Professional Summary

Professional Overview

Edward Lawless is an experienced education professional with a demonstrated history of driving innovation and leading strategic initiatives in the international school sector. As the Executive Director of Learning & Innovation - Pre-University Education at The Qatar Foundation, he oversees the development and implementation of cutting-edge educational programs and pedagogical approaches. Additionally, he serves as the Director of Professional Learning at AISL Harrow Schools and the Director at The Center For Innovation, where he spearheads initiatives to support the growth and development of educators globally.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Executive Director, Learning & Innovation - Pre-University Education, The Qatar Foundation (2022-Present)

• Responsible for leading the strategic vision and implementation of innovative learning and teaching practices across pre-university education programs

• Collaborates with cross-functional teams to develop and execute initiatives that enhance student outcomes and prepare learners for the 21st-century workforce

• Oversees the development and deployment of professional development programs for educators to foster continual growth and improvement

Director of Professional Learning, AISL Harrow Schools (2021-Present)

• Leads the design and delivery of comprehensive professional learning opportunities for educators across the AISL Harrow Schools network

• Collaborates with school leadership to align professional development initiatives with the organization's strategic goals and objectives

• Drives the integration of research-based best practices and emerging pedagogical approaches to elevate teaching and learning

Director, The Center For Innovation (2019-Present)

• Spearheads the development and implementation of innovative educational programs and solutions

• Collaborates with a global network of education thought leaders to identify and address critical challenges facing the sector

• Develops and facilitates professional development workshops and training sessions for educators around the world

Career Progression

Prior to his current roles, Edward Lawless held several key positions in the international education sector, including:

• Chief Academic Officer at Pamoja (2015-2018)

• Founding Principal at Pamoja (2010-2018)

• Regional Head of Professional Development - IB Asia Pacific at International Baccalaureate (2006-2010)

• Head of Senior School at All Saints Anglican School (2004-2006)

• Head of English at Hale School (1998-2004)

• Middle School Administrator and Teacher of IB English/TOK at UWC South East Asia (1991-1997)

• Head of English at American International School of the Cote d'Azur (1987-1991)

Throughout his career, Lawless has demonstrated a strong commitment to driving educational innovation, enhancing teaching and learning practices, and developing impactful professional development programs for educators.

Academic Background

Lawless holds a Master's degree in Education, with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction. His academic background and specialized training have equipped him with the expertise to lead complex educational initiatives and guide the professional growth of educators.

Areas of Expertise

• Strategic planning and implementation of innovative educational programs

• Curriculum design and instructional leadership

• Professional development program development and facilitation

• Collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive organizational change

• Thought leadership and industry-wide contributions

Professional Impact

Lawless has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have had a significant impact on the international education sector. Some of his notable achievements include:

• Developed and implemented a groundbreaking professional learning framework that has been adopted by schools across the Asia-Pacific region

• Launched a series of collaborative learning communities that have facilitated the sharing of best practices and the co-creation of innovative teaching strategies

• Pioneered the integration of design thinking and project-based learning approaches into the curriculum, leading to demonstrable improvements in student engagement and outcomes

Conclusion

With his extensive experience, strategic vision, and commitment to educational excellence, Edward Lawless is poised to continue making a lasting impact on the international school community. His expertise in driving innovation, enhancing professional development, and improving student learning outcomes positions him as a valuable leader in the field of education.