Class of 2026 Graduation at Dover Court International School

Dover Court International School (DCIS) proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2026 in Singapore, marking a significant milestone for our largest cohort to date – 71 students.

The ceremony was a heartfelt and inspiring occasion, bringing together families, teachers, and the wider school community to honour not only academic achievement, but the growth, resilience and spirit of a truly exceptional group of young people.

Graduates completed a range of routes, including the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), IB Courses, BTEC and the Dover Court Diploma, reflecting the diversity of talents and ambitions within the cohort.

The Dover Court International School graduation ceremony reflects the school’s commitment to academic excellence, inclusion and diverse global opportunities.

Graduation Ceremony Highlights

The ceremony featured beautiful musical performances by Dover Court students, alongside inspiring speeches from school leaders, students and the guest of honour, Angela Meikle, Head of the Centre of Excellence and Innovation at the International Baccalaureate (IB).

Opening the ceremony, Dominic O’Shea, Head of Sixth Form, reflected on the significance of the occasion:

“Class of 2026, you have reached one milestone in your educational journey, and you should be immensely proud of the hard work, resilience and dedication you have shown to get here. Whilst today is a celebration of that, it is also an exciting opportunity to think about what lies ahead… We are full of hope, excitement and confidence that you will go on to be profoundly positive influences on all those that you encounter in your futures…”

Equipped for a Changing World

Principal Chris Short highlighted the unique strengths of Dover Court students:

“Dover Court students have always blended their need to obtain the very highest academic outcomes with a sense of purpose.” “They know that a combination of the knowledge they have gained, their results and the wider skills they have developed will be the key to their success beyond Dover Court.”

He emphasised the importance of adaptability in a changing world:

“Some of you will end up in jobs, using technology that hasn’t currently been invented… you are… equipped with the skills to deal with all of the challenges you will face.”

A Community That Shapes Futures

The importance of the Dover Court community was a powerful theme throughout the ceremony:

“There is truth in the saying that it takes a village to raise a child. Dover Court has been your village.” – Chris Short

Rachel Edwards, Head of Secondary, encouraged students to carry forward the values of inclusion and impact, which they have lived at school:

“Today, a chapter closes… It is not the end but the beginning of building lives that will bring you happiness and give you the opportunity to make valuable contributions to society.”

“As ambassadors of inclusion in our unique international school, be confident advocates for equity and diversity…Your academic successes and your capacity for learning will take you far, but being good people will empower you to truly make your mark on the world.”

Student Voices: Belonging, Gratitude and Growth

The heart of the ceremony came through in reflections from students who have grown up within the Dover Court community.

Hugo, who joined the school in Reception, shared:

“The moment I walked into the classroom 14 years ago, I was met with kindness, warmth, and teachers who made me feel at home straight away. That feeling of belonging never really left.”

“What truly makes Dover special is the people. The friendships we’ve built here are something I know I’ll carry with me forever.”

Tara, who joined Dover Court in Year 1, reflected on her 12-year journey:

“Home is not necessarily where you grew up… but the place where you feel most understood and accepted. Home is where the heart is, and Dover Court has definitely become a home.”

These reflections capture what defines Dover Court – a place where students feel a genuine sense of belonging.

Routes to the World Ahead

The Class of 2026 now looks ahead to an exciting global future, with university offers reflecting both ambition and opportunity. To date, students have received over 139 offers across six regions – the UK, USA, Canada, Europe, Asia and Australia.

Many of these offers come from leading institutions, including Russell Group universities in the UK, alongside global destinations such as the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, NYU, University of Amsterdam, Trinity College Dublin, and leading universities in Australia and Singapore.

These routes span a wide range of disciplines, from medicine and engineering to business, arts and design, reflecting the diverse passions and strengths of the cohort.

At the same time, the next step for our graduates is not defined by a single route. While many will move on to university, others are choosing to take gap years, pursue National Service, or explore different journeys before continuing their studies. Each journey is unique, and each is equally valued as part of a lifelong path of growth, discovery and purpose – and we are proud to support each and every one of them.

Looking Ahead with Confidence and Hope

As the Class of 2026 closes one chapter and begins another, they do so with confidence, compassion and a strong sense of purpose.

“We are full of hope, excitement and confidence that you will go on to be profoundly positive influences…” – Dominic O’Shea

While they may be leaving the school grounds, they remain forever part of the Dover Court community:

“Although they leave us in person, they will always be a Doverian in spirit.” – Dominic O’Shea

Congratulations, Class of 2026

From all of us at Dover Court, we celebrate everything you have achieved and everything that lies ahead. We look forward to welcoming you back as DCIS alumni and hearing about the difference you will make in the world.