how we teach

Over the past 26 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving young people, their families, and dedicated educational professionals. My career in education began in secondary schools in the UK — known as middle and high schools, in the US — where I taught students between the ages of 11 and 18 in the North of England. During this time, I was given the opportunity to lead others as Head of Department.

Although I found the world of education exciting, I was also drawn to the real world, prompting me to take a break to travel the world twice in my late twenties. Upon my return, I pursued a teaching position in a primary school, where I developed a love for learning while exploring early years education. I quickly moved through various leadership roles, culminating in my appointment as Vice Principal and then Principal — a position I’ve held for over 15 years.

My experience in teaching and leading across different age groups, from 2-year-olds to 18-year-olds, has given me a unique perspective on the educational journey that children take toward a successful life. I’m proud to have played a role in guiding hundreds of young people through their journey.

Spending time with children and seeing the world from their perspective has always been my passion. I believe that with the right level of guidance and practice, it’s possible to learn to do most things in life, and even become proficient at them. As such, I enjoy trying new things, including my recent passion for DIY and furniture building for the home and garden. I’m also passionate about traveling and exploring new places and being in the US has provided me with an excellent platform for this.

My teaching career began in 1993, in my hometown in Scotland, after completing my undergraduate degree at Strathclyde University. Then, in the 1997–98 academic year, I was delighted to participate in a Fulbright exchange program, which had a profound impact on me, both personally and professionally. Later in 2004, I graduated from Aberdeen University in Scotland with a Master’s in Education.

Two years after completing my Fulbright exchange, I joined the British Schools of America in Houston, Texas, and I’ve been with the schools ever since. I moved to Charlotte to help open the British International School of Charlotte, where I’m grateful to work with an amazing team of dedicated educators committed to the growth of our students. Every day, I learn something new and feel privileged to work with such a talented individuals.

My husband and I, along with our growing family, live close to the school. We have two adorable shepherd mix dogs, whom we picked up as puppies from the Greenville Humane Society in August 2013. Our son, Luke, was born in 2014, and while I am proud of my Scottish roots, I am equally proud to be part of a Southern family.

What sets the British International School of Charlotte apart from other schools is our team's composition and mindset. We have a culture of open mindsets, continuous learning, and sharing expertise, which leads our students to make amazing progress.

I began my teaching career in 2006 after graduating from the University of Birmingham in England with a Bachelor of Honors in History. I then pursued a teaching degree in Primary Education and qualified in 2007. Over the years, I have taught in three very different schools in the UK, including an urban school, where I taught Year 2 and Year 6. This experience fueled my desire to ensure that every child receives the best possible education. I also became an Advanced Skills Teacher, teaching and supporting the development of other educators across various schools in Birmingham.

During my last five years in the UK, I served as Deputy Head Teacher for an outstanding school in Brentwood, Essex, England. I was also an educational consultant, providing school development support and training across London and Essex.

In 2017, I fulfilled my dream of living in the USA and joined Nord Anglia International School New York. Initially, I worked as a Primary Class Teacher and then progressed to the role of Deputy Head Teacher. It has been a privilege to be a part of the Nord Anglia international schools’ family, and I enjoyed experiencing everything that New York City has to offer.

Aside from teaching, I am an avid American sports fan, with a particular interest in football. I enjoy writing and have even worked as an amateur football writer, which led to a guest reporter role for the New York Jets. My husband and I love traveling to different states to watch sports and sample the local cuisine, and we aim to visit all 50 states eventually. I also enjoy running half marathons!

I’m excited to join the BISC team and community in Charlotte. Nord Anglia Education's personalized approach to teaching and learning aligns with my passion for delivering an exciting and engaging curriculum that allows every child to reach their full potential.

After graduating from college in London, England, I worked as a Product Development Technologist for Nabisco, where I gained valuable project management experience. However, my ultimate goal was always to become a teacher. I trained to teach Sciences at Southampton University in England and taught in that subject area for several years. However, when I went on a teaching exchange to Sydney, Australia, I discovered a love for teaching mathematics. I found it challenging to bring such a cerebral subject to life with purpose and understanding, which motivated me to pursue my Master's in Mathematics Education and Leadership.

While I enjoy traveling and new experiences, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to teach both mathematics and science at the British International School of Charlotte. As the leader of our highly skilled team of Middle and High School (Secondary) teachers, I focus on understanding leadership, including the link between great leadership and great learning. Our curricula, which culminate in the IB Diploma, provide global, ethical, and relevant educational experiences that engage all our teachers and students.

Our emphasis on personalization and attention to the learner's needs creates a stimulating and rewarding environment. Witnessing our students' daily progress, their growing confidence, and the development of their skills gives the school a true learning-centered ethos. Our school caters to students from the ages of 18 months to 18 years and seeing them come together for celebrations and specific learning events gives everyone a broader and more enriching experience of what it means to belong to our school.