Geneva school leader Pauline Nord appointed Principal of Swiss International Scientific School Dubai from the 2026–27 academic year
Nord Anglia Education and Swiss International Scientific School Dubai (SISD) have announced that Pauline Nord will become the school’s new Principal in August 2026, succeeding Ruth Burke, who has led SISD since 2021.
Ms Nord joins from Collège du Léman in Geneva, where she has served as Director General for the past seven years, leading an international day and boarding school.
IB, bilingual pathways and boarding
SISD opened in 2015 and educates more than 2,900 students from over 100 nationalities. The school offers the International Baccalaureate, alongside French-English and German-English bilingual pathways, and provides both day and boarding options.
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Ms Nord brings more than 30 years’ experience in Swiss and international education, with leadership across programmes including the IB Diploma Programme, Swiss Maturité, French Baccalauréat and the American High School Diploma.
She began her career as a teacher and boarding tutor, and holds a primary education degree from the University of Edinburgh, a Master’s in International Education from King’s College London, and an advanced educational leadership certificate from Harvard University. She has lived in Switzerland for more than three decades and is also a parent of two daughters educated through the Swiss system.
Commenting on the move, Ms Nord said: “Swiss International Scientific School Dubai stands out for its clear identity made up of Swiss values, bilingual pathways, academic ambition, and a vibrant international community. I’m excited to build on that strong foundation and ensure every student achieves excellent outcomes while feeling known, supported and inspired.”
She will take up her post in August 2026.
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