Leadership Spotlight: James Unsworth
James presenting at the AI and the Future of Education Conference.
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the Director search for the Al Bayan International School in Hawally, Kuwait. Congratulations to James Unsworth for accepting the position, beginning August 2026! James currently serves as the Deputy Head of School at the Australian International School of Malaysia.
James holds Bachelors Degrees in Arts and Social Sciences from the University of Queensland, a Graduate Diploma of Education from Griffith University, a Master of Human Sciences from the International Islamic University, a Graduate Certificate in TESL from the Government of South Australia, a Graduate Certificate in Making Thinking Visible from Harvard University, and an Oxbridge Academic Fellowship in Educational Leadership from Oxford University.
He has been a Head of Faculty at Canberra Girls Grammar School, Head of Department at Marlborough College Malaysia, and a Pastoral Coordinator at the Australian International School of Malaysia.
In this feature, read about James’ passion for education, commitment to fostering global citizenship, and how his diverse experiences — both personal and professional — shape his approach to education and leadership.
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
A quality education stays with us for life: We feel it in our grounded nature, our sense of belonging and purpose, we hear it in our innovative, problem-solving mind, we see it in our successes and in how we learn from our missteps. Being able to work with amazing young people and dynamic educators every day to pursue the provision of such an education is a true privilege. Further, as a TCK myself, international education is where I am most at home and where I can be of the greatest service.
James leading a parent session at AISM.
James moderating a panel at EduTech Asia.
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can the Al Bayan International School community expect?
As an educator and leader, I put relationships first: Collective Teacher Efficacy is the fuel of any great school. I strive to build and nurture trust through care, integrity and service. The energy and passions of our community bind us and move us forward. By empowering every member of our community and embracing adventure and open-mindedness, we become norm entrepreneurs shaping our shared future. I value communities of learners committed to continuous improvement through PLCs, Impact Cycles and Teaching Sprints.
I prize the development of metacognition, innovation and eloquence. I work to build a Culture of Thinking through the Eight Cultural Forces, Mindfulness, the Habits of Mind and the co-creation of Thinking Routines. I encourage colleagues to “know thy impact” and help learners become assessment-capable Visible Learners. I also support leaders to be Active and Reflective Listeners who empower Connectors, Mavens and Salespeople to grow their Circles of Influence.
Congratulations on your upcoming role at Al Bayan International School! What are you excited about in this new role?
BIS is a school with heart and a desire to provide a high-quality education for every student. Happy and engaged students are supported by a dedicated and passionate staff and a parent community that are advocates for the BIS way. I am excited to join this vibrant community and to be of service in our shared endeavors. I look forward to building relationships and the kind of connection and trust that will enable us to do truly exceptional things together.
What is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share?
I graduated from an international school in Kuwait. It was in Kuwait that I found my love for Model United Nations, which led to my career in international affairs and, in turn, my award of Young Australian of the Year in 2003.
James and his family.
Many thanks to James Unsworth for sharing his insights, experiences, and vision for education. We wish him and the vibrant community at the Al Bayan International School the best in this new chapter ahead!
If you’re interested in pursuing a school leadership position, please check out our current leadership searches or get in touch with the ISS Leadership Search Team.