Cranleigh Abu Dhabi celebrates exceptional exam results for 2023

Abu Dhabi, 25th August, 2023 – Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is thrilled to announce the outstanding GCSE and A Level results achieved by their inspiring pupils. Demonstrating remarkable dedication, resilience, and academic excellence, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi students have once again raised the bar for educational achievement in the region.

The Class of 2023 has achieved an impressive pass rate in their GCSE exams, with 72% of pupils securing grades 7 - 9. This accomplishment is a testament to pupil hard work and the School's commitment to providing a holistic curriculum that nurtures students' intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and personal growth.

Tim McConnell-Wood, Vice Principal, expressed his pride in the pupils' achievements. “Once again we are delighted with the performance of our Year 11 Cranleigh students.  Despite facing significant disruptions to their education during the pandemic and operating in an environment of stricter evaluation by exam boards, this year’s cohort has exhibited the kind of resilience and determination commonly seen in more seasoned students when it comes to their exam performance. Their results reflect their dedication and willingness to adapt. Amid the anticipation built up by media coverage leading to results day, it is truly remarkable that nearly three quarters of all grades awarded were in the 9-7 category and that figure rises to over 85% for 9-6 grades for Cranleigh Abu Dhabi students, and we could not be more proud of their achievements. Throughout their GCSE journey, this year's group showed a genuine willingness to support each other, fostering an upward spiral of academic excellence. I applaud their accomplishments wholeheartedly. “ 

Throughout their academic journey at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, pupils are encouraged to embrace a well-rounded education that goes beyond traditional classroom learning. The School's innovative teaching and learning fosters a strong sense of community, collaboration, and global citizenship, preparing students not only for their exams but also for the challenges of an ever-changing world.

Delighted pupil Samantha W said “I’m truly grateful for my results and would also like to express my deep gratitude towards my family and teachers who have helped me to achieve what I couldn’t have achieved on my own. Having always had a passion for learning, I hope to mature in my knowledge and experiences, not only helping me to develop academically but simultaneously, aiding my growth to become the person I want to be!”

Mona L happily commented “As I look at my IGCSE results and reflect on how I achieved them, I am filled with pride, but also recognition for my teachers and friends. Group revision fueled my motivation, and the support always shown by teachers gave me the help I needed to revise efficiently. For sixth form, I'd like to continue in the same manner; keep up with revision and workload to ensure I am capable of taking on four subjects. "

Charlies M said “I am very happy with my results and that my hard work has paid off. I would like to thank my teachers for their support, especially Mr Rowley, and my friends for making my GCSE experience memorable. I hope to take this momentum with me into sixth form and enjoy these next two years.“

Head of Senior School Damien Ward commented: 

“We are thrilled to congratulate the exceptional GCSE students of Cranleigh Abu Dhabi for their outstanding academic achievements in this year's exams. These remarkable young individuals have demonstrated unwavering dedication, diligence, and a passion for learning that has translated into these results. Their commitment to excellence is truly commendable and is a testament to the supportive learning environment fostered at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi. These outstanding results not only reflect the hard work of the students themselves but also the dedication of the teachers who have nurtured and guided them throughout their educational journey. As these students embark on the next chapter of their academic pursuits, we are confident that they will continue to shine brightly and make a positive impact. Congratulations once again to the Cranleigh Abu Dhabi GCSE students on their well-deserved success!”

As Cranleigh Abu Dhabi continues to uphold its tradition of excellence in education, the School remains resolute in cultivating a diverse and inclusive environment that values each pupil’s unique strengths and perspectives. 

The impressive GCSE results also mirror the brilliant performances of A Level students who received their grades last week, with 44% of students achieving the top A*A grade, 70% achieving A*B, and 90% achieving A*C.

Damien Ward, Head of Senior School, applauded the students' determination and strength of character. 

"Congratulations to all students on the recent A Level exam results; their tenacity, hard work, and perseverance have truly paid off. Considering multiple warnings from the UK government about downgrading and harder exams, our students have continued the excellent educational standards set by their predecessors. Whilst some students may have received grades slightly below initial expectations, it is important to remember that these results are just a single step in the educational journey. Life is filled with twists and turns; these results do not define potential or capabilities. Students should embrace these outcomes as opportunities for growth and learning and continue striving for excellence in all they do."

A World of Opportunity

Cranleigh Abu Dhabi's rigorous curriculum, enrichment programmes, and personalised support ensure students are well-prepared to pursue their passions and ambitions at top universities worldwide. These include Brown University, Trinity College Dublin, Bristol University, King's College London, and NYU Abu Dhabi across various subjects, including Medicine, Law, Astrophysics, Philosophy, Politics and Economics.

Student Georgia Andrews achieved A*A*AA and is excited to be studying Biochemistry at the University of Bristol. "I feel extremely proud of myself and the work I've put in to achieve these grades and to study at my first-choice university. A massive thanks to all my teachers at Cranleigh, who provided me with the support and guidance I needed throughout my education and who I wouldn't be able to achieve these grades without."

ENDS

ABOUT CRANLEIGH: Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is a leading co-educational independent school offering a British curriculum in the UAE. With a rich tradition of academic merit, holistic education, and co-curricular provision, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is committed to fostering a love of learning, critical thinking, and personal development among its pupils. Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, which opened in 2014, has quickly established itself as one of the top schools in the region, winning several awards and accolades for its outstanding education. It is ranked in the Top 5 Schools in the Middle East and the Top 100 Private Schools Worldwide by Spear’s Schools Index.