LEADERSHIP & GOVERNANCE
BISR is administered by a Board of Governors that serve without remuneration.
LEADERSHIP
FOREWORD FROM DIRECTOR OF SCHOOLS, JEREMY NEWTON
Leadership at the British International School Riyadh is both a privilege and a responsibility, one I carry with immense pride and a deep sense of purpose.
As Director of Schools, I am honoured to lead a community with such a rich legacy of excellence, inclusion, and global-mindedness. For over 45 years, BISR has served as a cornerstone of British education in Saudi Arabia, balancing high standards with a warm and welcoming ethos. We are proud to serve more than 2,900 students from over 90 nationalities, across campuses that each reflect the vibrant, ambitious spirit of our school.
We live in a time of extraordinary change, both within the Kingdom and across the world. As Saudi Arabia reimagines its future through Vision 2030, BISR too is evolving—realigning our heritage with a bold strategic vision we call REACH 2030. This vision is grounded in our values of Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Challenge, and Happiness, and it underpins our work to ensure every student leaves BISR not only well-educated, but equipped to lead lives of meaning, curiosity, and compassion.
Our governance model ensures that every riyal is reinvested directly into the school. Our Board of Governors, highly skilled, dedicated volunteers, work in close partnership with our leadership team to ensure transparency, accountability, and a relentless focus on quality. Together, we aim not just to maintain our standing as one of the top international schools in the region, but to continue pushing boundaries: in learning, in well-being, and in the richness of student experience.
This is a school that listens. A school that learns. And above all, a school that believes in the limitless potential of its students.
To our current families, thank you for the trust you place in us each day. To prospective families and partners, I warmly invite you to explore what makes BISR so special. We look forward to welcoming you into our community.
| Foreword from the Chair, Nick Prince |
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At the British International School, leadership is not simply about guiding a school—it is about shaping a community where excellence, integrity, and care are lived values. As Chair of Governors, I am proud to represent a school where leadership is visionary, collaborative, and deeply committed to the success and well-being of every student and staff member. What sets BISR apart is not only our adherence to the highest standards of British education, but the way we lead with purpose. Our Executive Leadership Team brings together exceptional educators and professionals who understand the unique needs of an international community. They lead with clarity, compassion, and a shared belief in the transformative power of education. In a city as dynamic as Riyadh, BISR stands as a beacon of stability and innovation. We are proud of our heritage, yet forward-looking in our approach—embracing new ideas, technologies, and global perspectives. Our leadership fosters a culture where students are empowered to thrive, staff are supported to grow, and families feel a deep sense of belonging. For prospective parents and staff, we understand that choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you will make. At BISR, you will find a leadership team that listens, responds, and leads with integrity. We are not just preparing students for exams—we are preparing them for life. To our partners and future collaborators, we welcome you to join a school that is ambitious, inclusive, and committed to excellence in all we do. Leadership at BISR is more than a role—it is a responsibility we carry with pride, purpose, and unwavering dedication. |
| Foreword from the Deputy Chair, Matthew Wyatt |
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As Deputy Chair of the Board and Head of the Finance Committee at the British International School Riyadh (BISR), I am proud to highlight our commitment to strong leadership and governance. Our dedicated board works closely with the school leadership team to ensure BISR provides an outstanding education in a secure and financially sustainable environment. Transparent decision-making, financial accountability, and strategic vision are key pillars guiding our actions. We believe that robust governance fosters trust and collaboration, which are essential in providing a nurturing and dynamic learning environment for both our students and staff. Together, we strive for continued excellence. |
LEADERSHIP TEAM MEMBER
Director of Schools: Jeremy Newton
Principal of Al Waha: Mrs Karen Jones
Head of the Al Waha Senior School: Ms Rebekah Russell
Head of the Al Waha Primary School: Mr Jordan Davies
Founding Head of Al Hamra Redevelopment: Mr Neil Smith
Head of the Al Hamra Primary School: Mrs Joanne Rice
Principal of Diplomatic Quarter: Mrs Anna Power
Head of the DQ Primary School: Ms Janine Bradshaw
Head of the DQ Senior School: Mr Martin Daly
Interim COO: Mr Wayne Orr
Executive Head of BAE Schools: Mr Sven Carrington
GOVERNANCE
The British International School Riyadh is a not-for-profit institution with a proud legacy of excellence, integrity, and service to the international community since 1979. Every Riyal received in school fees is reinvested directly into the school—enhancing the learning experience through outstanding teaching, innovative resources, and world-class facilities.
Our Board of Governors is composed of experienced, dedicated volunteers who bring a wealth of professional expertise and a deep commitment to the school’s mission. Working in close partnership with the Director of Schools and the Executive Leadership Team, the Board ensures that BISR remains a leader in international education, both in Riyadh and across the region.
Governance at BISR is strategic, forward-thinking, and values-driven. The Board is responsible for setting the school’s long-term vision, safeguarding its financial sustainability, and upholding the highest standards of academic and operational performance. Our work is aligned with the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030, contributing to the Kingdom’s goals of educational excellence, innovation, and global engagement. We are proud to support a school that not only meets the expectations of today’s families but also prepares students to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
As governors, we are united by a shared belief in the transformative power of education. We are proud to serve a school community that values transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. We remain committed to ensuring that BISR continues to flourish for generations to come.
Board Members
Nick Prince
Dr Alice Burt
Dr Chris Payne
Dr Shaden Qasrawi
Madhur Bhandari
Matthew Wyatt
Simon Plummer
Mohamed Makki
Sergi Monros
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