Arbor Celebrates Its First Ever Graduating Cohort

Arbor School marked a significant milestone in its history this summer, as students, families, staff and guests gathered at the Serdaal Ballroom, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, to celebrate the graduation of the school’s first ever Year 13 cohort. 

The ceremony recognised 26 graduates who leave Arbor not only as the school’s inaugural graduating class, but as a group of young people who have helped shape what the school has become. 

For many schools, graduation marks the end of a journey. For Arbor, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter. 

Addressing graduates, Principal Gemma Thornley reflected on the significance of the occasion. 

“Today marks the first time in our school’s history that a Year 13 cohort leaves Arbor and steps out into the world carrying with them not only qualifications and university offers, but carrying our story.” 

The evening featured speeches from COO Ken Jones, Head of Sixth Form Christopher Martin, Head Boy Titus Taumoepeau and Head Girl Katie Keeshan, alongside reflections on the students’ journey through Arbor and the traditions they have helped establish. 

The Class of 2026 leaves Arbor with an impressive set of achievements. Collectively, students received more than 200 university offers from institutions across 16 countries and secured over AED 27.5 million in scholarships. Their destinations span a wide range of disciplines and pathways, reflecting the diverse talents, ambitions and interests that have characterised the cohort. 

Yet throughout the evening, the focus extended beyond academic outcomes. 

In her address, Gemma spoke about the responsibility young people carry as they enter an increasingly complex world and the importance of living with purpose, kindness and integrity. 

“The world does not need more people who simply achieve,” she told graduates. “It needs more people who pay attention. People who notice. People who care.” 

A number of special awards were also presented to students whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the Arbor community. 

The Heart of Arbor Award was presented to Marko Pavlovich for exceptional empathy, kindness and care for others. The Principal’s Award, Arbor’s highest individual honour, was awarded to Katie Keeshan in recognition of her outstanding achievement, leadership and contribution to the school community. 

Other award recipients included Omar Mirza (The Arbor Legacy Award), Helena Smith (Enough for All, Forever Award), Sana Kader Aga (The Pioneer Award) and Anna Thompson (The Darwin Award), recognising contributions ranging from sustainability leadership and innovation to resilience, character and service. 

As Arbor’s first graduating class, the students leave a legacy that extends beyond exam results and university destinations. Many of the traditions, opportunities and experiences that future Sixth Form students will enjoy have been shaped by this cohort. 

Reflecting on their role in the school’s journey, Gemma reminded graduates that they would always remain part of Arbor’s story. 

“You are not leaving Arbor. You are becoming part of its roots.” 

As caps were thrown and celebrations continued with family and friends, the evening marked both an ending and a beginning: a celebration of everything the Class of 2026 has achieved, and the first chapter in what promises to be a long and meaningful Arbor alumni story.