Meet Our Team
Senior Leadership Team
Michael Picken
Deputy Head Academic
Mike is very much looking forward to continuing in his role at King’s College Riyadh as the Deputy Headteacher of Teaching and Learning. He is originally from the United Kingdom and has a Bachelor Degree in Biomedical Sciences from Sheffield University.
He started his teaching career in Oakham, Rutland as a primary school teacher graduating from Loughborough University. The desire to travel and enter the international education sector led him to move abroad and in his 20+ years teaching experience he has taught and held senior roles in the United Kingdom, Africa, South America, China, Brunei, Malaysia and now Saudi Arabia. Prior to joining Beaconhouse, Mike was the Head of Primary School at Beaconhouse International School, Malaysia.
Mike is passionate about enhancing teaching and learning through improving assessment practice, neuroscience, student agency and digital technologies.
Much of Mike’s free time is currently spent enjoying time with his young family but he would welcome the opportunity to dust off his football boots and play football; he follows the fortunes of Manchester United Football team. Mike is looking forward to exploring the traditional and culinary delights of Saudi Arabia and improving his Arabic, with his linguistic flair!
Michael is married to Patsy, who is also a teacher and they have two young children Charlie and Poppy.
Zoea Khurshid
Deputy Head Pastoral
Zoea has over 8 years of experience teaching in the UK and internationally as a middle leader in academics and pastoral care. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, Master’s Degree as well as a Post Graduate Degree in Education.
Zoea believes that all children are unique and should have a safe environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially, as every child matters. It is her desire to create this type of atmosphere where students can meet their full potential.
Zoea believes education is essential for increasing pupil autonomy; progression and producing informed citizens of the future.
Mohammed Abu Hasna
Head of Arabic and Islamic / Deputy DSL
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.
Since 2001, Mohammed has held the position of Arabic language teacher in different international schools in Riyadh like: Ibn Khaldun Schools and Future schools.
In 2013 he was appointed as a senior Arabic language and Arabic as a second language teacher across Grades 1-6 & the Head of Arabic language and Islamic Studies at King Faisal School in Riyadh.
Mohammed joins Kings College Riyadh with a strong commitment to delivering excellence in the classroom and outside the classroom for all children.
Stephanie Love
Director of Education and Learning
Steph 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 Innovation and Learning here at King’s College, Riyadh.
Steph 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 innovative 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, Steph has a passion for fitness and travel. She is an avid reader and can usually be found shopping at the malls during the weekend!
Heads of Year
Nebras Salah
Head of Pre-School
Nadia Batool
Head of Reception
Farah El Sabban
Head of Year 1
Michele Roberts
Head of Year 2
Lucy Roberts
Head of Year 3
Muskeen Hussain
Head of Year 4
Syed Hashmi
Head of Year 5
Shahidur Rahman
Head of Year 6
Specialist Teachers
Carly Chilton
Head of Learning Support
Nick Morgan
Head of Physical Education
Sara Khatri
Head of Information Technology
Lizet Buhrmann
Head of Music
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.