An interview with Ian Rinaldi, Hamilton’s Head of Primary

With significant experience in UK and International education, Ian Rinaldi is ready to take on the role at THIS as Head of Primary.

What is your background:

My teaching experience dates back many years with my most recent teaching assignment being in Singapore. My core curriculum focus has been with the UK National Curriculum and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), both of which we will employ at THIS. I have also led a number of whole school areas, including mathematics, assessment and staff professional development, carrying out training for staff from around Asia.  My success has been evident through a number of ways, including student progress, teacher development and school growth (in my most recent school we grew from 400 students to becoming an oversubscribed 7 form entry school). Having qualified in the UK with BA Hons with QTS and having experienced numerous school inspections whilst successfully completing educational leadership training, I am well positioned to lead the Primary school to become the best school it can be.

What will your role at THIS be?

As the Head of the Primary School, I will oversee the primary school operation. This can range from children’s standards to curriculum, to the welfare and safety of children to their holistic progress. Ultimately, my aim is to create a culture and environment for all children, regardless of ability or educational background, to flourish. I aim to inspire and guide our teachers to be world class educators and ensure they are able to deliver ‘Amazing Learning’ to our students. I place the children at the heart of my strategic decision making and will work tirelessly to ensure they approach school with a growth mindset.

Why did you decide to join THIS?

It is a unique opportunity to be part of this new school as well as joining ISP. The facilities and resources are world class and I aim to ensure these facilities are not only accessed for our children, but play a prominent role in the school community. I have an opportunity to build a school culture which will be centred on values of respect, commitment and trust. Working with Terry Senior, our Founding Principal, was also influential in my decision as we share the same views of what world class education should look like.

Why should parents enrol their children at THIS?

THIS will be one of the very best schools in the Middle East offering some of the best facilities and resources possible. Children who attend THIS will not only be successful academically but they will develop their abilities and confidence in a number of key areas, including sports, art, dance, performing arts and technology. Alongside this, we value developing children’s soft skills (including communication, empathy and problem solving) as we prepare our students for life in the 21^st century. We really will place a strong emphasis on developing our children holistically.  THIS offers students a bespoke, personalised learning experience as we do not offer a “one-size-fits-all” approach to learning. I want children to experience educational opportunities that they did not know were possible. I want children to learn with a smile.

Doha is a transient place. How does THIS accommodate for families who might be on short-term contracts or might have to take up a position in another part of the world?

It is inevitable that families will move in and out of Doha for a number of reasons and it is important as a leader that I realise this when designing a curriculum. At THIS, we have a responsibility to ensure every child is able to make maximum progress by recognising their previous learning experiences and ensuring the curriculum is in place to challenge them. Through the highest standards we will hold, we will prepare students for the next stage of their life. I am immensely proud to be the founding Head of Primary at THIS.