At Dover Court International School (DCIS) in Singapore, the transition from adolescence to adulthood is being redefined with a new Sixth Form Center. The school is setting a bold precedent for how learning environments can empower students to thrive not just academically, but personally and socially.

Dover Court recognized this transition and partnered with Steelcase to create an environment that is purpose-built and reflects the evolving needs of senior students as they take their final steps toward university and life beyond school.

Meeting the Challenges of Sixth Form

Sixth Form students face a unique set of challenges. They are expected to perform academically, prepare for independence and self-direction of higher education, and balance social life and making real-world decisions. Dover Court’s new center addresses these head-on. With flexible furniture, inclusive layouts, and zones for both quiet reflection and dynamic collaboration, students are empowered with choice and control over how and where they learn.

Rachel Edwards, Head of Secondary, describes the center as “a bespoke hub for collaboration and study,” where the school’s thriving Sixth Form community of over 150 students will find space to grow. “This center is a reflection of our ambition to deliver world-class learning experiences and effective wellbeing support.”

“The Sixth Form Centre has transformed students’ study time experience, allowing them to work in a more dynamic and flexible environment. The whiteboards and collaborative tables are especially popular with students and give them an outlet to share ideas in groups and have multiple people contributing.”

Dominic O’SheaHead of Sixth Form and IB Coordinator

A Space That Reflects the Student Journey

The first floor of the center is a vibrant hub for social connection and wellbeing. Here, students can engage with teachers, access personalized support, and build meaningful relationships with peers and mentors. It’s a space that acknowledges the importance of academic ambition and emotional resilience.

Upstairs, the focus shifts to future planning. Thoughtfully designed to support every stage of the student journey, the center features dedicated consultation rooms for one-on-one guidance, alongside flexible spaces that adapt to different modes of learning like focus study or collaborative discussions. When needed, these areas transform seamlessly into vibrant venues for university fairs and career talks, creating an environment where students feel supported, inspired, and ready to take their next steps with confidence.

“Starting in the new block today really took me by surprise. Having first seen it unfurnished and now full of life, it’s amazing to see the transformation. It’s a huge upgrade from our previous space, and I feel there’s a stronger sense of unity within the Sixth Form, with both year groups making use of both areas. This dedicated space for Sixth Formers was definitely needed, and it’s great to see the school provide it. I’ve found both areas excellent for revision, especially while preparing for my IO. The addition of the whiteboard tables is also a fantastic feature and encourages even more collaboration. Overall, this space was a much needed and brilliant addition for each and every Sixth Former,” said Jack Johnson, from Year 13.

Designing for Real-World Readiness

Steelcase’s insights-led approach ensures that the center is not only inviting but functional. It’s a thoughtful space that bridges the gap between school and university, helping students develop the skills they’ll need in higher education and beyond.

This partnership exemplifies Steelcase Learning’s mission to create environments for lifelong learning. By creating spaces that support diverse learning styles and foster meaningful human connections, we help students thrive within and beyond the classroom and develop a love for learning.

“Co-creating a study space with the DCIS team was truly meaningful. Together, we designed an environment that feels genuinely student-centered, where Sixth Formers gain a sense of ownership, belonging, and pride. We envisioned a future-ready learning space that bridges their transition to university life while nurturing confidence and connection.”

Denise LiSteelcase Learning Space Specialist, SEA and ANZ

Inspiring the Future

As students step into their new center, they’re entering a community designed to support their needs today and the next stage of life. The first university visit, the first group project, the first quiet moment of reflection – each will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of Dover Court students.

And in this thoughtfully designed space, every student will find not just a place to learn, but a place to belong.

Note: Images depict talents showcasing the collaborative learning tools developed by Steelcase.