Ranches Primary School (RPS), is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Steve Arnold as its new Principal. With over ten years of leadership experience in both the UK and the Middle East, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise in personalised learning and a real passion for helping children thrive. Most recently, Steve led the Gifted and Talented programme at GEMS Education, supporting learning across 48 of the top schools in the region. His focus was simple: help every child discover what makes them special and give them the tools to succeed. Now, he’s bringing that same energy and vision to Ranches Primary School, as the school continues to grow and build a learning environment where every pupil feels valued, supported, and inspired.

Before his role at GEMS, Steve held senior leadership roles in the UK, including Head Teacher and later Service Manager for Education at Orkney Islands Council in Scotland. There, he worked with schools across all ages to improve learning, shape curriculum, and put pupils at the centre of education. He’s particularly known for championing pupil-led learning and for creating classrooms and inclusive settings where children of all abilities reach their full potential.

At the heart of Steve’s approach is a belief that every child learns in their own unique way, and that schools should celebrate those differences. At Ranches Primary School he’ll be focused on boosting all parts of school life: from academic success and teacher development to co-curricular fun and wellbeing, with a goal to make sure every child feels confident, cared for, and excited to learn. With a strong background in working with gifted and talented children, Steve plans to introduce a strengths-based, personalised approach to teaching that brings out the best in everyone. He believes that learning should be tailored, flexible, and joyful, supporting each child’s journey not just academically, but emotionally too.

Speaking on his new role, Mr. Arnold said: “I’m really excited to be joining Ranches Primary School as Principal. It’s a school with a wonderful sense of community, where every child is known, cared for, and encouraged to shine. What truly stood out to me about RPS was the genuine warmth and dedication of the teachers and leadership team. Their commitment to giving each child the time, support and encouragement they need really resonated with me.

He added: For me, personalised learning means understanding what makes each child unique, what they love, what they’re great at, and where they might need a little extra help, and tailoring our teaching to bring out their best. I can’t wait to work closely with our families and staff to build on the fantastic things already happening here. And I’m especially thrilled that my own children will be joining the RPS family too!”

Mr. Ian Wallace, Director of Education of Cognita ME, commented: “Ranches Primary School is a deeply connected community school where every child is known, supported and given the opportunity to thrive. Mr Arnold is not only an experienced and strategic leader, but also a person of warmth and integrity whose values align closely with those of the school. His thoughtful, people-first approach reflects the caring, inclusive spirit of the RPS community. With his deep understanding of how to personalise learning within a nurturing environment, he is exceptionally well placed to lead the school into its next phase. His experience and character will be invaluable as we continue to build on Ranches Primary School’s reputation for academic strength, strong transitions to leading secondary schools and a culture that puts the wellbeing and progress of every pupil at its heart.”

Steve’s appointment follows the announcement that current Principal, Ms. Emma Ledger, will be stepping down in July 2025. During her time at Ranches Primary School, Emma has played an instrumental role in shaping the school’s caring and inclusive culture. The school community looks forward to the next chapter, continuing to build on the strong foundation with a fresh focus on personalised and meaningful learning experiences for every pupil.