Swiss International Scientific School (SISD) has announced the appointment of Pauline Nord as its new Principal from August 2026. Bringing more than 30 years of experience in Swiss and international education, she joins the Dubai school after leading Collège du Léman International School, one of Switzerland’s largest day and boarding schools.
For parents considering an international education in Dubai, the appointment signals continued investment in academic excellence, bilingual learning and student wellbeing. It also reinforces SISD’s commitment to providing a distinctive Swiss education that prepares students for leading universities and an increasingly global future.
Pauline Nord Brings Experience Across Every Stage of School Leadership
Unlike many school leaders who enter senior leadership from a single pathway, Pauline Nord has worked across almost every aspect of school life.
She began her career as a Mathematics and Physical Education teacher and Boarding House Tutor before progressing through a series of leadership positions. These included Deputy Principal, Principal of Primary, Director of Primary Studies, Academic Director and, most recently, Director General at Collège du Léman International School.
As a result, she brings first-hand experience of classroom teaching, curriculum leadership and whole-school strategy. This broad perspective is particularly valuable for schools that aim to deliver consistency from the Early Years through to graduation.
Strengthening SISD’s Bilingual and IB Education
One of the defining features of Pauline Nord’s career has been her commitment to bilingual education. Rather than treating languages as separate subjects, she has championed programmes that integrate different educational traditions. At Collège du Léman, she helped develop an approach that combined the structure of Francophone education with the inquiry-led philosophy of Anglophone learning.
This closely reflects SISD’s own educational model, where bilingual learning is embedded throughout school life rather than confined to language lessons. For families in Dubai, this approach offers students the opportunity to develop strong communication skills, cultural understanding and confidence in multilingual environments.
Additionally, Pauline has extensive experience overseeing multiple academic pathways, including the International Baccalaureate, the Swiss Maturité, the French Baccalauréat and the American High School Diploma with Advanced Placement. Her leadership has consistently focused on curriculum quality, academic accountability and continuous improvement while ensuring students can follow pathways suited to their individual strengths.
Boarding Expertise Supports Student Wellbeing
Pauline Nord also brings significant boarding school experience, having started her career in Swiss boarding education before leading boarding provision at Collège du Léman.
Her experience will support SISD’s continued development of a boarding environment where students feel safe, supported and connected. For international families relocating to Dubai, strong pastoral care remains one of the most important considerations when choosing a boarding school. Pauline’s background aligns closely with SISD’s emphasis on wellbeing alongside academic success.
What the Appointment Means for Families
Families choosing an international school often look beyond examination results. They want strong leadership, consistent teaching, excellent pastoral care and opportunities that prepare children for life beyond school.
Pauline Nord’s appointment supports these priorities through,
- Continued focus on academic excellence across internationally recognised programmes.
- A strong commitment to bilingual education throughout the curriculum.
- High expectations supported by effective teaching and clear academic systems.
- Inclusive learning that supports students with different strengths and ambitions.
- A connected experience for both day students and boarders, with wellbeing at its heart.
Furthermore, her experience leading large, academically diverse schools positions SISD well as Dubai’s international education sector continues to grow.
A New Chapter for Swiss International Scientific School
Pauline Nord’s appointment marks an important milestone for SISD as it continues to strengthen its reputation for bilingual learning, International Baccalaureate education and Swiss educational values. As demand for high-quality international education in Dubai continues to increase, experienced school leadership plays a vital role in maintaining academic standards while nurturing a strong school community.
Her arrival in August 2026 represents more than a leadership change. It reflects SISD’s long-term commitment to providing families with an education that combines academic ambition, multilingual learning and outstanding student care.
Families interested in learning more about the school’s programmes can arrange a campus tour or contact the admissions team for further information.
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