GEMS Founders School Dubai South has appointed experienced UK educator Nicholas Soar as Principal and CEO. The GEMS Founders School appointment marks a significant leadership milestone for the rapidly growing Dubai South campus. Additionally, the move reflects continued investment in strengthening school leadership within one of Dubai’s fastest developing education communities.
Located in a key growth corridor, GEMS Founders School has quickly established itself as a popular choice for families. Furthermore, the school continues to expand its role in supporting students across a diverse and fast-changing community.
Leadership Appointment to Support School Growth in Dubai South
Nicholas Soar will take up his role as Principal and CEO in August 2026. Meanwhile, he succeeds Interim Principal John Stapley.
The GEMS Founders School community has expanded quickly since opening in 2024. As a result, leadership continuity has become a key priority for long-term development.
Additionally, the school sits within Dubai South, an area linked to aviation, logistics and future industries. Therefore, the appointment aligns closely with the region’s wider growth plans.
A Rapidly Growing School Community With Strong Foundations
GEMS Founders School Dubai South has already achieved significant progress within a short period. Notably, it received a ‘Good’ rating and ‘Outstanding’ judgement in its British Schools Overseas inspection within eight months of opening.
Furthermore, the campus spans 250,000 sq. ft and offers a wide range of facilities. These include robotics and flight simulation laboratories, a 25-metre swimming pool, football pitch and padel court. In addition, the school features flexible learning spaces designed to support collaboration and creativity.
As a result, GEMS Founders School continues to attract families seeking a well-resourced and forward-looking learning environment.
Experienced UK Leader Brings Strong Track Record of School Improvement
Nicholas Soar joins from the Harris Federation, one of the UK’s leading education organisations. He has served as Executive Principal across several London schools.
Moreover, his leadership experience spans more than two decades. He has led schools to ‘Outstanding’ judgements under both Ofsted and Independent Schools Inspectorate frameworks.
Nick has also played a role in leadership development programmes for aspiring headteachers. Additionally, he has contributed to international education partnerships across China, Ghana and Eastern Europe.
His experience includes collaboration with organisations such as the OECD. Therefore, his appointment is expected to strengthen both academic outcomes and school culture at GEMS Founders School.
Vision for a Growing Education Community in Dubai South
Commenting on the appointment, Dino Varkey, Group CEO of GEMS Education, said,
“Since GFD first opened its doors in 2024 as the fourth addition to our successful Founders brand, it has grown rapidly and established itself as an important part of the Dubai South community. As we look to the future, we wanted a leader with the vision, experience, and ambition to help realise the school’s full potential. Nick combines a proven track record of educational transformation with a deep understanding of how schools can become catalysts for community growth. His appointment supports the school’s strategy of blending the best of British educational practices with the rich and diverse cultural tapestry of the UAE. We are delighted to welcome him to the GEMS family.”
Furthermore, Nick Soar highlighted the opportunity to contribute to a growing school community,
“This is a rare moment when an ambitious school, a rapidly developing region, and my own leadership experience align powerfully. What excites me the most is the opportunity to help shape a school that becomes central to an evolving community, attracting exceptional staff, inspiring students, and contributing meaningfully to the rise of Dubai South. I am particularly excited by the opportunity to help build a school that reflects both the ambition of Dubai’s future and the values, culture, and identity that have shaped the UAE’s success.”
What this Means for Families and Educators
The appointment signals continued focus on strong leadership within GEMS Founders School. Additionally, it reflects wider trends in Dubai’s education sector, where schools are expanding to meet growing demand.
For parents, this may support confidence in long-term stability and academic development. Meanwhile, educators may see increased opportunities for professional growth within a rapidly evolving school environment.
Ultimately, GEMS Founders School continues to position itself as a key part of Dubai South’s education landscape.
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