Nouf Al Eidan appointed Vice Principal, alongside new and expanded leadership roles across the school, as Downe House Riyadh enters its fifth year in the Kingdom.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, September 2026: Downe House Riyadh has announced a strengthened leadership team for the 2026/27 academic year, with a series of new appointments and expanded leadership roles across the school. Among the key appointments is Nouf Al Eidan as Vice Principal, alongside strengthened leadership across Secondary, Key Stages, Sixth Form, wellbeing, inclusion, digital innovation and national subjects, as the school enters its fifth year in the Kingdom.
Nouf Al Eidan, a Saudi national who has been part of the Downe House Riyadh community for four years, has been appointed Vice Principal. Bringing more than 15 years of experience across education, leadership and school operations, Nouf has led strategic initiatives spanning school improvement, community engagement, safeguarding and operational excellence. In her new role, Nouf will play an important role in the school’s leadership, with a particular focus on operations, culture and community.
Commenting on her appointment, Nouf Al Eidan, Vice Principal of Downe House Riyadh, said: “Having been part of the Downe House Riyadh community for the past four years, I am proud to take on this new role at such an important stage in the school’s journey. Our ambition is to provide an exceptional British education that is firmly rooted in Saudi culture and values. I look forward to working closely with our students, families and colleagues to strengthen our community and create an environment where every student is supported to grow in confidence”
Alongside Nouf’s appointment, the school’s leadership structure includes Clare Austin as Head of Secondary, Merissa Edwards as Head of Key Stage 3, Michelle Robinson as Head of Key Stage 4, Jennifer Emslie as Head of Sixth Form, and Emma Green as Upper Key Stage 2 Lead, strengthening leadership across key stages of students’ education.
Clare Austin, who joined Downe House Riyadh in August 2026 as Head of Secondary, brings more than 25 years of leadership and teaching experience across the UK and Middle East, with expertise in curriculum development, teaching and learning, staff development and whole-school academic improvement.
Merissa Edwards, who took on the role of Head of Key Stage 3, has been part of the Downe House Riyadh community since August 2023. She is focused on supporting students through Key Stage 3 and creating an environment where they can develop academically, personally and socially.
Michelle Robinson, who took on the role of Head of Key Stage 4, brings 14 years of experience in secondary education across the UK and Middle East, with a strong track record of improving student outcomes and raising attainment. Since joining Downe House Riyadh, Michelle has brought a strong focus on high expectations, student wellbeing and creating a positive and inclusive school culture.
Jennifer Emslie joined Downe House Riyadh in August 2025 as Head of Sixth Form and brings more than 15 years of international teaching and leadership experience across the UK, New Zealand, Qatar, Sweden and Saudi Arabia. Her experience spans curriculum development and pastoral leadership, student wellbeing, and creating inclusive learning environments.
Emma Green took on the role of Upper Key Stage 2. With over 15 years of experience in education, she brings expertise in primary education and supporting students through the important later years of Key Stage 2, further strengthening leadership across the school’s primary provision.
Ms. Deborah Sharifi, Principal of Downe House Riyadh, said: “As we enter our fifth year in the Kingdom, these appointments mark an important next chapter for Downe House Riyadh. Nouf brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of our students, families and Saudi community, complemented by the expertise of our wider leadership team. Together, we remain focused on ensuring every student is supported to achieve her potential.”
The strengthened leadership team reflects Downe House Riyadh’s commitment to experienced, purposeful leadership across every area of school life enriching the educational experience for all students. By combining the insight of established leaders who understand the school and its community with fresh expertise, the team will promote greater continuity, collaboration and impact. This approach supports Saudi Vision 2030 by advancing educational excellence and empowering young people to contribute confidently to the future of the Kingdom.
