Andrea Higgins is Head of Sunmarke Primary in Dubai, part of Fortes Education. With over 20 years’ experience across primary and secondary schools, Andrea has built a reputation as a visible, collaborative leader with a deep commitment to staff development and student wellbeing. Since 2020, she has led Sunmarke Primary with a focus on high standards, coaching and innovation, ensuring every child is supported socially, emotionally and academically. A graduate of Trinity College Dublin and Queen’s University Belfast, Andrea also holds the NPQH from UCL. She is passionate about building learning communities where both staff and students thrive, and has driven initiatives in oracy, student leadership and wellbeing that align with UAE and KHDA priorities. Beyond school, Andrea is Chairperson of Dubai Irish Society and an advocate for authentic leadership in education, championing visibility, voice and value for women leaders in international schools.