Principal | Mr. Robert Thorn
Belvedere British School
Welcome to Belvedere British School. I hope the web pages you find here are able to communicate and share something about the very friendly and welcoming community and environment that our school has created.
We strive to be a learning organisation consisting of learning communities all working together for the benefit of our young people and those who support their learning and growth. That means we base our operation on raising levels of trust, communication, and collaboration and, through a shared vision, our professional and community capital grows. In simple terms, we work together for the benefit of us all, aiming towards a happy and successful community that leads to happy and successful youngsters and vice versa.
As a British School, we are often asked what that really means. My answer is that, of course, our roots are in exceptional British Education – the original Belvedere School in Liverpool, UK – however, it is our educational system and ethos that define us as a British school. At Belvedere, you will find the UK National Curriculum, Key Stages 1-5, IGCSEs, and A Levels.
Those are our systems, but what is different about Belvedere is our approach.
Education is about developing learners for life who can, of course, excel in examinations but, most importantly, who can also realise their personal potential as the future citizens and leaders. With that in mind, we draw inspiration from the most insightful, holistic, and wise of British and international educational advisors and researchers. We make every effort to help young people develop into the best learners for life they can be. Being a ‘learner for life’ means having the confidence to succeed in examination courses, but it also means knowing oneself, being able to learn from successes and mistakes, and being confident to take on new roles, innovate and create. It means pursuing the most valuable goal of all – to be able to make wise decisions and take wise action in school, at home, and beyond.
So, if you are a student – be prepared to be engaged, challenged, and coached until you can engage yourself and challenge yourself as a learner for life.
If you are a parent considering our school for your children – be prepared to be welcomed, supported and accepted as a part of our community – one in which you can participate.
If you are a potential employee – be prepared to become a part of a team that values your initiative and supports and allows you to grow.
In whatever role, we hope you can join us as we break new ground in education and help us continue to develop Belvedere British School as the best school for the communities it serves.
Vice Principal for Academics & Quality Assurance |
DR. AHMED AL-ZUHAIRI
Belvedere British School
Let me begin by expressing how proud and honoured I am to serve as Vice Principal of our school, now marking my fifth year in this role. It has been a privilege to contribute to the school’s ongoing journey of excellence and to witness the incredible growth and success of our students. I remain deeply committed to ensuring that every child in our care becomes the best version of themselves. Together with our exceptional staff, I will continue to focus on delivering the highest standards of education, outcomes, and enriching experiences for your children.
I am a UK graduate with a Doctorate in Chemical Engineering. I have a Master’s in Education, and am working towards my NPQH and a PGCE in Special Education Needs Coordination. With 16 years of experience in education, I have had the opportunity to take on various roles that have shaped my leadership. I began my career as a teacher in 2008 and progressed to Head of Department for Math and Science, a position I held for five years. My career journey also included a brief stint as a Scientist at Qatar Foundation in Doha. However, my passion for education and my love for the UAE brought me back, where I served as an Examinations Officer for five years. During this time, I oversaw internal and external examinations, including Pearson Edexcel and Cambridge CIE, and led Academic Quality Assurance processes.
In 2017, I took on the role of IB Coordinator, where I successfully developed one of the most recognised IB departments in the UAE. Since 2018, I have been proud to serve as Vice Principal, working closely with our dedicated team to build a culture of excellence and innovation at our school.
I am deeply passionate about providing a world-class education for our pupils because I firmly believe your children deserve nothing less. My aim is to ensure they learn in an environment where they feel safe, inspired, and proud to belong. Together, we will foster their confidence, curiosity, and love for learning so they can thrive and achieve their fullest potential.
As I always say, “Together we must succeed, and together we will succeed.”
Head of Arabic Department | Wejdan Al Manaseer
Belvedere British School
It is my pleasure to continue my service at as BBS principal deputy Head of the Arabic Department. I am now entering sixth year of employment with Belvedere British School.
I am originally from the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. I graduated in 2007 with BA in Arabic language & literature from Zaitoun University in Jordan. I have a breadth of experience and knowledge having worked within education in the past 16 years as Head of Arabic department. I do training for teachers in across the UAE.
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As a member of the executive board, my role includes curriculum development, evaluation processes, disciplinary behaviour actions, and analyzing information pertinent to school processes.
In addition, I often oversee various components of school life that include interacting with students, meeting with parents, communicating with educational authorities, and community organizations to ensure that the school remains in compliance with legal responsibilities.
I look forward to build strong relationships with parents, students and community partners. I am committed to ensuring that every student receives the very best education possible, and that all students and their families realize they are an important part of our success.
Head of Primary | Mr. Jason Lachenicht
Belvedere British School
It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I join Belvedere British School as the Head of Primary. I bring with me 9 years of experience in education, where I have had the privilege of working with diverse learners, dedicated teachers, and supportive school communities. My background as a British South African shapes my appreciation for cultural diversity and the value of inclusion, which I am excited to embrace within the vibrant community at BBS.
My vision as Head of Primary is to create an environment where every learner feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their fullest potential. I am equally committed to ensuring that our teachers are empowered, equipped, and encouraged to deliver innovative and impactful teaching. Together, we will nurture a culture of excellence, where each child’s academic, personal, and social development is at the heart of everything we do.
I look forward to working closely with our talented team of educators, engaging with our amazing students, and partnering with parents to ensure a positive and meaningful school experience for everyone. I am eager to hear your ideas, learn from your insights, and collaborate to make the primary section of BBS an exceptional place for learning and growth.
Thank you for welcoming me into this incredible school community. I am excited for the journey ahead and to be part of the Belvedere legacy.
“Empowering learners to believe in their potential, inspiring educators to innovate and lead with purpose, and fostering a community where growth, respect, and excellence thrive together.”