Ranches Primary School (RPS), one of Dubai’s leading community schools, is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Steve Arnold as its new Principal. This leadership transition marks an exciting new chapter in the school’s journey to expand its personalised learning approach and student-first culture.
Extensive Leadership in UK and UAE Education
Bringing more than a decade of leadership experience across the UK and the Middle East, Steve Arnold joins RPS with a strong background in inclusive, pupil-centred education. Most recently, Steve led the Gifted and Talented programme at GEMS Education, where he supported learning across 48 of the region’s leading schools.
His focus was clear: to help every child discover their individual strengths and equip them with the tools to thrive. Now, he brings this same mission to Ranches Primary School as it continues to grow as a nurturing, academically robust, and wellbeing-focused institution.
A Strong Foundation in Personalised Learning
Before moving to Dubai, Steve held senior roles in the UK, including Head Teacher and later Service Manager for Education at Orkney Islands Council in Scotland. In these positions, he championed curriculum innovation, inclusive learning environments, and student-led teaching strategies.
At the heart of his philosophy is the belief that every child learns differently, and schools should celebrate that diversity. At RPS, Steve aims to enhance all areas of school life—from academic achievement and staff development to wellbeing and co-curricular opportunities.
He plans to introduce a strengths-based, flexible approach to teaching that meets children where they are and supports their holistic development.
“A School Where Every Child Can Shine”
Speaking on his new role, Mr Arnold shared his excitement:
“I’m really excited to be joining Ranches Primary School as Principal. It’s a school with a wonderful sense of community, where every child is known, cared for, and encouraged to shine. What truly stood out to me about RPS was the genuine warmth and dedication of the teachers and leadership team. Their commitment to giving each child the time, support and encouragement they need really resonated with me.”
He continued:
“For me, personalised learning means understanding what makes each child unique—what they love, what they’re great at, and where they might need a little extra help—and tailoring our teaching to bring out their best. I can’t wait to work closely with our families and staff to build on the fantastic things already happening here. And I’m especially thrilled that my own children will be joining the RPS family too!”
Community-Driven, Values-Led Leadership
Mr Ian Wallace, Director of Education at Cognita Middle East, praised the appointment:
“Ranches Primary School is a deeply connected community school where every child is known, supported and given the opportunity to thrive. Mr Arnold is not only an experienced and strategic leader, but also a person of warmth and integrity whose values align closely with those of the school. His thoughtful, people-first approach reflects the caring, inclusive spirit of the RPS community.”
“With his deep understanding of how to personalise learning within a nurturing environment, he is exceptionally well placed to lead the school into its next phase. His experience and character will be invaluable as we continue to build on Ranches Primary School’s reputation for academic strength, strong transitions to leading secondary schools and a culture that puts the wellbeing and progress of every pupil at its heart.”
Looking Ahead with Gratitude and Optimism
Steve Arnold will officially take on the role following the departure of current Principal, Ms Emma Ledger, in July 2025. Ms Ledger has been instrumental in shaping the school’s caring, inclusive ethos. Her legacy leaves behind a solid foundation for the next phase of RPS’s growth—anchored in personalised, meaningful learning experiences for every pupil.
Further Reading: