Principal, NAS Abu Dhabi

An exceptional opportunity for an inspiring international school leader to shape the next chapter of a purpose-built learning environment that’s designed for the future.

THE SCHOOL

Nord Anglia International School Abu Dhabi is a thriving, purpose-built British international school on Al Reem Island, educating around 1,800 students from more than 70 nationalities. 

Since opening in 2023, the school has grown rapidly and offers the National Curriculum for England from Early Years through to IGCSE and A-level, with its first Sixth Form cohorts progressing towards graduation. 

Teaching is rigorous and personalised, with a clear focus on strong academic outcomes, character development, and preparation for leading universities worldwide. Students learn in state-of-the-art, well-resourced facilities designed to support excellence across academics, sport, performing arts, and technology, within a community that is ambitious, diverse, and outward-looking. 

As part of Nord Anglia Education, the school connects its students to global collaborations and opportunities that extend learning well beyond the classroom, combining the energy of a young, fast-growing school with the strength and expertise of an established international network.

WHY LEAD WITH NORD ANGLIA?

At Nord Anglia, the Principal is central to each school’s success. We carefully match leaders to the unique character and needs of each school, ensuring you’re set up to thrive. You’ll have the autonomy to lead your school your way, while operating within a clear framework of expectations that drive excellence across student outcomes, financial performance, marketing, and stakeholder engagement.

This transparency of purpose is a strength: you’ll know exactly what success looks like and be supported to achieve it. You’ll be part of our global senior leadership team, collaborating with fellow Principals in your region and across our network to share best practice and elevate your school’s offer.

From day one, you’ll benefit from:

• Regional support teams and peer networks including an annual senior leadership conference.
• The Principal In Role Support (PIRS) programme, including knowledge and support alongside other new Principals. executive coaching and peer to peer mentoring.
• Extensive professional development via Nord Anglia University, including leadership programmes, global conferences, and tailored learning pathways.
• Competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, health insurance, accommodation, and schooling for your children.
• The possibility of career progression across school, regional and global leadership roles.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

We are seeking an outstanding and experienced international school leader with a proven track record of success in high-quality British international schools. The successful candidate will bring significant leadership experience and a deep understanding of delivering the UK curriculum in an international context, along with a clear commitment to academic excellence and student outcomes.

You will be an inspirational and strategic leader who understands what it takes to lead a premium international school. You will have experience of building and developing high-performing teams, driving continuous improvement, and maintaining the highest standards of teaching and learning. A strong understanding of school operations and the ability to balance educational excellence with commercial awareness will be essential.

You will be a visible and values-led Principal who builds strong relationships with students, staff and families. With excellent interpersonal skills and cultural awareness, you will be comfortable working within a diverse international community and will represent the school confidently with parents and external stakeholders.

A clear and authentic communicator, you will be able to articulate a compelling vision for the school and inspire confidence across the community. You will combine strategic thinking with a practical and hands-on approach, ensuring that the school continues to grow and thrive as a leading Nord Anglia school in the region.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply please upload a CV and letter of application explaining how you're experience fits with the role requirements. 

Start Date: August 2026

Interviews: 30th & 31st March 2026

At Nord Anglia Education we are committed to providing a world-class, safe, happy environment in which children and young people can thrive and learn. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our pupils where we embrace all races, abilities, religions, genders, and cultures.

All post holders in regulated activity (having regular unsupervised contact with children) are subject to appropriate national and international vetting procedures including satisfactory criminal record checks from both your country of residence/birth and any country of residence within the last 10 years.

We welcome applications from suitable qualified persons from all diverse backgrounds.