Our Leadership
William Arthur
Founder/Executive Head
William Arthur is an accomplished and visionary educational leader with extensive international experience in founding and managing schools of the highest standard. He is the founder of the British International School Dakar (BISD), which will provide a transformative, child-centred approach to education.
Mr. Arthur is also the founder and Headmaster of the British International School Gambia (BISG), The Gambia’s premier British International School. Under his leadership, BISG became the first Council of British International Schools (COBIS)-compliant school in The Gambia, at the time, making the country only the second in West Africa to attain COBIS accreditation. This milestone reflects Mr. Arthur’s unwavering commitment to excellence and international standards in education.
With a career spanning over two decades across the UK, the United States, Nigeria, Oman and The Gambia, Mr. Arthur has held numerous leadership roles, including Head of School at the International School of Tucson, Arizona; and Co-Principal at Day Waterman College, Nigeria and Head of School at Marina International School, The Gambia. His professional journey also includes serving as Director of Science at several large schools in England, where he was instrumental in raising academic standards, enhancing curriculum development, and mentoring staff.
Mr. Arthur is described as a proactive, resourceful, and ambitious leader, dedicated to the total development of his staff and students. His child-centred approach to education focuses on nurturing academic excellence while promoting personal and social development. He is also deeply committed to teacher professional development and fostering a collaborative environment within his school communities.
In addition to his professional achievements, Mr. Arthur contributes to the global education community having previously been a Principal Internship Supervising Practitioner for the University of Arizona’s Educational Leadership Program. He has mentored trainee teachers from several universities in the United Kingdom.
Mr. Arthur holds a National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) from the University of London, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Cambridge, and a BSc in Biological Sciences from the University of Cape Coast. His extensive qualifications, combined with his exceptional leadership skills and passion for education, position him as a transformative force in international schooling.
Outside of school, Mr. Arthur enjoys taking his boat out to explore the Atlantic Ocean, fishing, playing tennis.
Through BISD, Mr. Arthur aims to establish another world-class educational environment where students are inspired to "Learn, Discover, Achieve," embodying the school’s motto, Summa Peto.
Koren Ankers
Head of Operations
Koren Ankers brings a wealth of leadership experience and a profound commitment to education to her role as Head of Operations at the British International School Dakar (BISD).
As the Chairperson of the Board of Governors at the British International School Gambia since its inception, she has played a pivotal role in overseeing the school’s growth and success, including achieving its prestigious COBIS compliance award. Her dedication to maintaining high standards of education and governance is complemented by her role as the school’s Health and Safety Governor, where she has worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and wellbeing of students and staff alike.
With over seven years of distinguished service as Vice Consul at the British High Commission in The Gambia, Ms. Ankers has developed exceptional expertise in managing complex situations involving child welfare, safeguarding, and crisis management. Her leadership during critical international events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrated her ability to prioritise safety, wellbeing, and effective communication, earning her recognition for her composure and dedication under pressure.
Parents can feel reassured by Ms. Ankers’ warm and proactive approach to leadership. Her commitment to fostering a secure and supportive educational environment ensures that every child under her care is encouraged to thrive both academically and personally.
Outside of her professional life, Ms. Ankers is a devoted animal lover, especially fond of dogs and horses, which speaks to her compassionate and nurturing character. She is also an avid skier, enjoying the thrill and challenge of the slopes, reflecting her adventurous and energetic spirit. These personal passions contribute to her balanced and approachable nature, endearing her to colleagues, students, and parents alike.
Gloria Fiador
Head of Teaching and Learning
Ms Gloria Edem Fiador is a dedicated and highly accomplished educator with extensive experience in teaching and learning within the Cambridge International curriculum. She is deeply passionate about education and committed to fostering academic excellence and student development.
Prior to joining British International School Dakar, Ms Fiador taught English Language and Literature at the British International School Gambia (BISG), where she played a pivotal role in delivering the Cambridge Checkpoint English curriculum. Under her guidance, students consistently achieved outstanding results, exceeding the worldwide average in Cambridge Lower Secondary English Checkpoint examinations. Her ability to inspire and support students, particularly those for whom English is a second language, reflects her expertise in differentiated instruction and her commitment to inclusive education.
Ms Fiador’s pedagogical approach is student-centered, focusing on interactive and inquiry- based learning methodologies. She integrates technology and innovative teaching strategies to enhance student engagement and achievement. Her experience spans various international school settings, where she has successfully mentored students and collaborated with colleagues to uphold the highest academic standards.
Beyond her classroom achievements, Ms Fiador has undertaken extensive professional development, including British Council-certified training in safeguarding, multilingualism, and inclusive education. She remains committed to lifelong learning and continuous professional growth, currently pursuing a Master of Education in Special Education at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana.
In addition to her professional commitments, Ms Fiador enjoys spending quality time with her one-year-old daughter. Her dedication to education, leadership in teaching and learning, and mastery of the Cambridge curriculum make her a valuable addition to the British International School Dakar leadership team.