Jonathan Ullmer MBE has dedicated his career to enhancing the educational journey of students both nationally and globally since 1985. As the Founding Director of Education and Principal of CATS Colleges, he successfully transformed two schools from "unsatisfactory" to "excellent," with UK inspectors commending his leadership as "outstanding." CATS Colleges are committed to preparing international students for university success and enhancing their English proficiency for future career pursuits.


Education
Jonathan Ullmer pursued English studies at Durham and Oxford Universities, achieving a Teaching Practice Distinction. He obtained an MA from the University of Victoria, Canada, specializing in North American Literature. Furthermore, he holds a diploma in Therapeutic and Educational Application of the Arts from the Institute for Arts in Education and Therapy, along with the LRAM designation as a Teacher from the Royal Academy of Music.


His educational journey began in 1985 teaching English and Drama at Swanley School, Kent. Later, he served as Arts Curriculum Director at Cecil Jones High School before transitioning to Sawyers Hall College of Science and Technology as Assistant Principal. In 2008, he assumed a leadership role as Vice Principal at CATS College Cambridge, then became Principal of CATS Canterbury in 2010.


In 2017, Jonathan joined Haileybury in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, leading the school through a successful inspection resulting in outstanding international practice ratings. He facilitated the school's accreditation by NEASC and CIS, enabling it to offer American graduation and achieve exceptional International Baccalaureate results.


Jonathan Ullmer's international experience guided him to lead CATS Canterbury, offering the IB with 26 native languages and hosting students from 60 nationalities. He established Global Leadership Days, fostering student involvement across college activities, and developed comprehensive policies for CATS Colleges. He facilitated the expansion of CATS Canterbury's University Foundation Programme to all UK colleges, enabling students to enter top universities.


Jonathan spearheaded over 50 school and community projects in Southend, collaborating with local industry, churches, and organizations. He chaired the Trustees of a counseling service, overseeing a 700% growth, and led Love Southend's regeneration efforts, engaging 400 young people.


Since 1987, Jonathan Ullmer has contributed to various publications, exploring topics like American Indian history through drama. He authored books like "Creative Drama" and "Explosive Drama," enriching educational literature.


Throughout his career, Jonathan received numerous awards, including the Order of the British Empire for Services to UK and International Education. His accolades also include the International High School of the Year award for CATS Canterbury and recognition from the Royal Society of Arts and Independent Schools Association for his contributions.


Jonathan Ullmer is the founder of Excellence in Schools, embodying a lifelong commitment to advancing educational excellence globally. For more information please visit: https://jonathanullmer.uk/