Amanda Murphy

My name is Amanda Murphy and I am honoured to be the Head of Secondary at Gems International School. It is a privilege to be working alongside such talented educators, and it is a source of pride to interact with your sons & daughters each day.

I am a recent arrival in Dubai and I am looking forward to exploring in more detail this fascinating city and region. I am joined in Dubai with my husband and two daughters, both whom attend GIS.

I was born in Ireland, but relocated to Australia as a teenager. I have been involved in education for over 25 years, having worked in private schools in Australia, UK, Denmark, Bangladesh and more recently Portugal, having held a number of senior leadership roles in these schools. I was first introduced to the IB 20 years ago and have been an enthusiastic supporter ever since. 

I am passionate about young people receiving an education that will best prepare them for their life outside of school, and I firmly believe that the IB programmes do this by removing the traditional education silos and by putting the child at the centre. 

Putting the child at the centre means that positive relationships are vital, and I look forward to developing these relationships as GIS moves forward.

• Master of Education (Curriculum and Administration)

• Certificate of School Leadership and Management

• IB Workshop leader, School Consultant and School Site visitor

• Executive Leadership – 15 years