how we teach

Our exceptional teachers deliver outstanding learning experiences that will foster your child’s talents and unlock their true potential.

ABOUT OUR TEACHERS

NURTUrING GROWTH, EMBRACING TALENTS

Our teachers shape lives. Gifted, passionate, trailblazing and highly qualified, they deliver extraordinary learning experiences every single day – both in and beyond the classroom.

As well as nurturing academic strengths and interests – which will ensure your child gets outstanding exam results – our native English-speaking teachers will support their personal development, too. Your child will learn how to thrive in life, thanks to extraordinary opportunities that promote creativity, critical thinking, social responsibility, and cultural awareness.

Read more about how we personalise learning in this blog: Why Personalised Learning Matters More Than Ever

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primary

Leadership team

MEET OUR TEAM

Alan Cocker

Principal

Alan has been teaching since 1994 and has over 30 years of experience in education, with over 20 years in senior leadership roles. He is passionate about improving outcomes for children and is a big believer in the idea of 'learning to learn.' Throughout his career, Alan has created outstanding development opportunities for both students and staff, forming partnerships within and across organisations and working with exceptionally talented individuals.

Alan Cocker

Prior to moving to Abu Dhabi, Alan spent 12 years as a headteacher, transforming a school that faced challenging circumstances into one that supported the improvement of others. In each of his roles, Alan takes pride in empowering others to grow, enhancing the lives and opportunities of students in the communities he serves. He believes that as a school leader, one is a custodian, entrusted with the responsibility to leave the organisation in a better state than when inherited—whether in terms of educational outcomes, a skilled workforce, reputation, or commercial performance.

Since joining The British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi) in 2018, Alan has fallen in love with the school and is proud to be part of its history. As Principal, he is committed to building on the school's legacy and making it world-class in all aspects. Alan has delivered training opportunities for staff and spoken at national conferences on subjects ranging from leadership and coaching culture to the effective use of CPD. His approach involves listening, observing with intent and accuracy, and actively involving student voices in solutions and processes, ensuring they witness the value they add to their school and their lives.

Away from school, Alan enjoys staying active and being with people. He loves playing golf and football, and he is learning to play the guitar.

John Dibdin

Head of Primary

John Dibdin brings over 20 years of experience in primary education and a passion for nurturing student success. A strong advocate for innovative teaching methods and a child-centred approach, John is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive school environment. Before relocating to Abu Dhabi, John held various leadership roles in the UK, where he was recognised for his ability to transform school performance and improve student outcomes.

John Dibdin

John began his career in 1992 after completing his Bachelor of Education at the University of Hertfordshire. He quickly moved into leadership, becoming Deputy Headteacher at Mandeville Primary School in 1997. His leadership journey continued as Headteacher at Shenley Primary School, where he led significant improvements from 2005 to 2010. John's commitment to educational excellence was evident during his time as Headteacher at Mount Pleasant Lane JMI & N and Lanchester Primary School, where he fostered an inclusive and high-achieving environment.

In addition to his headteacher roles, John has been an independent leadership consultant and coach, sharing his expertise and mentoring other educational leaders. His qualifications include a Master of Education from the University of Cambridge and the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH), reflecting his commitment to continuous professional development.

Outside of his professional career, John enjoys staying active and engaging with the local community. He is passionate about outdoor activities and enjoys hiking and cycling. John's wealth of experience, dedication to educational leadership, and commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment make him a valuable addition to our school community. We are excited to have him lead our Primary School, ensuring every child reaches their full potential.

Dave MacCormick

Head of Secondary

Dave brings 15 years of experience in education, including seven years as Headteacher of a large 11–18 secondary school in the UK. He is passionate about creating inclusive, high-performing learning environments where every student can thrive. Throughout his career, Dave has been recognised for driving school improvement, fostering innovation and building strong partnerships with families, communities and other schools to improve educational outcomes.

Dave MacCormick

Prior to joining BIS Abu Dhabi, Dave spent 10 years at Holyrood Academy in the UK, including seven years as Headteacher. During his leadership, the school received local and national recognition for school improvement, innovation, inclusion, and strong partnerships with families and the wider community. He also supported the development of other schools as a School Improvement Partner and worked with local government to shape and share best practice, leading policy change in areas including additional educational needs (AEN), parental engagement, and community strengthening.

As Head of Secondary at BIS Abu Dhabi, Dave is committed to creating an ambitious, inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student is challenged to achieve their personal best. By working closely with students, parents and colleagues, Dave is dedicated to ensuring every learner is inspired, supported and empowered to succeed.

TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOM AND AT HOME

USING TECHNOLOGY TO TRANSFORM LEARNING

At BIS Abu Dhabi, we bring teaching and learning to life through the latest education technology (EdTech).

Our teachers embrace innovation in and beyond the classroom, finding new ways to engage and inspire your child. Students use iPads, 3D printers, robotics, VR headsets, and state‑of‑the‑art photography equipment, which enrich lessons and are explored further through specialist co‑curricular clubs.

We also teach students to use technology responsibly, including the ethical and age‑appropriate use of artificial intelligence. They learn how AI can support creativity and problem‑solving, while developing digital safety, integrity, and sound judgement. Learn more here: Preparing Students for an AI-Enabled Future

Through our exclusive Global Campus platform, your child will connect with classmates across 32 countries, collaborate on global projects, and access inspiring content from MIT, UNICEF, and The Juilliard School.

GETTING BETTER TOGETHER

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

Our teachers deliver extraordinary learning experiences every day. We provide outstanding opportunities for them to develop and grow, too.

On the award-winning Nord Anglia University platform, our teachers share ideas and collaborate with colleagues from across the world, study for further qualifications – including a Master’s degree – and complete hundreds of courses every year.
Our Collaboration with Evidence Based Education and the National College for Teaching in the UK give all staff access to a fully research based resourced platform developed by some of the greatest current minds in education- The Great Teaching Tool Kit and over 700 accredited courses offered by the National College.
Each Year Team in Primary and Department in Secondary have committed to collaborative action research projects that run throughout the year, challenging staff to identify areas for improvement and embed solutions in the classroom.
We have a need based professional learning fund that supports staff to curate their own learning based on self reflections and target setting for development. This has supported staff with IB training, Coaching training, Mental Health First Aid and a range of other developmental pathways appropriate to their roles in supporting our students to succeed.

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QUALITY ASSURANCE

SETTING THE STANDARD

We’re incredibly proud of our teaching standards. Our teachers have a wealth of experience in British and international schools, and are specialists in their fields. We only recruit native English speakers who have UK qualified teacher status (or equivalent).

To ensure quality, our teachers are regularly assessed against local and national benchmarks, as well as Nord Anglia’s stringent Quality Assurance framework. Through rigorous background screening, a strong safeguarding policy, and criminal record checks, we make sure our students are cared for and safe at school.

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JOIN OUR inspiring COMMUNITY

WORKING AT BIS ABU DHABI

Our exceptional teachers deliver life-changing experiences every day. Join our vibrant international school community, and help shape the next generation of leaders.

Find out more