GEMS School of Research and Innovation's next phase: New principal outlines his priorities
When Richard Jones takes over as principal of GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI) in January 2027, he will be stepping into a school that has just completed its first year, but he does not plan to arrive with a long list of changes. Instead, Jones says his immediate priority will be to listen, learn and understand what is already working before deciding what needs to evolve. “I think…
Richard Jones, who will become the principal of GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI) in January 2027, has outlined his priorities for the school. Instead of immediately implementing a list of changes, Jones plans to focus on listening, learning, and understanding what is already working at SRI. He spoke about this at GEMS Awareness Day this year, following his preparation for the role from outside the school.
Jones has received largely positive feedback regarding the school's first year, despite the challenges faced. He emphasized that the team that established the school has done a "brilliant job" and that there is a significant amount of positivity surrounding SRI as it enters its second year.
Jones believes SRI is appealing to parents who want to see an evolution beyond traditional educational models. He aims to prepare students for life beyond the classroom, focusing on their confidence and ability to navigate the world. Success, according to Jones, cannot be measured solely by grades and academic outcomes. Instead, it is about empowering young people to feel equipped and confident in who they are.
The principal also highlighted the importance of building a sense of community among SRI families. He cited the Family First Cafe, where parents can drop off their children and have coffee, as well as parent activities like fathers playing padel together, as examples of informal connections developing within the school. Jones believes such initiatives help reduce barriers between schools and parents.
Looking ahead, Jones emphasized that SRI will continue to remain innovative while avoiding unnecessary change. He stressed that innovation should be driven by the desire to improve and add value, rather than for the sake of being different. The principal also expressed his intention to learn about Dubai, the wider GEMS school network, and most importantly, to spend time with students, listening to their experiences and understanding what is working for them.
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