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Ruth Burke
Paul Gardner
Patricia Ferguson
Daniel Allmark
Ruth Burke
Principal
Ruth Burke is a highly respected and inspiring educator with over three decades of experience. Throughout her remarkable career, Ruth has taught in Ireland, the UK, and the UAE, embedding excellence through her passion for learning and student achievement.
As a seasoned leader, Ruth has a proven track record of driving high standards and enriching student experiences. Her expertise in International Baccalaureate (IB) programs is unparalleled, and she has a deep understanding of how to nurture students' intellectual, emotional, and social growth.
With a career spanning four prominent Dubai schools - Jumeirah English Speaking School, GEMS Wellington International School, Deira International School, and Swiss International Scientific School Dubai - Ruth has developed a unique perspective on what makes schools thrive. Her accomplishments are impressive, from elevating academic outcomes to fostering strong partnerships with parents and achieving sustained improvements in every school she has led.
But what truly sets Ruth apart is her dedication to her students and her community. She's a passionate advocate for education and a devoted leader who puts the needs of her students first. And when she's not inspiring young minds, Ruth loves spending time with her three children, who range in age from 13 to 32- a testament to her ability to balance work and family life with grace and humour.
Ruth's academic credentials are equally impressive, with a Bachelor of Education Degree from Trinity College, Dublin and a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Bath, UK. Her commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth is a testament to her passion for education and her dedication to delivering the best possible outcomes for her students.
Paul Gardner
Vice Principal and Head of Secondary
Paul Gardner joins Ambassador International Academy Mankhool, as Vice Principal and Head of Secondary, bringing extensive international leadership experience from schools across the UK, Europe and the UAE. He has held a range of senior leadership positions, including Head of Secondary, Vice Principal and Deputy Head (Academic) and has worked closely with students, staff and families in a variety of international school settings. Paul has a strong background in school improvement, curriculum development and teaching and learning and is experienced in helping schools grow with clarity, purpose and consistency.As Vice Principal, Paul has a whole-school remit and works closely with colleagues across all phases to help shape a positive, supportive and ambitious school culture. He is known for building calm, well-organised schools with high expectations for behaviour, learning and relationships, underpinned by strong pastoral care. Paul places great importance on ensuring students feel safe, known and supported, while also being challenged to achieve their very best academically. He is also passionate about supporting and developing teachers, recognising that great schools are built through strong teams and shared values.
In his role as Head of Secondary, Paul is particularly committed to creating learning environments that balance academic rigour with student wellbeing. He believes that secondary education should prepare young people not only for examinations, but for life beyond school, helping them to develop character. confidence, independence and resilience. Paul is excited to be joining Ambassador International Academy Mankhool at this important early stage and looks forward to working closely with parents and students as the school community continues to grow.
Patricia Ferguson
Head of Early Years
Patricia is an accomplished international educator with over 15 years of leadership experience across the UK, China, and Singapore. She has held impactful senior roles at schools such as North London Collegiate School (Singapore), Brighton College (UK) and Harrow International School (Shanghai). Patricia holds a Master of Arts in Teaching & Learning from Lancaster University and a Bachelor of Arts in Early Years Education with QTS from Edge Hill University. Patricia has recently completed the NPQSL (National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership).
Her professional passion lies in Early Years education, where she is committed to creating nurturing, play-based environments that inspire curiosity and a love of learning. Patricia places strong emphasis on building collaborative teams, supporting professional growth and fostering meaningful partnerships with families. At the heart of her leadership is a belief in trust, openness and supporting each child's individual journey.
Patricia is delighted to join the team at AIAM and looks forward to working closely with families as part of the school's founding community.
Daniel Allmark
Head of Primary
Daniel is an accomplished international educator and senior leader with over 15 years of experience across the UK and IB schools in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Throughout his career, he has built a strong reputation for strategic leadership, educational excellence, and a deep understanding of how high-quality teaching and learning drive student outcomes. Daniel has served in senior leadership roles at Raffles World Academy, where he has played a pivotal role in shaping whole-school improvement, raising academic standards, with a direct impact of student outcomes and professional culture of continuous improvement.
Daniel holds a Bachelor’s degree in History, from the University of Wolverhampton, and a PGCE with QTS from the University of Worcester. He has also completed the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL), further strengthening his expertise in leading complex educational organisations and driving sustained improvement. His academic background, combined with extensive leadership experience, enables him to balance strategic vision with practical, evidence-informed implementation.
Daniel’s professional passion lies in assessment-informed practice and its impact on curriculum design and adaptation, alongside a strong commitment to student wellbeing and community engagement. He believes that academic excellence is most powerful when learners feel safe, supported, and valued, and when schools work in close partnership with their wider community. Daniel is committed to using meaningful data to inform teaching, personalise learning, and ensure high expectations for all learners, while also fostering inclusive, nurturing environments that support students’ holistic development.
At the heart of Daniel’s leadership is a belief in clarity, consistency, and high standards, underpinned by trust, and collaboration. He is delighted to be joining Ambassador International Academy Al Mankhool and is excited to embark on this new journey, working closely with staff, students, and families to build a strong, aspirational school community from the outset.