Staff
Launched during the pandemic, the British International School Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter campus has quickly grown into a vibrant learning community. Principal Anna Power shares insights on the school’s journey, how students are being equipped to thrive in a fast-changing world and the trends transforming K-12 education in Saudi Arabia
The British International School Riyadh (BISR) is one of Saudi Arabia’s established schools, delivering British education for more than 45 years. The Diplomatic Quarter (DQ) campus of BISR was launched during the pandemic to meet the needs of a diverse and dynamic community in one of Riyadh’s most prominent districts. The school blends tradition with forward-thinking approaches to learning. With a strong emphasis on community, innovation and global citizenship, BISR DQ’s positioning is a reflection of the broader changes in Saudi’s educational priorities.
At the helm of the school is Principal Anna Power, whose international experience and passion for educational technology have shaped DQ into a centre for learning.
Having worked across Australia, England, Malaysia, the Philippines and now Saudi Arabia, Power brings a truly global perspective to her role. She played a pivotal role in launching the DQ campus during the challenging pandemic period, first as Head of Campus and now as Principal since 2023. With a strong belief in building community and a learner-centric environment, she has led the school to early success, securing prestigious accreditations and cultivating a culture where students flourish both academically and personally.
As an Apple Distinguished Educator and a key figure in the HMC AI/EdTech Working Group, Power has championed the integration of technology in the classroom, ensuring students are equipped with future-ready skills.
In an exclusive interview with Education Middle East, she reflects on her journey with BISR, the development and early successes of the DQ campus and the broader trends transforming K-12 education in Saudi Arabia.
What inspired the British International School Riyadh (BISR) to establish the DQ campus?
British International School Riyadh (BISR) currently has seven campuses across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our much-loved Al Hamra school was the first, followed by Salwa (now Al Sharq campus). Primary schools in Tabuk and Taif followed, then the DQ [Diplomatic Quarter] campus was refurbished in 2020. We have a new school in Al Saqr in Al Majma’ah, and our Al Waha campus is due to open this summer. We are proud of our 45-year heritage, providing exceptional education to English speaking boys and girls aged 3-18 at our various locations.
The DQ expansion was inspired by the commitment to further address the needs of our local communities and children.
How would you describe your journey with the BISR DQ campus?
Since the DQ campus opening, my experience with BISR has been both rewarding and challenging at the same time. The school has continually evolved, adapting and innovating to always ensure we are best meeting our students’ needs.
Building our own identity while being part of the BISR family was initially difficult, but as time has gone on, we have established ourselves in our own right while remaining true to the shared vision (to be an outstanding British international school, providing world class learning experiences, in a nurturing environment, where students excel, flourish and develop as positive global citizens) and mission (to reach and maintain the standard of being an outstanding British international School, working together as a community to act as role models, helping our students as we all commit to REACH [Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Challenge and Happiness].
Being able to apply all of my professional experience and work with some amazing colleagues to shape our school into what it is today has been, and continues to be, an incredible journey. The students are incredibly important to us all and ultimately, everything we do is for them as future global citizens. When we see their success, it’s impossible not to feel pride and confidence in the future that lies ahead. They work so hard to achieve their goals and serve as an inspiration to us all.
What have been the school’s biggest accomplishments so far?
We are immensely proud of the accreditations that were completed relatively early for such a new school, including British Schools Overseas, the Council of International Schools and Western Association of Schools and Colleges. DQ is honoured to be an International Baccalaureate World School. All staff at the DQ delight in watching our students blossom into accomplished individuals, and many have already gone on to prestigious universities.
What have been the most significant achievements of your two-decade career?
Without a doubt, my biggest career achievement so far has to be this opportunity that I have had with BISR — to open a new school as Head and then move to Principal. It’s a privilege to work with such inspiring young people and give back to the community in this way, especially when we see our collective goals being recognised with international accolades.
Tell us about the teachers at BISR DQ campus and how you keep them motivated?
Although we are separate campuses, we are all motivated to work towards the same goal — offering excellent academic education and contribution to compassionate, culturally aware, global citizens. The school community is hugely important. Fostering that and the culture has been paramount. BISR has invested lots of time in professional development, through training and workshops to strive towards our shared vision, supporting teachers to be the best they can be for our students.
Having worked across Asia, Europe and the Middle East, how would you compare the schools in those regions to those here?
Each region has nuances based on custom and cultures but the key is focusing on establishing positive relationships that are going to help children grow. There is a wide range of educational philosophies and pedagogical approaches, from traditional to progressive, with a growing emphasis on student-centered learning. Respecting local traditions, while drawing on experience from each where relevant, is essential for providing the highest quality education for our students. Our programmes include cultural awareness initiatives, so students have early on experience of different religions and customs, ensuring they are open-minded and gracious citizens.
How do you see the evolution of the K-12 education sector in Saudi Arabia, and what key trends are shaping its future?
The K-12 education sector in Saudi Arabia is evolving rapidly, driven by internationalism and the Kingdom’s efforts to open itself to the world. Embracing 21st-century education, the focus is on developing well-rounded students, preparing them for an ever-changing global stage and future jobs that we might not even foresee yet. Key trends include service-learning initiatives, outdoor education programmes like CAS [Creativity, Activity, Service] and DofE [Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award], and adventure-based learning. These approaches aim to foster critical thinking, adaptability and global citizenship, ensuring students are well-equipped for the future. This evolution reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to nurturing individuals that are ready to contribute to the global community with compassion.
What according to you are the key elements that make a school truly distinctive, especially in the GCC region?
For schools looking to set themselves apart in the GCC, they must provide comprehensive programmes, including well-being support, and dedicate time to inclusive practices that engage with the wider community. Innovation must be at the core of teaching strategies.
Schools should not solely prepare students for academic success but also for the wider challenges and opportunities faced in the adult world. This is especially important as new technology plays an increasing part in the education sector and business as a whole. BISR’s commitment to excellence and modernity ensures the schools remain at the forefront of international education in the region, ultimately contributing to well-rounded, global leaders of the future.
How do you view the rapid advancement in technology in education, and how have you gone about incorporating it in your school?
It’s a personal passion of mine. I embrace technology in education and pride myself on always being at the forefront of this. BISR works closely with an array of EdTech consultants who help us to navigate the ever-evolving landscape. Sharing their knowledge allows us to stay up to speed with the latest technologies, trends and best practices. In turn, this allows us to make more informed decisions with our students’ best interests at heart. I would strongly encourage anyone to leverage their network, tapping into specialist knowledge to access their expertise and diverse perspectives.
