Horizon International School in Dubai has announced its strongest GCSE results to date for the Class of 2026, marking another year of solid academic progress and student achievement. The school reported that 96% of students achieved grades 9-4 (A*-C), 80% secured grades 9-6 (A*-B), 56% attained grades 9-7 (A*-A), and 40% reached the top grades of 9-8 (A*). The cohort also recorded a 100% pass rate, confirming the best overall set of GCSE outcomes in the school’s history.
Performance in core subjects was particularly strong. Ninety-eight percent of students achieved grades 9-4 in English Language and English Literature, while 100% met the same benchmark in both Mathematics and Triple Science. These figures underline consistent strength across the school’s key academic areas and reflect the focused support provided to students throughout their secondary studies.
Value-Added scores further highlight the school’s impact. Students achieved an average of +1 grade above expected outcomes across all subjects, a consistently strong indicator of academic development beyond predicted levels. The results demonstrate that pupils not only met high standards but frequently exceeded them, supported by personalised teaching and a nurturing school environment.
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Zareef Petkar, Assistant Principal at Horizon International School, expressed pride in the cohort’s achievements. “We are incredibly proud of our students once again. Their results are a reflection of hard work, ambition and resilience, particularly during a period that brought challenges in the region. Supported by our dedicated staff and parent community, they have continued to grow, succeed and demonstrate what can be achieved when every student is empowered both academically and personally to reach their full potential.”
The school has previously been recognised with the NACE Challenge Award and Platinum certification from the Best School to Work programme. These external acknowledgements, combined with the latest GCSE outcomes, reinforce Horizon International School’s growing reputation for academic excellence and student-centred education. The institution remains committed to high-quality, personalised learning that enables students to grow, exceed expectations, and prepare confidently for A-levels, university placements, and future careers.
Horizon International School follows a British-style curriculum and serves pupils aged three to eighteen. Located in Umm Al Sheif, Dubai, the school emphasises a balance between academic rigour and creative and sporting pursuits. Its mission 'Everyone Counts, Everyone Contributes, Everyone Succeeds' guides a community-focused approach that prioritises both achievement and personal development. Highly qualified UK-trained teachers and purpose-built facilities support every child in reaching their potential. The school also holds a Very Good rating from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).
Part of the Cognita group of schools, Horizon International School benefits from a wider network of more than 90 schools across 21 countries. Cognita educates over 100,000 students worldwide and employs more than 22,000 staff. In the Middle East, Cognita operates 14 schools, including several well-known institutions in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar. This global connection provides additional resources and shared expertise that support continuous improvement at the Dubai campus.
The Class of 2026 results stand as clear evidence of sustained academic progress at Horizon International School. With strong attainment across the grade range, outstanding core-subject performance, and meaningful Value-Added gains, the school continues to deliver outcomes that prepare students effectively for the next stage of their education and beyond.
