At Doha College, our Learner Profile challenges every pupil to embrace new experiences, seek fresh challenges, and strive to be the best version of themselves. We are committed to preparing our pupils not only for academic success but also for the opportunities of the future. On Sunday 28 September, this vision came to life in our first-ever Future’s Day – a celebration of possibility, ambition, and growth for every secondary pupil.

The day offered pupils a unique chance to step beyond the classroom and explore careers, oracy, and Positive Education. Inspirational guest speakers shared their journeys and expertise. The University of Doha Science and Technology brought careers to life through a hands-on fair showcasing careers in robotics and medicine to media production and business. Our Year 13s even honed their skills in practice interviews, building confidence for the challenges ahead.

Communication took centre stage in oracy, developing public speaking, debate and thinking on their feet. From Year 8s learning to tell personal stories with impact, to Year 12s perfecting ‘elevator pitches’, and older pupils refining tone, debate, and persuasion. These vital skills will be the currency of success in an AI-driven world.

Equally powerful was the Positive Education strand, where pupils reflected on who they are and how to manage emotions and behaviour. A highlight amongst the pupils was a collaborative art project celebrating identity and belonging, soon to be unveiled. 

Future’s Day left pupils inspired, empowered and more confident in their ability to shape their futures – a living example of our Learner Profile in action.

Linva McIntosh                                                        

Head of Careers and University Guidance      

Last Thursday marked the exciting conclusion of the first of its kind, PwC Grow Your Money competition, with the finals held at the prestigious PwC offices in Tornado Tower, West Bay. 

The event was the culmination of an inspiring journey that began as a co-curricular activity (CCA) in Term 3 of last academic year, when ten ambitious Year 10 pupil groups took on the challenge of turning a QR 500 startup fund, generously donated by PwC, into profitable business ventures.

Each team was tasked with developing a full business model, from brainstorming their initial ideas to crafting business plans, marketing strategies, and finally, operating their businesses over an intensive 8-week period. The programme was designed to build entrepreneurial thinking, financial literacy, collaboration, and presentation skills - key competencies for future success.

After initial pitches and weeks of hard work, four standout groups were selected to advance to the finals:

• Ignite – A creative candle-making business
  
  

• Threads for Hope – A custom-designed t-shirt enterprise supporting causes around the globe
  
  

• Once Upon a Box – A mystery box business filled with handpicked surprises
  
  

• Custom Craze – A vibrant business offering customized t-shirts and bracelets
  
  

These teams had the incredible opportunity to present their journeys and outcomes to a panel of PwC business partners. The standard on the day was nothing short of exceptional. Each group demonstrated not only the profitability of their ventures but also their ability to communicate with professionalism, clarity, and passion.

After much deliberation, the judges announced the overall winner: Once Upon a Box. The team impressed the panel with their innovative concept, engaging presentation, and most importantly, their impressive profits. Their ability to create a unique customer experience while also managing their business effectively set them apart. PwC partners commended all the finalists for their maturity, creativity, and dedication. 

The competition not only showcased the pupils' business acumen but also highlighted the value of real-world learning experiences in developing life-long skills.

Congratulations to all participants and especially to our finalists for their remarkable achievements. The Grow Your Money initiative has certainly lit a spark in the next generation of entrepreneurs. 

Teresa Menton

Head of Key Stage 4 English

Our pupils have recently had exciting opportunities to explore higher education pathways through a series of university visits and expert-led presentations. 

During their break times, pupils met with admission representatives from a wide range of universities, gaining valuable insight into courses, campus life, application processes and career pathways. These sessions have been instrumental in helping pupils make more informed decisions about their next steps.  Here’s the link containing all the details and contact information for each university.

We introduced pupils to the Millie Group, a global education company that supports pupils with mentorship, career exploration, and university preparation. Pupils and parents engaged in a series of interactive presentations.  Recordings of the presentations, along with access passwords, are available via the link. 

Girlie Austria

Careers and University Guidance Assistant