Reigate Grammar School, which has UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer as an alumnus, is scheduled to open its first campus in the UAE in September 2026. This campus in Sharjah will cover a 450,000-square foot area in the Masaar master community in the Suyoh district. The school will offer the English National Curriculum alongside the Cambridge one, tailored to meet the needs of students in the UAE. The plan is to eventually open three or more schools in the region.
Founded in 1675, Reigate Grammar School operates across three continents and places emphasis on leadership training and communication skills. The curriculum will focus on public speaking, teamwork, and leadership. The school’s facilities will include a performing arts center, library, STEM center, multi-purpose halls, sports facilities, and swimming pools. The aim is to provide a holistic educational experience that prepares students for real-world challenges.
Keir Starmer, who attended Reigate Grammar School in London from 1974 to 1981, has maintained close ties with the institution over the years. As a distinguished alumnus and a prominent figure in British politics, Starmer has supported students interested in legal professions through mentoring and advice. He has also contributed to the school’s charitable works by speaking at various events. The school attributes significant importance to leadership and character development, focusing on problem-solving, team collaboration, and project delivery.
In line with the school’s emphasis on leadership, students will be involved in various committees, learning essential skills such as communication, public speaking, entrepreneurial activities, and business understanding. The institution aims to nurture well-rounded individuals who are equipped to become future leaders in their respective fields. While it is uncertain whether the British premier is aware of the school’s UAE expansion, the institution hopes to extend a personal invitation to Starmer when he visits the UAE on official business.
Keir Starmer has described his experience at Reigate Grammar School as instrumental in fostering his academic, sports, and musical pursuits. He credits the school for providing him with a platform to explore his potential and evolve as a critical thinker. The campus in Sharjah operated by Bright Capital Investment aims to provide a platform for students to excel in various aspects of life, pushing their boundaries to become global leaders. The school’s mission is to offer a nurturing environment that encourages students to think creatively, critically, and find innovative solutions to challenges they may encounter.
