Having graduated with a degree in Sociology and Social Psychology, my early career involved working with adults and young people with learning differences. From here I decided that my passion lay firmly in education and I embarked upon a Post Graduate Certificate in Primary Education at Manchester Metropolitan University. I began teaching in my home town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, where I enjoyed teaching students across the Primary phase and held a range of additional leadership posts that included Art Coordinator, and Coordinator for Gifted and Talented students. It was at that time that I became part of the Excellence in Cities initiative, representing a cluster of local Primary schools in helping to raise the profile of AGT learners across the city of Newcastle. This initiative also included the completion of additional training through Oxford Brooks University and a Certificate in Advanced Professional Studies.
From here, I moved to the beautiful Moray Firth in Scotland, teaching the Curriculum for Excellence, and specializing as a Support for Learning Teacher in Elgin. Working with students from P1-P7 and supporting transition of our students into the local secondary school. In 2007 I moved to Houston and joined the ‘British School of Houston’ as a Year 2 Class Teacher and the school’s Special Educational Needs Coordinator. At the time, the school had just 350 students, and it has been my privilege to be part of the school’s journey and growth over the last 11 years. As our school grew, I have been fortunate enough to hold several leadership positions; Learning Support Coordinator, Assistant Headteacher, Director of Wellbeing and this year Deputy Head teacher of our Secondary School and now it is my privilege to serve our school as the Headteacher of the Primary School..
I have a firm commitment to personal and professional growth, and have completed several internationally recognized leadership programs, including; Fieldwork Education’s Middle Leadership Programme, the International Leadership and Management Program-accredited by ECIS and NAHT and more recently I began the Nord Anglia Education Senior Leadership Programme. These opportunities have not only allowed me to continually challenge my own ideas and philosophy on learning, striving towards practice that is based on the most up to date educational research and thinking, but has provided me with valuable leadership and management learning and experience.
I am not only passionate about the education of our students but also the wellbeing, social and emotional health of children. One of the things that I value most about being part of BISH has been the opportunity for me to work with students of all ages, at all stages of their development across the school. Nothing gives me greater pride than watching the graduation of students with whom I have worked since their primary years. Not only the pride of having achieved their diploma and secured university places, but also pride in the wonderful young adults that they have become and their desire to make a difference in the world.
I live in Houston with my daughter, who is very proud to be a student at the British International School of Houston, and has been since the age of three. We greatly value being part of the BISH community and like to get involved in the many events throughout the year.
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.