Our Team

Lisa Gardiner

Hello, my name is Lisa Gardiner, and I am the Principal at Diyar Private Academy – Dibba, Early Years and Girls’ Campus. I am Australian, where I studied for my Bachelor of Education and two master's Degrees.

Australia is where I started by career in education before continuing to develop my leadership skills in the United States, United Kingdom, Qatar and for the past eight years here in UAE. During this time, I had the opportunity to help develop the teaching system in a small village in Ghana as a volunteer – which was a life changing experience.

I now find myself in Dibba, where the community is welcoming and generous. I look forward to continuing my career with Diyar Private Academy and use my various skills backed by 20+ years of experience to ensure the students in my care receive the best inspirational education experience in an environment that values uniqueness, determination, creativity, and respect.

Amber Nicole Vance, MA Ed. Administration and Supervision

I am the K-12 Vice Principal at Diyar Private Academy Early Years and Girls campus, where I oversee the academic and administrative operations of the school. I have over 19 years of experience in education, working as a teacher, IB/KG coordinator, and Head of Section – Elementary. My working experience is primarily in the UAE and United States of America. My job related formal educational degrees include a Master of Arts in Education Administration and Supervision and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. I am also a certified educator in the state of North Carolina, United States. I am passionate about fostering a culture of academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration among students, parents and staff.