Welcoming Our New Head of School – Dr. Craig Wilson

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Craig Wilson as the new Head of School, beginning the 2025–2026 academic year. Dr. Wilson brings with him a wealth of experience in international education, school leadership, and academic excellence across the UK, China, and Europe.

Academic Excellence Rooted in Oxford

Dr. Wilson holds a First-Class Honours Degree and a DPhil in Chemistry from the University of Oxford. He followed these by completing a PGCE to begin his teaching journey. His passion for education and his dedication to student success have guided his leadership journey through both the British and international school systems.

A Leader in Global Education

Dr. Wilson began his international education leadership journey in China, serving as Head of Science and later as Deputy Head at the British International School Shanghai, Puxi. He played a key role in data-driven student tracking and academic target setting, helping raise standards and improve outcomes.

From 2013 to 2024, Dr. Wilson held several senior roles within the CATS Global Schools group, including Director of Education, Principal, Executive Principal, , and ultimately Managing Director. His leadership extended across schools in the UK and the US (CATS Boston, MA), overseeing academic strategy, compliance, operational efficiency, and safeguarding. He also supported high-achieving students in their applications to top global universities, including Oxbridge and Russell Group institutions.

Most recently, Dr. Wilson worked with a newly formed group of international schools in Europe, focusing on raising academic standards, rebuilding community confidence, and establishing long-term educational governance.

A Vision for Student Growth and Community Collaboration

Dr. Wilson is known for his calm, evidence-based leadership, his deep understanding of cross-cultural education, and his unwavering belief in empowering students to thrive academically and personally. His philosophy centers on creating safe, well-managed learning environments, where both students and teachers are inspired to grow and succeed.

Dr. Wilson will be joined in Dalian by his wife, Heather, whom he met while working in Shanghai, and by their two children, who will be joining our Elementary School. We are delighted to welcome them all to the DAIS and DHBS community.

We look forward to an exciting new chapter under his leadership!