Latest news with #LisaCrausby
The National
3 days ago
- Business
- The National
UAE pupils look to universities around the world after record A-Level success
Pupils across the UAE were celebrating their A-level results on Thursday, as the number of top grades awarded hit their highest level outside of the Covid-19 pandemic. Graduates told The National that they were now planning to head to elite destinations including University College London, Edinburgh, Toronto and Paris's renowned Gobelins animation school. Leading school provider Gems Education had a record 1,999 pupils sitting 5,379 A-levels across 22 schools in the UAE and Qatar. This year, 32 per cent of entries were awarded A* – A, up from 26 per cent last year. The proportion of top A* grades also increased to 11 per cent. Lisa Crausby, chief education officer for the group, said the results were 'just the beginning'. Standout performances included Gems Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis, which posted an 18-point rise in A*-A grades, and Gems Founders School – Al Mishear, where A*-B results jumped by 27 points. More than a quarter (28.3 per cent) of UK pupils were awarded an A or A* grade, up by 0.5 percentage points on last year. Resilience beyond grades This time last year, Pranaw Lalwani was ready to throw in the towel. He told The National that anxiety over grades had affected his performance. 'I got to a point at the end-of-year 12, I just wanted to walk out,' he said. After sitting down with his parents and teachers at Jumeirah College Dubai, he decided to persevere and brought his grades up to gain a place at the University of Madrid. Beyond the grades, he said he had learnt a critical lesson in resilience. The National joined Pranaw and his classmates at the GEMs school, emotion filled the main reception as students collected white envelopes with their grades ready to be opened at the stroke of 11am. The parents of Rayyaan Rabbari were elated at his results which have secured him a place studying engineering at University College London. 'I haven't seen him in month,' Rabbi, Rayyaan's mother told The National. Food is delivered to his door as he was so focused on the exams. Schools across the UAE took to social media to celebrate their results. Cranleigh Abu Dhabi posted that 52 per cent of its students achieved A*-A grades. Repton Abu Dhabi shared that 72 per cent of pupils had obtained A*-B grades. Exactly half of the A-Level pupils at The British School Al Khubairat in Abu Dhabi achieved A*-A grades. Nord Anglia International School Dubai, Al Barsha, posted on its Instagram account that 100 per cent of pupils had passed their exams, with 38 per cent obtaining A*-A grades. Brighton College Dubai also celebrated its strongest results yet, with A* grades surging to 28 per cent – almost double last year's 15 per cent. More than half of all grades were at A*-A and 80 per cent at A*-B. Several pupils, including Arvand Zare, Shaurya Kumar and Vibha Kumar achieved the coveted three A* grades. Vibha told The National that while she was 'still in shock', at the outstanding results, on reflection it was the school environment that made the biggest difference, with the smaller class sizes at Brighton College allowing for more one-on-one time with teaching staff. 'Previously I was in a pretty big school where the year group size was about 300-400 people,' she said. 'My classes at Brighton ranged from about five to 13 people.' Simon Crane, headmaster at Brighton College, hailed the achievement as 'among the best in the UAE', crediting the school's culture of striving for excellence. Hannah Aly, a pupil at Brighton College Abu Dhabi, received a much-coveted score of four A* grades. She said the key to success comes from planning to study early, as 'that way it'll be less stressful once exams actually come around'. Eloi Roberts, an A-level pupil at Brighton College Al Ain, has his heart on a career in architecture. But for now he has a big decision to make, considering a placing in the UK, or at home in the Emirates at UAE University as the built environment industry is moving at a rapid pace. Elsewhere, at Repton Abu Dhabi, 43 per cent of all A-Level entries were awarded A* to A grades and 72 per cent of all entries at A* to B. At sister school, Repton Dubai 31 per cent of entries received A*to A grades, and 62 per cent of grades awarded A* to B. Dubai British School Emirates Hills also posted its best A-level results, with the school's principal highlighting the 'determination, resilience and commitment' of pupils.
Khaleej Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Students receive A-level results; schools see record improvements
Schools in the UAE began receiving A-level results on Wednesday evening, with students set to access their results tomorrow. This year, 1,999 students sat 5,379 A-level exams across 22 GEMS schools in the UAE and Qatar. The results show sustained strong performance, with 32 per cent of grades at A*-A and 58 per cent at A*-B. The GEMS-wide results also reflect significant year-on-year grade improvements, with the number of A* grades awarded rising by two percentage points to 11 per cent, A*-A performance improving from 26 per cent in 2024 to 32% this year, as well as A*-B performance rising six percentage points to 58 per cent. Lisa Crausby OBE, Group Chief Education Officer at GEMS Education, said, 'Our students' A-level success is in many ways just the beginning — what truly excites us is where they'll go next. Whether they pursue further academic study in top universities across the globe, technical and vocational pathways, or alternative routes to success, they do so equipped not only with excellent results but also with the values, resilience, and ambition that truly distinguish GEMS learners. 'As we have throughout our history, we prepare students not just for exams, but for life — and the outcomes we celebrate today are proof of what's possible when purpose and passion align, fully supported by our passionate educators in school and our students' dedicated parents and families at home.' Notable achievements across the GEMS network include GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis, which saw a 15 percentage point year-on-year growth in students achieving an A*. The school also saw the number of students achieving an A*-A rise by 18 percentage points compared to last year, as well as the number of A*-B grades increase by 15 percentage points year on year. Sarah O'Regan, Principal/CEO, GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis, said, 'We are incredibly proud of our results this year. The dedication and effort shown by the largest A-level cohort in our history – and by their teachers – has led to a set of achievements that deserves real celebration. Alongside our equally impressive BTEC outcomes, the Class of 2025 has truly set a new benchmark.' Meanwhile at GEMS Founders School – Al Mizhar, the number of students achieving an A* rose by 10 percentage points over 2024 results, while A*-A grades rose by 20 percentage points and A*-B grades by a remarkable 27 percentage points. Akram Tarik, Principal, GEMS Founders School – Al Mizhar, said, 'This year's A-level and BTEC results are the highest in our school's history, and I could not be prouder of our students and staff. Such exceptional achievements are never the result of chance; they reflect hundreds of hours of dedication, meticulous preparation, and the unwavering support of our families, staff, and, most importantly, our students.' Additional highlights include GEMS Cambridge International Private School – Sharjah, whose A-level students achieved a nine percentage point growth in A* grades awarded, as well as GEMS Wesgreen International School – Sharjah, where the number of students achieving an A*-A grade rose by 16 percentage points year-on-year. Across the GEMS network a total of 412 students took BTEC Level 3s — double the cohort of last year, demonstrating the increasing popularity of this vocational pathway. Nearly a third (32 per cent) of entries achieved the highest possible grade of Distinction Star, while nearly two thirds (62 per cent) of entries were awarded a Distinction Star or Distinction.
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
Zawya
14-05-2025
- General
- Zawya
GEMS Education Students shine in CBSE Grade 10 and 12 Exams
All 2,266 Grade 12 students pass board exam, with perfect 100% pass rate Grade 10 pupils across 10 GEMS CBSE schools also record 100% pass rate Dubai, UAE: GEMS Education students across the UAE are celebrating a milestone moment in their academic journey, having delivered another strong performance in the CBSE Grade 10 and 12 board examinations. From classrooms to careers, the results represent more than just numbers – they are the culmination of years of effort, resilience, and a shared commitment between students, teachers, and families. Lisa Crausby OBE, Group Chief Education Officer at GEMS Education, commented: 'These results are more than just a cause for celebration; they are proof of what is possible when talent meets hard work and the right support. We are incredibly proud of our students, our educators, and the families who have championed them every step of the way. This is what a world-class education looks like in action.' Grade 12 results A total of 2,266 GEMS students sat the Grade 12 examinations this year, with a 100% pass rate 33.89% of students scored an average of 90% and above 23.04% of students scored between 85 and 89.9% 99.87% of students scored more than 60% The school average across all 10 GEMS CBSE schools stands at 85.37% Among 2025's top achievers are students who have not only topped their schools but also made their mark across the GEMS network. Leading the pack, with the highest score among all GEMS Grade 12 CBSE students this year, are Kirti Roshankumar Thakar from GEMS Our Own English High School – Dubai, and Mukesh Balasubramanian from GEMS Our Own High School – Al Warqa'a. Both students achieved a near perfect 99% score. Kirti Roshankumar Thakar, who now intends to study Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IITD) – Abu Dhabi, said: 'As my dreams unfold into reality, I feel deeply humbled and extremely grateful to my parents for being my strongest pillars of support, and to my teachers, whose invaluable guidance lit the path through every challenge I faced in the pursuit of excellence. I shall be eternally grateful to OOD for making my school years truly unforgettable!' Thomas Mathew, Executive Principal of GEMS Our Own English High School – Dubai, said: 'Our Grade 12 students have demonstrated exceptional dedication, resilience, and academic excellence in this year's Grade 12 CBSE results. Their success reflects their hard work, the unwavering support of their families, and the relentless commitment of their teachers. We at GEMS OOD are immensely proud of our students' achievements and are confident that they are well prepared to embrace the future with purpose and integrity.' Grade 10 results A total of 3,131 students sat the Grade 10 board examinations this year, with a 100% pass rate 38.26% of students scored an average of 90% and above 19.96% of students scored between 85% and 89.9% 99.20% of students scored more than 60% The school average across all 10 GEMS CBSE schools is 85.14% Top among all GEMS Grade 10 students, with an impressive score of 99.6% is Hafeed Meera Shahul Hameed from GEMS Our Own Indian School in Dubai. Reflecting on his outstanding success, he said: 'Today, I am proud to say that I scored 99.6% in my board exams – an achievement born from hard work, perseverance, and unwavering dedication. This achievement would not have been possible without the constant support of my parents, the guidance of my teachers, and the encouragement of my friends. I am deeply grateful to each one of them. 'As I celebrate this moment, I remind myself that this is just one milestone in a much bigger journey. It's not the end – it's only the beginning. There are many more steps to climb, challenges to face, and lessons to learn. Because the pursuit of knowledge never ends.' Lalitha Suresh, Principal of GEMS Our Own Indian School, said: 'Heartiest congratulations to our students, teachers, and parents on the outstanding CBSE results! This achievement reflects our students' dedication to academic excellence, the unwavering commitment of our teachers, and the strong support of our parent community. Together, we've built a culture of collaboration and high expectations, and we look forward to continuing this shared journey of success.' GEMS Education continues to nurture future-ready learners across its CBSE curriculum schools, championing academic excellence, personal growth, and global citizenship. About GEMS Education GEMS Education is one of the oldest and largest K-12 private education providers in the world and a trusted and highly regarded choice for quality education in the Middle East and North Africa region. As a company founded in the UAE in 1959, it holds an unparalleled track record of providing diverse curricula and educational choices to all socio-economic means. Having started with a single school run from a private home in Dubai, GEMS remains a family business to this day. Its inspiring Founder, Sunny Varkey, and his son, Dino Varkey, who is Group Chief Executive Officer, are responsible for providing vision, insight, and strategy across the organisation. Every day, GEMS has the privilege of educating students from over 176 countries through its owned and managed schools globally. And through its growing network, as well as charitable contributions, it is fulfilling the GEMS vision of putting a quality education within the reach of every learner. Every year, students graduating from GEMS schools progress to the world's best universities. Over the past five years, GEMS students have been accepted into over 1,050 universities in 53 countries including all eight Ivy League universities in the US and all 24 Russell Group universities and colleges in the UK.
