The education leader brings 35 years of global experience across Portugal, Canada and Singapore  

Dubai, May 20, 2026: GEMS Education has appointed Keith Chicquen as the Superintendent of GEMS American Academy – Abu Dhabi (GAA), effective August 2026.   

GAA serves a diverse student community representing 86 nationalities, with more than 30 languages spoken. The school has earned a Very Good rating from the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), with its curriculum rated Outstanding. It offers one of the broadest selections of high school pathways in Abu Dhabi, including the American Diploma, Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and a hybrid programme.  

Chicquen succeeds Interim Superintendent Dr Ethan Hildreth. A school founder and education leader, he brings 35 years of experience across K–12 day, boarding, public, private and post-secondary institutions in Portugal, Canada and Singapore. He joins GEMS Education from TASIS Portugal, where he has served as Founding Headmaster since 2019.  

A hands-on educator, he remains closely connected to the classroom and student experience, having taught mathematics, coached athletics and led student leadership initiatives throughout his career.  

He has also held senior leadership roles at Vancouver Island University (VIU), Shawnigan Lake School, Lower Canada College (LCC) and Collingwood School in Canada. He began his career as part of the founding leadership team of the Canadian Overseas College (now the Canadian International School) in Singapore.  

Commenting on the appointment, Dino Varkey, Group CEO, GEMS Education says, “Keith is a proven school builder with a remarkable ability to shape not just institutions, but thriving, values-driven communities. He is a strong advocate of parent-school partnerships, having built highly engaged parent communities that actively contribute to school life and student success. In addition, his track record in delivering academic excellence while prioritising student wellbeing makes him an outstanding fit for GAA…”   

Chicquen says, “What stood out to me immediately about GAA was its strong sense of identity, its commitment to academic excellence and the strength of its community. I believe deeply in schools where students, families and educators work in true partnership, and I look forward to building on GAA’s momentum, ensuring every learner feels supported, challenged and inspired to succeed.”