjessy achieved 43 points in the IB Diploma, Ben Gosling 41 points and Umar Suleman 40 points. All of these students have secured places at their first choice universities; Maryam Perjessy to study Chemical Engineering at the University of Michigan, Ben Gosling to study Engineering at University College London and Umar Suleman to study PPE at Warwick University. Dubai, UAE: Repton School Dubai is delighted to announce another year of outstanding achievements in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The 2024/2025 cohort has delivered exceptional results, with an impressive average score of 35 points, significantly surpassing the global average of 30 points. A remarkable 100% of Repton Dubai students awarded the diploma achieved over 26 points, while 87% exceeded the global average. These results reflect the school's continued commitment to academic excellence and student success. Many of Repton Dubai's top-performing students exceeded expectations, a couple of examples include Suphia Al Falasi, our highest scoring Emirati student who achieved 39 points, securing her place to study Law at Bristol University. Keira Roberton will likewise go on to study Law at her first choice university, Edinburgh with 37 points. Their successful placements at leading global institutions is a testament to the dedication, resilience, and hard work that defines the Repton community. Repton Dubai is also proud to highlight the achievements of students heading to top universities across the globe to pursue a wide range of disciplines. This year's IB cohort has received offers from prestigious institutions such as University College London, Edinburgh University, Kings College London, the University of San Diego and many more. Top achieving students' scores and their university destinations included: Speaking on the success of the graduating class, Michael Bloy, Principal of Repton Dubai School, said: ' We are immensely proud of our students' achievements in this year's IB examinations. These results reflect not only academic rigour, but also the resilience, creativity, and critical thinking our students embody. I congratulate every graduate and thank our dedicated staff and supportive families who have guided them on this journey." Repton School has long been recognised for its academic heritage and global outlook. In previous years, graduates have secured places at some of the world's most esteemed universities, including the University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Stanford University, Columbia University, Boston University, the University of Edinburgh, and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Rated Outstanding by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) since 2014, and featured in the prestigious Spear's Top 100 Schools Index 2025 as one of the top 10 in the Middle East, and among the top three schools in Dubai, Repton Dubai remains committed to nurturing well-rounded, globally-minded individuals prepared to thrive in the world's leading universities and beyond. For more information on Repton Dubai, please visit: For more information and media enquiries: Plus 1 Communications / yara@ About Repton School Dubai Repton School Dubai opened its doors in 2007 to offer world-class educational experience for children of all nationalities, from ages 3 to 18 and boarding experience from age 11. It is a sister school of Repton Al Barsha and Repton Abu Dhabi, both in the UAE, as well as a partner school of the reputed Repton School in the United Kingdom, which was founded in 1557 and which continues to boast a stellar reputation in both the academic and sporting fields. Combining the reputation and academic rigour of the UK curriculum, Repton Dubai has been consistently rated as 'Outstanding' by KHDA inspections since 2014 and endeavours to promote excellence in every area of a child's and student's life at school, within and outside the classroom. In the 2023-2024 academic year, the school celebrated a decade of Outstanding rating by the KHDA, and has also attained a significant milestone, ranked among the top 5 schools in Dubai and top 10 schools in the Middle East region in the prestigious Spear's Top 100 Schools Index 2025. Repton School Dubai offers a full range of the GCSE curriculum, in addition to the IB Diploma, IB Career Programme, BTEC and the A Level curriculum with a choice of 45 subjects to help achieve a deep understanding of varied academic fields. The school has two boarding houses and provides boarding accommodation for students, either full term boarding or a more flexible weekly boarding option. Both the junior and senior schools are located on a spectacular campus of 1.3 million sq. ft. in Nad Al Sheba, making it the largest school in the region. About Cognita Launched in 2004, Cognita is an extraordinary community of schools that span 16 countries and share one common purpose: to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. With over 100 schools in Europe and the US, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia, Cognita employs over 18,000 teaching and support staff in the care and education of more than 90,000 students. Together, Cognita schools provide a uniquely global education that goes beyond grades, to develop all-round academic excellence – equipping young people with the agency, adaptability and positive attitudes that prepares them to grow, thrive and find their success in a rapidly evolving world. Cognita Middle East has nine schools within its portfolio, including: RGS Guildford Dubai, Repton Dubai, Repton Al Barsha and Repton Abu Dhabi, Horizon English School, Horizon International School, Ranches Primary School and Al Ain English Speaking School in the UAE, and Dasman Bilingual School in Kuwait.
Zawya
05-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
GEMS Education celebrates exceptional IB results across its seven UAE IB schools
Three students score highest score possible of 45 in the Diploma Programme Dubai, UAE: GEMS Education students enrolled in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP) have once again achieved remarkable success in their final examinations, surpassing global benchmarks and gaining entry to leading universities around the world. A total of 645 Grade 12/Year 13 students from seven GEMS schools across the UAE sat the IB Diploma exams this year. Together, they achieved an average point score of 34 and a pass rate of 95%, exceeding the 2024 global averages of 30 points and 80% respectively. Notably, three students attained the maximum score possible of 45 – a rare accomplishment earned by less than 0.5% of candidates worldwide. Lisa Crausby OBE, Group Chief Education Officer at GEMS Education, said: 'Our students have once again shown what's possible with ambition, perseverance, and the right support. These outstanding results reflect their tireless effort and the dedication of our world-class educators. Every success story here speaks to the strength of our IB programmes and the values that underpin a GEMS education. 'We take pride in nurturing global citizens – curious, compassionate, and courageous young people who are ready to make their mark. As our students take the next steps into higher education and beyond, they carry with them the confidence and capability to lead, to innovate, and to shape a better world.' In parallel, 49 students from three GEMS schools (GEMS International School – Al Khail, GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis, and GEMS Wellington International School) completed the IB CP, a forward-looking qualification designed for students pursuing pathways aligned with their career aspirations. The seven GEMS schools offering the IB include: GEMS World Academy – Dubai GEMS International School – Al Khail GEMS Wellington International School GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis GEMS Dubai American Academy GEMS American Academy – Abu Dhabi GEMS Modern Academy Nargish Khambatta, Principal, GEMS Modern Academy and Executive Vice President – Education, GEMS Education, said: 'The IB DP Class of 2025 are poised to shape their tomorrow, grounded in intellect, guided by integrity, and strengthened by unwavering dedication. These impressive results reflect not just academic excellence, but the courage, resilience, and depth of thought our students have cultivated. 'This success belongs to our entire community – students, teachers, and parents as well, who have journeyed together with purpose and heart. At Modern, we are deeply proud of the remarkable individuals they have evolved into.' These achievements are the result of years of dedication, world-class teaching, and a shared commitment to excellence. As GEMS graduates take their next steps, they do so not only with impressive results, but with the mindset and character needed to thrive in a complex and fast-changing world. About GEMS Education Every day, GEMS Education has the privilege of educating more than 200,000 students from over 176 countries through its owned and managed schools around the world. With nearly half a million alumni who have influenced countless lives, GEMS is recognised as one of the most impactful education groups globally. Founded in the UAE in 1959, GEMS Education is the largest and most respected K–12 private education group in the world, with a track record of providing diverse curricula and educational opportunities to families from all socio-economic backgrounds. What began as a single school in a private home in Dubai remains a family business to this day. Its inspiring Chairman and Founder, Sunny Varkey, and his sons, Dino Varkey, the Group Chief Executive Officer, and Jay Varkey, the Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer, continue to provide vision, insight, and strategic leadership across the organisation. Through its growing school network and philanthropic initiatives, GEMS is committed to fulfilling its vision of putting a quality education within the reach of every learner, everywhere. Each year, GEMS students graduate to join the world's leading universities. Over the past five years alone, they have been accepted into over 1,050 universities in 53 countries – including all eight Ivy League institutions in the United States and all 24 Russell Group universities in the United Kingdom. GEMS alumni have gone on to successful careers in all sectors around the world, including a large proportion reaching CEO and C-suite status. For further information about GEMS Education, visit or contact: Shilpa Johnson, Account Director, Four
