Northfields International School in Mauritius has welcomed a new Executive Head, Lee Wilson, who started in August 2025, with a truly global pedigree and a forward-thinking vision for the future. With a career that spans the UK, Singapore, Japan, the UAE, Kazakhstan and Uganda, Lee Wilson brings a deep understanding of international education and a firm belief in the power of holistic development.
With a passion for student-centred learning, Wilson is focused on nurturing a culture that balances academic excellence with wellbeing, innovation and inclusion. “My vision is to foster a learning environment that values collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking,” he explains. “In the short term, I’ll be engaging with our community to define what outstanding teaching looks like at Northfields. Long-term, I want our school to be a beacon of educational excellence on the island and across the region.”
Central to his leadership approach is a belief in the power of strong relationships and servant leadership. “The most important thing I can do in my first year is build trust,” he says. “That means listening, engaging with staff, students and parents, and creating a shared sense of purpose.”
Technology and innovation are also key focus areas. Wilson sees the integration of AI and digital tools as transformative for personalised learning and efficient teaching, having led schools through frameworks like High Performance Learning and achieved recognition such as Apple Distinguished School status.
But beyond academic strategy, his outlook is rooted in humanity. A father himself, he believes student success must be measured in more than grades. “It’s about who they become – resilient, empathetic, globally minded individuals ready to make a difference.”
From scuba diving and coding to learning French and Creole, Wilson brings a lifelong learner’s mindset to every part of his life. His energy and enthusiasm are matched by a calm, thoughtful presence – a trait he credits to his greatest influence: his mother.
As he begins this new chapter, he says: “I’m excited to build on Northfields’ rich heritage and work with our exceptional community to create something truly extraordinary.”
Ravi Nadasen, CEO of Inspired Africa & the Middle East comments, “Lee Wilson’s global perspective will enrich our educational approach and open new pathways for our students to thrive in an ever-evolving world.”
Q&A with Lee Wilson
- What do you believe makes a great teacher?
A genuine love for working with children, a growth mindset, and a passion for lifelong learning. These qualities create the foundation for meaningful, impactful teaching.
- What’s a children’s book that left a lasting impression on you?
Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator. Not just for the story, but for how I read it – sneaking off to read it in secret corners of a hotel. It made reading feel like an adventure.
- What motivates you every day?
A deep passion for education and the belief that what we do can truly change lives. That, and my family – they keep me grounded and inspired.
- If you could meet one historical figure, who would it be?
Sir Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web. I’d love to hear his thoughts on the future of digital education and the role technology can play in shaping society.
- What’s one piece of advice you’d give your teenage self?
Don’t rush. Take the time to learn, grow and enjoy the journey. Everything doesn’t have to happen at once.
