Bedford School is thrilled to welcome Iwan Lloyd as their newly appointed International Development Director. With a passion for education and an aptitude for international relations, not to mention extensive experience in both, Iwan is set to spearhead the school’s exciting plans to expand Bedford presence globally.
Building Global Connections
Iwan’s role is pivotal in researching and developing international campuses for Bedford School, where there’s a demand for quality British education and where Bedford’s ethos and values will make a positive social impact.
Iwan’s responsibilities include building relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, from investors and landowners to government ministries and educational bodies. “My role is to bring it all together, to provide investors with an understanding of what Bedford can support them with and what makes Bedford ‘Bedford’, with the end goal of opening schools in those regions,” Iwan explains.
Aligning with Bedford’s Strategic Vision
This international expansion aligns seamlessly with Bedford School’s strategic plan, particularly its Community Partnerships pillar. By establishing international campuses, Bedford not only extends its educational ethos globally but also brings back invaluable benefits to the home school. These benefits range from cultural exchanges to financial gains. Iwan emphasises that this initiative is about more than just academics; it’s about embracing Bedford’s 470-year-old ethos of community engagement and positive impact. Plus, these new campuses offer a chance to innovate with Bedford’s three core focusses of digital technology, community partnerships, and entrepreneurship, all while staying true to the school’s core values.
“Even though we are looking at campuses internationally, the positive impact they bring back to the home school cannot be underestimated,” Iwan notes. He emphasises the importance of understanding different cultures and the financial benefits that come with international campuses.
Iwan also highlights the opportunity to innovate. “International campuses provide a good platform to sometimes do things slightly differently, simply because they are new. They’re able to capitalise on newer buildings which in turn can enable different thought processes that maybe you wouldn’t typically follow in the UK.”
A Warm Reception
The school’s strong academics, sports, performing arts, and entrepreneurial spirit resonate well with international communities.
People are excited about Bedford’s well-rounded educational approach – parents today want more than just top grades; they’re looking for schools that offer diverse experiences, from community service to co-curricular activities, all the while preparing their pupils for a successful future in the world beyond. Bedford’s blend of tradition and innovation, along with its unique location close to London yet nestled in the countryside, is striking a chord with many.
A Unique Career Path
Iwan’s career path is anything but traditional. With 15 years in education, much of it internationally, he’s gathered a wealth of experience. He started as a teacher in Wales before moving to Abu Dhabi, where he transitioned into senior leadership roles. His journey gave him experiences across Asia, the Middle East, America and Europe, working on new school projects and business development. Iwan’s expertise lies in understanding different markets and adapting to local regulations and cultural nuances.
“The questions were always: is the new school going to work? Is there a demand?” Iwan explains. His extensive experience in investment raising and market analysis has equipped him with the skills to navigate the complexities of international education, and he has now channelled this into his goal today – to ensure that Bedford’s international ventures are successful and sustainable.
Beyond the Office
Outside of work, Iwan is an avid traveller and outdoor enthusiast. “I am obviously a keen traveller – as soon as I get the opportunity to get on a plane, I take it and go somewhere new,” he shares. He enjoys hiking, playing tennis, swimming, cycling, and reading. His passion for exploring new cultures and staying active reflects his dynamic approach to both life and work.
With Iwan Lloyd at the helm of its international development, Bedford School is poised for an exciting future of global growth and innovation.
Follow Bedford School International on LinkedIn for more updates as Bedford School continues to make its mark on the world stage.
