NAS Abu Dhabi Welcomes Sixth Form and a Founding Head of Secondary

Nord Anglia International School Abu Dhabi is preparing to welcome its first Year 12 students in August, marking an important step forward for the school’s expanding Secondary programme.

To give prospective students a taste of what’s to come, the school recently hosted its first-ever A Level Insight Evening. Students met subject teachers, connected with future classmates, and got a feel for the school environment they’ll soon be a part of. They also got to contribute their ideas and vision for the Sixth Form space, working together to produce a mood board that will help shape the design and atmosphere of the school’s Sixth Form area in the coming months.

One student summed up the event in a message to Principal Liam Cullinan:
‘The atmosphere of the school, the passion of the teachers, and the welcoming environment truly stood out to me. It made me feel that this is where I belong. It was clear that the teachers genuinely care about supporting each student in achieving their goals.’

This same commitment to personalised support and high expectations now takes a bold step forward with the appointment of Adam Ryder as the founding Head of Secondary.

Adam joins NAS Abu Dhabi from the UK, where he’s led some of the country’s most successful schools. A trained Ofsted inspector, National Leader of Education, and experienced school principal, Adam has led high-achieving schools, mentored school leaders, and worked at the national level to raise education standards in the UK. He brings deep expertise and a practical approach to delivering outstanding teaching and learning.

His leadership has consistently driven academic results while building school cultures where students feel supported and motivated to do their best. Now, he brings that experience to the UAE, helping to shape a strong and forward-thinking Secondary programme at NAS Abu Dhabi.

With Sixth Form opening in August and a growing team of experienced educators in place, NAS Abu Dhabi is setting the foundation for a distinctive and ambitious Secondary experience. Founding Year 12 students joining in August 2025 will benefit from a Founder’s Discount worth 10% off school fees for the full two-year programme. For more information about the school and upcoming admissions, contact admissions@nasabudhabi.ae.