Brighton College Abu Dhabi

Updated July 2026

Brighton College Abu Dhabi is a leading private school for boys and girls aged 3 to 18, offering a British curriculum education that blends academic rigour with a holistic approach to pupil development. It is part of the Brighton International family of schools and is recognized for its outstanding educational standards and community-focused environment.

Teaching approach

The school’s educational philosophy is based on the traditions of British independent education and the standards of Brighton College UK. It prioritizes a holistic approach that links academic and pastoral development, aiming to foster global citizens who are equipped with the skills to lead in the future. The school culture is built upon the core values of kindness, the development of confidence, and the encouragement of curiosity.

Programmes

The school delivers the Brighton College Curriculum, which is based on the National Curriculum of England and Wales. The Pre-Prep School (Nursery/FS1 to Year 2) adapts the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage, while the Prep School (Years 3–6) and Senior School (Years 7–13) provide a seamless progression toward International GCSEs in Year 10 and 11 and A-levels in the Sixth Form. The curriculum is designed to be deep, broad, and balanced, with specialist teaching introduced in the secondary years.

Outcomes

The school is rated 'outstanding' in every category by the British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection report. In 2025, graduates achieved strong examination results, with 44% of grades at A-A, 68% at A-B, and 89% at A*-C. The school is also recognized as one of the top 10 schools in the UAE by the Spear’s Schools Index.

Student support

EAL support
Unknown
Learning support
Unknown

Learning support

The school emphasizes a culture of kindness, confidence, and curiosity, with a focus on the social and emotional development of pupils. Leadership and staff are dedicated to creating a nurturing, safe, and inclusive environment where pupils of all backgrounds and starting points are supported to make progress.

Frequently asked questions(5)
What curriculum does Brighton College Abu Dhabi offer?
Brighton College Abu Dhabi offers National Curriculum (England), British EYFS, IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
How much is tuition at Brighton College Abu Dhabi?
Annual tuition at Brighton College Abu Dhabi is AED 50.8K–AED 80.8K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
What accreditations does Brighton College Abu Dhabi hold?
Brighton College Abu Dhabi holds accreditations including British Schools Overseas and COBIS.
Is Brighton College Abu Dhabi co-educational?
Brighton College Abu Dhabi is a co-ed school.
Where is Brighton College Abu Dhabi located?
Brighton College Abu Dhabi is an international school in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Tuition & fees

Annual tuition by grade

2025-2026
Annual tuition by grade
GradeAgesAnnual
Nursery (FS1)3–4AED 50.8K
FS24–5AED 52.9K
Year 15–6AED 62.6K
Year 26–7AED 62.6K
Year 37–8AED 62.6K
Year 48–9AED 62.6K
Year 59–10AED 62.6K
Year 610–11AED 68.6K
Year 711–12AED 68.6K
Year 812–13AED 68.6K
Year 913–14AED 68.6K
Year 1014–15AED 80.8K
Year 1115–16AED 80.8K
Year 1216–17AED 80.8K
Year 1317–18AED 80.8K

Admissions

The school invites prospective families to connect with the Admissions Team to arrange a visit, which may include an Open Morning or an individual tour. Applications are submitted via an online registration form, and the school recommends that families register as early as possible. The campus is located in Bloom Gardens, Khalifa Park, and is supported by an extensive school bus network covering major districts in Abu Dhabi.

Calendar

The academic year is divided into three terms: Autumn, Spring, and Summer. The 2025/2026 Autumn Term runs from late August to early December, the Spring Term from early January to early March, and the Summer Term from late March to early July. These dates include scheduled half-term breaks and public holidays, though the school notes that dates for Islamic holidays are subject to change based on official announcements.

About the campus

The campus is located in Bloom Gardens, Khalifa Park, and features facilities designed to support a broad range of academic, creative, and physical pursuits. The school provides an environment that includes dedicated spaces for fine arts and creative studios.

Co-curriculars

The school provides a comprehensive co-curricular activities programme designed to allow pupils to pursue existing interests and explore new ones. This enrichment is integrated into the daily life of the school to support holistic development alongside academic studies.

  • Mr Barney DurrantHead Master

    Mr Durrant has significant experience in independent schools, previously serving as Head at St Lawrence College in the UK and Principal Deputy Head Pastoral at Harrow Hong Kong. He holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Management from the University of Nottingham and a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography from University College London. He believes strongly in the link between academic and pastoral development.

  • Mrs Ruth ForsytheVice-Principal

    Mrs Forsythe is an experienced educational leader who has dedicated over a decade of her career to Brighton College Abu Dhabi. She is a compassionate mentor who focuses on the holistic development of pupils and the empowerment of staff. As a parent of two children at the College, she brings a unique perspective to her leadership role.

  • Dr Jennifer WaltersHead of Senior School

    Dr Walters joined Brighton College Abu Dhabi in 2021, having previously served as the Founding Head of Senior School at Fettes College Guangzhou. Her background includes teaching, leadership, and boarding roles at prominent UK independent schools such as Fettes College, Malvern College, and Bedford Girls’ School. She is influenced by the work of Professor Sir Ken Robinson and focuses on equipping pupils for their future beyond school.

  • Mr Luke BromwichHead of Prep School

    Mr Bromwich has extensive experience leading schools in the UK and internationally, including serving as Headmaster at St Margaret’s Prep and Deputy Head at Kellett School in Hong Kong. He is an active member of IAPS and has experience as a Foundation Governor. He studied Engineering at Exeter University before pursuing a career in education.

  • Ms Kelly MansbridgeHead of Pre-Prep and Nursery

    Ms Mansbridge joined the College six years ago and is a dedicated leader with experience in both the UAE and the UK. She is deeply committed to early education, focusing on social, emotional, and academic development. She promotes a culture of kindness, compassion, and resilience to ensure every child can thrive.