Ben Parkes

I first began my teaching journey in 2010, after graduating from the University of Essex with a Bsc degree in Management and Mathematics. My teaching philosophy developed in schools across Essex and Leicestershire before I made the move to Abu Dhabi in 2015. My educational passions lie in creating personalised learning experiences for students and future career readiness. I am a firm believer that a school's responsibility for student development extends far beyond the classroom.

I have previously worked as Head of KS4, Head of Mathematics and for the last 4 years, I have worked as a Deputy Head Teacher here in Dubai. I completed the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL) with the University College London, which largely focused on the reliability of assessment and pastoral data, and measuring the impact of its use.  

My leadership values are centred around integrity and trust; with the goal of creating a culture of collaboration amongst staff and an environment conducive of outstanding outcomes for students. I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to join the GEMS family this year, and take on the role as Head of Upper School at an outstanding school such as GEMS Wellington International School.