Ian Temple aims to cultivate and grow an inclusive environment, through collaboration between educators and families and places significant emphasis on the continuous professional development of teaching staff to sustain excellence.

Dubai, July 24, 2025: Al Ain English Speaking School (AAESS) has appointed Ian Temple as its new Principal. Temple, brings over 30 years of experience in education and academic leadership and held senior leadership roles in the UK, Europe, Malaysia, and the Middle East, he most recently served as Principal at Nobel Algarve British International School in Lagoa, Portugal.

He replaces Andrew Thomas who headed the Abu Dhabi-based British curriculum school and under whose leadership, the school earned a “Very Good” rating from the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK).

Among the other achievements of the school in 2024 was when its students scored the highest mark in the UAE for iGCSE Chemistry and A/S Psychology, plus the highest mark in the world for A/S Psychology.

According to AAESS, Temple has developed deep expertise in multiple frameworks of the English National Curriculum, including GCSE, IGCSE, CIE, A Levels, and the IB.

Commenting on his appointment as Principal Temple says: “I look forward to working closely with the students, families and education team to build on the school’s achievements and drive its next chapter of success. Together we will cultivate and grow the inclusive environment that is already known at AAESS where every student is empowered to thrive, excel and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”

Recipient of a master’s degree in education and the UK’s National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH), Temple is a strong believer in the power of collaboration between educators and families, and places significant emphasis on the continuous professional development of teaching staff to sustain excellence.

Glen Radojkovich, Chair of Governors, added: “We are delighted to welcome Temple as Principal of Al Ain English Speaking School. With his extensive leadership experience and commitment to academic excellence and holistic student development, Temple is exceptionally well-positioned to lead the school into its next chapter of growth. As the school approaches its 50-year anniversary, his vision will ensure AAESS continues to build on its proud legacy of empowering students to reach their fullest potential.”