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RGS Guildford Dubai Announces New Principal for Academic Year 2024/25

by Belinda Breeze

The Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai (RGSGD), one of the leading British curriculum schools in the UAE, is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Scott Bryan as the new Principal of the Dubai school, starting 1st August 2024.

Mr. Bryan brings more than 25 years of education experience to RGSGD, including three successful Headships across the UK, UAE, and Switzerland. In his most recent role as Managing Director at Wellington College International (WCI), he oversaw its network of nine schools which educated over 6,200 students, delivered outstanding IBDP and A-level results, and regularly placed students at the world’s leading universities including both Oxbridge and Ivy League.

Dr. Jon Cox, Headmaster of RGS Guildford UK, and Chair of the Board of Governors for RGS Guildford Dubai, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Bryan to the RGS family of schools. With his proven track record in the UK, UAE, and internationally, he brings a wealth of British and international educational experience and knowledge that will complement RGS Guildford Dubai as it continues to flourish.”


Commenting on his new appointment, Mr. Scott Bryan said: “I am delighted to be appointed as the next Principal of RGS Guildford Dubai. I am eager to build upon the distinguished achievements of Mrs. Clare Turnbull and her dedicated team as we strive to uphold and enhance our reputation as a world class centre of learning for pupils aged 3 to 18, one that is quintessentially aligned with the traditions and aspirations of sister-school, RGS Guildford in the UK.

Having led several eminent independent schools in the United Kingdom, I find a deep resonance with the ethos, vision, and values fostered by RGS Guildford. Our goals encompass not only academic rigor but also the enrichment provided by extra-curricular activities, personal growth, and a commitment to serving the community. Our mission extends to developing exceptional international schools and nurturing vibrant school communities.

I eagerly anticipate working closely with the much-admired leadership team, faculty, staff, parents, and the wider school community. Together, we will guide and nurture our aspirational RGSGD pupils, empowering every individual in our care to thrive and reach their full potential.”


The current Principal, Mrs. Clare Turnbull will be retiring, following her tenure at RGS Guildford Dubai. Under her leadership, the school has successfully been established in the UAE, where she has been instrumental in embedding the foundation of academic excellence and integrating the core values, culture, and learning ethos synonymous with RGS Guildford, as a founding member of the senior leadership team. Leaving the school in excellent shape, RGSGD currently has a strong cohort of over 1,200 pupils from FS1 to Year 8, with waiting lists across various year groups. RGSGD was recently awarded its first KHDA rating of ‘Very Good’, marking a significant milestone as the first school in Dubai to achieve this high rating in its initial inspection.

Mrs. Clare Turnbull, Principal, RGS Guildford Dubai said: “I am incredibly proud of everything we have achieved at RGS Guildford Dubai over the past four years. It’s been a remarkable journey, and whilst I am sad to leave the UAE, I do so in the knowledge that the school is flourishing, with an exceptional leadership team, our positive and responsible pupils, and a wonderful community of parents that keep our RGS values and ethos alive.”