Meet our team

With over three decades of experience in education, Kirsty began her career after qualifying as a teacher, following her studies in Chemistry/Biochemistry and Secondary Science Education. She has worked across a wide range of educational settings, including the UK's state and independent schools and leading British international schools across Asia, including Malaysia, Hong Kong and China.

Kirsty’s leadership journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to the wellbeing and development of young people. Having held various senior roles, she has developed particular expertise in pastoral care, safeguarding and boarding education. Most recently, as Deputy Head Whole School at Harrow Hengqin, she led key areas including pastoral systems, student wellbeing and boarding provision, while working closely across all areas of school life.

She is a strong advocate for inclusive, student-centred education, believing that when students feel safe, supported and valued, they are best placed to achieve their full academic potential. Her work has included developing innovative pastoral systems, strengthening student voice and embedding wellbeing initiatives that promote resilience, independence and personal growth.

At Uppingham Hung Yen, Kirsty is committed to building a vibrant and inclusive school community where students are inspired to thrive academically, socially and personally. She is passionate about creating an environment that blends strong academic foundations with outstanding pastoral care, preparing students to succeed in an increasingly global and complex world.

Graeme Kinkead is an international school leader with a sustained record of leading Outstanding British curriculum schools through significant growth and transformation. He spent his formative years growing up in a beautiful village in Northern Ireland, called Newcastle before moving to Sheffield to complete his teacher training.

Over the past 15 years, he has been working in leading schools across Sheffield, Kuwait and Abu Dhabi, gaining extensive experience in teaching, leadership and school development. In 2024, he completed his National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) qualification, further strengthening his commitment to delivering exceptional education and leading schools with clarity and purpose.

Most recently, Graeme served as Principal of Muna Primary School in Abu Dhabi, where he had the privilege of leading the school community into its brand-new campus and supporting the next stage of its growth and success. Throughout his career, he remained passionate about creating school environments where children feel safe, inspired and challenged to achieve their very best.

As he continue his career as the Founding Head of Junior School at Uppingham School Hung Yen, he is excited to be part of establishing a vibrant and ambitious new school community.