Our history
Where LYIS came from
From notes written on a sofa after work to a membership organisation with leaders in more than forty countries. The story so far, year by year.
Why LYIS exists
We believe organisations have a part to play in making a positive difference to society. Our purpose is to create leaders with the skills to make a difference, and to make sure nobody’s development depends on the willingness of one principal to develop people.
2015
Penang, Malaysia
André Double begins his international teaching career and notices how differently international schools are led: practices that vary from team to team, and a gap between the principal and the people work that makes a school succeed.
2018
China
Now an assistant head, André sees senior appointments made without a job description, an interview or due process, and policy, strategy and accreditation kept in-house. He decides nobody’s development should depend on one principal’s willingness to develop people.
2020
Writing begins
Every night after work, hundreds of words on culture, mission, vision and values, strategic planning and curriculum. The notes become the first book.
March 2023
Leading Your International School is published
Practical steps to make your people count, written with Warren S. Cook. Soon after, André meets Gráinne O’Reilly and things really start to move.
August 2023
The company
Leading Your International School Ltd is established in the UK.
2024
Starting Your International School
A handbook for sustainable start-up success, co-authored by André Double, Gráinne O’Reilly and Chris Nash.
August 2024
A membership organisation
LYIS opens to international school principals and those who aspire to become one. Members now come from more than forty countries.
March 2025
#LYIS25, Foshan
The first LYIS conference, at Foshan EtonHouse International School, China. Three days built around the mission and values, and a place everyone could call home whatever their title, role or experience.
March 2026
#LYIS26, Hanoi
Leadership for Growth at The International School @ ParkCity Hanoi: more than a hundred leaders, flags from every member country, and the LYIS-L library course alongside.
March 2027
#LYIS27, Phnom Penh
The Canadian International School of Phnom Penh, 12 to 14 March. The programme is coming soon.
Lead alongside people who get it.
Membership from £95 a year. Mentoring, member pricing on courses, first call on conference places, and a community that has your back.
