16 August, 2023

A reflective nature lover with a passion for inclusive education, meet our Primary Teacher Alex Greenwell

Alex Greenwell Nord Anglia Abu Dhabi
Meet Alex Greenwell.
Learn more about our Primary Teacher Alex Greenwellan accomplished environmental scientist turned educator, Alex is one of the few people who’s seen our physical campus take shape from the very beginning. Deeply passionate about inclusive education, Alex finds inspiration in creating versatile methods for diverse learning needs.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT ABU DHABI?

Living in Abu Dhabi has been an incredible experience for me – there are so many reasons why I’ve grown to love this city. First and foremost, the weather is truly fantastic, with abundant sunshine and warm temperatures throughout the year. This climate has given me more time outdoors in nature. And Abu Dhabi has stunning beaches – I love to unwind in the tranquil beauty of the Arabian Gulf. 

Beyond its natural wonders, the city is a vibrant and multicultural hub, with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures coexisting harmoniously. This multicultural society has enriched my life, allowing me to learn from and interact with people from all walks of life. 

One special aspect that sets Abu Dhabi apart is its unwavering commitment to safety and security. Living here provides me with peace of mind, knowing that the city prioritises the wellbeing of its residents.

WHAT EXCITES YOU THE MOST ABOUT JOINING NAS ABU DHABI?

Joining NAS Abu Dhabi is the start of a new journey filled with endless possibilities. First and foremost is the school's commitment to academic excellence. Nord Anglia has a strong reputation for providing an outstanding education, and I am thrilled to be part of a team that upholds such high standards.

Living locally, I've been lucky enough to witness the school's development from day one. Watching this state-of-the-art facility rise from the ground has stirred a sense of excitement and anticipation.

The prospect of working alongside talented students and colleagues - each sharing a passion for education - is another highlight. 

The school's dedication to staying at the forefront of educational advancements ensures that I’ll be able to grow as an educator and provide the best possible learning experiences for my students.

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

I'm eager to welcome students into my classroom, to discover their unique talents and interests, and to witness their growth over the coming year.

I'm looking forward to working with my fellow educators, collaborating and learning from one another to create an exceptional learning environment. In this atmosphere of teamwork and mutual growth, I believe we'll deliver a first-rate educational experience.

And I'm keen to explore our school's state-of-the-art facilities, which I'm certain will lend themselves to engaging and creative lessons. I'm thrilled to join a community that fosters creativity, collaboration, and student success.

I'm ready and eager to embrace the opportunities and challenges of the new academic year, with the goal of making a positive, lasting impact on our students.

WHAT DO YOU FEEL MOST PASSIONATELY ABOUT AND WHY?

My kayak adventures have led me to some truly unforgettable experiences. I've rescued turtles, observed dolphins in their mating dance, watched stingrays breach, and even had curious manatees surface to inspect me. I've also had my fair share of shark encounters! Every moment reinforces the immense beauty and importance of our oceans.

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

Since the age of four years old, I’ve loved playing and watching football. As a die-hard Newcastle United fan, I take every chance to catch a game when I'm back home. But there's more to my downtime than the game, I delve into the world of fishing, both on the serene rivers with fly fishing and on adventurous kayak fishing expeditions. The serenity and tranquillity of being on the water in a kayak creates a peaceful and immersive environment. It allows me to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature in a more intimate way. And my love for cooking - ignited by my Italian grandmother's passion for traditional cuisine - continues to thrive. The aromas from her kitchen have profoundly influenced my appreciation for the culinary arts, adding a sprinkle of joy to my life.

Want to learn more about our school? Read all about Primary Teacher, Flora Vermoesen.

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ABOUT ALEX GREENWELL, PRIMARY TEACHER.

An accomplished environmental scientist turned educator, Alex Greenwell brings a BSc in Earth Science, a PGCE, and an enduring passion for nurturing young minds to NAS Abu Dhabi. His teaching journey began in Sydney, Australia where he shared environmental insights with local schools, igniting his desire to teach. In 2008, he transitioned to education, taking up roles in the United Kingdom which introduced him to shaping exciting curriculum and school policy.

In 2015, Alex shifted into international education, and moved to the United Arab Emirates. He continues to inspire students, helping them realise their potential and fostering a lifelong love for learning.