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 |  | Stuart Dennis, Principal British International School, Abu Dhabi – BISAD grew up in Somerset in the South of England, a beautiful rural county that he still calls home. Stuart’s natural leadership, love of music and sport served him well at university leading to a first degree in music and education. He learnt the craft and art of teaching in the late 1980’s in northern England. This which was a very different context to the majority of his teaching and school leadership career. Stuart has spent the last 7 years overseas and is well versed in the needs of globally mobile families. Stuart has a passion for schools, working with teachers, parents and students because he believes schools contribute to the development of the whole person. During his own school days his most striking memory is his first successful audition for the Somerset County Youth Orchestra. “Rehearsals were a great adventure and I made a point of trying to learn as much as possible. Even though I was not especially talented, there were dedicated teachers who were prepared to give me a chance. As a teacher, and now as a Principal, this was a significant experience for me." Another valuable lesson learned from his own schooling is the importance of providing a place where children really want to learn for themselves and where they discover that if they 'have a go' people will be there to support them. Education, Stuart suggests, should be about allowing people to take risks, make mistakes and learn from those mistakes, in a safe a secure environment. Stuart believes in developing students who are active and enthusiastic in all areas of the curriculum; students who are comfortable in any situation; who are confident without being arrogant and who realise when they are wrong or do not know an answer, and thus, students who are open to learning. Stuart has high expectations and is ambitious for the success every student deserves to become well rounded 21st century global citizens. An education at BIS Abu Dhabi will foster intellectual curiosity and provide a broad and balanced curriculum in preparation for fulfilling lives after formal schooling and into adulthood. Importantly Stuart believes that it is vital to have a sense of awe and wonder in our world and constantly seek to develop the values and principles to guide us in our lives. |