In 2006 I moved to the beautiful Moray Firth in Scotland and specialized as a Support for Learning Teacher in Elgin. This led on to my appointment at the British International School of Houston in 2007 as SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). Since then, as our school has grown so too has my role, which now encompasses coordinating support for our students for whom English is an additional language.
I have a strong commitment to my personal and professional development, and have completed both the WCL Middle Leadership and International Leadership and Management Program, which is accredited by ECIS and NAHT, since joining the British International School of Houston. This has allowed me to continually challenge my own ideas and philosophy on learning and strive towards practice that is based on the most up to date educational research and thinking.
A passion of mine is Philosophy for Children, and I regularly run an after school club called ‘Big Questions’ which introduces Key Stage One children to the principles of philosophical inquiry and quality question asking skills. I have also been involved in establishing a student support group at our school called ‘Dyslexia United’ who are involved in raising awareness about learning differences across the school community and who participate in fundraising for their chosen charity, the British Dyslexia Organisation.
I live in Houston with my husband and our daughter, who is very proud to be a student at the British International School of Houston. We greatly value being part of the BISH community and like to get involved in events throughout the year. Houston has proven to be the perfect base to indulge in our family’s passion for travel both within and outside of the US and we are always looking for new places to explore. As a family, we enjoy spending time participating in the vast array of family orientated activities that Houston has to offer, including supporting our daughter as she plays in a local soccer programme and visiting the many museums and galleries on offer here.
What the students say about me
‘Mrs Averette is a one of a kind teacher.’ Year 6 student
"She is a very helpful, nice and funny teacher. Whenever I don’t understand what something means, she teaches me in an easier way." Year 6 student
"Mrs Averette is an amazing teacher. She has helped me to improve a lot, I feel like I can do Maths now." Year 6 student
"We owe Gemma Averette a huge debt of thanks for her untiring support for our son, and her tireless enthusiasm and compassion for all under her support wing, and their families is immeasurable." Parent, Year 11 student
This School is different to all others I have worked at because…
This school is different to all others I have worked at because of the way that diversity and individuality are embraced and celebrated. It is truly an enriching experience for all those that have involvement with our school and is something that visitors repeatedly comment on.