Born in the United Kingdom, Mr Carnochan and his parents moved to Hong Kong, where his family stayed for almost 20 years, prior to spells in Thailand and Laos. Mr Carnochan returned to school in the United Kingdom for his education. Following school (where he played international rugby for Scotland Schoolboys and Students), Mr Carnochan undertook a BEd(Hons) at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh. He then entered the teaching profession and began his career in the United Kingdom, prior to embarking on another overseas venture, this time in Africa. On his return to the United Kingdom, he started the next chapter of his career with senior roles at both St John’s College School, Cambridge and Repton School, Derbyshire, prior to being appointed to his first Headship at the age of 34. Mr Carnochan undertook his postgraduate studies in Educational Leadership at the University of Nottingham and was most recently Headmaster of Brighton College Al Ain, where the school was graded ''Outstanding'' in all areas by ADEK.
Mr Carnochan very much believes in the importance of schools as communities, where the positive relationships between the teachers, parents and pupils allows us to get to know and understand the individual needs of each and every child. He believes that schools must foster children's talents and nurture their growth through a broad, balanced, challenging and exciting curriculum and, in doing so, create an environment where each child is provided with every opportunity to fulfil their potential. He believes that emotional and social well-being, self-esteem, happiness and confidence are of prime importance and are in themselves inextricably linked to academic progress.
Mr Carnochan is incredibly excited to have joined Brighton College Abu Dhabi at a very exciting time and looks forward to building upon the many successes the College has enjoyed. Mr Carnochan knows and understands the Brighton College ethos and values extremely well given his daughter is a pupil at Brighton College, UK and he has worked very closely with the senior team at the school. Mr Carnochan has moved to Abu Dhabi with his wife, Kate, and his son, Rufus, who will join the Prep School.