Edarabia had the opportunity to interview Mr. Kai Vacher, the esteemed Principal of British School Muscat, gaining valuable insights into the school’s innovative approaches, future plans, and commitment to student well-being and academic excellence. Mr. Vacher shared his vision for 2025, focusing on bold innovation and rethinking education, and discussed the various strategies implemented at British School Muscat to ensure every student thrives. This interview sheds light on the dynamic and adaptable landscape of education at the school, emphasizing a commitment to preparing learners for the future through purposeful action and a strong community spirit.

1. What are your plans for 2025?

2025 is all about bold innovation-rethinking education to do things better, not just differently. With the global teacher shortage, especially in subjects like maths and physics, we’re pioneering remote and online teaching as a strategic solution, not a last resort. The data is compelling: In a recent survey conducted by teacher recruitment agency TeacherHorizons, over 85% of teachers are open to non-traditional formats. Our experience with blended learning at British School Salalah gives us the confidence to launch A Level Psychology online at British School Muscat this August. This isn’t just about plugging gaps; it’s about expanding horizons, attracting global talent and meeting the needs of today’s learners. The future of education is dynamic, adaptable and profoundly interconnected landscape where thoughtful context and purposeful action drive achievement. Let’s seize these opportunities together and shape an education that truly prepares every learner for what lies ahead.

2. How do you decide what to focus on academically each year, and which new ideas are you pursuing?

Listening is at the heart of our approach. Through regular surveys, one-to-one conversations and our new TES Pulse Survey, we ensure every voice in our community shapes our direction. We’re plugged into global networks-MISPs, BSME, COBIS, HMC- so we’re always learning from the best. Hosting the Educator’s Corner podcast connects us with thought leaders worldwide. Our priorities; #WellBeingFirst #EveryoneCan, evolve from this rich tapestry of feedback and collaboration, ensuring we’re always pursuing the most relevant, impactful ideas for our students.

3. What challenges do you anticipate in the field of education over the next 5 years?

The teacher recruitment crisis, especially at secondary level, is front and centre. But with challenge comes opportunity: remote and hybrid teaching can help to make education a truly global, flexible and noble profession. We also need to rethink our relationship with technology-mobile phones, and social media, and ensure they serve learning, not distract from it.

4. How do you keep students interested in learning, especially those who struggle or seem unmotivated?

Our philosophy to learning is simple: #EveryoneCan. Inspired by Professor Deborah Eyre, we believe every student can achieve something meaningful every day. Our vibrant extracurricular programme-from West End-style productions like Matilda to robotics, esports and debating-means every student can find their passion and shine. We ensure opportunities are as diverse as our students, so everyone discovers their spark.

5. How does the school ensure all students feel welcome and have the same chances to succeed?

Belonging is the foundation of success. Visitors often remark on our school’s warm, purposeful atmosphere-where every child, especially those far from home, feels immediately safe and supported. From buddy systems for new arrivals to tailored learning and a robust pastoral team-including counsellors and Emotional Learning Support Assistants-every student is known, valued and empowered to succeed.

6. How proactive is the school in matters of student stress and bullying?

Wellbeing comes first. Our #WellbeingFirst approach means deep pastoral care, exemplary safeguarding and a culture of trust through initiatives like our ‘SpeakUp’ campaign. We combine restorative practice with clear behaviour policies, ensuring every student and staff member feels safe to be themselves and speak up when needed. It’s about building a courageous, kind community together.

7. How do you help students build the skills they need for life after graduation?

Our BSM Learning Ethos, crafted with our whole team, focuses on the skills students will need for 2030 and beyond: critical and creative thinking, resilience, agility, empathy and emotional intelligence. These aren’t add-ons-they’re woven into our curriculum, preparing students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

8. How involved are parents and the community in making the school better?

Partnership is our strength. Parents are active partners-through elected governors, focus groups and vibrant events like our annual Cultural Fair, which celebrates the 70+ nationalities in our community. From Winter Wonderland to Community Iftar, these events build the spirit and collaboration that define us.

9. How do you develop a school culture that attracts and keeps great teachers?

We champion a coaching culture where every staff member is supported to grow and lead. Investment in training, leadership programmes and advanced qualifications ensures our teachers feel valued and inspired to stay and to keep raising the bar for our students.

10. Do teachers at your school have growth opportunities for leadership roles?

Absolutely. From CPML and Associate Assistant Headteacher opportunities to NPQH and accreditation training, we offer a rich menu of professional development. Coaching, mentoring and leadership pathways mean every teacher can grow, lead and make a difference.

11. Which after-school activity would you say has the biggest positive impact on a student’s future?

Activities that build character-performing arts, sports, outdoor education-are transformative, nurturing creativity, resilience and teamwork. Equally, STEM clubs and academic competitions prepare students for future careers. The magic happens when students find what excites them and are given every chance to pursue it.

12. As a Principal, what is your definition of success?

Success is an inclusive environment where every student flourishes-academically, socially, and emotionally and leaves ready to lead a purposeful, fulfilling life in a changing world.

13. If you had the opportunity to inspire the world in one sentence, what would that sentence be?

‘Let’s do things differently – and do them better.’