Meet Alison Fox, our new Principal at NAIS Manila

We’re pleased to introduce Alison Fox as the new Principal of NAIS Manila, beginning in the 2025/26 academic year.

A seasoned international school leader and passionate educator, Alison brings more than two decades of experience in global education, having led teams and schools across Europe and Asia. She joins NAIS Manila from her current role as Principal of The British School Yangon, also part of the Nord Anglia Education family.

In this article, Alison shares her journey, her priorities for the year ahead, and what excites her most about becoming part of the NAIS Manila community.

A global educator with deep Nord Anglia roots
“I began my teaching career at the Nord Anglia school in Bratislava, Slovakia, where I discovered my passion for education and working with young people. After returning to the UK, I spent four years at a grammar school, gaining valuable experience in curriculum development, OFSTED compliance, and student-centered learning.”

That early experience shaped her approach to inclusive and strategic leadership. A move to Poland brought her back into the Nord Anglia family, where she joined The British School Warsaw and rose through the ranks.

“I started as a classroom teacher and progressed into leadership, ultimately serving as Head of Secondary for six years. This role allowed me to focus on strategic planning, staff development, and creating inclusive learning environments.”

After completing a Master’s in Education (Leadership & Management), Alison moved to Yangon to lead a thriving school community. Her next chapter will begin in Manila.

“I was particularly attracted to the strong and committed school community that was evident at NAIS Manila as soon as I stepped through the door. It's also an exciting time to be part of the next step in the development and growth of the school.”

Listening, leading, and building together
As she prepares to begin her role, Alison’s focus is clear. She is committed to building strong relationships and laying the foundations for long-term success.

“In my first year, my priorities will be centered around listening, learning, and laying the groundwork for long-term success. First and foremost, I want to build strong relationships with students, staff, and families.”

Alison is deeply committed to ensuring that academic challenge and student wellbeing go hand in hand.

“Academically, I’m focused on ensuring that our curriculum continues to challenge and inspire every learner, while also supporting their wellbeing. I’ll be working closely with our teaching teams to enhance professional development opportunities and encourage innovative, evidence-based practices in the classroom.”

She also recognises the importance of a school culture that is inclusive, connected, and inspiring for both students and staff.

“Ultimately, a thriving school is one where people feel proud to belong. This is already present in so many ways at NAIS Manila and my aim will be to ensure that our school environment is one where everyone can grow, contribute, and shine.”

Preparing students for life beyond the classroom
Looking beyond her first year, Alison is passionate about making sure NAIS Manila continues to grow as a forward-thinking international school — one that prepares students not just for exams, but for life beyond the classroom.

“Education should open doors and broaden horizons,” Alison shared. “That means investing in holistic opportunities and experiences, sustainability initiatives, digital literacy, and leadership opportunities for our young people. It’s about ensuring our students leave NAIS Manila confident, capable, and ready to make their mark in the world.”

A warm welcome to the NAIS Manila community
Beyond her leadership vision, Alison is excited to get to know the people who make NAIS Manila such a unique place.

“What I’m most looking forward to is getting to know the students, staff, and families who make this community so special. Building relationships and understanding the unique culture of the school is incredibly important to me.”

She’s also eager to join a team that values creativity, global citizenship, and student growth beyond the classroom.

“NAIS Manila has a strong reputation for nurturing global citizens and fostering creativity, and I’m thrilled to be part of a team that values both academic rigour and holistic development.”

To help our community get to know her, we also asked Alison to take part in a short video Q&A. She answered thoughtfully (and fun!) questions submitted by students and staff.

We’re delighted to welcome Alison Fox to NAIS Manila and look forward to the years ahead under her leadership.