Lisbon, Portugal – The Lisboan International School, set to open its doors in September 2025, is delighted to announce the appointment of Guðmundur Hegner Jónsson as its Founding Principal. With a remarkable career that bridges continents, cultures, and educational philosophies, Guðmundur embodies the school’s mission to unlock potential, inspire lifelong learning, and create meaningful community impact.
Guðmundur’s leadership is rooted in a dedication to excellence and a passion for fostering connections across cultures. At Dulwich College Seoul in South Korea, he cultivated a vibrant learning community that balanced academic rigour with holistic student support. In Norway, as Rektor of Red Cross Nordic United World College, he championed intercultural understanding and environmental responsibility, building a nurturing environment for a diverse, residential student body. His tenure at Brighton College Al Ain in the UAE demonstrated his ability to innovate in dynamic educational landscapes, while his work at Wellington College International Tianjin in China underscored his commitment to inquiry-led learning through the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
A lifelong learner and advocate for the arts, Guðmundur holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Archaeology from University College London, a Master’s degree in Education from Oxford Brookes University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Vocal Studies from the Royal Academy of Music. Fluent in multiple languages, he exemplifies the values of curiosity, connection, and resilience that define The Lisboan’s vision.
“To say I am excited is an understatement,” Guðmundur shared. “The Lisboan is uniquely positioned to harness Lisbon’s vibrant culture while offering students a locally rooted and globally relevant education. Together, we will foster a community where students grow into thoughtful, socially responsible, and empowered individuals ready to positively impact the world.”
The Lisboan aspires to be more than a school. Situated in Lisbon’s Alcântara neighbourhood, it aims to be a hub for creativity, collaboration, and shared progress. Inspired by the idea that “the city is our classroom,” The Lisboan integrates Lisbon’s rich history and culture into its learning environment, offering students opportunities to engage meaningfully with their surroundings.
Under Guðmundur’s leadership, The Lisboan will champion its core values of kindness, curiosity, connection, resilience, and integrity. By blending academic excellence with eco-literacy and a commitment to cross-disciplinary learning, the school seeks to inspire students to take ownership of their education and contribute positively to the world around them.
As The Lisboan prepares to welcome its inaugural cohort in 2025, the appointment of Guðmundur Hegner Jónsson marks a significant milestone in its journey to become a leading light in international education.