Laura Copland

I am a passionate and ambitious school leader, currently serving as Assistant Head Teacher of Middle School at GEMS Wellington International School, Dubai. With over a decade of teaching and leadership experience across Early Years, Primary, and Middle School, I have built a reputation for driving whole-school improvement, empowering staff and inspiring students to thrive academically and personally.

My leadership journey has seen me successfully manage teams of teachers and support staff, lead curriculum innovation and oversee large year groups of students and parents. I have spearheaded projects in Maths Mastery, Foundation Curriculum Development, Pupil and Staff Wellbeing, Eco-Schools, and Investing in Children, securing national recognition and multiple awards. I am also a qualified Senior Mental Health Lead and have introduced a coaching approach to develop staff at all levels, strengthening collaboration and professional growth.

I thrive on leading by example and creating a culture where every voice matters. I have had the privilege of working internationally, in the UK and Dubai, as well as teaching in Sri Lanka and Kenya, experiences which have broadened my perspective and strengthened my belief in inclusive, globally-minded education. My expertise has been recognised through opportunities such as shadowing inspectors, leading professional development through educational providers and sharing international school achievements with global leaders.

As I continue my leadership journey, I am committed to continuous growth and aspire to lead as a visionary. I bring ambition, resilience and a focused vision to leadership, always with the aim of ensuring that children receive the very best education and opportunities to succeed.