Thank you to all of your amazing speakers for sharing your knowledge and expertise us! Here you can find all of the educators who have contributed to a Global School Alliance webinar. Interested in speaking at an event? Register here as a contributor.
Andrew Ackers, Switzerland
Principal at International School of Ticino
Andrew Ackers is a Head of School at an International School in Ticino, Switzerland. Andrew leads a school of children from the age of 3-18, following the International Baccalaureate Primary, Middle and Diploma programme. Before this role Andrew was the Principal among other senior roles at the International School of Monza, Italy, moving there from northern England where he worked in senior, middle and teacher roles in two varying contexts. Within this experience Andrew has a proven track record of transformative leadership endeavoring to learn and develop both professionally and personally throughout roles to bring about sustainable change. He is committed to high standards and leading and managing a student-centered environment which enables facilitated learning underpinned by inquiry learning enabling life long learning This aim is to ensure that students are equipped with transdisciplinary skills to be prepared for the future, whatever it may hold for them. Andrew has been heavily involved in the past 8 years in building communities and growing schools, working with educators, families and organizations to develop excellent continuum school environments.
Andrew contributed to ‘Partnering with Parents, Reluctant Writers: Inspiring Creativity‘ in March 2022.
Bushra Afreen, UAE
Head of Academics
Bushra Afreen is working as Head of Academics in Cloud British Private School, Sharjah. She is a Global Schools Advocate and a Teach SDGs Ambassador eho is passionate about SDGs and Agenda 2030. She loves promoting #StudentAgency whilst advocating SDGs through Teaching and Learning. Besides this, she loves doing research in educational pedagogy and educational technology. She has also created an Assessment Model for AFLs during lessons. She is a progressive educator embedding SDGs into school curriculum for social good.
Bushra contributed to ‘How global thinking can improve your school‘ in February 2023, ‘Planning For A Return to the Classroom‘ in July 2021.
Tania Ahmad, United Arab Emirates
Head of English at Arcadia School Dubai
Tania Ahmad originates from London, UK and has been a teacher for the past eight years. Tania is currently the Head of English at an excellent British International school in Dubai, and has strong experience in both GCSE and A-level English, as well as extensive work with KS3. She has recently been appointed as an examiner for Pearson Edexcel receiving specialist training in the delivery of the iGCSE. Tania comes from a strong educational background, with a BA (Hons) in English Literature, PGCE in English, a Masters degree in English Education (UCL), and is currently completing her NPQ in Leadership. Alongside being Head of English and Head of Year, Tania has held the distinctive positions of T&L Lead Practitioner, and the Royal Shakespeare Company Lead for her previous school. Tania has also spearheaded the Oracy initiative her current school receiving specialist training and transferring this to her colleagues to enrich her students’ learning. She has also created ‘The Arc’ – a newsletter for teachers showcasing the T&L across her school. Tania loves to utilise technology in her classroom and contextualise students’ own backgrounds when creating impactful learning moments in her classroom.
Tania contributed to ‘Reluctant Writers: Inspiring Creativity‘ in April 2022.
Abena Akuffo-Kelly, United Kingdom
Computer Science Teacher
I have been a teacher of computer science and ICT for nearly 15 years and a head of computing for the past seven years. I have been involved with CAS since its inception and am a CAS Master teacher and a STEM ambassador. I also have CPD Quality Mark as an Associate Facilitator for the NCCE and as part of a government drive to increase the number of computer science specialists have engaged in teaching non-specialists computational thinking and pedagogy.
Abena contributed to ‘Re-motivating learning: ideas to inspire students‘ in August 2021.
Lloyd Allington, United Kingdom
Year 1 Teacher and Science Lead
Lloyd Allington is a primary teacher with 8+ years experience of teaching in a variety of settings, from leafy affluent suburbs to inner city catchments with high levels of deprivation. Currently a Year Lead in a 3-from entry school in Dorset, he has significant experience of developing teaching and learning as well as improving the standard of provision in wider curriculum subjects. His personal passion is literacy and ensuring every child leaves primary education as readers and writers.
Lloyd contributed to ‘Reluctant Writers: Inspiring Creativity‘ in April 2022.
Ayse Aydogan Gezer, Turkey
Project Coordinator
Ayse is a Project Coordinator at Yenimahalle Kampus Koleji.I have been an educator for 18 years. I spent five years studying in the USA. I took part in many national and international conferences and projects. I am a philosophy major for children. We implement the Sustainable Development Goals education curriculum in our school. I am an advocate for the Global Schools Program. I am the Turkey representative of the Climate Action Project and the Goals Project. We implement climate change projects and integrate them into lessons, and we do awareness activities in our students. We believe that raising strong children is easier than mending troubled adults.
Ayse contributed to ‘How global thinking can improve your school‘ in February 2023.
Jonathan Bailey, Egypt
Deputy Head at Kent College Cairo
Since initially working in a leading U.K. independent Preparatory School 20 years ago as Head of Games I have been fortunate to have taught internationally and within other academic schools in the U.K. I have held various leadership roles from subject leads, academic and pastoral heads to acting Headmaster. I am currently working at Haileybury Astana, Kazakhstan but from September will be Deputy Head at Kent College Cairo.
Jonathan contributed to ‘Emerging Education Trends to Look Out for in 2022‘ in January 2022.
Holly Barradell, United Kingdom
Director of Performing Arts at Radnor House Sevenoaks
Holly is Director of Performing Arts at Radnor House Sevenoaks with whole school responsibility for Music and Drama from EYFS to KS5, leading on progress and learning within the curricular and co-curricular education. As a Drama specialist teacher, Holly co-founded Open Drama UK (a networking organisation for Drama teachers and theatre educators) in 2019 and has been an Ofqual subject expert for Drama since 2014. Holly co-authored a textbook for HarperCollins Publishers to support with the delivery of Cambridge’s International AS and A Level Drama qualification and worked as a Development Manager for Trinity College London international exam board. She is also an advocate for Maternity Teacher Paternity Teacher Project, a Primary School Governor, a critical friend for the Action for Children’s Arts and is proud to be a full-time working mother having worked across state, selective, independent, faith and academy settings over the last 14 years.
Holly contributed to ‘Building Cultural Capital to Develop Global Citizenship‘ in September 2022.
Silvia Bastow, United Kingdom
Subject Leader for MFL
Silvia is an experienced Subject Leader, teacher of German with over 18 years of teaching experience in secondary education, Research Lead, Specialist Leader in Education for MFL (SLE), GCSE examiner, Fellow of Chartered College of Teaching (FCCT), ITE/ECT mentor and a proud member of the Association for Language Learning (ALL) council. She has had articles published in the ALL Languages Today magazine, the Chartered College of Teaching Impact journal and is very passionate about SLA, evidence-informed practice to ensure high-impact teaching and learning.
Silvia has worked with professional bodies such as ALL and National College and regularly presents at conferences and events such as: the Language Show, Language World, Linguascope, ALL, Seneca, researchEd and King’s College in London.
She also writes a successful educational blog – https://fraubastowmfl.blogspot.com/ and is the co-author of the German Sentence Builders – a lexicogrammar approach: Absolute beginners book. Silvia currently works full time at Ercall Wood Academy in Telford, Shropshire.
Silvia contributed to ‘How global thinking can improve your school‘ in February 2023.
Caroline Bell, Cambodia
Principal at the Liger Leadership Academy, Cambodia
Caroline Bell is the Principal at the Liger Leadership Academy. Caroline started her tenure at Liger in 2012, where she was hired as the Literacy Facilitator. For four years, Caroline worked with the first cohort of 50 students, facilitating their reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. In 2016, Caroline transitioned to Lead Learning Facilitator, which included managing the day to day educational operations of the staff and students. She worked primarily on scheduling, initiatives and off-campus extensions. In 2019, Caroline became Principal of Liger Leadership Academy. Caroline is a double graduate of Boston College with a Bachelors and a Masters in Education, with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction. Previous to her work at Liger, she worked in special education with K-3 students at a public school in Brookline, Massachusetts.
Aicha Ben Slimen, Tunisa
Computer Science Teacher at Ibn Sina High School
Aicha contributed to ‘Global links using digital resources‘ in November 2022.
Louiza Boddey, UAE
Pastoral and Student Wellbeing Head at Emirates Schools Establishment
Louiza is Assistant Head – Pastoral at Brighton College Al Ain in the UAE with over 23 years of teaching experience both in the UK and in the Middle East. Her passions have always focused on the well being of the pupil in order to achieve their best and feel fully supported. Louiza has worked in a variety of schools with various responsibilities within pastoral care, including Head of Year, House Mistress and Assistant Head.
Louiza contributed to ‘2020: An Unforgettable Year‘ in December 2020.
Toria Bono, United Kingdom
Teacher at Thomas A Becket Junior
Toria Bono is a primary school teacher in the South East of England. Through her blog Teaching Others & Learning All The Time, she shares her experiences, opinions and lessons learned in the classroom. Toria is passionate about helping those involved in education to find their voice. She believes that when educators listen to and learn from one another, the young people in our nurseries, schools and colleges benefit from the collective knowledge and wisdom shared. She empowers other eduleaders on Twitter via the #TinyVoiceTalks and #TinyVoiceTuesdayUnites hashtags.
Toria contributed to ‘Supportive Staffroom‘ in November 2020.
Paul Browning, United Kingdom
Pupil Engagement Development Lead at the Thrive Co-operative Learning Trust
With over 27 years of teaching experience, including 15 years as a head teacher of an inner city primary school, I am now the Pupil Engagement Development Lead at the Thrive Co-operative Learning Trust in Kingston Upon Hull, UK.
Paul contributed to ‘Building and celebrating resilience across your school‘ in May 2023.
James Brownlie, United Kingdom
Headteacher at Little Heath School in Redbridge
James Brownlie is Headteacher at Little Heath School in Redbridge. He has been in teaching for nearly 40 years, the last 30 of those in special schools in different London boroughs. He has been head teacher in his current post since 2013. James is a passionate advocate for the cause of special education and an enthusiastic supporter of using technology to make education accessible to young people with additional needs.
James contributed to ‘Literacy After Lockdown: Strategies to Ignite Reading, Writing & Spelling‘ in March 2021.
Daniel Bull, United Kingdom
Vice Principal for Teaching & Learning
Daniel is Co-creator and editor of @_Morethanajob podcast. He is a Vice Principal for Teaching & Learning and has been a qualified teacher for over 11 years experiencing a range of settings and contexts. Daniel qualified with a 2:1 Ba (Hons) in Business Management and Law, his specialist subjects include Business, Politics & Law at both GCSE and A-Level. As a senior leader he has portrayed high standards to all members of school communities by setting out a clear vision of fun, passion, commitment and consistency within in his roles, building a strong presence and having gravitas within school communities to inspire trust, confidence and commitment. He has experience leading on multiple whole school initiatives in all areas of senior leadership focussed on whole school improvement.
Daniel contributed to ‘Behaviour Management & Engagement‘ in June 2021.
Keith Burt, United Kingdom
Head of Drama at Haybridge High School
Keith contributed to ‘How do we empower students to pioneer their own learning?‘ in October 2020.
Dr Victoria Carr, United Kingdom
Headteacher at Ellesmere Port School
Dr Carr is a mum, Headteacher and TEDx speaker who focuses on the power of language and how we all have the power to change lives. She advocates that there is a social imperative for those in leadership positions to actively create opportunities for transformational interactions with others. She has lectured part time at Master’s degree level on a range of Leadership programmes across several universities. She has 2 MAs: one in Equality and Diversity, the other in Leadership. Her doctorate is in leadership and politics in the educational domain. She has been a regular contributor across the military training estate on subjects such as, ethical leadership and moral disengagement, diversity and inclusion in leadership, resilience and overcoming adversity, social mobility, equality and role modelling. She has also been invited to contribute in the subject of leadership, most recently through the pandemic, on a range of podcasts, in news interviews and through various blogs. She holds several Fellowships, and has just written her first book about leadership, due to be published this year by Routledge. Her third, and current MA, is in recruitment of Army officers of the future.
Victoria contributed to ‘Strong Teams, Strong Schools: Empowering Teaching and Learning‘ in May 2022.
Sapna Changrani, United Arab Emirates
Head of Secondary at Dubai Scholars
Mrs. Changrani Initiates, prioritizes and leads Secondary School improvement activities through effective strategic leadership and planning which supports the global vision that believes Effective academic learning within a school context cannot be separated from the exercise of effective pastoral care. Therefore, a commitment to excellence in academic performance must be accompanied by a commitment to excellence in social competence and emotional resilience. She strongly believes strategies such as Project Based Learning, Design thinking, Inter-disciplinary teaching are the prime Learning & Teaching models for secondary. She has been actively involved in career counselling and helping students develop and implement realistic career and academic goals.. The aim is to ensure that students acquire useful transformational skills through specific learning strategies, and can work in constantly changing situations, in facing incomplete and imperfect results and yet carry forward a reflexive attitude oriented towards life-long learning
Sapna contributed to ‘Emerging Education Trends to Look Out for in 2022‘ in January 2022.
Kalyani Chaudhuri, India
Principal at Billabong High International School, Thane
Kalyani contributed to ‘Redefining The Role of A Teacher‘ in September 2020.
Inga Chiosa, Moldova
Academic Director at Heritage International School
Inga contributed to ‘Recovery Curriculum‘ in July 2020.
Nina Claire Hartley, Thailand
Child Protection & Safer Recruitment Advisor at Rugby School Thailand
International Child Protection expert with extensive experience of auditing and managing organisational change to develop stronger safeguarding practices within the UK and overseas. Qualified Social Work Team Manager and provider of Reflective Safeguarding Supervision and training in Education Management Industry. History of Programme Management across statutory, NGO and voluntary sectors, with a strong focus on intercultural communication.
Nina contributed to ‘Recruiting the Best Talent: Teacher Recruitment and Retention‘ in April 2022.
Stewart Cook, United Kingdom
Assistant Headteacher, Frances Olive Anderson Primary School, Lincolnshire
Stewart Cook is the Assistant Head Teacher of a small rural school (Frances Olive Anderson Primary School) in Lincolnshire, England. He has developed global learning across the school and supported schools throughout Lincolnshire and the Middle East. Through his work as a British Council Ambassador, he has led a cluster of 10 schools in Lincolnshire and Lebanon as part of the Connecting Classrooms through Global Learning Project. His work with his partner school, Mohammad Shamel State school, was awarded a Times Educational Supplement (TES award) for international school of the year.
Stewart contributed to ‘Global links using digital resources‘ in November 2022.
Barry Corrigan, Northern Ireland
Principal of Millennium Integrated Primary School
Barry Corrigan is the Principal of Millennium Integrated Primary School. He has been at the school for 16 years, first as Vice-Principal and then taking over the principal role in 2017. In his time in Millennium, he has worked extensively with a number of agencies including the British Council as one of their Ambassadors and for Microsoft as an Expert Educator – proudly representing both at national and international events. Barry is committed to education, especially Integrated Education in Northern Ireland and is a passionate advocate for innovation and inclusion in primary schools. He is also committed to collaboration and supporting fellow teachers and was one of the drivers behind the TeachMeet movement within Northern Ireland.
Barry contributed to ‘Making your budget work to support international activities‘ in October 2022.
Wendy de Corte, United Kingdom
Independent Global Consultant
I am an independent global consultant working in the NW of the UK. I have 30 years teaching experience in both mainstream and special education. Being an executive member of UKGLAS has allowed me to write resources and deliver CPD to teachers here in the UK, Europe and in sub-Saharan African countries. Another role within ULGLAs is assessor of various British Council projects and the International Schools Award. This I particularly enjoy as it gives me an insight as to what amazing global and international work is being carried out in schools. My passion is centred around showing teachers that the fabulous work they are already doing is part of the global and international ethos and how to weave the SDG’s into their everyday teaching and learning.
Wendy contributed to ‘Making your budget work to support international activities‘ in October 2022.
Colette Cotton, United Kingdom
International Coordinator at St Mary’s Primary Academy and Nursery, Folkstone
International coordinator at a large primary school in Kent where video/conferencing has been part of its international work since 2004. The school currently works with around 30 countries yearly on two or more collaborative projects, the current project being ‘Climate Change’ linked to the SDG’s. Colette is an Ambassador for e-Twinning and the British Council, supporting school’s worldwide in their use of ICT and encouraging world collaborative projects.
Colette contributed to ‘Learning Spaces in the Third Millenium‘ in February 2021.
Andrew Cowley, United Kingdom
Founder of the Healthy Toolkit and Former Deputy Headteacher
Andrew Cowley is a former primary school Deputy Headteacher and the co-founder of the Healthy Toolkit blog. He is now a keynote speaker and writer, and the author of The Wellbeing Toolkit on staff wellbeing and The Wellbeing Curriculum.
Andrew contributed to ‘Supportive Staffroom‘ in November 2020.
Shelly Cozens, United Kingdom
English Teacher and Head of Careers and Cultural Capital
Shelly Cozens works in a comprehensive school in the Southwest of England. Alongside her role as an English teacher, Shelly is also ‘Head of Careers and Cultural Capital’. An interesting – and sometimes controversial – job title, Shelly strives to give the students in her care a diverse and rounded view of the world through a wealth of academic and extra-curricular activities. Shelly has worked in a range of schools across the UK since qualifying in 2008 and is always keen to develop her professional understanding of education.
Shelly contributed to ‘Building Cultural Capital to Develop Global Citizenship‘ in September 2022.
Jack Davies, United Kingdom
Program Manager at The World’s Largest Lesson
Jack works for the World’s Largest Lesson, helping children around the world learn about the Global Goals and sustainable development. Jack has 10 years of experience years working on education projects – from national teacher training programmes to coaching football to 3 year olds – including once teaching a lesson with the Prince and Princess of Wales!
Sarah Davies, United Kingdom
Associate Assistant Head Teacher and the Head of English in Oldham
Sarah Davies is the author of Talking about Oracy which focusses on the development of effective communication beyond the parameters of the classroom. She is currently Associate Assistant Head Teacher and the Head of English at a secondary academy in the north-west of England. Alongside her passion for teaching English, Sarah has written articles for publications such as TES, Sec:Ed and The Teaching Times.
Sarah contributed to ‘Assessment vs Examination‘ in May 2021.
Tor Del Federico, Italy
Principal of Southlands British International School Rome
Tor is the Principal of Southlands British International School Rome. Since joining the school she has focused on building a strong community, developing and strengthening the curricular and co-curricular offer and enhancing the campus and facilities. Before moving to Rome, Tor was Principal of the British School Yangon, and Interim Principal / Deputy Head Academic at College Beau Soleil in Switzerland. Prior to working internationally, she was Director of Teaching and Learning at Roedean School, in the UK. In her life before SLT, she taught in and led English and Media faculties in a range of Sussex schools and worked in France, Greece,Brighton and London in leisure and charitable sectors..
Tor contributed to ‘Strong Teams, Strong Schools: Empowering Teaching and Learning‘ in May 2022.
Andre Double, China
Founding Head of Primary at Invictus School, Shenzhen in China
André Double is The Founding Head of Primary at Invictus School – Shenzhen in China. He has worked in four international schools across Malaysia and China. Prior to working internationally, he taught in a U.K. Secondary School for 8 years and Pupil Referral Units for 3 years. He currently holds an NPQ in Senior Leadership, PENTA Level 1 School Inspection Award and is working towards an MA in Educational Leadership through the University of Bath.André frequently visits schools around the world to observe their practice. In his spare time, he enjoys indoor rowing, gardening, watching rugby and his beloved Tottenham Hotspur football team on TV. When not restricted, he enjoys travelling. Perhaps unsurprisingly, his main areas of reading are focused on school leadership. He is currently writing a book on international school leadership which is due to be published later this year.
Andre contributed to ‘Recruiting the Best Talent: Teacher Recruitment and Retention‘ in April 2022.
Edwina Dunn OBE, United Kingdom
Founder and Chair of The Female Lead
Edwina Dunn is one of the most successful leaders in the data industry, with a career of delivering transformational business change. Dunnhumby revolutionised the world of retail and consumer goods when they pioneered Tesco Clubcard and other global loyalty programmes. Edwina is former Chair at Starcount where she helped forge a new era of consumer insight and technology. Founder & Chair – The Female Lead, an educational foundation celebrating the achievements and diversity of women who shape our world ; using data to understand the challenges women face, working with business and government to help create new models and policies for the workplace, all driven by a social platform with 6 million followers. In 2019 Edwina received an OBE for her services to data and business in the UK. She is Interim Chair at the CDEI (Centre for Data Ethics & Innovation) and a Board member of the Geospatial Commission.
Edwina contributed to ‘How are schools tackling equality, diversity and inclusion?‘ in February 2022.
Paul Dwyer, United Kingdom
Head at Redmaids’ High
Paul is the Head at Redmaids’ High, an independent girls school in Bristol. He took up the post in September 2020, having previously been the Deputy Head Academic at North London Collegiate. Both roles have given him a strong overview of the changes that have occurred in teacher retention and recruitment over the last few years, as well as the differences between regions. He has always been passionate about supporting teachers in a variety of ways, leading to his involvement as a Founding Trustee, and later as President of Council, for the Chartered College of Teaching. As a Head with two small children, aged 4 and 8 months old, he knows well the challenges that those in the profession face when trying to preserve a balance between working life and home.
Paul contributed to ‘Recruiting the Best Talent: Teacher Recruitment and Retention‘ in April 2022.
Damian Edwards, UAE
Assistant Headteacher at Kings School Al Barsha
Damian is a two-time Middle East teacher of the week recipient, who uses innovative approaches to inspire students learning. He is an advocate of Flipped Learning, Gamification and the use of technology within lessons. Damian graduated from Loughborough University in 2012, gaining Qualified Teacher Status in 2013. Damian has fulfilled several leadership roles throughout his career. He is currently Assistant Headteacher: KS3 Coordinator at Kings School Al Barsha. Damian continues to develop his leadership and shows high levels of commitment to ensure high-quality outcomes and opportunities to provide ‘the best by every child.’
Damian contributed to ‘How do we empower students to pioneer their own learning?‘ in October 2020.
Sarah Ferris, United Kingdom
Director of International Programmes at Highworth Grammar School in Kent
Sarah Ferris is a French teacher with thirty years’ experience of secondary school teaching and pastoral leadership. Trained at Cambridge, she is currently Director of International Programmes at Highworth Grammar School in Kent, where, two years ago, she was given a blank slate to develop the international work of the school. Two years on, she will be sharing her reflections on an exciting quest to prepare students to compete and contribute in our increasingly globalised world by extending the school motto, “Reach for the Stars” into the global dimension and enriching the curriculum with a network of growing international connections.
Sarah contributed to ‘Developing global dimensions in the school ethos‘ in June 2022.
Annie-Jane Finch-Johnson, Peru
Head of Year and Teacher of PE at Markham College in Lima
– Teaching 10 years
– Head of Year and Teacher of PE
– Creator, writer at Talk Pastoral (talkpastoral.com)
– Currently working in Lima, Peru
Annie-Jane contributed to ‘Re-motivating learning: ideas to inspire students‘ in August 2021.
Rob Ford, Moldova
Director of Heritage International School group in Chisinau, Moldova
Rob was previously Principal of Wyedean School, Gloucestershire, UK where he led a school nationally and internationally known for its innovative holistic curriculum and developed model of global learning. Rob was co-founder of the IB schools network in the SW of England. Rob has been a senior leader in leading schools in Wales and England. Rob is a long serving British Council Ambassador, an advisor and keynote speaker at many international conferences for the British Council and other similar organisations, and has worked with and advised schools and school boards around the World. Rob lives in both Chisinau and Bristol and is married to Genevieve and they have three daughters.
Rob contributed to ‘Strong Teams, Strong Schools: Empowering Teaching and Learning‘ in May 2022, ‘Making your budget work to support international activities‘ in October 2022.
David Geldart, United Kingdom
Founder of The Bambisanai Partnership
David Geldart is Founder and Chairman of the multi award winning initiative, The Bambisanani Partnership which for the past seventeen years has used the power of sport to promote education, health, global citizenship and leadership in one of South Africa’s most challenging regions. David has over forty years experience as an educator in a variety of settings. During a highly distinguished career as Senior School Leader at St. Mary’s School, Menston he led one of the country’s most successful Sports Colleges. His work has gained national and international acclaim which has seen him appointed to a range of key national strategic roles at the Department of Education, Department of Health and the Department of Media, Culture and Sport. David was appointed by the Secretary of State as a founding member of the Sport England Lottery Panel and subsequently as a board member of Sport England at a period of time that saw transformational changes in national sport from community to elite level and London win the bid to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. As a leadership consultant and coach David now works with individuals and organisations across the private, public and voluntary sectors. He is a vastly experienced None Executive Director and Trustee. As an author he has published four critically acclaimed books relating to his work in South Africa. David is a passionate advocate of the power of sport and education to changes lives. Most recently David was honoured with an Audience with Pope Francis at the Global Sport of All Summit held at the Vatican.
David contributed to ‘Building and celebrating resilience across your school‘ in May 2023.
Anna Grainger, United Kingdom
Modern Languages Teacher
Anna Grainger is a Modern Languages teacher with 25 years experience teaching languages in primary and secondary schools as well as to adult learners. The Award winning Coventry City of Languages initiative was set up by Anna and her colleague, Victoria Seaton, due to their concern and frustrations about the challenges of language teaching and learning in English schools, and the lack of respect given to the 120+ languages spoken across Coventry. She is passionate about the key importance of celebrating and sharing every language and how these support globally aware, skilled and confident young people.
Anna contributed to ‘How global thinking can improve your school‘ in February 2023.
Jonathan Gunzi, Spain
Head of Secondary at Hastings School Madrid
Since initially working in a leading U.K. independent Preparatory School 20 years ago as Head of Games I have been fortunate to have taught internationally and within other academic schools in the U.K. I have held various leadership roles from subject leads, academic and pastoral heads to acting Headmaster. I am currently working at Haileybury Astana, Kazakhstan but from September will be Deputy Head at Kent College Cairo.
Jonathan contributed to ‘Strategic approaches to student accessibility and engagement‘ in January 2021.
Luke Hale, United Kingdom
Assistant Head at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Catholic Primary School & Nursery
An ambitious, strategic-thinking individual working in and passionate about the education sector. Interested in data and evidence-based practice. Previous experience in youth work and charity sector, working towards community development.
Susan contributed to ‘How are schools tackling equality, diversity and inclusion?‘ in February 2022, ‘Strategic approaches to student accessibility and engagement‘ in January 2021.
Dr Paul Heery, United Kingdom
Chief Executive Officer of The White Hills Park Trust
Dr Paul Heery has been the Chief Executive Officer of the White Hills Park Trust since 2014, and brings a wealth of experience from a variety of different roles within the Education sector. A former Headteacher at both primary and secondary school level, including taking over and improving three schools in Ofsted Category 4 and one in Special Measures. Paul is also currently an Ofsted Lead Inspector and a former LA School Improvement Adviser, as well as being a practising teacher within the Trust.
Paul contributed to ‘Returning to School Post COVID-19‘ in June 2020.
Professor Stephen Heppell, United Kingdom
A school teacher for more than a decade, and a professor since 1989, Stephen has worked, and is working, with learner led projects, with governments around the world, with international agencies, Fortune 500 companies, with schools and communities, with his PhD students and with many influential trusts and organizations. Stephen is, and has been, a regular face on TV all around the world – in the Uk this ranges from Newsnight to the BBC Breakfast sofa and Sky News, to Channel 4’s Things to Come – and on radio too: from BBC Radio 4’s You and Yours to the Steve Wright Show – or even right back to Phil Miles on Australia’s Island Sound radio in 1992! In Australia radio regular appearances range from national ABC to statewide Mix Radio in WA.
Stephen contributed to ‘Learning Spaces in the Third Millenium‘ in February 2021.
Jason Horne, United Kingdom
Former Primary Teacher and Mastery Maths Expert
Jason worked as a teacher for eleven years working across the primary age range. He spent six years as a key leader in a primary school focussing on the improvement of maths. Jason is a Mastery Specialist for Kent and has supported schools in their own Mastery journey for the past six years for the Kent and Medway Maths Hub. He has visited Shanghai as part of the Shanghai and England exchange. Jason uses his experiences of maths teaching in China as well as the latest developments and pedagogic research in Maths to support all that he works with.
Jason contributed to ‘Re-motivating learning: ideas to inspire students‘ in August 2021.
Paul Hume, United Kingdom
Deputy Headteacher at Azbuka Bilingual Primary School
Hi everyone, Paul here. I qualified to teach in 2007 from the GTP and have had the pleasure of teaching in a wide range of primary schools throughout London. Having led on Curriculum & Assessment last year, I will be taking on the role of Deputy Headteacher from September this year. Children’s resilience, independence and wellbeing is my aim as a teacher, but I am also committed to making sure teachers workload is reduced, and ultimately their wellbeing is equally looked after. To relax, you might find me running around the parks and river trails, or snuggled up on the sofa with a film or book.
Paul contributed to ‘Assessment vs Examination‘ in May 2021.
Farzana Hussain, United Kingdom
Headteacher at Glade Primary School, in Redbridge
Farzana Hussain is Headteacher at Glade Primary School, in Redbridge. Glade Primary School was praised on ITV news for continuing with educational visits through Zoom. Farzana has been teaching for over twenty years with experience in various leadership roles. Farzana seeks to empower and inspire women to lead education with the organisation ‘WomenEd’ and has held meetings with HM Chief Inspector of Education, Amanda Spielman, and other OFSTED professionals in her role as President of ‘The Muslim Teachers’ Association. Farzana is currently studying for a Masters in School Leadership with University of Buckingham through the National College of Education.
Farzana contributed to ‘Literacy After Lockdown: Strategies to Ignite Reading, Writing & Spelling‘ in March 2021.
Marva Hylton-Dennis, Jamaica
Literacy Specialist at University of the West Indies
Marva contributed to ‘Literacy After Lockdown: Strategies to Ignite Reading, Writing & Spelling‘ in March 2021.
Isabelle Jones, United Kingdom
Teacher of French and Spanish at The Macclesfield Academy in Cheshire
Isabelle has been teaching French and Spanish in a range of school settings in England for the past 30 years. She is currently a member of the leadership team at The Macclesfield Academy in Cheshire. She is a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching (FCCT) and a member of ALL’s national council, the UK’s largest Association for Language Learning. She regularly speaks at language conferences and training events and enjoys sharing ideas and resources on Twitter @icpjones She is passionate about teaching languages and culture, evidence-informed teaching practice and professional development.
Isabelle contributed to ‘Building Cultural Capital to Develop Global Citizenship‘ in September 2022.
Annelouise Jordan, Spain
Headteacher at King’s Infant School Madrid
Annelouise is the Headteacher of an international school in Spain. Her experience in education spans 10 years, having mentored NQT and PGCE Students. Annelouise has been SENCO and Designated Safeguarding Lead, and her passion is to ensure all children have equal access to a curriculum that is representative of them and ethical by design.
Annelouise contributed to ‘Recovery Curriculum‘ in July 2020, ‘Supportive Staffroom‘ in November 2020.
Rolla Khaddage, Lebanon
Education Consultant
Rolla Khaddage is an educational consultant in the Middle East/North Africa region based in Lebanon. She has 25 years of experience as a teacher, 21 years as an English language coordinator and 16 years as Headteacher for Secondary age group 15 to 18. In addition to working with The Spiral Partnership, a consultancy agency in UK, she is on the steering committee of Karanga Global Alliance, a committee which supports Social Emotional Learning globally. She has been a teacher trainer for 12 years and a British Council master trainer since 2017. She has also been a Schools Ambassador across Lebanon for 12 years. She is the Founder of Shining Within movement which is a social media initiative supporting mental wellbeing and resilience with daily motivational posts and occasional webinars for teachers, parents, and students, aiming to develop material/ activities to promote wellbeing in schools. Currently, Rolla is pursuing, virtually, her certification in Social and Emotional Learning, Boulder University, Colorado, USA. She is also working on her accreditation to become a wellbeing life coach. She completed her master’s degree in educational leadership and her bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Language, in addition to a teaching diploma. What drives Rolla to carry on with her career with schools and educators is her passion and belief that the young generation is key to leading to a better world.
Rolla contributed to ‘Building and celebrating resilience across your school‘ in May 2023.
Lord Jim Knight, United Kingdom
Jim Knight works in education, medtech and as a legislator. He is the Chief Education and External Officer at TES Global Ltd, the news, training, jobs and resource sharing service for teachers. Jim is a founder of XRapid, enabling diagnosis of malaria and asbestos fibres using iPhones. As a UK government minister his portfolios included rural affairs, schools, digital and employment. He was a member of Gordon Brown’s Cabinet 2009-2010, before joining the Lords after the 2010 General Election. He is also a visiting Professor at the Knowledge Lab of the UCL Institute of Education.
Jim presented at ‘Learning Spaces in the Third Millenium‘ in February 2021.
Angeliki contributed to ‘Going Global: Can all learning be taken online?‘ in August 2020.
Dr Joanne Ladds, United Kingdom
Associate Consultant at Noble and Eaton
Joanne contributed to ‘Partnering with Parents, Reluctant Writers: Inspiring Creativity‘ in March 2022.
William Law, United Kingdom
Head of Modern Languages & Head of French at Tonbridge School
William Law is Head of Modern Languages and Head of French at Tonbridge School, Kent. A graduate of Oxford University, he spent two years working at Aiglon College, Switzerland, as a teacher of French and Spanish and an Assistant Housemaster before moving back to the UK. He is a senior examiner and paper author for a large UK exam board.
William contributed to ‘Emerging Education Trends to Look Out for in 2022‘ in January 2022.
Sam contributed to ‘Reluctant Writers: Inspiring Creativity‘ in April 2022.
Darren Leslie, Scotland, United Kingdom
Teacher and Blogger
I am a teacher of physical education in a large secondary school in Scotland. I am interested in curriculum, learning & teaching & professional learning. I host the becoming Educated podcast and blog at becomingeducated.co.uk.
Darren contributed to ‘Returning to School Post COVID-19‘ in June 2020.
Fethy Letaief, Tunisa
English Teacher at Collège Pilote Sousse
Fethy Letaief is a senior English Teacher has just won the International School of the Year Award by The Economist Educational Foundation for being Thought Leader school at Collège Pilote Sousse, Tunisia. Fethy is also a GSA Ambassador and ISA Coordinator with the British Council Ambassador. He is a podcaster who has written academic articles on education and is an advisory board member with K12digest. Fethy will be talking about building resilience and instilling thought leadership through collaborative global learning.
Fethy contributed to ‘Planning For A Return to the Classroom‘ in July 2021, ‘Student Voice: How to empower students‘ in September 2021.
Drew contributed to ‘Assessment vs Examination‘ in May 2021.
Rizwana Mahmood-Ahmed, United Kingdom
Headteacher at Carlton Junior and Infant School
Rizwana Mahmood-Ahmed is an experienced headteacher currently leading Carlton Junior and Infant School in the borough of Kirklees, West Yorkshire. Carlton Junior and Infant School is a strategic partner of the Kirklees & Calderdale Teaching School Hub. The leadership of Carlton is therefore proactive in system leadership and serving education beyond the school gates. In addition to her main role as headteacher, Rizwana is a researcher, writer, Local Leader of Education, Associate Kirklees Learning Partner, and the Managing Director of Sphere Education Consulting Ltd. Rizwana’s areas of expertise are in rapid school improvement, leadership coaching, curriculum design and pedagogies for mastery, neuroscience, learning environments, behaviour and wellbeing in challenging schools. Rizwana’s charitable work spans beyond the education arena and through this work she raises awareness of local, regional and global issues such as education for orphans, female empowerment, mental health and substance misuse.
Rizwana contributed to ‘Building Cultural Capital to Develop Global Citizenship‘ in September 2022.
Richard Mainwaring, United Kingdom
Composer, performer and TV presenter
Almost in his 100th teaching term, Richard has taught music in a range of state comprehensives and independent schools. He has also had a varied career outside education. As a composer, he writes TV music (BBC, Channels 4 & 5 and Discovery), was commissioned to compose a piece for the International Space Station, and writes exam pieces for Trinity Board London. Richard was a TV presenter on the BBC’s flagship programme The ONE Show for 6 years, making around 50 films – adventures included performing fiddle on the Mary Rose, drumming with Dire Straits, and pushing a piano up Ben Nevis! As a performer, he has played with the likes of Tom O’Dell, Hugh Laurie and Larry Adler, and worked on the touring show Phantom of the Opera. He is a regular voice on BBC Radio Wales interviewing stars such as Amy Dowden (Strictly), Jay Blades (The Repair Shop) and Martin Kemp (Spandau Ballet). Richard recently published his first book in the UK, USA and Italy, Everybody Hertz.
Kisset Mangabat, Philippines
Chair of St. Peter School
Kisset is a Psychology graduate and has units in Psychiatry. She is a Stress Management Consultant of COCOLIFE for 7 years. Presently, she is a Guidance Associate of Chair of St. Peter School in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. She had recently been a speaker to three webinars in the UK, namely, (1) for Global School Alliance under True Education Partnerships last Sept. 17, 2020 and June 10, 2021 a webinar based in Liverpool, UK and (2) for the British Council, a webinar based in London for Schools Reopening last October 17, 2020. Currently, she has acquired the Ambassador PRO status for Global Schools Alliance, an international organization for educators based in Liverpool, England. She also has founded the Young Minds Philippines which helps the youth in their personality, career and mental development. She is also a writer and do blogging on the side.
Kisset contributed to ‘Partnering with Parents, Reluctant Writers: Inspiring Creativity‘ in March 2022, ‘Redefining The Role of A Teacher‘ in September 2020.
Abby Miles, United Kingdom
Lead PE Teacher at Perry Court E-ACT Academy
Abby is a PE Teacher at a Primary School. She is a Level 2 Netball Coach. 14 years of playing netball and in that time she gained a place on the England Netball Pathway. She has also played for netball franchise teams.
In 2019 she played in the England U21 team at the Indoor Netball World Cup in South Africa where she gained 15 England Caps. She has recently made an impact on Twitter with her fantastic PE resources and had lots of interest from other Twitter followers. She has been involved in delivering CPD’s to other fellow teachers and is always looking to connect with other PE colleagues.
Abby contributed to ‘Returning to School Post COVID-19‘ in June 2020.
Robert Moore, Cheshire, United Kingdom
Headteacher at Brookvale Primary School
I am curriculum, maths and assessment lead. Creativity and wellbeing is at the heart of my educational ethos. I am passionate about making the curriculum as creative as possible for children to enjoy learning. I believe in a work life balance and I am a keen runner. I have also recently started to write my own educational blog.
Robert contributed to ‘Recovery Curriculum‘ in July 2020.
Janice Morran, United Kingdom
Secondary Teacher at Bellahouston Academy in Glasgow, Scotland
Chartered Teacher and have been teaching for 25 years. I currently work at Bellahouston Academy in Glasgow, Scotland, UK. My teaching subjects are English and Computing and I am a specialist in English as Additional Language. Driven by the desire for social justice, I have led many international projects during my career including several face-to-face multilateral projects at Bellahouston Academy and have always sourced funding to ensure that the cost of the school day did not create a barrier to participation. Our projects have been made possible and enhanced by using a range of digital tools. My love for global education and the transformational experiences it provides for young people in my care, sits alongside my passion for technology and digital education.
Janice contributed to ‘Global links using digital resources‘ in November 2022.
Garrod Musto, United Kingdom
Director of Partnerships at Kingswood School Bath
Garrod is Director of Partnerships at Kingswood School in Bath. of the wider school community. After 30 years teaching Mathematics and Computer Science at the school, his role now involves creating opportunities for students to serve others, and developing wider partnership programmes within local and global communities.
Throughout his career, Garrod has been a keen advocate of STEM education working within orgs such as the IMA and more recently supporting teachers through his work with the Royal Academy of Engineering. As a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching, he also supports early career teachers, and is a visiting speaker for the Princes Teaching Institute.
As a part of Kingswood school’s 275th anniversary and to coincide with the recent IAMSCU 2023 Conference, Garrod recently chaired a seminar entitled Developing Sustainable Global Partnerships. During the forthcoming webinar he will build on some of the themes outlining the collaboration with GSA to develop partnership opportunities for Global Methodist schools and the creation of a conference anthem written by composer Richard Mainwaring.
Nesreen Noureldin, Egypt
Vice Principal – Arabic Education at British Columbia Canadian International School East
Vice Principal -Arabic Education at British Columbia Canadian International School East ,Egypt , Masters Degree in (General Quality Management –High diploma in Quality education in addition to 22 courses in international learning, global learning, leadership , core skills). I work in international educational activities (curricular and extra curricular for 10 years, have connected my students with the United Nations SDGs.
Catherine O’Farrell, UAE
Expert in Education Inclusion
Catherine O’Farrell is one of the founders of Incluzun.com, an organisation supporting people of determination in a holistic way across the MENA region. Catherine has been working in education and inclusion for almost 20 years, she has degrees in Education, Psychology and a masters in Engineering. She is passionate about developing opportunities for children with individual needs. She is an international school inspector, has been a Group Head for some of the region’s largest educational providers and has worked with international and national committees from the Global Sustainability Network to the Ministry of Education here in the UAE to push for a more sustainable and inclusive world. Catherine is a regular media contributor and conference speaker.
Catherine contributed to ‘Redefining The Role of A Teacher‘ in September 2020.
Shahnaaz Ojha, India
Teacher at Delhi Public School in India
Shahnaaz Ojha is a teacher at Delhi Public school, lava, Nagpur in India, which is now in the Map of World Peace Song project and uses the power of music to bring peace in the world. Shahnaaz is the teacher in charge of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) club in her school and has undertaken various activities across age groups from 10-16 years old, such as waste paper recycling, waste collection drives and collaborations such as 1) “tomatoes for tomorrow” with Sri Lanka, 2) 3D models “Beat the floods”resilient houses, 3) Environment Quiz and 4) Organic farming. She has collaborated with others in the Philippines to carry out cultural festivals in their language, and in the future,, she will be working on the Climate Action Project, Transforming education and the International SDGs collaborative project cohort III. Her Collaborations with schools in different countries works to achieve SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions) to build a harmonious world.
Shahnaaz contributed to ‘How global thinking can improve your school‘ in January 2023.
Patrick Ottley-O'Connor, United Kingdom
Headteacher at Westhoughton High School
Patrick has been a senior leader for more than 25 years, including 16 years as a principal/executive principal in secondary, primary and special schools. Patrick leads and facilitates a variety of leadership programmes, including the NPQ programmes ranging from middle to executive leadership courses. He is a DfE coach for the Women Leading in Education initiative. Patrick is also a trustee of the Watergrove Trust and founding director of Collaborative Leadership Ltd.
Patrick contributed to ‘2020: An Unforgettable Year‘ in December 2020.
Ozgu Ozturk, Turkey
English Teacher at Büyükçekmece Atatürk Anadolu Lisesi
Ozgu Ozturk is an English teacher in Istanbul. She graduated from Gazi University, ELT Department in 2004 and got her MA degree in ELT in 2021. She coordinates Scientix, Etwinning and Erasmus+ international school partnership projects. She is a STEM trainer, P4C facilitator and a researcher as an EFL teacher. She is one of the Scientix Ambassadors of Turkey and PenPal Schools Network. She is a National Geographic Educator and a certified Apple Teacher. She is one of the team members of the Education Information Network, EBA which provides digital materials for remote teaching. She is the Turkish delegate on Transatlantic Educators Dialogue by European Union Center and Illinois University at Urbana- Champaign. She is married and has a daughter. She writes blog posts for the TeachingEnglish blog by the British Council.
Ozgu contributed to ‘Partnering with Parents, Reluctant Writers: Inspiring Creativity‘ in March 2022.
Sunanda Pandey, India
Middle School Science Teacher
A Middle School Science educator with an ability to ignite problem solving skills in students . Working as the SDG ambassador of my school. I design SDG linked lesson plans/Community Project for K12 students.. Over the last 2 years I have managed to conduct several sessions based on SDGs with my students and my colleagues. I have participated in many International SDG Projects, International Collaborations like RiseUP4SDGS, RiseUp4E-waste, SDGs2SAVETHEWORLD,ROAD2RECOVERY,Climate Change Project etc. Currently working on next milestone of my career , SDGs2SAVETHEWORLD Project- Cohort 4 with students and educators of different countries like Argentina,Indonesia,Nigeria ,Malaysia, Kazakhstan , Pakistan, Japan and Qatar . Received many appreciation certificates for my contribution in mentoring students for SDG/Community Projects. Looking forward to work with different schools and various organizations to support them with Community Projects based on SDGs and real world problems following 5 I model- Identify,Investigate, Ideate,Implement and Inform..
Małgorzata Paszkiewicz, Poland
English Teacher
A teacher of teenagers and adults in Poland, an author of educational resources and on-line publications. I help students and teachers build their digital competence, incorporating ICT tools into teaching and learning processes. I enjoy sharing experience and ideas concerning the use of technology in classroom with educators of various age groups, taking part in school partnerships, and constantly expanding professional skills and knowledge. After hours- an eco-gardener and a fantasy fan.
Małgorzata contributed to ‘Strategic approaches to student accessibility and engagement‘ in January 2021.
Emma Platt, United Kingdom
Assistant Headteacher at Philip’s High School
Emma Platt is an Assistant Headteacher in Manchester who teaches English. She is the Teaching and Learning lead, the CPD Co-ordinator, the lead on Performance Management, Literacy and NQT Professional Mentor.
She is passionate about pupils’ reading and always looks to Twitter for new and exciting ideas to use in the classroom.
Emma contributed to ‘Going Global: Can all learning be taken online?‘ in August 2020.
Parm Plummer, United Kingdom
Assistant Headteacher
Parm is a teacher, leader and diversity campaigner. Having worked in London, Devon, and the Channel Islands, her current home is Jersey where she holds the role of Senior Teacher: T&L/staff development at Victoria College Jersey. She is a fellow of the Chartered College and RSA and has just finished her MEd in Educational leadership. She is an NPQ assessor and is currently enjoying the challenge of the NPQH. She speaks regularly on diversity issues and has led sessions at the Festival of Education and Research Ed. Her most fulfilling work however stems from her role as a Global Strategic Leader for the global grassroots network for female leaders, WomenEd and managing the WomenEd Jersey network.
Parm contributed to ‘How are schools tackling equality, diversity and inclusion?‘ in February 2022.
Tatiana Popa, Moldova
Head of Global Education at Heritage International School, Moldova
Tatiana Popa is a teacher of English and Head of Global Education at Heritage International School in Chisinau, Moldova. She is an eTwinning Ambassador in Moldova since 2015, but also an ambassador for Global School Alliance, Climate Action Project and T4 Community. Tatiana involves her students in global collaborative projects and brings the world into her classroom on a daily basis.
Tatiana contributed to ‘Returning to School Post COVID-19‘ in June 2020, ‘Going Global: Can all learning be taken online?‘ in August 2020, 2020: An Unforgettable Year in December 2020, ‘Student Voice: How to empower students‘ in September 2021.
Siddharth Rajgarhia, India
Director of Dehli Public School
Chief learner and Director, DPS VARANASI | NASHIK | LAVA NAGPUR, SDG Ambassador SDG chaupal, learner at heart with a proven track record to lead high performing schools. Leading Schools, people and change from the Harvard business school online. Pursuing M.ed from University of the people. Bachelor’s in technology and holds a masters in business and management.
Siddharth contributed to ‘Emerging Education Trends to Look Out for in 2022‘ in January 2022.
Luisa Ribeiro, United Kingdom
A former Headteacher in her native Portugal.
A former Headteacher in her native Portugal, Luisa is an independent Modern Foreign Languages Consultant and is a specialist for Inclusion and Multiculturalism working across the United Kingdom and abroad. Since 2002 she has been working with the British Council, University of Westminster, Roehampton University, the Embassies of Spain, France, Portugal, Brazil, Angola , Cape Verde and Mozambique. She is the advisor for languages in Lambeth and is employed by several primary and secondary schools. Luisa Ribeiro was appointed advisor for Portuguese achievement in 2006 as part of the borough’s Ethnic Minority Achievement Team. She supported and advised schools through a programme of school based CPD, centre led INSET, network meetings and range of events. Luisa has been involved in International Projects from Commenius to Erasmus as well as other international grants available for schools. Besides applying for available grants to develop global citizenship, inclusion, curriculum,arts, sustainability and raising awareness for minorities, Luisa manages those grants on behalf of schools and organisations and creates international links which enables the success of projects she is involved in.
Luisa contributed to ‘Making your budget work to support international activities‘ in October 2022.
Martin Ridley, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
International Coordinator and Head of Citizenship at St Peter’s Catholic School
Graduated in 1995, taught English as a Foreign Language in Poland 1995-1997, then two years’ teaching in an English boarding school, three years teaching geography in East Anglia and St Peter’s School since 2004. That’s a lot of biscuits and tea…
I’ve been a Head of Department since 2010 and developed our main school partnership with Shea O’Connor Combined School in South Africa since 2009 (including student and staff trips to Shea, many collaborative projects and lots of fund-raising). Had a paper published by the University of Ruse almost by accident and enjoyed working with a huge variety of global colleagues.
Labrini Ronotogiannis, Greece
Virtual Classrooms and Technology Integration Coordinator at ACS Athens
BSc in Anatomy and Cell Biology, BEd in Education, MEd in Educational Technology. Labrini has been teaching middle school/high school for 20+ years. She is currently a teacher of Health and both F2F and Online Coordinator of Athens Virtual and Technology Integrations.
Labrini contributed to ‘How do we empower students to pioneer their own learning?‘ in October 2020.
Chetna Sabharwal, India
With an exposure of 25 years in the field of education and counseling, Dr.Chetna Sabharwal believes that the purpose of learning is growth and our minds can continue growing as we continue to live. Defined for her prowess in mathematics, career counseling and education abroad, she has worked with some of the best schools across the country.
Chetna contributed to ‘Going Global: Can all learning be taken online?‘ in August 2020, ‘Strategic approaches to student accessibility and engagement‘ in January 2021.
Farah Samir, Egypt
Head of Pastoral & Behaviour at The British School of Egypt
Mrs. Farah has been working in the education sector for a humble period of 10 years. She currently works as the Head of Pastoral for a British international school in Cairo, Egypt. She is passionate about psychology and working with young people.
Farah contributed to ‘Behaviour Management & Engagement‘ in June 2021.
Hazrabee Shaikh, United Arab Emirates
Head of Primary at The Indian Academy Dubai
Ms. Hazrabee Shaikh is a Head of Primary at The Indian Academy Dubai. Ms. Shaikh leads Primary School improvement activities through effective strategic leadership and planning that supports the over all and holistic development of a child. She believes learning happens when the child is challenged enough and his needs are met. Emotional Wellbeing being the center piece of the Jigsaw which puts all the other things in place, remains at the heart of her Leadership and the school ethos. She believes that as the world continues to change, at a very rapid pace, parents and teachers, have to prepare the current generation for a life that we have never imagined, for careers/ profession that does not even exist now and for a future which is unpredictable.
Hazrabee contributed to ‘Developing global dimensions in the school ethos‘ in June 2022.
Daniela Shankland, United Arab Emirates
Head of English at Capital School in Dubai
Daniela Shankland is the Head of English at Capital School in Dubai, UAE. Mrs. Shankland develops, monitors and leads the improvement of the English Curriculum in Primary. Throughout her career, Mrs. Shankland has collaborated and supported many teachers to build confidence and skills, developed ideas and pedagogical approaches that have had a positive impact on progress and attainment. She has a wealth of experience in working with reluctant writers and inspiring creativity. She believes that one of the biggest barriers to writing that children face today, is confidence, purpose and the development of visualisation. Mrs. Shankland emphasizes the importance of knowing each learner in order to understand how to support their writing journey. She is an advocator for teachers being the catalyst of meaningful learning and writing excellence; with an inspirational approach any learner can be hooked and the foundation for creative writing can begin to grow.
Daniela contributed to ‘Reluctant Writers: Inspiring Creativity‘ in April 2022.
Abhilasha Singh, UAE
Principal at Shining Star International School
Abhilasha Singh Principal at the Shining Star International School in Abu Dhabi. Abhilasha is a Microsoft Innovative Expert selected by Microsoft Education. She is a passionate Teach SDG Ambassador and a Model UN Trainer with WFUNA Experience. She is a UAE Ambassador and lead facilitator for the Climate Action Project , UAE Ambassador for T4 Education as well as a certified School Inspector from Tribal Education UK. Abhilasha is a Tedx Speaker and was invited to speak on the theme of Glocalization at American University of Sharjah TEDxAUS . She is a certified ISO Internal Auditor and has been awarded the Innovative Leader Award by Ekk Updesh supported by the Ministry of Ayush., at the Education Excellence Conclave, India.
Abhilasha contributed to ‘Planning For A Return to the Classroom‘ in July 2021.
David Smith, United Kingdom
International Coordinator at Edenderry Primary School
David contributed to ‘Student Voice: How to empower students‘ in September 2021.
Daniel Sobel, United Kingdom
Author and Inclusion Expert
Daniel Sobel MA Ed (Psych) FCMI FCIC FRSA is the CEO and founder of Inclusion Expert, a leading educational consultancy offering training and resources to professionals working in inclusion. With a background in educational psychology and psychotherapy, and as a former assistant headteacher, he has experience from a broad spectrum of in-school and consultancy work. He has consulted with the Department for Education, the European Union and many governments abroad, the Institute of Education and the Cass School of Education at the University of East London.
Daniel contributed to ‘Re-motivating learning: ideas to inspire students‘ in August 2021.
Jade Song, China
Mindfulness Teacher
Jade is an English teacher turned Mindfulness teacher who has been working in the international education field for over 10 years. She has taught in Chiang Rai (Thailand), Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Melbourne (Australia) and is passionate about bringing teaching and learning into life with a dash of mindfulness. She is currently a teacher trainer and curriculum developer for international schools.
Jade contributed at ‘Education Life Skills: Teamwork & Wellbeing (Sponsored by WCBS)‘ in April 2021.
Nick Stoneman, USA
President Shattuck – St. Mary’s School
Nick contributed to ‘How do we empower students to pioneer their own learning?‘ in October 2020.
Jon Tait, United Kingdom
Deputy Headteacher and Director of Teaching School
Jon Tait is currently Deputy Headteacher and Director of Teaching School in a large and diverse UK secondary school. As a classroom teacher, he has experience of working in three different schools for over 15 years. His current responsibility areas include leading on teaching and learning, professional development, behaviour and welfare. Jon regularly presents at TeachMeets and teaching conferences in the UK and internationally, including in New York, Ohio and Dubai.
John contributed to ‘Planning For A Return to the Classroom‘ in July 2021.
Matthew Tansley, Romania
Head of Secondary School at International British School of Bucharest
Matt is a senior leader with over 20 years of teaching experience and 8 years of leadership experience in a variety of different settings and cultures. He has been part of senior leadership teams in both the UAE, and Romania, leading both British curriculum and IB world schools. Matt is also an inspector for ISI, and a COBIS peer acccreditor, who has been involved in assessing schools compliance and educational quality for the past three years. Matt is passionate about high performance and ensuring pupils are able to achieve at the highest level possible, having taken his current school through the HPL world class schools programme. He has a great interest in student and staff wellbeing to ensure that the school community have the support in place to be successful in their endeavours
Matthew contributed to ‘End-of-year transitions and student wellness‘ in July 2022.
Sharon Tonner-Saunders, United Kingdom
Lecturer in Technologies-ICT and Music in the School of Education
Sharon Tonner-Saunders is a lecturer in Technologies-ICT and Music in the School of Education. She joined the University in August 2008 after working for seven years as a primary school teacher, where the last four years were spent teaching ICT to all primary pupils. During this time, Sharon was awarded the British Council’s eTwinning Award for Excellence in using innovative methods to connect children with their peers around the world. This followed shortly with Sharon becoming a British Council Ambassador where she shares her knowledge and expertise of intercultural learning with educators around the world. For the past three years, Sharon has led an innovative intercultural project called Hands of the World (HOTW) that uses music and Makaton to connect learners together to develop their intercultural awareness of others and preserve their linguistic identities. This project has won eTwinning Quality Labels from countries around Europe, the European eTwinning Quality Label and the prestigious British Council National eTwinning Award for best project in the UK (2019 and 2020). The success of Sharon’s intercultural work has led to her being invited to be the keynote speaker at conferences around the world where she shares her passion for creating educational opportunities that enable young people to be connected with their global peers whilst preserving their identities.
Sharon contributed to ‘Global links using digital resources‘ in November 2022.
Matt Trevor, United Kingdom
Deputy Headteacher at a Primary School in Birmingham
I am a Deputy Head Teacher at a one-from primary school in Birmingham, United Kingdom. As a school we value global collaboration very highly and currently have an embedded working relationship with a school in Kampala, Uganda. As well as this I have an active partnership with educators from Boston Public Schools, Massachusetts, along with being in the early stages of reaching out to an ex-colleague who is currently teaching over in Doha, Qatar. Our school is currently a silver ‘Rights Respecting’ school, working our way to gold, as well as driving our ‘Character Education’ through Commando Joe’s. Our school was also recently paired with a school in Trinidad and Tobago when collaborating leading up to the recent Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, as well as I am currently completing my NPQH for headship. (November 2021 – June 2023)
Matt contributed to ‘How global thinking can improve your school‘ in January 2023.
Kerry Walsh, United Kingdom
Assistant Headteacher at Clifford Holroyde SEN School
Kerry Walsh has been teaching for over 15 years. She has worked in primary and secondary settings, a Pupil Referral Unit, an American Juvenile Detention Centre, an Adult Medium Secure Prison and finally a SEN Specialist College.
Kerry trained as an Art and Design teacher and has experience of being Head of Department for a number of subjects.
Currently Kerry is Assistant Headteacher and is responsible for whole school teaching and learning, and trying to understand our new world that we now live in due to COVID-19.
Kerry contributed to ‘Redefining The Role of A Teacher‘ in September 2020.
Roxann Walsh, Jamaica
Classroom Teacher
Roxann contributed to ‘Assessment vs Examination‘ in May 2021.
Kirrili Williams, Beijing
Director of Creative Arts at Harrow International School Beijing
Beginning her career directing a small music education company in Sydney, Kirrili has seven years experience in the international system and, prior to this fourteen years as a teacher and head of department in both Australia and the UK. Kirrili has held a particular interest in staff management and recently completed her Masters dissertation on the effects of the pandemic in international schools in China through the University of Sydney. Kirrili is currently Director of Creative Arts in a 3-18 school in Beijing.
Kirrili contributed to ‘Recruiting the Best Talent: Teacher Recruitment and Retention‘ in April 2022.
Seda contributed to ‘Recovery Curriculum‘ in July 2020, ‘2020: An Unforgettable Year‘ in December 2020.
