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Mougins School
Read the welcome letter from James Wellings, head of our international British school in the south of France, where we provide a high-quality education.
Welcome

A warm welcome from the Head of School

Paul Michael Head of School at Mougins British International School in the south of france

Welcome to Mougins British International School.

It is a genuine privilege to serve this community as Director, and to lead a school that brings together everything I value most in education: ambition, internationalism, a love of challenge and creativity, with a deep commitment to pastoral care.

At MBIS we educate just over 500 students aged 3 to 18, representing more than 40 nationalities. This blend of British educational tradition and global perspective is one of our greatest strengths. It creates a school culture where young people learn to think critically, act with integrity, and engage confidently with the world around them. 

Our magnificent campus sits between the artistic heritage of Mougins village and the innovation of Sophia Antipolis. It is a marvelous location in which to nurture a love of learning. Indeed, what I am most proud of, is not simply the beauty of our buildings and stunning natural setting, but the empowering scholarship our teachers create in our classrooms and outdoor education spaces. 

At MBIS, we will always champion programmes that broaden horizons: super‑curricular exploration, expedition learning, university and careers guidance, and values‑driven pastoral systems. Our responsibility is to help every student discover what inspires them and to relish the challenges inherent in true success, whether in the classroom, on the sports field, through the arts, or in the wider community. 

Education is best when it is dynamic; a journey shaped by effort, challenge, and meaningful relationships. When students embrace that journey, they enrich their own lives and positively influence others.

I am delighted to welcome you to MBIS, and I look forward to working together in our world class school where every student can thrive.

Paul Michael MA MSc FRSA
Director 

 

Thoughts from the Head

Mougins British International School Announces New Director
  • Thoughts from the Head
Julie Dufaye

Leadership transitions are defining moments in the life of any great school.

After more than five years as Director of Mougins British International School, James Wellings will be taking on a new leadership role within the Globeducate group, focusing on learning and development across its wider network of schools.

Throughout his tenure, James has played a pivotal role in strengthening Mougins British International School, fostering a culture of excellence, stability, innovation and student-centred learning. His vision, commitment and dedication have helped shape a thriving school community and have contributed significantly to the school's continued growth and success.

As we look ahead, we are delighted to welcome Mr Michael as the next Director of Mougins British International School. Paul becomes Director of Mougins after five years of impactful leadership as Head of Secondary, during which he strengthened academic standards, deepened pastoral provision, and advanced whole‑school strategic development. He brings over two decades of international experience across Europe and Asia, supported by a double Masters degree in English Literature (MA) and Educational Leadership (MSc) alongside his recognition as a Fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts (FRSA). His earlier career includes senior roles such as Head of Sixth Form at the British School of Amsterdam and Head of Faculty at Harrow International School Bangkok, where he led major curriculum initiatives, staff development, and student pathways. Known for his clarity of vision, collaborative approach, and unwavering focus on student success, Paul will lead the school with a commitment to ensuring a coherent, future‑ready educational journey from Early Years to Sixth Form.Working closely together over the coming months, James and Paul are ensuring a thoughtful and seamless transition, building on the strong foundations already in place and maintaining continuity for our students, families and staff.

At Mougins British International School, we believe that exceptional schools are built on shared values, strong teams and a long-term commitment to educational excellence. While leadership evolves, our mission remains unchanged: to inspire, challenge and empower every student to achieve their full potential.

We extend our sincere thanks to James for his outstanding contribution and wish him every success in this exciting new chapter. We also look forward with great confidence and enthusiasm to the future of Mougins British International School under Paul Michael's leadership.

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