Message From The Head of Secondary | About Us | DIA Al Barsha | Dubai, U.A.E

Welcome to Dubai International Academy Al Barsha Secondary School

It is a privilege to welcome you to Dubai International Academy Al Barsha Secondary School.

Having spent the past 12 years in the UAE, including the last 10 years within Innoventures Education, I am incredibly proud to lead a Secondary School that places students at the heart of everything we do. My background as a Mathematics teacher and school leader within the International Baccalaureate framework has reinforced my belief that outstanding schools are built on three key foundations: academic excellence, student wellbeing, and meaningful opportunities for every child.

A core belief of mine is that students thrive when they feel a strong sense of belonging, purpose, and support. Young people achieve their best when they are known, valued, and challenged in equal measure. At DIA Al Barsha, we are committed to creating an environment where every student feels connected to our community, develops confidence in themselves, and is supported to achieve their full potential.
 

As an IB World School, we provide a rigorous and internationally recognised education through the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP). These pathways develop knowledgeable, reflective, and principled learners who are equipped with the skills, resilience, and global perspective needed to succeed in higher education and beyond. 

Alongside academic success, we place significant emphasis on opportunity. Whether through sport, performing arts, leadership, service, competitions, enrichment programmes, or international experiences, we want every student to discover their passions and develop the confidence to pursue ambitious goals. As someone with a strong passion for sport and the positive impact it can have on physical wellbeing, mental health, resilience, and community, I firmly believe that some of the most valuable learning experiences take place beyond the classroom. 

What makes DIA Al Barsha truly special is the strength of our community. Our students are ambitious, compassionate, and engaged; our staff are dedicated and highly skilled; and our families are active partners in the educational journey. Together, we strive to develop young people who are not only successful learners, but also confident, caring, and responsible citizens. 

I invite you to visit our school and experience first-hand the energy, warmth, and ambition that define our community. I look forward to welcoming you to DIA Al Barsha.

Colin Leacy

HEAD OF secondary