James Heard

James Heard is the Founding Head of Primary at Dubai International Academy Town Square, where he has recently had the slightly unusual experience of opening a brand-new school from the ground up.Having worked in education for more than 20 years, including over a decade in Dubai, James has held a range of teaching and leadership roles across primary and early years education. He is particularly passionate about creating schools where high expectations, strong relationships, and a genuine sense of community sit alongside great teaching and learning.As an IB educator, James is a firm believer in inquiry, curiosity and giving children meaningful ownership of their learning, while remaining equally convinced that the simple things still matter: great teachers, clear expectations and knowing the children well.