how we teach

BA, PGCE, CELT

Mihaela has a double degree in Chinese Language & Literature and English Language & Literature from the University of Bucharest. She also has a post-graduate Education degree from the University of Sunderland and a Certificate in English Language Teaching – Primary (CELT-P). She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in International Education. She was born in Romania and had her first international experience during her university years when she travelled to China to study for two years. After graduating, she decided to live abroad.

Mihaela has a lot of experience with Early Years education, having worked in this position at two other Nord Anglia schools in China since 2008. Previous to this, she was the principal of an international kindergarten in Shanghai. Mihaela joined BSB Shunyi in 2016 and enjoys working together with the students and teachers in the school. She believes that learning never ends and books, people and nature are a continuous source of wonder.

She has two children who are also studying at BSB. She hopes that they can explore this wonderful city full of history and learn about new cultures and places. Mihaela tries to instill in her students and children a curiosity and passion for learning and respect for all living things. Questions are more important than answers and we should never stop asking questions.

Mihaela.Chesaru@britishschool.org.cn

MEd, PGCE, TEFL

Kieran first became passionate about teaching when he was working through his coaching qualifications in football and hockey while studying in University. He has now spent over a decade working in education, the majority of which has been spent with second language learners in China. He has always felt that it is the most wonderful feeling to be able to assist someone in acquiring new knowledge and skills and watch them develop and grow as a person and individual.

With his interest in education and passion for learning, Kieran made the decision to study for a Post Graduate Certificate in Education and continued my studies to obtain a Master's degree in Education Management and Leadership, both from the University of Buckingham. He has also completed the Bridge TEFL. He felt honored to have the opportunity to join BSB in 2021 as working in such an inclusive and supportive environment will allow him to continue to develop myself as an educator and leader.

Kieran is married nd have 2 daughters who are also attending BSB. He aspires to be the best he can be and support the learning for all his students and hope that heI can inspire them to become the best versions of themselves. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family as well as playing football and long distance running.

BEd, BEd (Hons), MEd

Lincoln is a passionate and dynamic primary school teacher. He is well organised and has over 11 years of teaching experience. His practice is guided by evidenced-based teaching and learning and the belief that the ‘relationship’ is at the core of teaching and learning. Most of his teaching experience has been in the international arena, 6 years in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and in Beijing since August 2019.

Lincoln has a thirst for knowledge and an openness to continuously learn more.He is in my final year as a PhD in Education student at the Nelson Mandela University with a research focus on Language, Literature and Culture. He believes that his research will add to the body of knowledge in relation to how books may influence children’s deliberations about the world.

Lincoln believes that the accumulation of experiential knowledge, skills and competencies gained from over 10 years in the international teaching arena can now be transferred to any context he finds himself in. Thus, his motivation to join BSB Shunyi in 2023 is driven by his enthusiasm to broaden his input as a teacher and because he believes that there is much to be learnt from working at BSB Shunyi.

As much as possible, Lincoln tries to live a simple life. He tries to exercise at least 3-4 times a week. He has a great love for reading. Another hobby is baking: some of his favourite things to bake include bagels, carrot cake and Japanese milk bread. One thing he wishes to improve over the next few months is his attitude towards eating fruits and vegetables and to commit himself to drinking at least 2L of water a day.

Qualifications:

Bachelor of Education, Major in Primary Maths & Science from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University & Stranmills University College.

Bachelor of Education (Honours), Major in Special Needs Education from University of South Africa.

Master of Education, Major in Language & Literacy from Nelson Mandela University.

BSc (Hons), QTS, CELTA

Chris studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and was awarded an Bachelor's degree with honours in Management. He licensed to teach in both the UK and USA and have been teaching in China from 2011. He also has a Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA) from the University of Cambridge. When he arrived in Beijing, he taught English as a language initially and worked with a wide range of ages from three up to twelve years old. He then moved to teaching all subjects in a Primary classroom and was promoted to supervisor and then manager in charge of curriculum programme development. Prior to joining BSB Shunyi in 2021, he was the Year 2 and Year 3 Year Level leader in his last school.

As a teacher, Chris believes in setting clear expectations and routines. Learning should develop skills as well as knowledge, promote problem solving and encourage students’ natural curiosity. One of the key reasons he was drawn to BSB Shunyi is the high standards of learning and teaching. he knows that this is a school where he will be able to improve his teaching practice, develop his leadership skills and help students achieve their goals.

Chris has lived in China for the last ten years and speak the language fairly well. He and his wife were married here in 2019. In his spare time he likes to read more about education, health and history. He also likes to play football and go to the gym regularly.

BSc, B Arch, TEFL, PGCEi

Since graduating from Dundee University, Scotland, with both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Architecture degrees, Amanda has worked extensively with children, primarily through her passion for swimming. Alongside a 20 year career in construction, she devoted the majority of evenings and weekends to teaching and coaching swimming, from early years up to adulthood, with coaching roles both at regional and national level as part of English Schools Swimming in the UK.

Following two years living in Bangkok, Thailand, Amanda joined BSB in September 2017 and gained my TEFL certification, working first in Early Years, then in Year 4 and Year 5 (SEN). Her experience confirmed her desire to be a primary class teacher, so I could be a part of ensuring that each child’s individual potential is unlocked and realised. This led Amanda to complete her PGCEi teaching qualification in 2019 and became a fulltime Class Teacher. She is very excited to be promoted to the role of Head of Year 4 in 2023.

Amanda lived in Beijing with her husband, son and daughter, who are also all at BSB. The school is an integral part of their lives, as they make the most of the many opportunities on offer here. There is rarely a weekend when they are not in school for some activity. Outside of school, she loves cooking with her daughter and playing board games with her family. She particularly loves to travel and still have a passion for architecture, so she never misses an opportunity to visit new places.

MA, MEd

Annemarie completed her Masters Degree at University of Potsdam, Germany and finished her teacher training in Munich. 

Teaching has been a passionate profession for her for the past 15 years. Throughout her career, she has had the incredible opportunity to teach in various countries around the world. She has been teaching at BSB for over 5 years now. She was excited to immerse herself into different cultures and connect with students around the world. Teaching has not only enriched her life but has also allowed her to make a positive impact on the lives of countless students.

Besides playing tennis, she loves travelling and adventures. 

MSc, PGCE

Creating and shaping a positive future is why Raz decided to become a teacher. Researching innovative and exciting approaches to enhance learning and inspire young minds is something he has been passionate about throughout the last 16 years of his career. Early on, whilst studying for a Master degree in Mathematics and Physics at UCL in 2005, Raz realised that teaching was the profession for him. After completing his degree, he went on to study for a PGCE at Middlesex University and became a qualified teacher in 2007. Teaching in various schools in London gave him valuable experience and insight and he was ready for a new challenge. Enthused and determined to create the next chapter of my future, in 2011, he decided to work abroad and joined Compass International School, a Nord Anglia school, in Doha Qatar.

You truly develop and flourish when in a new and exciting environment and being in Qatar helped Raz further deepenhis passion for teaching and my understanding of educational pedagogy. Over the course of 8 years he developed and created meaningful learning experiences and encouraging independent learning was at the heart of his approach. Understanding the stages of learning development enabled him to teach various ages from Reception to Year 6 as well as have several leadership roles such as Head of Year and STEAM Co-ordinator.

Realising his interests in technology, Raz took on the role of developing the use of iPads throughout the school as ICT lead which raised the profile of computing and helped the school begin its digital journey. Furthermore, his use of technology in the classroom helped him create memorable and exciting learning experiences from learning and collaborating in digital worlds to using augmented reality. Utilising technology effectively in the classroom is incredibly important and he has enjoyed helping support students, teachers and parents.

Throughout his 16 years of teaching, Raz has also helped develop various ambitious initiatives to enhance learning outcomes; from working on a school bilingual programme, developing whole school projects aligned with UNICEF, working with CNN and being part of the first team of teachers to help develop and implement the Nord Anglia- MIT STEAM collaboration.

Unquestionably, the highlight of his career was moving to Beijing in 2019 with his wife and 2 sons and working at both the British School of Beijing Shunyi and Sanlitun as Head of Year 6. Returning to Beijing is something Raz and his family are very much looking forward to as we get to experience the wonderful aspects of being in a diverse and culturally rich city once again.

Excited to continue his journey at BSB Shunyi, Raz is looking forward to working with others to help continue to make BSB grow from strength to strength and to encourage my students to believe to achieve, be creative and be ambitious.

Now read the first letter of every sentence to see a message for our students...

MEd, Diploma in Pedagogy

After graduating with a Diploma in Educational Sciences in 2008 at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Juliane worked in the field of family therapy, youth counselling and social assisted living in Germany. She has a Diploma in Pedagogy (Diplom Pädagogin) and while working, she completed an apprenticeship and got certified in systematic/family therapy.

Juliane's experiences of living and working abroad started after graduating from high school when she was working as an au-pair for three children of the ages of 1, 4 and 6 in Vermont, USA. That great experience strengthened her wish to work with children and families as well as her desire to work abroad and experiencing different cultures and mentalities. During her studies at university sheI spent half a year in Washington, USA as an intern organizing a social camp for children infected by HIV and their families and training their counsellors, applying and developing on her knowledge gained of social sciences at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg in Germany.

Together with her husband, Juliane moved to China in 2015 and she was working at another international school for 4.5 years, teaching children aged 16 months in Nursery to almost 6 years in Pre-K and Pre-school.

Juliane joined BSB Shunyi in 2020 as a German Teacher and was excited to take on the role of Head of German Primary in 2022. She is looking forward to form positive relationships with the children and their parents and the other teachers and BSB team and looking forward to inspiring the children to learn, explore and develop.

Personally she loves to travel and explore new cultures, foods and different ways of living. She enjoys running, biking, hiking, reading and being with friends.

BA, MA, PGCE

Voicu holds degrees and certifications across 3 disciplines. He received his BA in Philology and History from his home country in Romania. He holds a MA in English Language and Literature from Assumption University (Thailand) and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Literacy and Learning from the University of Southern Queensland (Australia). He specialized in Positive Psychology at the Positive Psychology Center from University of Pennsylvania (USA) and is a Certified Positive Psychology & Mindfulness Practitioner and Coach. Voicu is currently studying to become a mental health expert and is pursuing a MSc in the Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health at the Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience from King’s College London (Class of 2023).

Voicu has been a teacher all his adult life. He started teaching straight out of Teacher’s College and has been teaching internationally since 2002. Before moving to China in 2018, he taught in Thailand and Qatar. His teaching career followed his qualifications path. He taught English and American Literature for many years but then he switched to his second major and started teaching History. He especially enjoyed teaching Asian History. As Voicu also had a background in educational psychology, in 2015 he decided to refocus his teaching interest on psychology and has taught the AP and IB curricula in the international schools system ever since.

When the pandemic started he had just finished my certification in Positive Psychology and he immediately started implementing the scientific-based theory and concepts of positivity in his daily teaching. Voicu soon realized that the mental wellbeing of students is often forgotten in favour of higher GPA, college application, and societal pressures. So, in parallel with his teaching duties, he initiated a Positivity Center in order to help students thrive, develop resilience, and offer mental health support. While discussing these projects with the leaders of BSB Shunyi, he realized that our vision with regards to teaching philosophy and the importance of the students’ mental wellbeing aligned perfectly.

As a former competitive archer who has participated in many international archery competitions (including the Archery World Cup in Shanghai, the Indoor Archery World Cup in Singapore, and the Asian Archery Grand Prix in Bangkok), he is highly interested how mindset influences peak performance in sports. He hopes to open an archery club at BSB Shunyi and impart with the students the awesome sport and art of archery. One of his other interests is survival psychology and calisthenics. During his free time, he is engaged in an auto-ethnographic project by studying Chinese calligraphy, ink wash painting, and playing the guqin.

BEd.

Henry graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education of foreign languages from the University of Zulia in Venezuela in 2009. Since then, he has been dedicated to teaching at international schools in Venezuela and Singapore. His experience working with students from diverse cultural backgrounds has played a significant role in his personal and professional growth, enabling him to develop as both an educator and an individual. He remains enthusiastic about bringing his skills and knowledge to BSB.

Henry's dedication to student well-being and academic progress extended to his role as the Head of Year 8. He provided exceptional pastoral care and support, fostering positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues. Henry closely monitors student progress, implementing targeted interventions and tailored strategies to ensure each student reached their full potential. His commitment to the holistic development of his students was evident in his celebration of their achievements and his efforts to address any challenges they faced. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in special education, Henry's motivation stems from his belief that every student has the potential to thrive academically when provided with the appropriate tools and support. Understanding the importance of catering to individual learning needs and backgrounds, he embarked on this educational journey to expand his understanding of various strategies to effectively assist all students in his classroom.

Henry is thrilled to be part of the vibrant BSB community, where he can contribute his expertise and enthusiasm. He finds great joy in working with the remarkable group of students and teachers at BSB and is dedicated to his own professional development, constantly striving to enhance his teaching skills.

BA, MA, PGCE, TESOL 

Daniel holds a BA in Philosophy from Lancaster University, an MA in Global Learning and Development Education from University College London, a PGCE from the University of Sunderland, and a TESOL Certificate from Windsor College Barcelona.

With over fifteen years of experience, Daniel specializes in tutoring students for various examinations, including IELTS, TOEFL, A Level, and GCSE. He possesses extensive knowledge in all aspects of examination preparation. Many of his students have successfully gained admission to prestigious institutions such as Oxbridge and top 30 universities in the United States.

In addition to being a teacher of English, Daniel serves as the Head of Year 9, providing pastoral support and effectively guiding the transition to Key Stage 4. He ensures that students receive the necessary care and support during this crucial stage of their education.

Daniel has worked in both British and American education systems, gaining valuable experience. He taught literature at an American High School in Shanghai and served as an English teacher at the leading bilingual secondary school in Qingdao. As a teacher, his expertise lies in teaching writing, with a particular emphasis on academic writing.

Daniel's dedication to his students' success, his proficiency in examination preparation, and his commitment to pastoral care make him a valuable asset to our school community.

BSc

Daniel is excited to join BSB Shunyi in August 2022 as Design Technology Teacher and Head of Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11). He has a Bachelor of Science in Product Design Engineering from Brunel University London.

Over his teaching career, Daniel has always shown a passion for a high level of teaching and learning practice as well as a drive to enable students to access every element of the design curriculum at all levels including KS3, IGCSE and IBDP.

Though working as a Head of Year at BSB and also a Head of Department in his previous school, Daniel truly believes that student progress lies in both quality of teaching and supporting a child’s wellbeing and this is something he focuses on within his teaching.

Christopher is from England and has worked as a teacher for over 14 years. He has primarily taught high school and university students, supporting them in achieving success in international examinations and securing placements at top universities worldwide. In addition to his role as an English teacher, Christopher has taken on the position of Assistant Key Stage 4 Leader, where his dedication to student learning and pastoral care has made a significant impact on the cohort.

He obtained a Bachelor's degree in English Language & Literature with Journalism from the University of Wales and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Sunderland. Christopher also holds a Certificate of English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA) from the University of Cambridge's English Language Assessment, along with IB Category 1 Training.

Furthermore, Christopher has valuable experience as an IELTS examiner for the British Council, contributing to his deep understanding of language proficiency assessment. Beyond his teaching career, he has ventured into writing and successfully published a book detailing his cultural experiences in China. Christopher continues to pursue writing during his spare time, further enhancing his creative abilities.

BA, MA, PhD

Esther holds a PhD in Comparative Literature from Peking University, a Master's degree in Comparative Literature from Seoul National University, and a Bachelor's degree in Russian literature from Korea University. She possesses a keen interest in various academic fields, including Comparative Literature, Cultural Studies, Film Studies, and Women's Studies.

After completing her doctorate in 2013, Esther underwent a Teacher training programme for the Korean language at Seoul National University. She subsequently taught Literature, Film Studies, and Women's Studies at prestigious institutions such as Yonsei University and Hanyang University in Korea. In 2016, she relocated to Beijing with her family and joined Beijing BISS International School as an IB MYP and IBDP teacher of Korean Language and Literature. At BISS, Esther also took on significant responsibilities, serving as the IBDP Coordinator and TOK teacher and Coordinator. Her expertise in IB education extends beyond the classroom, as she is an active member of the IB Educators Network, contributing as a School Visit Team Member and Workshop Leader. Furthermore, Esther successfully prepared and led the IB evaluation visit for the IBDP programme at BISS in 2019.

Demonstrating her commitment to continuous growth and professional development, Esther recently completed the Certificate Programme in Advanced Education Leadership at Harvard Graduate School of Education. Her aim in pursuing this programme was to enhance her support for her IBDP colleagues and students as a programme leader. As an educator, Esther possesses a strong passion for nurturing and inspiring young minds, encouraging them to become inquisitive, knowledgeable, and compassionate lifelong learners capable of making positive contributions to the world. She eagerly looks forward to learning and growing alongside her students and colleagues at BSB Shunyi.

In addition to her dedication to education, Esther harbours great passions for music, dancing, and reading a wide array of books. Language is another realm that captivates her, as she is proficient in five languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian. If time permits, she aspires to embark on the journey of learning Spanish in the future.

BA (Hons), PGCE, TESOL

Stephen is from the UK and completed his Bachelor’s degree in Modern Languages in Newcastle University, and later earned his PGCE in Modern Languages teaching qualifications in Cheltenham and Nottingham. He has worked in international schools in Russia and the UK before moving to China.

Stephen came to China in 2014 and has taught IGCSE English, IBDP English B and English A Language and Literature. He joined BSB in 2020 because he was impressed by its culture of “Be Ambitious”. He enjoys challenging students with high-level, idiomatic and colloquial language.

Stephen is here in China with his wife Charlotte - from Harbin – and little daughter Annie. In his free time he is guitar mad. He plays in a rock band, and loves building and customising guitars. His other passion is language. He speaks Russian and French, and hopes to one day become a fluent Chinese speaker!

BA

Valentina has 20+ years of experience in education both as a teacher and as a school counselor and has spent her entire career teaching at international schools. Her former students currently study or finished their studies at the most prestigious universities in the world with many of them choosing psychology as their main discipline.

Being a life-long learner, Valentina regularly undertakes courses related to educational psychology, teaching and counseling and she is also an IB Psychology examiner. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, a Specialist in Educational Psychology from the Macedonian Chamber of Psychologists and is a Counselor in Systemic Family Therapy from EFTA (European Family Therapy Association). She's currently pursuing a MA in Philosophy at the Institute of Social Sciences and Humanities, Skopje.

On a personal note, Valentina arrived in Beijing in 2018 and her family joined her a year later. Prior to joining BSB Shunyi in August 2022, she worked at Nord Anglia School Beijing Fangshan. Currently, both her children are BSB students. The appreciation they have for their teachers and the enthusiasm they show for learning make Valentina both happy and excited to be a part of such an amazing school.

BA (Hons), TESOL, QTS

Anna graduated from Dartington College of Arts with a degree in Music and Arts Management. As a graduate she came to China with VSO and taught English to university students. After returning to England she taught ESOL at the local adult community college. During this time she gained an adult teaching qualification. Due to her teaching experience, Anna was accepted onto the Essex Graduate Teacher Training Programme and was awarded her QTS. She gained her Primary Teaching experience working in a large primary school in Essex.

Following this, she and her family made the professional decision to move into the international school’s arena. For two years she taught a year 6 class in an international school in North East China. This experience provided her with a positive insight into the cultural and intellectual traditions of China and in 2016, she joined BSB Shunyi in the vibrant and exciting Chinese capital.

Anna is from Leigh-On-Sea in Essex which is a lively sea-side town. She has travelled in Europe and in Asia and has plans to travel and experience as much of China as she can. At university she studied music and is a keen flutist. She enjoys reading and going to concerts. She has two boys and they are starting to get the hang of speaking Chinese. As a family, they enjoy hiking, cycling and going to museums.

BSc, PGDE, QTS

Cyneric is thrilled to be part of BSB Shunyi as the Secondary Curriculum Leader of Mathematics. With over 9 years of teaching experience, Cyneric has held various middle leadership positions in mathematics education both in the UK and Kuwait, providing valuable insights into working with international students. Cyneric has a BSc. in Mathematics and Economics from the University of Reading, QTS from Hibernia College and a PGDE from University of Glasgow.

Cyneric's passion for mathematics education stems from a deep desire to help students develop essential problem-solving, critical thinking, and logical reasoning skills. Recognising that mathematics extends beyond the classroom, Cyneric passionately believes that mathematics equips students with invaluable life skills. Through years of teaching and leading mathematics departments, Cyneric has honed a deep understanding of the importance of a well-structured and well-planned mathematics curriculum, aligning perfectly with the vision of BSB.

As the Curriculum Leader for the Mathematics department at BSB, Cyneric is excited to bring a wealth of experience to the role. Her vision for the department is in alignment with the school's commitment to fostering creativity, curiosity and a passion for learning. She is dedicated to ensuring that every student at BSB receives an exceptional experience in maths that prepares them for future success.

Cyneric made the decision to relocate to China with their family, choosing BSB as the educational institution for her own children. She believes that BSB offers the best education and opportunities, reinforcing her commitment to the school's mission.

Outside of the academic sphere, Cyneric has a range of hobbies that bring her joy and fulfilment. Cooking is a therapeutic and creative outlet, allowing her to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Singing is another passion, providing a means to connect with others on an emotional level. Travelling in Asia is an exciting prospect for Cyneric, who enjoys exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and meeting new people. Lastly, watching movies is a favorite pastime that allows her to unwind and escape into captivating stories.

Cyneric's dedication to mathematics education, combined with her personal interests and commitment to the BSB community, makes them a valuable addition to the school's faculty. She looks forward to contributing her expertise and ensuring that every student at BSB receives an outstanding mathematics education in a diverse and multicultural environment.

Daren came to Beijing in 2017 to start a music programme at a brand-new school. He is to be seen regularly performing in Beijing with the city’s leading jazz artists. He has furthermore released many recordings including eight of his own projects.

Master's degree, PGCE

Throughout David's teaching career since 2006, he has been a teacher of Design & Technology and Head of Department. He has taught in both state comprehensive and state grammar schools in the UK and independent schools in Dubai UAE. He has experience in teaching Resistant Materials, Systems & Control, Electronics and Food Technology within the subject from Year 7 to Year 13.

Having spent all of his non-teaching career in engineering, David is passionate about the positive contribution Science and Engineering makes to our modern society and constantly endeavour to instill the same sense of purpose in the students he teaches. Having that sense of purpose while making the process of design and making fun is key to engaging young people in what is a very worthwhile subject.

David is originally trained as a Mechanical Engineering moving into Electrical and Electronic Engineering in the Energy Sector which has allowed him to work both in the UK and overseas. He studied for a PGCE in Design & Technology at Greenwich University in London and also hold a Master's Degree in Business from Sheffield Hallam University in the UK.

As a teacher much of his spare time has been taken with school related activities such as running a Kart Club and after school sessions for students and parents. He also enjoys walking and the occasional round of golf.

BA, MEd

With over 15 years of teaching experience and a diverse educational background, James brings a unique perspective to the classroom that is sure to ignite a love for learning in his students. At the core of James's teaching philosophy is the belief in creating an inclusive and collaborative environment where every student's voice is valued. James has an undergraduate degree in History, English, and Politics from the University of Toronto and a Master of Education from D'Youville College.

James is passionate about nurturing student agency, recognising its transformative power in shaping young minds. By fostering a safe and supportive space, he encourages students to express their ideas and opinions freely, knowing that they play a pivotal role in their own educational journey. James believes in personalising learning so that his students can unlock their potential, empowering them to become active participants and architects of their own success.

Beyond the classroom, James has always found inspiration in the world of sports. The thrill of competition, the camaraderie of teammates, and the lessons learned from both victory and defeat have shaped his character. He believes that these experiences offer invaluable life lessons, teaching the importance of resilience, teamwork, and the joy of shared moments with loved ones. It is through these moments of triumph and setback that James and his students discover the true meaning of the journey.

BA, Masters, PGCE

Lara completed a bachelor’s degree in Spanish Linguistics and Literature at the Autonomous University of Barcelona. She obtained her CAP in Teaching Languages and Literature, specialising in Spanish, at the same university (equivalent to PGCE). In 2011, she earned a Masters in Spanish Language Teaching from the University of Barcelona.

Prior to joining BSB Shunyi, Lara taught Language and Literature in Spain before embarking on an overseas teaching journey. She worked as a Spanish teacher at the University Language Centre and Orono High School in Minnesota, USA. In 2004, she secured a lecturer position at Jilin University in China, and eight years ago she commenced her career as a Modern Foreign Languages teacher at International Schools.

Lara is a trained IB Diploma Programme teacher, having instructed IB Spanish Ab Initio and Language B, as well as IGCSE Spanish, for several years in Beijing. Joining BSB in 2018 presented a wonderful opportunity for her professional growth.

Originally from a city near the Mediterranean Sea, Lara appreciates her life in Beijing, where she resides with her husband and son. However, they eagerly seize the chance to spend summers by the ocean. She finds enjoyment in running in Ritan Park, one of her favorite spots in Beijing, and indulges in reading. Currently, Lara aspires to complete the Great Wall Half-Marathon and enhance her proficiency in the French language. She is currently engrossed in reading books by Patrick Modiano and revisiting classic movies by Leo Carax, Éric Rohmer, and Krzysztof Kieślowski.

BA (Hons), PGCE, TESOL 

Mark has over 15 years of experience as an EAL teacher, both in China and the UK. Before coming to China, he taught at Sheffield Hallam University and later took on the role of managing an English programme in Beijing. Throughout his career, Mark has taught in high schools and universities, and has conducted numerous teacher training sessions.

Mark joined BSB in March 2014 and has thoroughly enjoyed his time at the school. He has had the privilege of teaching exceptional students, and his qualifications as an examiner for various Cambridge University examinations have been valuable assets in the classroom.

He holds a BA (Hons) in Fine Art - Upper Second from Sheffield Hallam University, a TESOL Certificate from Trinity College London, a Post Graduate Certificate in TESOL from Sheffield Hallam University, as well as certifications as a Cambridge Main Suite Examiner and a Cambridge English - Train the Teacher Certificate.

In Mark's EAL students gain confidence and develop the skills to overcome academic and social challenges by taking control of their own learning. He designs innovative and exciting lessons and tasks that empower students to take the lead. Peer-led activities are an integral part of his approach, ensuring that all students play important roles in the class, regardless of their language ability.

At BSB, students are encouraged to recognise their importance within the school community and the value of their views and opinions. Mark's EAL program equips students with the confidence to apply what they have learned in mainstream lessons and academic areas that they previously found challenging. As a result, our students can proudly contribute as valuable members of both the school and the wider community.

Outside of the classroom, Mark is a dedicated parent to two children. He finds joy in activities such as biking, hiking, and cooking. Additionally, he has a passion for music and has performed locally as part of a band. Mark also enjoys jogging, particularly in the Olympic Park in Beijing, where he appreciates the challenging inclines and the opportunity to indulge in a treat from one of the ice cream kiosks.

BA (Hons), MSc, PGCE, MEd, IBEC

Michael studied at the University of Ghana where he completed his BA (Hons) degree in Geography and Resource Development with Political Science. He later moved to the UK where he pursued an MSc in Internet Technologies at the University of Bedfordshire, then followed by his PGCE with a Geography major at the University of Hertfordshire. He has currently completed his Master’s in Educational Leadership with distinction at the University of Dundee and also holds an IB educator certificate. Michael has been teaching at secondary level since 2004 from KS3 through to KS5. Apart from Geography, he has also taught History, Politics, ICT and Global Perspectives at various levels.

In 2011 Michael took the middle leader's course at the National College for Teaching and Leadership to prepare him for middle leadership. He held the post of head of department for 5 years until he decided to move overseas to China to start his international teaching career in 2018. Once he moved to China, he took up the role of coordinator for his school's Somerset overseas educational programme that immersed students into cultural and bilingual experiences in the UK to broaden their understanding on the world around them.

Michael took the decision to move to China because he wanted to explore and expose his children to a world of cultures and opportunities and to nurture and develop them into truly global citizens. Michael joined BSB in 2019, his second international post in China. What attracts him the most to BSB, is the multicultural student and staff composition, a perfect recipe for true global learning.

In his spare time, Michael likes to catch up with the latest news updates where he gets ideas to bring the world into the classroom. He is passionate about technology but also likes to travel and go out with his family to explore local cuisine. He is married with two children who are both in BSB.

BA (Hons), PGCE

Richard attended Carnegie (Leeds Metropolitan University) and was awarded a BA (Hons) degree in Human Movement Studies (Sports Science). This was followed with a PGCE in PE and Maths at Exeter University (St Lukes) and he qualified as a teacher in 1992. He has worked in the independent sector in the UK for 23 years, his last post as Head of PE at Dragon School, Oxford. In 2015 Richard and his family decided to move to Bangkok and was Head Swim Coach at Bangkok Patana School.

Richard is a qualified Swim Coach and also hold coaching qualifications in many other sports. His specialist area is Aquatics having represented GB U17 and England U19, and swam the Olympic Trials in ‘88 as an athlete. During his career he has coached the English Schools National Swim Team at three World Schools and numerous European Schools events, as well as working with a number of National and International standard Youth Age athletes in both the UK and Thailand. He is looking forward to working with the students here at BSB to further develop the Aquatics programme and team at the school, and work in the PE department.

Richard joined BSB in August 2017 and his wife and two children have since enjoyed living here in Beijing and being part of the BSB community. As a family they have enjoyed travelling to many countries in SE Asia and hope to enjoy a few more in Asia in the future.

Richard enjoys all aspects of sport including cycling, swimming, watching live sport and trying to attend major sporting tournaments when time allows. Going to the London Olympics and Glasgow Commonwealth Games to watch the events was inspiring. He has taken part in a few triathlons and would like to try to do a few more if possible. He enjoys watching movies, eating out at restaurants and going to concerts as well.