Effective school leadership serves as a crucial link between the classroom, individual schools, and the broader education system, playing a vital role in enhancing the efficiency and equity of education. Within a school, strong leadership can foster an environment conducive to student learning by shaping the conditions and atmosphere in which teaching takes place. Moreover, quality school leaders are capable of responding to and navigating changing external circumstances beyond the school’s boundaries. One such exemplary leader is Andrew Leale, the Headmaster of Harrow International School Bengaluru, who exemplifies this capability by effectively bridging internal school improvement processes with externally driven reforms.
A Distinguished Educator’s Journey
Andrew Leale grew up in the UK and attended Charterhouse, a prominent independent boarding school known for its distinguished reputation. He then went on to study Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE) at Balliol College, Oxford University—one of the most prestigious colleges at Oxford, renowned for producing a significant number of British Prime Ministers. After completing his undergraduate degree, he pursued postgraduate studies at Keble College, Oxford.
Andrew Leale’s career in education began at Tonbridge School, one of the leading boys’ boarding schools in the UK, where he served in various leadership roles, including as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, Head of Department, and Boarding Housemaster. During his tenure at Tonbridge, which is part of the prestigious Eton Group of British independent schools, he helped many students secure admissions to top universities globally, including Ivy League and Oxbridge institutions.
He later moved to Chaoyang Kaiwen Academy in Beijing, China, where he served as the International Principal. At Kaiwen, he played a key role in the school’s growth from its inception to an enrollment of over 750 students, emphasizing both academic excellence and holistic development. His experience at these institutions made him well-acquainted with Harrow, and when the opportunity to lead Harrow International School Bengaluru arose, he eagerly accepted the role. He joined the Harrow team two years ago, just before the school’s opening.
Harrow International School Bengaluru in a Nutshell
Harrow Bengaluru, the first Harrow-branded school to open in India, uniquely blends the extraordinary legacy of Harrow with the dynamic experience of the Amity Education Group, enhancing the Indian educational landscape. Located on a stunning new campus near the international airport in Devanahalli, Bengaluru, the school emphasizes academic excellence alongside a holistic educational approach.
As part of the international Harrow Family of Schools, Harrow Bengaluru brings exciting opportunities for its students to engage on a global scale. In February 2024, 15 students had the opportunity to visit Harrow School in the UK, where they attended classes and played sports fixtures; in June 2024 a second group joined the Harrow Fifth Form Conference in London; another 35 students will visit Harrow and several other top British schools in November. Additionally, students regularly connect with peers from other Harrow schools worldwide, engaging in various competitions and collaborative activities that enhance their educational experience.
Building Excellence
To gain insight into Andrew Leale’s accomplishments as the Founding Headmaster over the past few years, we had the opportunity to interview him. We began by asking him about his experience leading the school. He shared, “I’m deeply proud of the exceptional team of teachers which we have drawn from around the world, who are delivering the outstanding education that we aspired to offer in India. Recruiting such an extraordinary team has been a significant achievement.” Highlighting a range of successes the school has already achieved, he continued, “Our first batch of IGCSE students achieved impressive results, including a set of eight straight top A* grades for one and many As and A*s across the cohort. Accomplishing this while simultaneously developing a robust co-curricular program and the outstanding pastoral care for which Harrow is famous, is something I am very proud of.”
Andrew Leale’s role as the Headmaster is multifaceted. In addition to leading the academic program, he is renowned for his engagement with parents, for supporting his students as they prepare their applications to top universities across the world, and for fostering global connections—an essential aspect of a Harrow education.
In the Days to come
Andrew Leale expresses his anticipation for the successes and opportunities that await the students at Harrow Bengaluru. As the school continues to grow, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining personalized attention and individualized learning, thus aiming to sustain this personalized approach even as the school expands.
Balancing Family, Sports, and Professional Life
Andrew Leale, a father of three daughters, places great importance on family life. A keen sportsman, he played football for the Oxford Blues during his university years and continues to be active in sports such as football, squash, and golf, albeit at a different pace now. He also enjoys sailing, having had the opportunity to sail small boats and yachts over the years, which helps him relax and maintain balance.
He believes that maintaining a healthy balance between professional responsibilities and personal life is crucial. This involves prioritizing, delegating tasks, and making time for family and personal interests. For him, sports and family time are essential components of achieving that balance.
