The British School of Tokyo (BST) is thrilled to welcome Mr. Ian Clayton as our new Principal. With over two decades of experience and a deep passion for education, Mr. Clayton is ready to guide BST into the future.
A Storied Career in Education
Originally from the United Kingdom, Mr. Clayton has devoted more than 20 years to education. He began his career as a history teacher in the UK, where he taught for 16 years. During this period, he took on various roles, including Head of Faculty, Head of House, and Senior Teacher. In each of these positions, he demonstrated his commitment to academic excellence and student well-being.
Moreover, Mr. Clayton taught and lectured at the University of East Anglia. There, he contributed to the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) program, helping shape the next generation of educators.
In 2009, Mr. Clayton expanded his career internationally by joining the British School Manila, a founding member of the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA). As the Head of the Senior School, he played a crucial role in developing academic programs and supporting student growth.
Later on, Mr. Clayton moved to Hong Kong, where he served as Vice Principal at the English Schools Foundation (ESF) for five years. During this time, his leadership focused on driving academic innovation and building a strong school community.
For the past decade, Mr. Clayton has led the International Stream at the French International School in Hong Kong. In this role, he fostered a diverse and inclusive environment, effectively preparing students for success in a globalized world.
A New Chapter at BST
Now, Mr. Clayton brings his extensive international experience to BST. His deep understanding of education, combined with his passion for student development, makes him the ideal leader for our school’s next chapter.
Outside the classroom, Mr. Clayton is an avid sports enthusiast. He enjoys following football, cricket, and rugby. However, Formula 1 is not quite his cup of tea. His love for sports reflects his belief in the importance of a well-rounded education, where physical activity and teamwork are key.
Mr. Clayton arrives in Tokyo with his wife, while their two sons continue their studies in the UK. As he steps into this new role, Mr. Clayton looks forward to contributing to BST’s success and further strengthening its reputation as a leading international school.
