As Head of Key Stage 4 and Head of Year 11, Zahra Ackbar is dedicated to guiding students through one of the most pivotal stages of their education. She teaches English Language, English Literature, and Drama, combining academic rigour with a passion for creativity and expression.
Zahra holds a degree in English Language from Sheffield Hallam University and gained her PGCE and Qualified Teacher Status from Leeds Trinity University. In her previous school, she served as Careers Lead, supporting students in preparing for Post-16 education and helping them explore a wide range of pathways for their future.
Her teaching philosophy is simple yet profound: all students should leave school not only with the qualifications they need, but also as well-rounded individuals, confident and prepared for the challenges of the real world. She works closely with students, staff, and parents to create an environment where ambition is nurtured, resilience is built, and every learner feels empowered to achieve their potential.
Mohammad Shah Amran Ali is a dedicated and experienced educational leader with 18 years of experience in teaching and school leadership, specialising in Mathematics and academic development. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics from Queen Mary University of London and a PGCE in Secondary Mathematics from Goldsmiths, University of London. Shah is currently completing the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) with UCL.
Shah began his teaching career in London before progressing into middle and senior leadership, where he successfully led high-performing Mathematics faculties. His leadership roles have spanned several outstanding British curriculum schools in both the UK and Dubai. In his previous role as Assistant Headteacher (Academics) at Deira International School, he was instrumental in supporting the school to achieve KHDA Outstanding status and securing record-breaking IGCSE results. He later assumed the role of Assistant Headteacher and Head of Mathematics at Star International School Mirdif, where he currently leads on curriculum design, academic tracking, quality assurance, and the development of middle leaders.
Throughout his career, Shah has built a strong reputation for driving school improvement through data-informed practices, strategic planning, and servant leadership. His leadership philosophy, influenced by Patrick Lencioni’s The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, centres around building trust, promoting accountability, and fostering collaborative excellence among staff. He is a strong advocate of research-informed teaching and is passionate about raising student outcomes through purposeful curriculum pathways, effective assessment, and targeted intervention strategies.
Shah brings a wealth of experience in leading examination provision, managing large academic teams, and supporting inclusive education, including the achievement of Emirati students and the development of enrichment programmes. He remains deeply committed to ensuring all students thrive both academically and personally, equipping them with the skills needed for success beyond the classroom.
With over 15 years in the education sector, I am a dedicated leader from India, having completed my master’s degree and teaching qualifications at the University of Mumbai. My commitment to lifelong learning has driven me to continually enhance my skills and acquire new qualifications, enabling me to effectively address the evolving needs of today’s students.
I embarked on my UAE journey a decade ago as a mathematics teacher, a role that allowed me to cultivate a deep understanding of teaching methodologies and student engagement. As I progressed to the role of Head of Mathematics, and further thrived at ASCS in the same capacity, I led curriculum development and championed academic excellence. My involvement in professional development programs and mentoring has been crucial in refining innovative teaching practices aimed at maximising student outcomes.
Now, as I step into the role of Head of Key Stage 4 at this esteemed organisation, my primary goal is to create a nurturing and challenging learning environment. I am dedicated to implementing strategies that not only prepare students for their future academic and personal endeavours but also inspire them to reach their full potential. My passion for teaching and my unwavering commitment to student growth are central to my approach, driving me to continuously seek ways to support and elevate each student’s journey.
As the Assistant Head of Secondary School – Head of Key Stage 3, I am proud to serve the students, staff, and community at our school. I am from Kingston Upon Hull in England, I bring a unique background with a degree in Acting and a deep passion for education that has guided my teaching journey for the past eight years.
My path into teaching was driven by a desire to inspire students, make a lasting impact, and share my passion for the performing arts. I believe that education is not just about academic success but also about building character and resilience.
As Head of Key Stage 3, I am committed to helping students in Years 7-9 navigate the critical early years of secondary school. My goal is to support them in overcoming any barriers they may face, both academically and personally, so that they can achieve their full potential.
At this crucial stage in their education, I focus on fostering an environment where students can develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Whether it’s through encouraging creativity, promoting a growth mindset, or providing personalised support, I am dedicated to ensuring that every student is well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in Key Stage 4.
I am passionate about guiding students through these formative years, helping them to build a strong foundation that will serve them throughout their academic journey and beyond. Together, we can work towards a future where each student feels empowered to achieve their goals and contribute positively to our school community.
Luke joins Al Salam Community School with 8 years teaching experience as a Physical Education Teacher and has led an outstanding PE Department for the last 3 years here in Dubai.
Luke studied at Sheffield Hallam University where he achieved a 2:1 Bachelor of Science degree in Sport and Business Management. He then went onto complete his Postgraduate Certificate in Education specialising in Physical Education through Thomas Telford School, an outstanding Teacher Training provider in the UK.
Luke began his teaching career at Sandwell Academy, an outstanding sports school in the UK, which is well renowned for sporting excellence and its commitment to delivering high quality PE to all pupils. In his time working in the UK, he had the opportunity to teach pupils that have since gone onto professional sporting careers.
In the last 3 years Luke has transformed a PE Department, raising pupil participation and sporting aptitude to fantastic levels. Luke has an ethos for ensuring that every child achieves and is provided with outstanding opportunities to participate in sport and physical activity. As Director of Sport at Al Salam Community School, Luke will lead a PE Department that will be providing pupils with a wealth of opportunities to showcase their sporting talents against other schools in the region.
Luke has a proven track record not only in teaching the practical side of Physical Education but also in teaching examination courses such as GCSE PE and BTEC Sport. This something that he is looking forward to implementing at ASCS in September.
Georginia is a seasoned Headteacher with over 15 years of leadership experience, including five previous years as a Head of Secondary. Her leadership spans a range of contexts including an inner-city London comprehensive, a large British International school in Cyprus and a GEMS school in Dubai.
She brings strategic expertise in curriculum and assessment alongside a calm, emotionally intelligent leadership style. Her strong grasp of team dynamics and genuine commitment to collaboration will support a smooth and positive transition for our Secondary team.
We look forward to welcoming her into the Al Salam Community and to an exciting new chapter ahead for our Secondary school.