BIS Abu Dhabi Graduate Interview

Meet Griffen, Class of 2026 BTEC Extended Diploma Graduate

Griffen joined The British International School Abu Dhabi in August 2024 as a Year 12 student. Two years later, he graduated with an outstanding D*D*D* in his BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport.

When he received his results, Griffen described feeling "accomplished, relieved and proud".

While many graduates choose to progress directly to university, Griffen has decided to take a different route by pursuing.

"I've decided to take full advantage of my skills and go straight into full-time football coaching," he said.

Looking ahead, Griffen plans to continue developing his expertise by working towards higher coaching qualifications, including the UEFA C and B Licences, alongside additional certifications in scouting and talent identification, goalkeeping, refereeing, performance analysis and physiotherapy.

For Griffen, studying BTEC Sport at BIS Abu Dhabi was instrumental in helping him discover his career pathway and open doors within the football industry.

"Studying BTEC Sport allowed me to meet my brilliant teacher and Assistant Head of Secondary, Mr. Cochlin," he said. "Mr. Cochlin helped introduce me to the coaching and refereeing world when I first arrived in Abu Dhabi two years ago. Fast forward to today, and I am now coaching alongside Mr. Cochlin with Copa Academy."

These opportunities provided Griffen with valuable hands-on experience and the confidence to pursue a career in football.

"I'm very passionate about the football industry," he said. "I aspire to expand my coaching skills into other areas of the sport, such as scouting and talent identification, performance analysis and physiotherapy."

Throughout his time at BIS Abu Dhabi, Griffen made a significant contribution to school life through sport, leadership and service. He represented the school as a member of the U19 Football A Team, showcased the BTEC Sport programme at the Year 11 Parents' Evening, supported the U15 BSME Games 2025 by helping to manage athletics events, assisted at the Primary School Sports Day 2026 and volunteered at the BISAD Triathlon.

Beyond school, Griffen coached young players at Copa Academy, working with children from FS1 to Year 2, and completed his Year 12 work experience as an assistant football coach with Man City Abu Dhabi, further strengthening his coaching experience.

His leadership was also evident through the events he helped organise. Alongside his classmates, Griffen organised the Year 7 Footy Friday football tournament and led the planning of The Senior School El Clásico 2026, an 11-a-side football match between Year 12 and Year 13 students.

When asked about his favourite memory from BIS Abu Dhabi, The Senior School El Clásico stood out above all others.

"One of my favourite memories from my time at BISAD was organising The Senior School El Clásico 2026," he said. "The entire process was amazing, from designing personalised kits for all the students to putting posters up around the school, and of course playing and winning the game. Great atmosphere, great music, great vibes and a very enjoyable match."

Looking back on his time at BIS Abu Dhabi, Griffen says it is the people and the supportive environment he will miss most.

"I also want to thank BIS Abu Dhabi and my teachers for recognising my hard work, awarding me with a Headteacher's Commendation and two Contribution to BTEC Sport Awards, and always supporting my passion for football."

Like many students, Griffen also experienced unexpected challenges that disrupted his studies this year. While in South Africa during this period, he remained focused on completing his coursework and stayed closely connected with his teachers and classmates despite the different time zones.

Griffen's journey demonstrates how practical learning, personalised support and a determination to pursue your passion can create exciting opportunities. Through the BTEC Sport programme, he has developed the skills and knowledge to begin an exciting career in football.

Congratulations, Griffen. We are incredibly proud of everything you have achieved and wish you every success as you take your next steps in the football industry.