Stephen Quinn shares his educational journey, leadership approach, and what’s next for Horizon International School
“At the heart of Horizon is a shared belief that everybody counts, everybody contributes, and everyone succeeds,” says Principal Stephen Quinn, reflecting the ethos of Horizon International School (HIS) —a British curriculum school for children aged 3–18 in Umm Al Sheif, Jumeirah.
Yalla spoke with Stephen to learn more about his journey from the UK to Dubai, his belief in giving every child their moment to shine, and his ambition to lead Horizon towards achieving an Outstanding rating.
He also reveals a childhood love of science—and a dream dinner guest list that includes David Attenborough and Neil Armstrong…
What’s your educational background?
I graduated from the University of Manchester (UK) with a degree in Economics, then spent a year in industry before realising my true calling lay in education.
I returned to university to study Education with a focus on Science, where I developed my classroom practice and teaching philosophy.
I began my career in an independent school before moving to a nearby state school—two contrasting environments that shaped my belief that every child, regardless of background, deserves high-quality teaching. I’m grateful to both for the leadership opportunities they offered.
I then moved into international education, spending six years at a school that progressed from ‘Good’ to ‘Outstanding’, where I rose to a senior leadership role.
I joined HIS as Vice Principal, a position I held for six years before becoming Principal.
Horizon’s belief that everybody counts, contributes, and succeeds is one I share deeply, and I’m committed to ensuring the school continues to thrive.
Did you love school?
I was a very studious student who perhaps seemed quiet. However, I had a real passion for Science and thrived in practical lessons.
One of the main reasons I became a teacher was to share this enthusiasm for practical learning with other children.
Who or what influenced you most growing up?
My parents played a central role in my development, supporting all my interests and career choices.
My mother was a Headteacher, and she was the catalyst for my career change.
Was there a pivotal moment in your career?
Experiencing both an independent school and a state school gave me the chance to see education through two completely different lenses. That shaped how I see education.
What’s your educational philosophy?
My philosophy is that every child matters—and that teachers should share a genuine passion for the awe and wonder of teaching.
Education should help children discover what it means to belong, and equip them with the skills to thrive in an ever-changing world.
You might like: The Yalla 100 StandOut UAE Schools Guide
What makes a great school environment?
Community, community, community! It might sound simplistic, but if your school genuinely and actively involves all stakeholders, it will thrive.
Everyone who has any dealings with the children in a school should feel valued and heard.
That sense of respect and belonging means people will go the extra mile because they want to—not because they have to.
What drew you to Horizon, and what makes it stand out in the UAE education landscape?
I mentioned community above, and the strength of the Horizon International community is unique.
Whether you’re walking the corridors or the car park, you get the same feeling of togetherness, respect, and a shared drive to make it the best place for the children who come here.
Our children are fabulous. They are eager, respectful, inquisitive—and they have a sense of belonging that enables them to thrive.
What’s your vision for Horizon under your leadership?
I aim to continue striving for excellence while providing the most enriching curriculum possible by expanding the educational pathways we offer.
Nothing is stopping us from achieving an ‘Outstanding’ rating in the next inspection cycle.
How do you support student success and wellbeing?
It’s important to foster a culture where it’s okay to make mistakes.
If children feel comfortable trying new things or taking risks without fear of failure, they’re more likely to reflect, grow, and engage fully in their learning.
It’s also vital that academic grades aren’t the only measure of success.
Success looks different for every child—and we must celebrate achievements across the full breadth of the curriculum.
What skills do students need most in a world we can’t yet predict?
Resilience, agency, and critical thinking.
These skills are transferable across any subject or discipline, so we need to not only teach them but give students regular opportunities to practise them.
QUICK-FIRE ROUND
Let’s get to know Stephen a little better…
Favourite book as a child?
Danny, The Champion of the World
Your dream school trip and why?
Skiing—the scenery and the excitement cannot be matched.
If not a headteacher, what would you be?
An astronaut—or anything linked to the study of space.
What three things are always on your desk?
Water, a plant, and my notebook.
One app you can’t live without?
WhatsApp.
If you could invite any three people (dead or alive) to dinner, who would they be?
David Attenborough, Sir Patrick Moore, and Neil Armstrong.
For further information visit Horizon International School
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