Craig Davidson

Background

About Craig Davidson

An accomplished senior education leader with a successful career in secondary, further and higher education includes the roles of Principal and Academic Director in the maintained and independent sectors, with a strong focus on international education. A track record of driving improvement reflects solid senior leadership skills, a passion for education and a razor-sharp commercial focus. My leadership style is visible, hands-on and collaborative with a commitment to creating positive learning environments where teachers and students thrive. I have had the privilege of leading teams of up to 100 and been involved in creating strategy, modernising working practices, rejuvenating morale and uniting teams towards a shared vision. A qualified teacher and strong classroom practitioner, I have a background in Science, DoH funded Research and university teaching roles before progressing into education leadership. Since 2001, I have held senior leadership roles with UCL, Hartpury College, Chelsea Independent College, INTO University Partnerships, Kaplan International and Oxford Royale Academy. Career highlights: • Increased student academic attainment and satisfaction levels at INTO Queen’s University, Belfast, whilst leading the college through significant change. • Provided strong leadership and achieved stability in several educational environments; typically recruited following periods of significant change, underperformance or growth. • Led audits and school inspections including BAC, Ofsted and QAA. • Increased overall student recruitment (including for UCL & Chelsea Independent College), adding significantly to revenues. • Led the initial set-up and operationalisation of the INTO Stirling University International College. I understand the international education landscape and have vast experience in recruiting international students to, and supporting them with, studying in the UK. This includes leading the delivery of bespoke academic programmes and creating new opportunities for students to progress into prestigious universities. I have built connections with UK universities and developed relationships across the globe with international high schools, Embassies and Consulates. My career has taken me across the world – from China, Japan, South Korea, Africa, and the USA to Belfast, London and Oxford. Driven by taking on challenges and making a positive difference to students, I seize opportunities where I can transform, improve and provide students with a world-class education which helps them to achieve their academic goals.