meet the team

Simon Herbert joined GEMS Education as Principal of GEMS International School – Al Khail in 2020. A dynamic, culturally astute school leader skilled at encouraging and inspiring both students and staff. Simon has worked in the education sphere for over 30 years, having taught and held leadership roles in high-profile schools across the globe.

Prior to joining GEMS, Simon was based in China, where he quickly rose to the position of Headmaster of Dulwich College Beijing after initially joining as Head of Senior School. Over the course of his eight years with Dulwich, the school achieved consistently high average IB results as well as superb university placements, while maintaining its holistic and philanthropic values. With Simon at the helm, the school also picked up numerous accolades, including the International Schools Award 2019 for Creativity in Learning and being named the Hurun Education Report’s Top Ranked International School in China.

Simon also spent 11 years with the prestigious Fettes College in Edinburgh, Scotland, first as Head of Modern Languages and then as Housemaster of Glencorse House. During his time at Fettes, he led the introduction of the IB Diploma Programme and transformed the effort grades of his house from mediocre to best-in-college.

As well extensive teaching and education experience, including at schools in England and Kenya, Simon also has strong marketing expertise, having worked across advertising and marketing in London, UK.

Together with an MA in Educational Leadership and Management, a PGCE: Modern Languages and a joint honours BA in French and Latin, Simon is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a member of the Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference, and a member of the Council of International Schools Inspector. During his time in China, he was also twice elected to the Executive Committee of the British Chamber of Commerce in Beijing. 

Wanita brings over 15 years of experience in early childhood and primary education to GIS. Throughout her career in South Africa, Cambodia, and Mozambique, she has thrived in both corporate and educational settings. She has worn many hats - Teacher, PYP Coordinator, Head of Early Years, Education leader, CIS Accreditation Coordinator, and CIS Team Evaluation Facilitator - all fueled by a passion for creating a dynamic, nurturing, and equitable learning environment.

Wanita’s core belief is in fostering well-being and strong relationships. She envisions a school where every learner flourishes academically and emotionally, equipped with resilience and empathy to face the future. Wanita is deeply inspired by the philosophy of Ubuntu - "I am because we are" - and believes in the power of collaboration to achieve collective success.

Wanita holds a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Development, an Honours Degree in Education, and a Master of Science.  She is thrilled to be part of the GIS community and looks forward to working with all of us.

Harry Allen is UK native, married with one daughter. Mr. Allen completed a B.A. (Hons) Theatre Arts at the University of Leeds, UK before going on to complete a MA (Education) at the University of Nottingham. He started his International teaching career in Singapore, where he remained for 18 years. During this time he was the Assistant Principal at ISS International School from 2011 – 2014. Mr. Allen moved to Dubai in 2014 where he took on the role as Deputy Head of Secondary at Emirates International School. He remained in this role for 4 years. Prior to moving to the UAE,  Mr. Allen was based in Mauritius where he was the Founding MYP Coordinator at Northfields International School.