To lead a Nord Anglia Education school is both an honour and a privilege and, combined with the desire for a new adventure and challenge, are our reasons for coming to BSB Shunyi in 2021.
I am a lifelong learner and a lifelong educator, starting out as a mathematics teacher and embracing many diverse experiences along the way such as Head of Mathematics, IB DP Coordinator, Head of a Secondary School, and Vice Principal in three different countries. When my children were old enough to be more independent, I focused on my own professional development and this culminated in leadership roles in three IB World Schools including my last post as the Principal of an international school in Dubai. The ‘Be Ambitious’ philosophy resonates strongly with me and is at the heart of my personal motivation in life.
I received my Bachelor of Education in Mathematics and Computer Education from Sheffield Hallam University, Master of Education from Exeter University and also holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).
Challenging schools to inspire students to aim high, to be the best that they can be, academically and personally, to make a difference in their school, community and then in the world beyond, continues to inspire me. I am passionate about learning - how students thrive and how teachers inspire and motivate them as well as how teachers develop and how leaders inspire them in turn. Students becoming independent in their thinking and developing as leaders is important, whatever the age of the child. I strongly believe that teachers continuing to reflect on their practice and to bring the ‘Be Ambitious’ philosophy into very single lesson is at the heart of a fantastic school.
Over an extended period of time as an educator and a leader in schools, what is important in learning is clear to me: International mindedness and a growth mindset with learning applied to local and global contexts; enquiry-based approaches which put the student at the heart of their own learning; a broad, balanced, conceptual and connected curriculum; collaboration, communication and team work; happiness and wellbeing. When all of this comes together, amazing learning results.
Our two ‘children’ are no longer children and are starting out in their own careers in Greece and in Dubai, leaving us able to have our own adventures. I am looking forward to exploring Beijing and wider with my husband, as we love to travel and to absorb new experiences and cultures. We are very much looking forward to becoming part of your school family.