By Omeiza Ajayi

ABUJA: One of United Kingdom’s leading independent educational institutions, Rugby School, Eko Atlantic City in Lagos, has announced Dr Adam England as its pioneer Principal.

The institution which is expected to take off in September is renowned for its tradition of academic excellence, and is set to welcome its first A Level students  in six months.

It will also fully open its senior school for girls and boys from the age of 11+ in September 2026, even as it is already attracting aspiring students from across Nigeria and West Africa.

A statement from the management of the institution, disclosed that Dr England “brings to Nigeria, twenty years of leadership experience in both the United Kingdom and Africa, most recently serving as Director General of École Internationale Ruban Vert in Libreville, Gabon.”

Dr England holds degrees in English and French from Warwick and Swansea University, along with a doctorate in English Literature.  His connection to Nigeria runs deep, having previously worked in Lagos and developed a profound appreciation for the country’s culture and people.

His leadership experience includes serving as Chairman of the Independent Schools Council of Wales, and he is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.

The statement further disclosed that Dr England is delighted at the appointment and eager to build a thriving and dynamic school community in Nigeria.

He said; “I am unbelievably excited at the thought of returning to Lagos as Principal of Rugby School Nigeria. Anybody who knows me understands how much I enjoyed my time working in Nigeria.

“To return as Principal of such a prestigious school, working on a purpose-built campus with some of the best colleagues in the industry, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“Before then, I shall be spending some time at Rugby School England, absorbing its ‘Whole Person Whole Point’ philosophy and its global approach to teaching and learning.”

Dr England whose grown up children reside in London, will be joined in Lagos by his partner Tricia, who works in primary education.

Head Master of Rugby School (UK), Gareth Parker-Jones, also expressed excitement over the September take-off date for the Rugby School Nigeria.

“We have long connections with Nigeria and some fantastic students have studied here.  They have really embodied the character, the values of Rugby School.  So to be able to offer that to more Nigerian students, now in Lagos, is something which I’m really excited for and I can’t wait for the opening this September.”