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Ruth Burke
Paul Gardner
Patricia Ferguson
Dimple Bahl
Maria Aruldass
Izel Storm
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.
Dimple Bahl
Head of Inclusion
With a wealth of experience in education across the UK, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai, Dimple brings a strong depth of expertise to her work. Having spent over 15 years in the UAE, she has developed a deep understanding of the region's inclusive education landscape and is highly skilled in supporting schools, students, and families.
She holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Birmingham and a master’s degree in special education with Distinction from Middlesex University. Her strong academic foundation, combined with extensive practical experience, allows her to translate evidence-based approaches into meaningful, student-centred practice that supports both learners and educators.
Dimple is passionate about inclusive education and the development of personalised learning approaches that promote independence, confidence, and wellbeing. She works collaboratively with teachers and families to create supportive environments where every student can succeed.
Maria Aruldass
Designated Safeguarding Lead
Maria is a school counsellor and psychology educator with over 15 years of experience in student wellbeing and safeguarding in Dubai. She holds a master’s degree in psychology and brings deep expertise in safeguarding, restorative practices, and children and adolescent mental health.
At AIA Mankhool, Maria leads our whole-school social-emotional learning programme, designed and implemented in alignment with the CASEL framework. She works closely with our inclusion team to support diverse learner needs and ensure every student's development is truly holistic.
Maria is also a committed partner to families, supporting parents with empathy and understanding as they navigate their children's social and emotional growth.
Her goal is simple: to build a school environment that is safe, inclusive, and nurturing for every single student at AIA Mankhool.
Izel Storm
Academic & PYP Coordinator
With over 10 years of international teaching experience across South Africa, the UAE, and Europe, Izel Storm brings a genuine passion for high-quality learning to AIA Mankhool.
As Academic and PYP Coordinator, Izel is passionate about fostering high-quality teaching and learning across the Primary years. She works closely with colleagues to support curriculum development, strengthen PYP practices, and promote consistency and collaboration across the school.
Supporting the growth of both students and educators is central to her role, and she is committed to creating engaging and ambitious learning experiences where every student feels curious, confident, and excited to learn.
Outside of school, Izel enjoys running, cycling, and travelling, experiences that bring fresh perspectives and energy to both her personal and professional life.