Senior School Leadership Team

Jane Clewlow is the Head of Senior School at Brighton College Dubai. With over 25 years of experience in education, Jane has held leadership roles in schools across London, Salford and Manchester, including Head of English, Head of Year, Assistant Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher. Before joining Brighton College Dubai, she was instrumental in the start-up and establishment of two new schools in the UK, where she also set up successful sixth forms.

An accomplished leader with a BA (Hons) in English Literature from Lancaster University and the National Professional Qualification for Headship, Jane trains aspiring headteachers and is deeply committed to achieving outstanding educational outcomes. At Brighton College Dubai, she is responsible for overseeing the academic success of the Senior School, ensuring it aligns with the Brighton College's exceptional standards.

Joe originates from Donegal, Ireland and lives in Dubai with his wife. He brings a wealth of professional experience in Dubai to Brighton College, having moved here in 2010. He has worked as a senior leader in a local school that achieved ‘Outstanding’ in annual KHDA inspections since its inception.

Joe believes in creating a culture of learning and achievement centred around the individual. With a background in Computer Engineering and over 15 years teaching experience, Joe has a keen interest in fully utilising technology in order to enable creativity and facilitate innovation and critical thinking.

Dr. Jamie Watson is the Assistant Head Teacher responsible for assessment & quality assurance at Brighton College Dubai. Originally from England, he earned a bachelor's degree and PhD in molecular biology from Durham University. During his doctoral studies, he developed a passion for teaching, leading him to complete a PGCE and begin his teaching career in an outstanding grammar school in Buckinghamshire.

Before joining Brighton College, Dr. Watson taught in Dubai for seven years, where he progressed from Head of Biology to Lead Teacher for Data and Assessment. His expertise in using data-driven approaches to enhance student outcomes has been central to his career and journey as a leader. Committed to fostering academic excellence, Dr. Watson is determined to contribute to Brighton College’s continued success by supporting both students and staff in achieving their full potential.

Joe Hall is the Head of Sixth Form at Brighton College Dubai. He has held leaderships role in the Brighton College family since 2015 and served as founding Head of Sixth at Brighton College Ain before opening our Sixth Form here in Dubai in 2021. Joe is passionate about modelling and building character in our young men and women and is a great advocate for a truly holistic education. He has been a Duke of Edinbugh Award leader for around 15 years and does everything he can to make the learning experience dynamic, authentic and inspirational.

Joe has a BA in philosophy, politics and economics from the University of Oxford and read for a master's degree in Near and Middle East Studies at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. At Brighton College Dubai he is responsible for overseeing both the academic and pastoral prevision in our Sixth Form and for working with Mr. Wilson on our  careers and university guidance and support. 

Chris Bland holds a Sports Science degree and a PGCE in Physical Education, graduating from Northumbria University with a Commendation and Trainee of the Year Award. He has gained National Professional Qualifications in Middle Leadership, Senior Leadership, and is set to complete his Headship Qualification in 2025. With 20 years of teaching experience across England and the UAE, Chris has been in Senior Leadership for over 12 years, including roles as Assistant Head (Pastoral) and Deputy Head (School Improvement).

Before joining Brighton College Dubai, Chris led a three-year improvement in GCSE results as Head of Upper School. His educational philosophy is to value, challenge, and inspire pupils to achieve their best academically, culturally, and personally. He advocates holistic education and is responsible for Standards, Upper Seniors Pastoral Care, and the Curriculum in the Senior School.

Sarah Gannon is an Assistant Head in the Senior School, leading on Continuing Professional Development and Teaching and Learning. A passionate linguist, she teaches French and is dedicated to creating engaging and effective learning experiences. With over 15 years' teaching experience, including 13 in middle and senior leadership, she also spent two years as an Exams Officer, giving her valuable insight into assessment and academic achievement.

Sarah is currently undertaking the NPQSL to further strengthen her leadership expertise. She is committed to supporting staff development, believing that empowering teachers leads to outstanding outcomes for pupils. Her approach is built on collaboration, professional growth and a shared ambition for excellence in teaching and learning.

Holly studied Psychology at university before completing her PGCE in Primary Education, specialising in Early Years and Key Stage 1. She also holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Special Educational Needs Coordination. Before joining Brighton, Holly spent over ten years teaching at a primary school in Surrey with a specialist resource provision for children with Autism. She also served for five years on the Senior Leadership Team as Assistant Headteacher for Inclusion/SENCO.

In her leadership role, Holly oversaw the progress of pupils with SEND and EAL while driving key initiatives in mental health and wellbeing, attachment awareness, and racial justice. She was instrumental in shaping whole-school strategies and was an active member of the safeguarding team, bringing a wealth of expertise and dedication to her work.