Today's Edition
A. SREENIVASA REDDY (ABU DHABI)
A total of 15 students from the British International School Abu Dhabi (BISAD), part of the Nord Anglia Education group, have been awarded the prestigious UAE Golden Visa in recognition of their exceptional academic achievements.
Nord Anglia Education, a global network of premium private schools founded in 1972 and headquartered in London, operates more than 80 schools worldwide, including four in the UAE – two each in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Principal of BIS Abu Dhabi, Alan Cocker, told Aletihad that six of the school’s seven graduating BTEC students and nine IBDP students who scored 40 points or above have received Golden Visa offers. He added that 38 BIS Abu Dhabi students had been awarded Golden Visas over the past three years.
“BIS Abu Dhabi is an ‘Outstanding’-rated international school, currently serving approximately 2,500 students aged 3 to 18,” Cocker said.
Established in 2009, BIS Abu Dhabi offers a blend of English and international curricula, including the English National Curriculum through to the Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel IGCSE in Year 11. In Years 12 and 13, students may pursue the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma.
Diversity and inclusivity are central to the ethos of the school. “At BIS Abu Dhabi, families join an inclusive and diverse community of over 90 nationalities where their child can thrive and experience life-changing opportunities that promote creativity, critical thinking, social responsibility and cultural awareness,” Cocker said.
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency programme granted to individuals with exceptional talent, enabling recipients to live, study, and work in the country. The scheme supports the UAE’s ambition to foster innovation and excellence by attracting a future-ready talent pool. In Abu Dhabi, the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) facilitates visas for high-performing students, particularly in strategic fields such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and entrepreneurship.
For students, the recognition marks both an honour and a springboard for future opportunities. “I’m so proud to have studied in the UAE, and completing my BTEC here has given me amazing opportunities,” said Year 13 graduate Isabelle McGlue. “Receiving the Golden Visa recognition means so much for my future, and I’d encourage anyone considering the BTEC to go for it, it really does open doors internationally.”
Parents also praised the achievement. One Year 13 parent said, “Kayla has truly inspired us as her parents. She achieved these merits because of her hard work, focus, and dedication. Watching her succeed fills our hearts with boundless joy. To be recognised and nominated for a UAE Golden Visa is an honour, and we are sincerely proud.”
“At BISAD, every student’s journey is unique, and personalised learning pathways prepare them for success in higher education, the workplace, and life beyond school. The recognition of BTEC and IBDP graduates with Golden Visas reflects the calibre, hard work, and aspirations of these students,” Cocker added.
