The new GEMS Founders School in Dubai South is due to open its doors in August 2024
Dubai, July 24, 2024: GEMS Education has appointed two new principals to its schools in Dubai and Ras al Khaimah.
![](https://educationmiddleeast.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Ian-Plant-Principal-of-GFD-01.jpg)
Ian Plant has been named the founding Principal/CEO of GEMS Founders School – Dubai South, while Robert Commons will be the new Principal/CEO of GEMS Westminster School – Ras Al Khaimah (WSR).
GEMS Founders School – Dubai South (GFD), which is due to open its doors in August 2024 will be the fourth GEMS Founders-branded school to open in the Emirates.
Plant moved to Dubai in 2010 and has held senior leadership roles in three international schools, including GEMS Founders School – Dubai, which he joined in 2017 as Head of Secondary before being promoted to Associate Principal.
![](https://educationmiddleeast.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Robert_Commons_WSR.jpg)
Plant, who began his career as a professional footballer in England, holds a Master of Education degree from Murdoch University and the National Professional Qualification for Headship. He is also a qualified Level 3 British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspector.
Commons meanwhile, has held leadership positions in various British and IB curriculum schools in the UAE, UK, and other countries. Commons previously was the Lead Government Officer for Secondary Education in the UK’s Channel Islands and holds a master’s degree in Education Leadership and Management as well as a Bachelor of Education in Physical Education.