My last interview was in 2018, so there have been quite a few changes at work since then. After many years as Head of Primary at the British International School Budapest, I was appointed Principal of the whole school at the beginning of this year. It is a great honour to take on the stewardship of a school that is very close to my heart.

1. A Principal’s job is busy and multifaceted, what parts of your role give you most joy?

This is a hard question to answer! On a daily basis I get to see our students smiling as they enter campus, having fun whilst learning and being given a wealth of new opportunities. It is hard to explain a culture or atmosphere of a school until you visit and feel the positive pulse and energy that our staff create.

So, a walk through our coffee shop and chatting to parents who drop in for a catch up and coffee in the morning, a chat to our Head Chef to see what is being prepared for the day, meeting students in the corridors and stopping to talk to them and trying to do the same with our amazing staff as they hurriedly prepare for their busy days of teaching.

It’s about being out in the school that energises me. Whilst my schedule often makes this hard, it is something I do really enjoy. Students, staff and parents matter. That’s what makes BISB special.

2. Looking back at the year, what have been your highlights?

Aside from all the opportunities that we have had to showcase our students learning through classroom visits, showcases and our amazing performing arts showcases, I have to say the awarding of our British Schools Oversees status was amazing.

3. What does this British School Overseas award mean?

Our British Schools Overseas (BSO) accreditation provides independently verified assurance that we meet the standards expected of British independent schools.

This means our community has the confidence that our school has undergone a rigorous external inspection covering key areas including teaching and learning, safeguarding, student welfare, leadership, curriculum provision and academic outcomes.

This also shows that we are committed to not only internal but also external quality assurance. Finally it means we are the only school accredited by the Department fo education from the UK Government in Hungary.

4. Looking ahead, what are the next developments for the school.

We remain firmly committed to our mission: to aspire to excellence, act with integrity, embrace diversity, cultivate responsibility and nurture ambition in everything we do.

BISB will continue to strengthen not only the academic outcomes of our students but also their personal growth and character development. Whether they are three or eighteen years old, we have a responsibility to support, challenge and inspire every young person to achieve remarkable things.

Looking ahead, we have exciting plans for the continued redevelopment of our campus, ensuring that our students benefit from first class learning facilities. We are also excited about our new Nord Anglia collaboration with IMG Sports Academy in Florida, creating further opportunities in sport and performance.

Alongside our established partnerships with MIT, UNICEF and The Juilliard School, these collaborations provide our students with world-class experiences that are unrivalled by many schools.

5. Which is your favourite season?

Spring.

6. Ski’s or snowboard?

Skis preferably safely resting in apres ski venue.

7. Favorite food?

I love all Asian food but mainly Vietnamese after teaching there for two years.

8. Sweet or savory?

Savory.

9. Mountains or coast?

Coast, “I do love to be beside the seaside”.

10. What is one thing you are never without?

Beside my family, Yorkshire tea – a staple whenever I travel.

Click here to read Chris's first interview on XpatLoop.com