David Craggs

David Craggs joined GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi in 2022 with over 12 years’ senior leadership experience, including five years as Head of Secondary and two years as Vice Principal at his previous school, GEMS Cambridge International School – Abu Dhabi.

During his time at Cambridge International, David supported the school through its ‘Outstanding in all areas’ British Schools Overseas inspection, its ever-improving ADEK inspections, and its Optimus school awards for Excellence in Pupil Development, SEND Inclusion, Leading Parent Partnership, and Wellbeing. He also helped to drive the school’s record academic success year on year and the expansion of its sixth form provision, rising from 30 graduates to over 100 in just three years, with students going on to attend top Ivy League and Russell Group universities.

David is a passionate, committed and values-driven educator, focused on ensuring all learners achieve success no matter where their interests lie. He sees it as all educators’ duty to prepare the children in their care for the next phase of their education journey as well-rounded individuals who are fully equipped to thrive as global citizens.

David also firmly believes that a leadership team should have a visible presence and openly communicate with all school stakeholders, encompassing learners and their families, teachers, support staff and the wider community.