KIS Welcomes New Principal

Kinabalu International School recently welcomed Mr Ian Gross as the newly-appointed Principal. Originally from the UK, Ian brings with him a wealth of experience in the education sector, having taught in schools worldwide for nearly 25 years.

Starting as a science teacher and then working up through the leadership ranks from Head of Department to Head of Secondary and finally to Principal, Ian has been in leadership positions in a number of highly regarded and successful schools across four continents.

Prior to joining KIS, Ian was the Principal at Hawar International School in Bahrain for four years, where he led the school through successful accreditation and staff development. During his tenure, Ian oversaw the school population growing by over ten percent to well over 1000 students.
Ian has relocated to Kota Kinabalu with his wife and two daughters, who are both attending KIS. When asked about his plans for KIS he commented: โ€œMy short-term plans are to learn about KIS and what it does well and to see where we can improve. As a not-for-profit school, I will be working closely with the parent run Board of Management to look at our long-term goals to ensure sustainability with excellence for our current and future studentsโ€.

Along with the excellent reputation of KIS and its suitability for his own children, Ian was drawn to working and living in Kota Kinabalu due to his love of diving. Having dived at Sipadan in the past, he is now looking forward to supporting his daughters through their Padi Open Water Courses and exploring the wonderful reefs of Sabah as a family.