A creative with a love for cultural diversity, meet our Primary Teacher Charlie Paton

I grew up in the Middle East when I was younger – in Saudi Arabia - but this will be my first experience living in the UAE. One of the things I loved about living in the Middle East was the diversity of cultures that meant I could build a wide range of meaningful friendships. I learned the value of acceptance and tolerance - something I believe children in Abu Dhabi also get to experience in an international school. After spending far too long in the wet and cold weather of the UK, I am also looking forward to a little more sunshine!

WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT JOINING NAS ABU DHABI?

I’m excited to be joining a global family of schools with links across the world, and to be working alongside a team of passionate teachers. I can’t wait to start using all the facilities and technologies NAS Abu Dhabi has to provide children with the very best learning experiences. 

WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO ONCE THE SCHOOL OFFICIALLY OPENS?

I am most looking forward to the first day, meeting my new class for the very first time and building connections and relationships with them and their families. I’m also incredibly excited about seeing the Olympic-sized rooftop swimming pool!  

WHAT HOBBIES DO YOU HAVE? WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THEM?

Outside of school, I like swimming, running, and going to the gym - it’s great for my mental health to keep active. I love a challenge, and take part in weekend races and triathlons when I can. I listen to lots of music to boost my mood, relax and disconnect from everyday life, and I love going to gigs and concerts - listening to my favourite bands with my friends. 

WHAT ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR?

My family and friends mean everything to me and I will forever be grateful for their unconditional love and support in everything I do. I also feel incredibly lucky to be doing the job I’ve always dreamed of. I feel very fortunate to be a part of so many children’s journeys, seeing them grow and develop and celebrating those big and small achievements every day. I don’t think there’s any job as rewarding as being a teacher.

Want to learn more about our teachers? Read all about our MFL Teacher Emilie Lounis.

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LEARN MORE ABOUT CHARLIE PATON.

Having grown up in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and attended a British international school as a child, Charlie knows all about the importance of global citizenship, and the gift of diversity.

A creative and passionate primary teacher, Charlie first achieved an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Studies from Oxford Brookes University, before continuing her studies to get a Postgraduate Certificate of Education at the University of Hertfordshire.