Cognita schools across the UAE have welcomed students back for the 2026–27 academic year, with returning families, strong enrolment and busy campuses marking the start of the new term.
The new academic year has begun amid continued confidence in the UAE’s private education sector, reflected in Cognita’s ongoing investment in its schools, teaching teams and student experience. Student safety and wellbeing remain a priority, with established measures and procedures continuing across schools in line with Ministry of Education guidance.
Across Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai, Repton Dubai, Repton Al Barsha, Repton Abu Dhabi, Horizon English School, Horizon International School, Ranches Primary School and Al Ain English Speaking School, preparations have taken place throughout the summer. Teaching teams have undertaken curriculum planning and professional development, campuses have been maintained and enhanced, and extracurricular and enrichment programmes have resumed as students settle back into the rhythm of school life.
Glen Radojkovich, Managing Director UAE, Cognita, said: “There is a real sense of excitement across our Cognita schools as students and families begin this new academic year. The continued confidence shown by parents and educators is incredibly encouraging and reflects the strength of our school communities and the UAE as a nation.
This year, in particular, brings a renewed appreciation for being together in school and for the relationships that underpin our thriving communities. Our focus is on strengthening connections with students, working in close partnership with parents and ensuring every child feels supported, engaged and ready to thrive.”
Alongside preparations for the new academic year, Cognita has continued to invest in enhancing the learning environments across its schools. At Repton Al Barsha, families have returned to a significantly enhanced campus, including a refurbished main reception and parent café, inspired by 1557, the year Repton was founded. The Junior School Library has also been relocated and redesigned overlooking the quad, creating a bright and inspiring space that encourages a lifelong love of reading and learning. Meanwhile, the school’s Assembly Hall has been transformed into a dedicated auditorium for performances, productions, Speech Days, assemblies, celebrations and community events. Further enhancements have also been made to the school café and communal areas. Together, these developments reflect Repton Al Barsha’s continued commitment to investing in the student and family experience, with the improvements informed in part by valuable feedback gathered through parent surveys.
Mrs Chandini Misra, Principal of Repton Al Barsha, commented: “It’s wonderful to welcome our students and families back to Repton Al Barsha. Following the exceptional circumstances of the previous academic year, there is something particularly meaningful about beginning this new chapter together. Our focus is on giving students the confidence, stability and opportunity to look forward, reconnect and fully embrace the year ahead. It is also exciting to see families experiencing the enhancements across the campus, which reflect our continued commitment to creating the very best learning environment for our students.”
Students at Cognita schools have a wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom. Through Cognita Enrich ME and individual school programmes, pupils continue to benefit from sport, performing arts, music and specialist development pathways that complement academic learning and support their overall development.
As the 2026–27 academic year begins, Cognita schools have welcomed their communities back, with experienced leadership and teaching teams, well-prepared campuses and a clear focus on learning, opportunity and the year ahead.
