Alumni Spotlight: Pranav's Journey from Dover Court to the World of Television

At Dover Court International School (DCIS), we’re proud of the many ways our students grow and excel – academically, socially, and personally. Pranav Saxena, a former DCIS student in our Pathway 2 provision, joined Dover in Year 5 back in 2011. His journey is a wonderful example of how a warm and caring school community, combined with the right support and opportunities, can help students discover their passions and go further than they ever imagined. From school plays and ASDAN projects to discovering a passion for media, here’s Pranav’s reflection on his journey through and beyond Dover Court.

My Journey Through and After Dover Court International School

By Pranav Saxena

Looking back, it’s hard to believe how much began at Dover Court, not just my education, but my confidence, my friendships, and my sense of direction.

When I first stepped into Dover in 2011, in Year 5, I remember how warm and friendly everyone was. I got to know people better during those school plays in the assembly hall, moments that helped me settle in and feel part of a community, and eventually, a family. We used to go out on those trips that the school organised for us. They were always a highlight and gave us a chance to learn and bond outside the classroom. I’m still in touch with the friends I made during that time, a little Dover family of our own, and those bonds continue to mean a lot to me.

In my Secondary years, some of my favourite memories were simply hanging out with friends during our ASDAN course. I still remember how much fun we had picking out the perfect teddy bear for our business project, under the guidance of Mrs Chapman. That teddy eventually became the school’s mascot, though it was quietly outshone by the wolf mascot we see today.

Mr Townsend also played a big part in those years, helping not just me but all of us through ASDAN COPE. I still remember the days we worked on spreadsheets for the swimming gala. It’s funny how even the smallest tasks stick with you when they’re tied to good memories.

It took me a while to realise what I truly wanted to do, but Dover helped plant the first seeds of curiosity. I’ve always been fascinated by how films and short-form videos are made. So I joined the media and radio team at school, just to try something new. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made because that spark eventually led me to pursue a future in storytelling and production. After completing a diploma at MDIS in Mass Communication with a focus on Film and TV, and fulfilling my mandatory National Service, I went on to pursue a degree in TV Production at the University of Portsmouth, one of the top universities in the UK. I graduated in July 2025, which remains one of my proudest accomplishments.

Today, I’m actively looking for a runner or entry-level role where I can gain hands-on experience in the television industry. One day, I hope to build my own production company, a space where stories come to life and creativity leads the way.

If I could tell my younger self one thing, it would be this: stay curious, say yes to new experiences, and trust that even small beginnings can take you far. Dover Court gave me that start, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.