Meet Our Team
Senior Leadership Team
Michael Picken
Deputy Head Academic
Mr Picken is originally from the United Kingdom and has a Bachelor Degree in Biomedical Sciences from Sheffield University.
He started his teaching career in the UK as a primary school teacher after graduating from Loughborough University. The desire to travel and enter the international education sector led him to move abroad and in his 20+ years of teaching experience, he has taught and held senior roles in the United Kingdom, Africa, South America, China, Brunei, Malaysia and now Saudi Arabia.
Mr Picken is passionate about enhancing teaching and learning through improving assessment practices, neuroscience, student agency and digital technologies.
Chris Hill
Deputy Head Pastoral
Mr Hill has a wealth of experience from senior leadership roles in leading independent and international schools. Most recently, as Head of Lower School at Downe House, Berkshire, he worked closely with pupils, parents and staff to ensure that academic progress went hand in hand with excellent pastoral care. His career has seen him lead boarding houses, oversee safeguarding and wellbeing, and help shape positive school cultures where children feel valued, supported and inspired to thrive. Mr Hill believes strongly in nurturing pupils’ character and wellbeing alongside their studies, creating an environment where kindness, high expectations and personal growth are central to school life.
Mr Hill holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership as well as extensive training in safeguarding and boarding practice. Alongside his leadership responsibilities, he has taught a wide range of subjects and supported the development of teachers at every stage of their careers. With his deep commitment to pupil welfare and family engagement, Mr Hill is excited to play a key role in helping every child at King’s flourish both inside and outside the classroom.
Mohammed Abu Hasna
Head of Arabic and Islamic
Mr. Abu Hasna holds a bachelor’s degree in Arabic Language and Literature. With over 22 years of teaching and leadership in international schools in Riyadh, Mohammed brings a wealth of experience to King’s College Riyadh.
Mr. Abu Hasna has experience as a senior Arabic language teacher and the Head of Arabic language and Islamic Studies at prominent schools in Riyadh.
Mohammed joined King’s College Riyadh in 2021 and continues his strong commitment to delivering excellence in and outside the classroom for all children.
Stephanie Love
Director of Co-Curricular, Engagement & Enrichment
Mrs Love graduated from Glasgow University in 2012 with a degree in Education and Theology and has 12 years of experience in teaching and management in Scotland and latterly, in Riyadh. She was an Academic Coordinator in Olaya for two years before taking on the position of Director of Co-Curricular, Engagement and Enrichment at King’s College, Riyadh.
Mrs Love firmly believes in ensuring the curriculum is accessible for all, and that children’s interests and needs are at the heart of learning. To ensure that the curriculum is diverse and filled with opportunities beyond the classroom is to ensure that children are equipped with the skills and knowledge to best prepare them for the world of work, whatever field they choose to pursue.
In her spare time, Mrs Love has a passion for fitness and travel. She is an avid reader and enjoys learning about different cultures and countries of the world.
Enrol your child at King’s College Riyadh
Children who join King’s Riyadh will leave as well-rounded young adults, having fulfilled their potential and having gained a place at the UK, US, or local university of their choice. They will have been prepared for life beyond school and will be able to contribute positively to society.