What else is special ?

At DESS College, we understand that competitive universities look for students who are not only academically proficient but also genuinely passionate about their subjects. To develop this sense of commitment, we've established ‘super-curricular’ societies. They allow students to delve deeper into their interests beyond the standard curriculum and mirror the independent nature of undergraduate study. Led by students, these societies offer workshops, presentations, and forums to enhance public speaking, knowledge, and leadership skills.

Our LIFE curriculum addresses essential life skills and knowledge not covered in traditional academic programmes. From managing personal finances to self-defence, we prepare students for independent living. The option also explores sensitive topics in a respectful manner, for which we encourage parental input to the discussions.

Turning 18 is a milestone we celebrate it with a popular ritual that makes sure every student's special day is acknowledged with peers, means a lot, and reinforces our strong community spirit.

Recognising the importance of driving as a key adult life skill, we celebrate students' success with a place on our 'Driving Test Wall'.

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Sixth Form

Our Sixth Form team at DESC understands the pivotal moment students face as they transition from Secondary education to the next stage of their academic and personal development. Our dedicated Sixth Form team offers a diverse array of engaging and relevant options tailored to meet the unique aspirations and learning styles of each student.

Our bespoke academic programmes, rooted in the National Curriculum for England and Wales, include a mix of A-levels, BTECs, and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). This allows students to craft a personalised educational journey that aligns with their future goals, supported by our seasoned subject specialists every step of the way.

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Our Facilities

Outdoor Learning Spaces

Life at DESC

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Curriculum & Learning

Lasting Impressions

As students finish their journey with us, we make sure they leave with lasting memories and friendships by means of planned events and celebrations.

College Demeanour

"Like a DESS College student, please" is the mantra with which we encourage good manners and promote emotional intelligence. We believe it’s a mindset that prepares students well for future social interactions and interviews.

Student Managers

Unique to our Sixth Form, full-time Student Managers focus solely on students' academic and pastoral welfare by being on-hand to help navigate challenges.

Chance to Excel

DESS College students excel on national and international stages, from sports coached by ex-professionals to performing arts opportunities linked with prestigious institutions.

Say 'Yes' Culture

Encouraging students to embrace new experiences, from Debating to Model United Nations, enriches their university personal statements and prepares them for life after college.

Senior Leadership

From Prefects to the Student Senior Leadership Team (SSLT); which includes Head Boy and Head Girl roles, leadership at DESS College is a structured journey, offering students unparalleled opportunities to influence and contribute to the school community and leave a legacy.

At DESS College, we understand that the true measure of our success is reflected in the lives that our graduates live once they have started their independent journeys. The transition from Sixth Form marks a pivotal change, concluding their time at school and stepping into adulthood with lots of pressure to make significant decisions that will shape their futures. This period needs careful thought, planning, and alignment of ambitions with capabilities.

Career Preparation and University Applications

Our Sixth Form curriculum includes comprehensive careers workshops and coaching sessions, guiding students through their post-DESS College options. We offer personalised support for students and parents to explore future pathways, encouraging work experience to gain insights into potential careers.

Most DESS College students choose to pursue higher education and we support them through close and careful guidance during the application processes. This includes best-practice guidance for applications through the UCAS system for UK universities and the Common Application for the US.

Year 12 Career Planning

Starting in Year 12, students begin to consider their career paths, attending presentations and coaching sessions to refine their future goals. University representatives regularly visit DESS College, providing valuable insights and enabling direct queries about courses and institutions. A dedicated software programme helps students to find courses that match their interests and achievements.

Destination Schools and Higher Education Support

DESS College boasts an impressive record of students gaining admission to prestigious courses and universities worldwide. Our Higher Education Department offers extensive advice and guidance to help make sure decisions about university choices are the right ones.

UK Applications: Support includes dedicated Oxbridge preparation, interview programmes for competitive fields, and university visits.
US and Canada Applications: We provide bespoke workshops and one-on-one counselling to make sure our students’ applications to North American universities are competitive.
Europe and Rest of the World: Our provision adapts to the diverse application requirements of universities across the globe, including bespoke workshops and personalised guidance.

Alumni Community

Our vibrant alumni network, DESSConnect, keeps former students connected to DESC and each other. We encourage our extended community to join DESSConnect and stay involved with the College.

We launched DESSC Connect with five clear goals in mind for our students while they’re with us, and then afterwards:

encourage connections with mentors
unlock sources of career advice, inspiration, and referrals
provide opportunities for experiential learning, placements, and internships
facilitate job opportunities
share information about nostalgia events and news

For alumni inquiries, please contact alumni@dessc.sch.ae

Career Preparation and University Applications

Year 12 Career Planning

Destination Schools and Higher Education Support

Alumni Community