Rugby School is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Simon Watson as Founding Principal of Rugby School Hanoi from August 2027. 

Dr Watson is currently (since 2018) Principal of St Christopher’s School in Bahrain, a school of 2300 students across two sites. He has been the Chair of FOBISIA (Federation of British International Schools in Asia) as well as, more recently, Chair of the group of HMC Headteachers in its International Division in the Middle East.

Rugby School Hanoi will open its pre-prep school in Hanoi in September 2026, headed by Mark Symmonds, recently Head of Buenos Aires’ St George’s College prep school.  This will be followed by its prep and senior provision at the start of the 2027 academic year.  

Dr Watson has a PhD in Pure Mathematics from Bristol University; his teaching qualification is from Keele University. Before becoming the Principal of St Christopher’s School he was Secondary School Principal of Copenhagen International School in Denmark (2007 – 2011) before taking on the role of Principal of Kolej Tuanku Ja’afa, a high-performing boarding school in Malaysia (2011-2018).

Dr Watson developed a love of Vietnam and SE Asia during his time working in Malaysia. He is delighted to be moving to Hanoi with his wife (his grown-up children are studying in the UK) and to have the chance to develop his appreciation of Vietnamese history and culture.

He has a genuine appreciation of the ‘whole person, whole point’ ethos that is so important to our schools, valuing the importance of strong academic achievement as a foundation of future success, while also acknowledging the importance of students experiencing the joy of participation in a range of activities, as they develop their skills and interests.

Dr Watson said: ’Rugby School has a unique place in the history of British education so it is a privilege to become part of that story, as expressed in Hanoi. I am delighted to work with both Khai Sang Corporation and Rugby School to deliver a life-changing educational experience for every student over the years to come.’

Nick Bacon, Chairman of Rugby Schol’s Governing Body said: ‘We are delighted to have employed as the Principal of Rugby School Hanoi someone with Dr Watson’s impressive track record of commitment and achievement as a school leader. We look forward to his visits to Hanoi this coming academic year, which will involve numerous opportunities for parents, students and staff to meet him.’