ASK THE EXPERT: ZOE WOOLLEY

Headmistress at Foremarke School Dubai

- ZOE WOOLLEY

How did you begin your career in education?

From an early age, I could understand the importance of a positive educational experience. The impact of our schooling stays with us throughout our lives. I wanted to be part of the process that seeks to enable children to unlock their full potential and go on to have fulfilling lives.

I began my career at a Junior School in Barking, East London, where I taught for three years before moving to Riyadh in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to teach at The British School. I returned to the UK to teach at Dunhurst School, a Bedales Prep School, recognised as one of the top tier public schools in England. I was subsequently appointed as the Head of Junior School at Lavant House School in West Sussex. During my tenure at Lavant, I furthered my education and enhanced leadership skills, which led me to receive my MSc in Educational Management and Curriculum.

How long have you been at this school and where were you prior to this?

I decided to move to the UAE on the prospect of positively impacting the education landscape in Dubai. Since I previously lived in KSA for three years, relocating to the Middle East was a familiar feeling to me and upon moving to Dubai, it instantly felt like home. In 2013, I was appointed Head of Mathematics for the Junior School and Head of the Infant Department at Repton School Dubai. After two incredible years at Repton Dubai, I began my tenure at Foremarke as the Deputy Head of the school, which eventually led to my subsequent promotion to lead Foremarke as Headmistress, in 2018.