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Asma has extensive experience and qualifica-
tions. Her BA Arabic from Hashemite Universi-
ty, Amman, Jordan was impressive: the top
grade in her final year and a place on the hon-
ours boards of the university. Since then she
has enjoyed wide experience, teaching at the
United Nations School, Amman, before moving
to Abu Dhabi, where she has taught in various
schools across the curriculums. Her most re-
cent post, a four year stint at British Interna-
tional School Abu Dhabi, has seen her promoted
to Arabic B Co-ordinator, and she has taught
across the age ranges. Asma has an enviable
track record of courses attended, and she loves
to engage in creative teaching methods, reflec-
tive of the very latest teaching and learning
strategies available within the British curricu-
lum.
Asma writes: “My name is Asma Zabin. I was
born and raised in Jordan. I hold a bachelor de-
gree in Arabic language from the Hashemite
University in Jordan. Besides being a native
speaker of Arabic I have also acquired excellent
teaching skills through extensive University
study from an outstanding university. I have
worked for two years with the United Nations
schools in Jordan and four years with Taleem
Schools in UAE and lately I have worked with
Nord Anglia schools for three years. I am an ex-
aminer for Higher Level Arabic for the Interna-
tional Baccalaureate Diploma course.
English has always been one of my strong skills,
and this enables me to teach further subjects
such as “Special Arabic” and “Special Islamic
Studies”.
Communicating with students and helping
them with their problems is a talent which I
have developed through experience; it was also
Asma Zabin – Arabic Teacher
an area of special focus during my stud-
ies at the university.
I am married and have two daughters
and one son. My daughters are two flow-
ers in my life and my little boy is very
funny and smart. My family brings hap-
piness to me and to my life. My favourite
hobbies are reading, swimming and trav-
elling. I dream of travelling around the
world. I am looking forward to spread-
ing the Arabic language all around the
word and celebrate it everywhere.
I am very excited about joining Cranleigh
School because I know that Cranleigh
School in England has a world wide-
reputation for excellence. I want to play
my part in ensuring that Cranleigh
School, Abu Dhabi soon enjoys a similar
reputation.”
Arabic & Islamic Studies
Married, with four sons, Eman was born and
grew up in Amman in Jordan and graduated
from the University of Jordan, with BA in Art
and Literature specializing in Islamic Studies
and English language. She has worked in both
Amman and in Abu Dhabi and is joining us from
Al Yasmina. Outside of the classroom, Eman
has taken a leading role organising events such
as National Day, which is thoroughly enjoys.
Eman writes: “For the last four years I have
worked in Al Yasmina School – one of Aldar
Academies as a teacher of Arabic language as a
second language and an Islamic studies teach-
er . I was an ACTL and got a promotion to be-
come a head of Arabic Department and Curric-
ulum Team Leader for Arabic , Islamic and So-
cial Studies . I have a long and rich experience
which I am enthusiastic to share with my col-
leagues at Cranleigh, I feel proud that I could
take the Muslim children to the deepest of the
Islamic values and ethics .
I taught Arabic for non- natives which I enjoyed
very much and could make it as fun as I could
aiming to make non- native students able to
communicate in Arabic language regardless to
their mother tongue language or the time they
spent in the UAE, and I am an Arabic GCSE ex-
aminations conductor .
My flexibility, self -confidence, and being open-
minded are my best qualities that make every-
body feel happy to work with me.
Eman Al Zubaidi– Arabic Teacher
Due to my long experience and attending
professional development courses and
the tests that I did with excellent results
like Cambridge TKT tests, I have ac-
quired many new teaching skills which
made me updated with new teaching
methods.
Living in Abu Dhabi for long time and
playing the leading role in arranging the
celebrations of the National Day in dif-
ferent schools made me understandable
of the Emirati culture and very apprecia-
tive of this rich culture and very enthusi-
astic to pass it to my students.
I like to spend my free time sewing,
reading, baking and cooking, travelling,
playing table tennis and chess. The most
interesting thing for me is visiting differ-
ent countries with different cultures
such as Malaysia and Thailand in the east
to Italy in the west and some other coun-
tries like Turkey with its rich cultural
sites and most of the Arab countries .I
feel this fulfill my openness to the other
cultures which makes my enjoy working
in a school like Cranleigh where children
come from different and diverse back-
grounds.”
Ghazwa graduated in 1992 with a Bachelor of
Education majoring in Arabic Language and Lit-
erature from the University of Balamand in
Lebanon. Highly experienced, Ghazwa has
been teaching for 15 years in the UAE and will
be joining us from The British School of Al Khu-
bairat where she has been teaching Arabic
across both Primary and Secondary ages.
Ghazwa writes: “My work experience includes
teaching at Cert Higher College of Technology,
Khobairat School, Abu Dhabi International
School, and Rawafed School. My teaching duties
include teaching Arabic as a first of as an addi-
tional language to students ranging from grade
7 to grade 12.
Watching children and youth develop socially
and academically has been the highlight of my
teaching career. I am forever amazed with the
many different learning styles that my students
have. Knowing that their learning style is differ-
ent than mine. I learned that by changing my
teaching style to meet their needs, I was able to
help them develop to their full potential.
My best lessons in writing were the ones where
I co- constructed criterion for assessments with
my students. They were able to take many risks
and wrote with fluency.
I enjoy travelling the world and being intro-
duced to many different cultures. Reading and
writing poetry has been a passion of mine for
many years.
Ghazwa El Kadamani- Arabic Teacher
I am very excited to widen my scope of
teaching experience, and to continue to
develop professionally by using the most
updated technology that will enhance
the quality of teaching performance at
Cranleigh School. I feel that this new
endeavor will enrich my teaching experi-
ence. I am also looking forward to meet
many inspiring students, teachers and
most importantly community members.”
Mai has a degree in Arabic and Islamic Studies teaching from Al Hosn Univerity. She has expe-rience in private as well as school related teach-ing within a local Abu Dhabi setting and her charming demeanour has established her very quickly within the Cranleigh community. Mai writes:
Hello, my name is Mai Abdullah. I am 22 years old and from Jordan. I was born here in Abu Dhabi and have always lived here with my fam-ily. I went to Al Manhal Private School and I graduated from Al Hosn University where I ob-tained a Bachelors degree in Elementary School Education. Previously I worked as both an Ara-bic and Islamic Studies teacher at Deiyafah School in Abu Dhabi.
I have always been passionate about teaching Arabic and Islamic Studies and I enjoy working with children and opening their eyes to differ-ent cultural experiences. In my spare time I like to go swimming at the beach, watching movies, reading news, go for camping trips, fishing and cooking. I especially enjoy making cakes and deserts.
I am very excited about joining the Cranleigh family. I am hoping that in return for my hard work I will gain valuable and enjoyable experi-
Mai Mahmoud Abu Ghoush – Islamic Studies
ences and will become an even better teacher in the future. I am also very ex-cited about being part of the Saadiyat community and witnessing the develop-ment of this incredible island.
Nahed is passionate about providing education to
the highest possible standards using a stimulat-
ing and exciting curriculum. She has worked
hard to make her teaching up to date and in line
with the latest methodologies. Having qualified
with a BA in Arabic from Hashermite University,
Jordan, she has since completed her MA Educa-
tion (in Teaching and Learning) from Liverpool
Hope University. This commitment to excellence
in the classroom has seen her enjoy a highly suc-
cessful career in schools within Jordan and the
UAE, most recently at the British International
School Abu Dhabi, where she is Arabic B Co-
ordinator.
Nahed writes: “My name is Nahed Tuffaha, born
and raised in Amman, Jordan. I’m married with
two sons and one daughter. I obtained a bachelor
degree as class teacher from the Hashemite Uni-
versity of Jordan and now I finally completed my
Master degree in Education teaching and learn-
ing from Liverpool Hope University. I believe that
I’m a passionate educator who is also acutely
aware that I never stop learning.
I’m currently Arabic B coordinator at BISAD and
have been teaching there for the last 3 years, I
acquired 13 years of professional work experi-
ence in teaching Arabic language for native and
non native speakers in several well-known
schools in Jordan and the UAE. I will start my
14th year of teaching at Cranleigh School which
is going to be a lovely experience. I can’t wait to
do so !I will be teaching Arabic for the primary
students using new methods and exciting pro-
grams to allow native and non-native Arabic
speakers to gain far more from their lessons with
greater emphasis on conversation and develop-
ing the spoken language. I would be able to help
Nahed Tuffaha- Arabic Teacher
students achieve high levels of accom-
plishment and intellectual skill and
reach their own true potential. Learning
Arabic should be much more enjoyable
for the beginners and those for whom
Arabic is a second or third language.
I am very excited to be joining the Cran-
leigh team and looking forward to get-
ting to know each other. I defiantly sure
that Cranleigh School has much to teach
me and could enhance my professional
development and give me new and rich
experiences. My husband, the kids and I
are very enthusiastic to start a new
chapter of our lives.”
Sana comes to us with a wealth of international
schools experience, both in the Middle East and
in Canada. Since qualifying with a BA in Arabic
Language from Kuwait University, she taught at
various schools in Kuwait and Abu Dhabi, includ-
ing The British School, Al Khubairat. Several
years with her family in Canada provided oppor-
tunities in management and she became School
Principal of The Muslim Community of Edmon-
ton, Alberta. Sana wants to make the Arabic Lan-
guage lovely for everyone: she is passionate shar-
ing her knowledge and cares deeply about im-
proving the ways it is being taught. She has a
sensitive, creative, modern approach.
Sana writes: “Married with four children, I'm
known for the rapt attentiveness with which I
listen to students and my ability to help them
communicate solely in Arabic regardless of their
proficiency level.
I'm a native Arabic speaker originally from Pales-
tine, graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Arabic
and been in Abu Dhabi on and off since 1994.
I have vast experience teaching Modern Stand-
ard Arabic in Kuwait, Canada and UAE having
taught across all levels and ages.
I'm very excited to be joining Cranleigh. I feel this
is the Academic place I always wanted to be for
so many reasons. For having the largest school
Sana Abu El Oun – Arabic Teacher
campus in Abu Dhabi and for its location
at Saadiyat Island. for the academic cur-
riculum, for the many opportunities
which allows the students to explore
their full range of talents whether in fine
arts, music , sports , science or other ac-
tivities. I look forward to being part of
the Cranleigh family.”
We are delighted that Siham, a local resident of
the UAE, has joined our Arabic Department. Her
excellent qualifications in this subject have been
enhanced by extensive experience in a number of
schools in the UAE, across a wide age range.
She writes: “I am Siham Afaneh from the United
Arab Emirates. I have a Bachelor degree in Ara-
bic Literature from Mutta University in Jordan. I
have been an Arabic Teacher for fourteen years
with extensive experience in the fields of Arabic,
Islamic and Social Studies teaching in the UAE for
both primary and secondary schools. My consid-
erable experience covers all the aspects of teach-
ing and I have the necessary experience and
qualifications to fulfill all the teaching require-
ments. I am extremely passionate about teaching
Arabic.
Cranleigh School looks amazing and I’ve been in-
credibly fortunate to be part of Cranleigh Family.
I believe that Cranleigh School will very quickly
be one of the best educational environments in
Abu Dhabi where I will enjoy applying my teach-
ing skills
I am married and I have two daughters, aged 8
years old and 6 years old as well as a four year
Siham Afaneh- Arabic Teacher
old son. My children are very excited
about becoming pupils at Cranleigh
school!”
Simon holds a BA in Fine Art from Wmbledon
School of Fine Art, a PGCE from Goldsmiths Uni-
versity, London, and he is currently completing
his MA with Manchester Metropolitan University.
He has extensive experience in both the private
and maintained sectors, including King’s College,
Guildford and his current post at St Martin’s
School, Essex, which is rated Outstanding by OF-
STED in every category. He is Head of Art and
Photography. Simon has also lived and taught in
Dubai. He blends traditional skills with outstand-
ing use of the latest technology in art.
Simon writes: “I will be starting at Cranleigh Abu
Dhabi (CAD) in my 14th year of teaching. At the
core of my educational philosophy is a belief that
every learner has an inherent ability to be crea-
tive. It is also my belief that this creativity will
help build pupils/students confidence and en-
courage them to risk take. I will give learners at
CAD the opportunity to create art work, which
will give our school an identity both culturally
and aesthetically. I have worked at a number of
‘outstanding’ schools both in the UK and Dubai. I
have taught learners from 86 nationalities in my
career, which has given me great communication
skills and helped me promote a life-long love of
learning in everyone I have taught.
I am excited about teaching Art at CAD within
Saadiyat Island’s incredible Cultural District. My
Simon Johnson – Head of Art and Housemaster of Zaeem
art pupils/students will gain first-hand
experience of world class galleries/
museums such as: The Louvre Abu Dha-
bi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and The
Zayed National Museum. Aside from
teaching I also have a passion for: long
distance running, playing the bass gui-
tar, mural painting, photography and
exhibiting my own art work.”
Art
Robyn qualified with a Bachelor of Education de-
gree from the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Dur-
ban, South Africa. She has a lot of excellent experi-
ence teaching EAL (English as an additional lan-
guage), firstly at a well known primary school in
Pinetown, South Africa, next at an English school
in Tainan, Taiwan, and finally at an International
Primary school in Abu Dhabi. Robyn also has a lot
of experience in leadership, events management,
and teaching art.
Robyn writes: “I am so excited to be joining the
Cranleigh family and being a part of this amazing
new adventure. I am originally from South Africa
and taught in Durban for 3 years before relocating
to Taiwan to teach. It was while living in Taiwan
that my love for travel, other cultures and coun-
tries grew immensely! I hope to never stop travel-
ing.
I have now been teaching in Abu Dhabi for a year
and look forward to being here for many more.
I have a passion for art and all things creative and
try to bring a lot of creative aspects into the class-
room. One of the great things about Cranleigh is
that we will have the art world right on our door
step. What an amazing place to be! I have recently
become addicted to wake boarding and love being
out on the water.
Robyn Cullen– Art Teacher
I look forward to meeting all of you very
soon, especially the wonderful children I will
have the privilege of teaching.
Khan attended Brunel University, London, where
he qualified with a BEd (Industrial Design). He
has extensive experience in major UK independ-
ent boarding schools (Senior and Preparatory),
as well as a stint in Dubai. His current post at
Sandroyd School sees him leading the boarding
programme as well as D&T: he loves to live the
life of a busy boarding school, as Cranleigh Abu
Dhabi will become. Khan writes: “Previous to my
appointment as Head of Design and Technology
at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi I have been Head of
Boarding and Design and Technology as well as
Houseparent for Year 8 boys at Sandroyd School,
Wiltshire for the past six years. Prior to this I
taught at a British School in Dubai for two years
after moving from Dauntsey's School in Wilt-
shire, having taught there for seven years.
I was born and raised in Australia, hence my pas-
sion for anything and everything outdoors. I
came to the UK at seventeen and completed my
schooling before undertaking my studies at Bru-
nel University where I gained a BA (Ed) Industri-
al Design Technology and Education QTS (Hons)I
am extremely excited to be developing the De-
sign and Technology department at Cranleigh
Abu Dhabi with its superb facilities and integrat-
ing it with the amazing design, technological and
cultural opportunities of Saadiyat Island, Abu
Dhabi and the UAE.
Khan Brewer – Head of Design and Technology
I have a passion for mountain biking,
cars and skiing and am looking forward
to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the op-
portunity of biking in the mountains
near the Omani Border. I am married to
Holly and we have three children, Lily
aged 8, Maisy aged 6, and Alfie aged 3
who will be joining Cranleigh Abu Dhabi
in Year 5, 3 and FS2 respectively. They
all can't wait to arrive!”
Design and Technology
Gareth attended the University of Wales where
he qualified with a BSc in Design Technology
with QTS. When he joins us he will be starting
his eighth year of teaching and is coming to us as
Lead Teacher for Technology and Engineering at
Clarendon Academy in Trowbridge, Wiltshire.
Prior to teaching Gareth had a career as an Aero-
nautical Engineer at Airbus UK where he com-
pleted an Advanced Modern Apprenticeship and
was involved in the design and manufacture of
the breaking and flight systems for the A380,
A340 and A300 passenger aircraft.
Gareth writes: “I am looking forward to working
at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi as my first international
school. This challenge is extremely exciting, and I
look forward to helping to develop the Design
Technology department, and in joining the wider
Cranleigh community.
I was originally born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, but
have lived most of my life in Bristol, England. My
wife Kelly and our 2 year old daughter Sienna
will be moving to AD with me. We are all very ex-
cited about this opportunity and look forward to
experiencing such a diverse culture.
I have a passion for almost all sports (Including
F1!!), and play football, golf, tennis and squash
regularly. I enjoy Canadian Canoeing and have
canoed in Wales, Scotland and Finland. I have al-
so completed a charity canoe trip of over 140
miles travelling from Oxford to Bradford on
Avon.
Gareth Box– Design and Technology Teacher
Another passion of mine is my voluntary
work. Each year I join members of my
football team in Albania where we work
with local churches to support a number
of locally run projects including the Or-
phanage, Street Kid Centre, Football
Camp and Safe House for abused girls.
This work is extremely rewarding and
gives me an opportunity to help those
who really need it.”
Educated at Leeds Girls' High School, Jo then com-
pleted a BA Hons in Drama and Theatre at the Uni-
versity of Wales. Her passion for teaching ignited
at The University of Cambridge, where she com-
pleted her PGCE in English and Drama. Since
qualifying, Jo has enjoyed a stellar career: she has
excellent UK independent school as well as inter-
national school experience, all at top schools. Her
love of boarding and particularly her effervescent
passion for drama teaching was kindled at Gig-
gleswick School, Yorkshire, before igniting on the
big stage of Garden International School, Kuala
Lumpar. She is currently Head of Drama Faculty
of St. Christopher's, Bahrain. Expect to see the
Cranleigh stage light up under Jo's directorship!
Jo Writes: “Teaching Drama has taken me to di-
verse and exciting places. Prior to spending the
last 2 years in Bahrain, I had 6 years in bustling
Kuala Lumpur enjoying travels through the Far
East and time with the Chinese Malaysian side of
my family. By contrast, my first 4 years of teaching
were at a beautiful boarding school in North York-
shire with the comedy name of Giggleswick. I en-
joy travel, scuba diving and photography but am
passionate about Drama and love creative collabo-
ration. I am incredibly excited about moving to
Abu Dhabi and starting the Drama Department at
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi. The potential of having the
Louvre, Guggenheim and Performing Arts Centre
on our doorstep will be a wonderful opportunity
for students and staff.
Jo Lee – Head of Drama
I did a little dance of joy when I saw the
architect’s plans for the performance
spaces now being built at CAD. They will
be the most professional, well equipped,
school facility I have ever worked in. I
greatly look forward to seeing what we
will be able to achieve in the coming
years. You never forget the Drama Per-
formances you do at school!”
Drama
Ross holds a BA in Fine Art from Coventry Univer-
sity and a PGCE from Exeter University. After
completing five years in his first post, he worked
as a professional performer for four years gaining
experience in theatre, television and film. Ross
has spent the last three years at Sherborne Qatar
where he has been Head of Drama and a House-
master. Recently he has coordinated and hosted
the highly esteemed BSME Performing Arts Festi-
val.
Ross writes: “I am so lucky to be a teacher and to
have found a vocation that I love. The experiences
I have had in both Drama and the pastoral world
have given me a wonderful and rounded educa-
tional experience and I am very excited to start
Ross Mitchell– Drama Teacher
the next chapter at Cranleigh, Abu Dhabi.
Ever since the CAD project began I have
kept an eye on it waiting for the right op-
portunity and am delighted to be part of
it for this coming academic year and the
future. My young family and I are ready
for our Abu Dhabi experience to begin
and we are both excited to start work
with the already thriving pupils and staff
at Cranleigh, Abu Dhabi; so proud to be
part of it.'
Educated at the University of Oxford (where she is currently completing her MSc Learning and Teaching), Anna also has impressive qualifica-tions in English, Drama and Psychology from Manchester University and The Open Universi-ty. She has extensive UK independent school as well as international school experience, includ-ing The British School, Al Khubairat in Abu Dha-bi and St Edward’s Preparatory School in Berk-shire. Her teaching has covered Primary as well as secondary through to A Levels, in both Eng-lish and Drama. Anna writes: “I grew up in Abu Dhabi and am delighted to return to be a part of the Cranleigh start-up. As a child I attended Al Khubairat and then went on to boarding school in Sussex. An-other family move took us to Rome where I had the opportunity to learn Italian and explore this amazing city. I read Drama at Manchester Uni-versity where I developed my passion for Shakespeare and Restoration Theatre within the English and Drama Faculties. After many more travels and delivering community work-shops throughout India I returned to Manches-ter to do a PGCE in English and Drama at sec-ondary level.
Throughout my career I have headed up both English and Performing Arts faculties. I have been an A ‘Level and GCSE examiner and mod-
Anna McGarry – Head of Teaching & Learning, Head of English
erator since 2003. I have also been a Governor at an ‘Outstanding’ primary and write regularly for professional Ed-ucation magazines in the Independent Sector. My research in teaching and learning at Oxford continues to chal-lenge my practice and I love to take a considered and research-based ap-proach to my work.”
English
Anna was brought up in Oxford, and studied
English Literature at the University of Birming-
ham, where she also completed her Masters.
Since then she has taught in some top inde-
pendent schools both in the UK as well as
abroad. Anna has also trained to be a school
inspector, adding to her repertoire of skills!
Anna writes: “My parents were huge fans of the
Royal Shakespeare Company, and from a young
age I was lucky enough to be taken to see al-
most every production at the theatre in Strat-
ford. This certainly had a magical effect on me,
as I chose to study for an MA in Shakespeare:
Text and Performance at the Shakespeare Insti-
tute in Stratford upon Avon. My passion for
Shakespeare, and all things theatrical, continues
to this day.
My first teaching position was at Wellington
College, where I stayed for ten years. Here I
learnt the value of the boarding experience, and
reaslised how important co-curricular opportu-
nities are to an all-round education. In addition
to teaching English and directing school pro-
ductions, I was also a resident tutor in both
boys’ and girls’ boarding houses. I also com-
pleted my PGCSE at Roehampton, and took part
in a one year exchange to Knox Grammar School
in Sydney.
As a result of my travels in Australia and SE
Asia, I really caught the travel bug, and I spent
the next ten years teaching overseas. My first
post was in Qatar, and I was immediately en-
chanted and intrigued by the Middle Eastern
culture and landscape. During this time I had
the opportunity to travel frequently to Abu
Anna Lord– English Teacher
Dhabi, and it always stayed in my mind
as a place to which I would love to re-
turn. From Qatar I spent five years as
Head of English in Grand Cayman, and
then travelled to Athens where I was
able to extend my teaching repertoire to
include the International Baccalaureate.
Having tired a little of the sun, at least
temporarily, I returned to the UK to
teach at Windermere School, where I
have been working for the past five
years.”
Denzil attended the University of Cape Town
where he qualified with a BA (Hons) degree ma-
joring in English, History and Environmental &
Geographical Science. He then went to London
to complete his teacher training in London.
Denzil has a wide range of experience teaching
in primary, secondary and independent schools
in South Africa and the UK. In his current em-
ployment at Halstead Preparatory School in
Woking he has held both Head of Humanities
and Head of English on different occasions.
Denzil writes: “I am passionate about the power
of language, grammar and the spoken word and
teaching children the tools of effective written
communication particularly in persuasive and
explanatory writing. In all my years of teaching
I have run successful Debating Clubs. In my first
teaching job in South Africa, I led debating
groups which reached the quarter and semi-
finals in the provincial English debating compe-
titions in Cape Town. Most recently I coached
seven enthusiastic young party leaders in a
mock UK general election. This was followed by
a vote with traditional ballot papers and boxes.
I love poetry and I firmly believe that teaching
children how to write effective poetry is the key
to igniting children’s interest in language and
extensive prose. I enjoy classic literature and
teaching children how to write in different gen-
res such as fantasy and science fiction.
I love the outdoors and I have led countless res-
idential trips of Year 5s and 6s to the Isle of
Wight and the Brecon Beacons in Wales taking
part in field study activities and more adven-
turous ones like abseiling, canoeing and caving.
This interest arises out of my growing up in dif-
ferent rural areas of South Africa.
I enjoy sport and I have coached boys’ hockey,
girls’ cricket and football over the years. I am a
Denzil Coulson– English Teacher
keen cricket fan and I am looking for-
ward to watching matches at the famous
Sharjah stadium.
In my spare time I have served as the
Chair of the Teaching and Learning Com-
mittee on the Governing Body of a local
state school in Woking and helped the
curriculum development of the school
shortly after it attained academy status. I
was elected three times to Woking Bor-
ough Council over the last ten years,
chairing housing and scrutiny commit-
tees.
I have two little girls, Alannah, 2 and
Alizah, 1, and my wife and I are looking
forward to joining Cranleigh and raising
our young family in Abu Dhabi.
Heidi qualified with a BA from Durham University
and a PGCE from Exeter University. Since them
Heidi has taught in some top UK independent
schools and most recently, Malvern College, where
she has been based for an impressive 13 years!
Outside of the classroom Heidi has immersed her-
self in the pastoral aspect of a school as a member
of the schools boarding team; a role that will stand
her in good stead here at Cranleigh.
Heidi writes: “I am a hugely experienced, enthusi-
astic, forward-looking teacher of English. I have
spent most of my professional life working in Brit-
ish public schools, enjoying the busy and stimulat-
ing environment of a boarding school and engag-
ing with students not only in the classroom but al-
so in a pastoral and co-curricular environment.
Most recently, I have worked at Malvern College
UK for the past 13 years, where there are as many
international as British students, so I am sure I will
feel very at home at Cranleigh with its multicultur-
al community.
I am passionate about maintaining high academic
standards, enabling each child to thrive and make
progress through embracing current teaching
methods; I am very interested in independent
learning and empowering students to think for
themselves: lessons with me will challenge your
child to ask questions and think analytically and
critically about literature, and the world around
them through consideration of the power of the
mass media such as advertising and public speech-
es, where appropriate. When they start probing
and evaluating what they see and read around
them, you will know they have been paying atten-
tion! Try taking the adjectives out of descriptions
of food on menus and packaging and see just how
Heidi Andrews– English Teacher
appealing it looks after that! We are swayed
by language all the time.
Outside of the academic sphere, I have es-
tablished the National Schools Equestrian
Association Riding Team, at Malvern, in col-
laboration with a parent. I organised spe-
cialist branded kit and liaised with the PE
department to ensure school recognition
such as Colours, team photos. Obviously, I
am hoping to get involved with equestrian-
ism here at Cranleigh! My other interests
and hobbies include: tap dancing, running,
gardening, wild birds and of course- read-
ing.
The pastoral aspect of teaching is very im-
portant to me: I enjoy developing a friendly
and personal relationship with each student
which not only supports them in their aca-
Having represented England as a Sprint Hurdler
(Athletics), Helen had to make a choice between
international sport and teaching: we are delighted
she chose the latter! After qualifying with a BA
QTS Primary Education from Liverpool Hope Uni-
versity, Helen has since gone on to teach at two
excellent primary schools in the Liverpool Wirral
area. She has extensive sporting qualifications in
addition to her teaching pedigree and loves to be
involved in the extra-curricular life of the school.
Helen writes: “I am extremely excited to be begin-
ning a new chapter with the Cranleigh team in
September! I have a passion for lifelong learning,
love working with children and for the last three
years have had the pleasure of teaching Years 4
and 5. My belief is that children should be in-
volved in their learning and I strive to put the per-
sonal experience of every child at the heart of eve-
rything I do.
Sport has always been an important aspect of my
life. Growing up, I took part in a wide variety of
sports, before concentrating on athletics and be-
coming an International sprint hurdler. I am also
qualified as a coach in a number of sports. Com-
mitted to the wider life of schools, I look forward
to immersing myself in the extra-curricular activi-
ties at Cranleigh.
In my spare time I keep fit and play netball. As
well as this I enjoy reading and am an avid Man-
chester City fan! I love using my holidays to travel
Helen Asher- English Teacher
to and experience the different cultures
of other countries. I cannot wait to expe-
rience life in Abu Dhabi and am looking
forward to being a part of the effort and
passion going into establishing Cranleigh
as one of the finest schools in the world.”
Laura qualified with a PGCE Secondary English
from Sheffield Hallam University. She is joining us,
along with her husband Ryan, from Dubai where
she has an excellent proven track record within
her department. She has a wide breadth of teach-
ing experience, having taught across Key Stages 3,
4 and 5 in the UK, Middle East, Asia and South
America.
Laura writes: “Having taught English in Qatar and
Dubai for the last six years, I am very excited
about moving to join the team at Cranleigh this
year. I have experience of teaching Key Stages 3, 4
and 5 and have worked at four very successful
schools during my teaching career. I have also
spent time teaching at a Summer School in Malay-
sia as well as a Cultural Centre on the Caribbean
coast of Mexico. Teaching overseas has fuelled my
passion for travel; working with students from a
variety of nationalities is fascinating to me and I
enjoy learning about their cultures and back-
grounds as I teach and help to develop their skills
in communicating, reading and writing.
I was born and raised in Doncaster, UK, studying
for my BA (Hons) English at University of Hull. I
received my PGCE from Sheffield Hallam Universi-
ty, so ‘home’, for me will always be Yorkshire. My
husband will also be joining Cranleigh this year in
the Mathematics department. Together we enjoy
travel, catching the latest movies, eating out and
working out and are very much looking forward to
discovering some hidden gems in Abu Dhabi this
year. I also like to relax in the sunshine with a
good book from time to time.
I am a caring and nurturing person by nature and
this is something that is evident within my class-
room. I believe that if students feel comfortable
Laura Copley - English Teacher
and valued then they will gain more confi-
dence in their English skills and conse-
quently enjoy their learning more and
make more progress. I like to promote
English outside the classroom and in more
real-life contexts. I have organised and led
an overseas theatre trip to London, local
theatre trips within the UAE and have ex-
perience in leading Debate teams and as-
sisting with the Model United Nations as
well as leading creative writing clubs and
spelling bees. I believe that by offering as
wide a variety of learning experiences as
possible to our students we can engage any
learner and I take it personally if my stu-
dents do not love their English lessons!
Rachel is an effervescent Liverpudlian with an
excellent track record in teaching to match her
qualifications. Her First Class honours degree
and subsequent Masters Degree in Teaching and
Learning reflect her lifelong passion for educa-
tion. She is a versatile classroom as well as sub-
ject specialist teacher, who will teach core sub-
jects in Key Stage 2. No doubt she will brighten
up the children’s days in many areas of the cam-
pus outside of the classroom too.
Rachel writes: “It is a privilege to be a founding
team member of Cranleigh Abu Dhabi and I am
excited to fully immerse myself within such an
inspirational environment. I look forward to de-
livering a memorable and personalised learning
journey for all my pupils and cannot wait to meet
them! Equally I am looking forward to meeting
the parents who will be joining us on this amaz-
ing adventure.
I am currently part of the Senior Management
Team, Head of Year 6 and ICT Coordinator at a
large ‘Outstanding’ Primary School on the Wirral
in the North West of England. For the past 5
years I have had the responsibility of teaching
Year 6 children and we have celebrated con-
sistent high academic standards and results regu-
larly heading local and national league tables. Re-
cently we have been awarded the highest ranked
place for any Wirral School in England’s Top 500
State Schools published in the Sunday Times
Newspaper, a fine achievement for which I take
great pride in. In addition to my contributions to
the academic successes of my school I have al-
ways contributed to extra-curricular clubs, devis-
ing end of year musicals, leading choir/dance,
netball and organising residential trips. I studied
at Liverpool Hope University and gained a 1st
class honours degree in Sport Studies with QTS
and subject leader award. Throughout my time at
University I celebrated a lot of success in qualita-
Rachel Tinkler- Head of Years 5 & 6 and English Teacher
tive research relating to football and P.E
winning an award in 2007 for one of my
published articles. Following this I com-
pleted a Master’s degree in teaching and
learning thus developing a deeper un-
derstanding of my pedagogical
knowledge in teaching.
My husband and I cannot wait to relo-
cate to Abu Dhabi, and embrace the ex-
perience. We look forward to life on Saa-
diyat Island and seeing it expand and
come alive. Outside of work I enjoy run-
ning and cannot wait to tackle the F1
track-hopefully I won’t need any pit
stops! Also we cannot wait to use Abu
Dhabi as a gateway to explore the East.”
Born and raised in Uitenhage, South Africa, Ste-
ven schooled, and taught at the oldest traditional
boys’ school in South Africa, Muir College. He
then went on the University of South Africa
where he obtained an Honours Degree in Psy-
chology, and PGCE in Education, majoring in Eng-
lish. With experience teaching both in South Afri-
ca as well as the UAE, Stephen will be a valuable
addition to our English department.
Steven writes: “I had a strong desire to continue
my teaching career in another country. I believe
being exposed to new methods and experiencing
new cultures not only grows one as a person but
can be advantageous in teaching a diverse group
of students, and what better place than the infa-
mous Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is a land rich in di-
versity, with cultures and people from all around
the world. With Abu Dhabi being the hub of the
world, I look forward to exploring the UAE and
beyond.
I consider myself a team player who is always
eager to get involved and not reluctant to put in
the hours to make something happen. I believe
my enthusiasm and charisma will be of benefit to
the Cranleigh Family. I strive to ensure that the
students will reach their full potential through
the use of innovative teaching methods, materials
and continuous research on subject content.
Steven Beckett- English Teacher
I wish to bring with me the warmth of
my country, the passion of my youth and
the knowledge of my experiences to the
Cranleigh Family, to enrich and educate
the students by meeting them at their
individual needs.”
Helen has extensive qualifications, with a BA
French from Cardiff University, an MA Translation
with Language Technology (Distinction) from
Swansea University and a PGCE Secondary MFL
from UWIC. Prior to teaching she honed her
French skills as PA to the British Ambassador in
Paris. She is teaching French and is Head of Year 7
at Cardiff High School currently.
Helen writes: “I'm currently teaching French at
Cardiff High School where I'm also Head of Year 7.
I love teaching languages because I get to see my
pupils develop an understanding and appreciation
of other cultures and communicate with people
from all over the world, while also gaining deeper
knowledge of their own language, grammar and
culture. I am really looking forward to working at
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi because it will be a new chal-
lenge for me and because of the multicultural, vi-
brant nature of the city. In my spare time I take
part in ultra marathons, was Captain of Cardiff
University Trampoline Squad and play piano to
Grade 8.”
Helen Currie – Head of Modern Foreign
Modern Foreign Languages
Carmen has an impressive academic record, with
a B. A. in Arabic Language and Studies, a Postgrad-
uate Certificate in Education as well as a Master’s
Degree in Teaching Spanish and English as a For-
eign Language, all of which were issued by the
University of Alicante, Spain. Carmen has taught
both Arabic and Spanish, in Spain, Sharjah and Du-
bai and will be joining us from Nord Anglia Inter-
national School.
Carmen writes: “I was born in Alicante, Spain, the
middle child in a family of five. I grew up sur-
rounded by music my father is a guitarist and my
eldest brother a pianist. During my studies at sec-
ondary school I always treasured languages and
when it was time to attend the university I chose
the unconventional and challenging Arabic Studies
that I completed in 2004. Throughout my studies I
spent around two years travelling to Morocco, Al-
geria, Tunisia, Lebanon, Jordan and mainly Syria
where I had the opportunity to experience first
hand the culture, improve my Arabic and obtain
other language certificates like the ones I acquired
from the University of Damascus, Syria.
I started teaching Spanish and Arabic to non-
native speakers in 2007. After spending six years
working at the Official School of Languages in
Spain my desire to enlarge my horizons and start
an international career brought me to Dubai one
and half years ago where I continued teaching
Carmen Cremades– MFL Teacher
Spanish and Arabic in Nord Anglia Edu-
cation, Dubai.
I think that my strengths lie in my ability
to establish a responsive relationship
with my students and make learning fun.
I do strongly believe that if students are
feeling happy and they are self-confident
in the classroom, then their learning will
blossom.
Afi holds an MA in English Language and Litera-
ture as well as a PGCE French and Spanish from
the University of North London. She has taught
GCSE and A Level French in the UK, the UAE as
well as in France, where she is currently work-
ing in a bilingual school in Paris.
Afi writes: “I am currently working as Head of
English at Galile e Bilingual School in Paris
where I have been teaching English for the past
five years to primary and secondary school pu-
pils. I have enjoyed working in Paris but I am
really looking forward to living and working in
the United Arab Emirates again. Between 2001
and 2006, I worked in the UAE as a Modern For-
eign Languages Teacher and was also second in
charge of department. I thoroughly enjoyed
both my professional activities as well as the
Middle Eastern lifestyle, cosmopolitan environ-
ment and vibrant atmosphere. This time, I will
also be delighted to discover Saadiyat Island
and the new Louvre.
I have always been very fond of traveling as a
way of experiencing new cultures and I wish to
Madani Hafida– MFL Teacher
communicate my enthusiasm to my pu-
pils. It is a joy for me to share my pas-
sion for foreign languages and a diversi-
ty of cultural activities with my pupils.
See you soon! A biento t! ¡ Hasta luego! '
Neil qualified with a joint BSc Honours Degree in
Sports Science & French at The University of Liv-
erpool. He then completed a PGCE at the Univer-
sity of Exeter in the UK. He has various profes-
sional memberships, including being a qualified
Independent Schools Inspector and a PENTA in-
spector and has inspected schools in the UK and
the Middle East for 7 years. He has wide ranging
teaching and educational leadership experience
at various independent preparatory schools and
has spent the last 4 years in Sherborne Qatar
Prep School.
Neil writes: “I lived and taught in the UK for 12
years in Independent Prep Schools and needed a
new challenge and to see more of the world.
Coming to the Middle East has been exciting,
challenging and rewarding and I am particularly
looking forward to a new chapter at Cranleigh
Abu Dhabi.
I am a Key Stage 2 & 3 teacher with wide experi-
ence of all subjects at Key Stage 2 and a number
of subjects, including French, Humanities, PE &
Games at Key Stage 3. I strive for excellence, set
high standards for pupils and work long hours to
ensure pupils in my care are well cared for and
well taught. I aim to address pupil’s individual
needs and set targets to ensure progress at all
levels. I believe in treating pupils with complete
respect and that teaching them to be kind and
thoughtful is as important as their academic
work in school. I am also very aware that teach-
ers are educating pupils for their future life after
school in a rapidly changing world.
Neil Hudson- French Teacher
Outside school, I am a keen golfer, skier
and love to spend time in France. I am
married to Cheryl and have two sons,
William & Henry, who love to fish, boat,
sail and kayak. We are very much look-
ing forward to living on Saadiyat Island
and having a variety of new activities to
try. I look forward to meeting you and
making a positive impact on your child’s
education.”
Rachel studied French and Spanish at Trinity Col-
lege Dublin and subsequently completed her
teaching degree in the National University of Ire-
land, Galway. More recently Helen has undertaken
an MA in Educational Leadership and Manage-
ment. Rachel has been teaching in an International
school Abu Dhabi for the past two years where
aside from teaching, she has also been involved
with several clubs and activities.
Rachel writes: “I was born in England and raised in
Ireland. I was brought up bilingually, speaking
English and Irish. This is perhaps how I found a
love of language learning. I am currently teaching
French in Abu Dhabi, having previously taught in
Qatar and Ireland. I have studied and worked in
France and Spain respectively, where my love of
languages was nourished.
I am passionate about language learning and enjoy
sharing this passion with my students. I believe
that learning should be fun and therefore try to
make my lessons as interactive as possible. I pro-
mote cultural awareness in my lessons and aim to
help students gain a solid base in their foreign lan-
guage learning so that they will be confident in
continuing language studies.”
Rachel Ferry– MFL Teacher
I am very excited about joining the
team at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi and
meeting all the students and parents.
Having lived in Abu Dhabi for the past
year, I have fallen in love with the city
and I look forward to what the future
holds in store. In my free time I enjoy
running, reading and Irish dancing.
Vanessa qualified with a BA in English and Ameri-
can Studies and a PGCE Secondary in French, from
Winchester University and Oxford Brookes respec-
tively. Highly experienced, Vanessa has been
teaching for over 13 years and comes to us from
Chafyn Grove Prep School in Salisbury where she
held various leadership roles in her 11 years with
them.
Vanessa writes: “I am very excited to start at Cran-
leigh in September. Being French, I did all my
schooling in France but after spending a year in
the United States after my baccalaureate, I decided
to go to England for my BA and PGCE.
Being passionate about learning languages, I find
teaching French to children extremely interesting
and rewarding. My aim is to open up all pupils’
minds to a different culture and give them the nec-
essary tools to make them confident to speak
French, whatever their level and ability. Being able
to communicate in another language is wonderful
and in the past I have loved watching pupils do
just that on French trips, and marvel themselves at
what they have achieved! I have organised two
residential trips to France every year for the past
seven years and it is lovely to see the children em-
brace the whole experience.
I love travelling and being given the opportunity to
discover a new country with so many different cul-
tures as well as being part of a growing school that
has so much to offer is exceptional. The best year
in my life was spent abroad amongst people from
Vanessa Hay– French Teacher
different nationalities and I am thrilled
to be able to give the same opportuni-
ty to my daughter.
In my free-time, I love swimming,
singing and dancing. I also love trying
new things and after skydiving four
years ago, which was so exhilarating, I
am determined to try something as
exciting here. I have always wanted to
get into water sports, so maybe this
will become a new hobby I can share
with the children! Both my husband
and daughter will be joining me at
Cranleigh and I very much look for-
ward to this new adventure. Thank
you!
Vicky has very impressive academic credentials,
inclusive of a BA in French with Management Stud-
ies from the University of London and a PGCE from
Cambridge University. Furthermore, Vicky has ex-
tensive experience teaching in the UK as well as
internationally, in Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong and Sin-
gapore. Most recently, she has been based at
Brighton College Abu Dhabi, were, since its open-
ing she has held various positions of responsibility.
Vicky writes: “I am so very happy to be joining the
Cranleigh community this August. I will be teach-
ing Latin and French, my two great loves! I am de-
lighted to have been given the opportunity to bring
Latin to the Cranleigh curriculum and I hope that
many pupils will be able to take up this exciting
opportunity. Latin has so much to teach us, both
linguistically and in terms of its historical context.
It is hard to describe to you where I am from! I was
born in Glasgow but I spent my childhood in Doha,
Qatar, went to boarding school in Canterbury in
the English county of Kent, attended university in
London and Cambridge, and then began a career
path which took me all over the world. Since I
qualified in 1995, I have taught in Hong Kong, Sin-
gapore, Dubai, the county of Galway in Ireland and
Abu Dhabi. I have dual British and Irish citizen-
ship, and my permanent home is in County Gal-
way, where my husband and I designed and built
our own house in the Irish countryside.
Victoria Walsh– Head of Classics
We have three children who are cur-
rently thirteen, eleven and nine years
old; two boys and a girl. They con-
stantly teach me to see life from their
perspective and this is something
which I bring with me to school every
day. I always loved school as a child
(even as a teenager!), and remember
all of my teachers who had a positive
influence. I would like the pupils of
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi to feel the same
way about me!”
Morgan Whitfield is the stereotypical geographer
who takes any opportunity to travel. After living
all over the world, however, she has now settled
in the UAE and is looking forward to the man-
groves and beaches of Saadiyat. Morgan grew up
in Canada, where she was awarded the Governor
General's Student Leadership Award and was a
University of Guelph President's Scholar, the
highest honour given for academic excellence,
extra-curricular involvement, volunteer work
and leadership. She served as a Student Trustee
on her Board of Education, toured Canada and
the United States speaking about child labour
and served as a Director for the Canadian Inter-
national Model United Nations. Mor-
gan later ranked in the top 1% of her class of the
prestigious Queens University where she com-
pleted her BEd. She began her career teaching
humanities in her home country of Canada, and
after teaching in Ontario she went to the UK,
where she taught in the West Midlands.
Morgan has spent the past two years teaching at
a British curriculum school in Al Ain and is excit-
ed to continue her professional journey with
Cranleigh Academy as Head of Humani-
ties. Morgan has taken students all over the
world in international competitions and confer-
ences, most recently taking an award winning
team of Model UN students to Turkey and Qa-
Morgan Whitfield – Head of Humanities
tar. She also loves competition and or-
ganized a academic decathelons for hun-
dreds of students across Abu Dha-
bi. Morgan writes of her plans at Cran-
leigh:
“I grew up travelling across Canada
and the world. Whether we were in the
remote Northwest Territories or India, I
was fortunate enough to have a family
that indulged two pastimes- reading and
arguing. My grandfather always said
that you never understood an issue until
you argued both sides of it with equal
vigour. This led to my love of debating,
public speaking and Model United Na-
tions. I went on to study International
Development to understand the gaps in
inequality on a global scale and how to
solve these complex problems. After
working in human rights campaigns I
learned that understanding and dia-
logue are the most important steps we
can take, which is why it is so exciting to
work in education. Students have voice
and their activism can bring about great
change. I can't wait to work with the en-
gaged, diverse and uniquely internation-
al student body at Cranleigh!”
Humanities
Richard holds a BA in Modern History and Politics
from the University of Sheffield and a PGCE Sec-
ondary History from the University of Leeds. He
comes to us from the UK with a wealth of teaching
and leadership experience, both in the classroom
and in a pastoral capacity. Richard also has valua-
ble experience organising school residential trips
and he is very much looking forward to utilising
this expertise at Cranleigh.
Richard writes: “ My only previous visit to Abu
Dhabi came in 2014, when I spent 7 hours in the
airport, en route to Swaziland with 14 students for
a World Challenge adventure. It never crossed my
mind that I would be returning to live here, but
that is the beauty of teaching. No day is ever the
same and there are always new challenges waiting
around the corner. I am thrilled to be joining Cran-
leigh at such an exciting stage of the school’s devel-
opment and the fact that I will be doing so with my
wife and 3 year-old daughter makes it even more
special.
After spending my first 5 years of teaching near
where I grew up in Essex, I moved to Hampshire,
where I have just completed 9 years at Hampshire
Collegiate School. I have undertaken numerous
leadership responsibilities in that time, including 5
years as a Head of Year, before taking the reins of
the History department. I have learned the value of
pastoral care in terms of enabling children to flour-
ish, whilst also aiming to provide inspiration with-
in my subject field to engage pupils in the im-
portance of understanding about the past and the
role that they will play in the future. I believe that
in order to shape where we are going, we need to
understand where we have been and this is a phi-
losophy that I will bring to Cranleigh.
I have high expectations of my students and I be-
lieve that this is the key to fulfilling potential. I am
an experienced exam marker and know what is
required to succeed. I am looking forward to
launching the History IGCSE and also to helping
build the skills necessary to perform well in the
subject lower down the school.
Richard Hay– History Teacher
Some of my proudest achievements
have involved school residential trips
and I have undertaken over 30, includ-
ing regular excursions to the World War
One Battlefields of France and Belgium.
Longer visits have taken in New York,
Washington, Moscow, St Petersburg,
Prague, Rome and Berlin. Last year’s
World Challenge expedition in Africa
was the most adventurous to date and I
hope to have more opportunities to help
students extend their horizons in the
future. Training students to complete
the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award
has also been a highlight in the UK and
getting involved in similar pursuits is
something that I am looking forward to
at Cranleigh.
Away from the workplace, I am an avid
Tottenham Hotspur supporter and I love
watching and playing most sports, albeit
with varying degrees of success. Racket
sports and to a lesser extent, golf, are
my areas of strength, but I’m happy to
give anything a go once!
Eliz Dadson– Head of ICT
Eliz graduated with a Master’s degree in Information
Systems and Technology from City University, Lon-
don and then also completed an MPhil in Infor-
mation Science there. She worked in a number city
of London firms for before cross training to teaching
where she gained my PGCE in ICT at Canterbury
Christ Church University College in the UK. Eliz has
over ten years’ experience in both teaching and man-
agement roles and is passionate about sharing the
delights of technology to her pupils.
Eliz writes: “I am very excited at the prospect of join-
ing Cranleigh Abu Dhabi. I joined the teaching pro-
fession to make a positive difference; I love working
with young people and consider it a joy and a delight
to support and nurture my pupils. It fills me with
huge pride to see the efforts and results after hard
work and collaboration with pupils and parents.
I have been living in Abu Dhabi for the last five years.
I moved from leafy green Royal Tunbridge Wells
where I was a Curriculum Leader for ICT at Tun-
bridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School (TWGGS) the
leading girls’ school in Kent, UK to come to work as
an education advisor on the ambitious UAE educa-
tion reform project. I joined Brighton College Abu
Dhabi (BCAD) two years later; I am currently Deputy
Head Academic at BCAD in the Senior School. I have
first-hand experience of the UK education system
and have a very good understanding of GCSEs and A
levels. I bring with me a hard working ethos and a
desire to make a real difference. I love living in Abu
Dhabi; it provides so many opportunities for fami-
lies. I am married to Kurankyi and we
have two boys David (15) and Andrew
(12). We love the sunshine and life-
style here in the UAE.
I can’t wait to start as Head of the Sen-
ior School Computing department
with oversight of the new Virtual
Learning Environment. I am delighted
to be joining the Cranleigh team and I
am looking forward to be part of the
warm, caring and positive community
that the school has established itself
to be.
ICT
Kieran Hogg– ICT Teacher
Kieran graduated from the University of
Manchester, UK with a degree in Computer
Science, during which he worked for a soft-
ware company in his sandwich year and dur-
ing his final year. After enjoying the educa-
tion aspect of the role, he then trained for his
PGCE at Middlesex University. He is current-
ly completing a MA in Education at the same
university, focusing on technology in the
classroom. He has previously taught in Lon-
don and Brighton in the UK and most recent-
ly at a British school in Dubai. He has taught
ICT and Computer Science to a wide range of
students, from KS2 to KS5.
Kieran writes: “With technology becoming a
fundamental part of society, I love being able
to educate students about how it works and
how to use it. As well as being a important
skill for students to master, it is also a
constantly-developing medium for de-
livering exciting lessons. This has
been my main area for research and
development in my teaching and I
look forward to continuing this with
the excellent facilities available at
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi.
Away from teaching, like most teach-
ers, I love travelling. Having visited
most of Europe when I lived there, I
have spent my time in Dubai trying to
see as much of Asia as my holidays al-
low! I have thoroughly enjoyed my
time in the UAE so far and I am excited
to continue with the next chapter in
Abu Dhabi with Cranleigh.”
Richard has an enviable international track rec-
ord in and out of the classroom. Having qualified
with a BA Hons in Accounting and Finance at the
University of Plymouth, traveling and working in
top schools such as St John’s College, Johannes-
burg showed him that teaching was the way for-
ward. Having established himself successfully in
the UK, Rich left those shores again to take on the
role of Head of Maths at Brighton College Abu
Dhabi. When not inspiring pupils in the finer
qualities of mathematics, Rich can be found ac-
tively involved in the extra-curricular pro-
gramme, his primary passion being rugby. He
has represented in the UAE and plays for Harle-
quins RFC.
Richard writes: “Hello everyone, my name is
Richard Henwood. I have been in Abu Dhabi for
two years and have thoroughly enjoyed my time
so far. I am very excited about starting at Cran-
leigh and being part of the amazing Saadiyat ad-
venture. I will be the Head of Maths, and my goal
Richard Henwood – Head of Mathematics
is quite simple - for every student to
turn up to Maths lessons with a smile on
their face - enjoyment is the first step to
success.
I was born, brought up and educated in
a town called Walsall in England. I went
on to higher education at the University
of Plymouth before leaving the UK to
live and work in Australia, New Zealand
and South Africa.
In my spare time I like to play golf and
rugby. I also enjoy kayaking in the man-
groves here in Abu Dhabi as well as
camping in the desert. I am hoping to
buy a boat next year and try my hand at
water sports.
I am looking forward to meeting you all
in September, until then have a wonder-
ful summer!”
Mathematics
Heloise qualified with a Bachelor of Education in
Natural Sciences from the Univertsity of Pretoria,
South Africa. She joins Cranleigh with a valuable
breadth of international teaching experience,
having taught Maths in the UAE, the UK and
South Africa. Heloise also likes to involve herself
with sport in school and has much coaching ex-
perience which she is looking forward to carry-
ing across to Cranleigh.
Heloise writes: “I was born and raised in a small
town, called Ermelo, in South Africa. I completed
my Bachelor of Education degree in Further Edu-
cation and Training and specialized in the sub-
jects of Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics at
the University of Pretoria.
Wanting to explore and travel, I packed my bags
and started my teaching career in the UK in Lon-
don where I stayed for 4 years.
The next 3 and a half years thereafter I had the
privilege to teach at a school in Pretoria, South
Africa. My adventurous side soon wanted more
explorations and I decided to take up a position
at an IB school in Abu Dhabi where I taught for
two very interesting years.
Heloise Benecke– Maths Teacher
Now, I am thrilled to be part of the Cran-
leigh community and I cannot wait for
what lies ahead...”
Nelson was born and raised in London and holds
a Maths degree from the Sussex University and a
PGCE from the Institute of Education in London.
Nelson has an excellent track record teaching
Maths across Years 5- 13, both in England and
abroad. In addition to this, Nelson has over 12
years’ experience as a pastoral leader and is com-
ing from Brighton College where he is currently a
Housemaster.
Nelson writes: “I moved to Abu Dhabi with my
wife and two children in 2013. I have enjoyed liv-
ing and working in Abu Dhabi over the last three
years as a Maths teacher at Brighton College Abu
Dhabi. I am very much looking forward to the
prospect of working at Cranleigh School. Coming
to Abu Dhabi is my family's first adventure of liv-
ing and working abroad. Prior to this I worked as
a teacher for 20 years in London.
I am a keen sportsman and I enjoy most sports. I
have a passion for all forms of the arts and many
years ago I used to work in Italy as a street danc-
er. I am a keen artist, though I have not been able
to find the time to indulge in this interest of late
and I play Jazz Piano, which is an interest that I
have managed somewhat to maintain. I hope to
Nelson Mitchell– Maths Teacher
use all my experience, talents and enthu-
siasm to contribute in enriching the
Cranleigh environment by allowing pu-
pils to develop their talents as they grow
in strength, courage and wisdom.
Ryan qualified with a BA and PGCE in Maths from
Sheffield Hallam University. He has over six
years’ experience teaching in the middle east,
both in Qatar and the UAE and is joining us from
Dubai where he has been a year leader at GEMS
Wellington.
Ryan writes: “I cannot wait to start a new chapter
of my life and career in Abu Dhabi. I am very ex-
cited about the prospect of working at Cranleigh
Abu Dhabi due to the schools ethos, facilities and
potential and am looking forward to the challeng-
es and opportunities working in a brand new
build will bring.
Teaching for me has always been an enjoyable
job and I spend a lot of time and effort on making
sure that Mathematics lessons are fun and inter-
active and that students feel like they have as
much ownership of their own learning as possi-
ble. I have taught a wide range of Mathematical
Qualifications including IGCSE and GCSE Maths,
GCSE Statistics, GCSE Further Maths ,A-Level
Mathematics and IB Mathematics aswell. I enjoy
integrating technology into lessons as much as
possible and am always on the lookout for new
apps or tech that will aid students in their further
understanding of the subject.
A big part of my job satisfaction stems from my
love of competition and sports. Ever since be-
coming a teacher I have been involved in extra
curricular sports within school and have helped
coach numerous different teams including boys
and girls football of all ages, golf and basketball
to name but a few. I am excited about getting in-
volved in the sports programmes available at
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, and after visiting the site
and seeing the potential that the sports facilities
offer. I have already started to plan how I can in-
Ryan Copley– Maths Teacher
volve myself over the next academic
year.
One activity that I love to do is play
games and puzzles that test my mental
ability and mathematical skills like Han-
jie or Sudoku. A particular favorite of
mine is to play the card game Cribbage,
which pulls together a number of ele-
ments of Mathematics including proba-
bility and set theory. I have introduced
the much forgotten game of Cribbage to
staff and students at each of my previous
three schools and look forward to finding
some worthy challengers at Cranleigh.
Outside of school I am an avid moviegoer
and strict follower of English football,
with a particular passion for my beloved
Sheffield Wednesday football club.
Siobhan hails from Scotland and achieved a BSc
in mathematics and Professional Education from
the University of Striling. She began her career in
Dunblane High School, which is rated within the
top four of Scotland schools and she has an envi-
able track record of success in pupil results. She
has been actively involved in a wide range of
school co-curricular activities. She is currently
working for Abu Dhabi Education Council as a
Mathematics teacher. Siobahn covers Maths
from Key Stage 2 though to A Levels.
Siobhan writes: “I am truly thrilled to be joining
the CAD team as a Mathematics teacher. Born
and raised in Scotland, UK, I graduated from the
University of Stirling with a BSc in Mathematics
and Professional Education before establishing
my career within leading schools in the country.
For as long as I can remember I always wanted to
become a teacher, inspired by my own love of
learning. I moved to Abu Dhabi in August 2013
and have thoroughly enjoyed continuing my ca-
reer within an international setting.
My passion for teaching is based on encouraging
a lifelong learning philosophy and I believe it is a
privilege to be responsible for children’s educa-
tion. I am extremely enthusiastic about Mathe-
matics and engage pupils by relating Mathemat-
ics to the everyday world that surrounds them. In
today’s multi-cultural society it is fundamental
that our children are not only filled with
Siobhan Bee – Mathematics Teacher
knowledge but are supported in devel-
oping life skills becoming confident, re-
sponsible individuals, able to problem
solve and work collaboratively with oth-
ers.
In my spare time I enjoy travelling, thea-
tre and meeting new people. Cranleigh
Abu Dhabi will offer our students fantas-
tic opportunities and I am really looking
forward to being part of the exciting
journey.”
Adrian Lane studied at London's Guildhall
School of Music & Drama from 1981-85
achieving the GGSM Graduate Diploma.
He spent the following 30 years as a profes-
sional freelance trombone player based in
London performing, touring and recording
with countless orchestras (RPO, BBC Concert
Orchestra etc.), ensembles (Gabrieli Consort
etc.) and popular artists including Michael
Ball and Shirley Bassey. West End musicals
featured very much in Adrian’s performing
career, most recently Ghost the Musical, Lord
of the Rings and The Producers. Adrian has also
played on many film/TV soundtracks
throughout his career (notably Tomorrow
Never Dies and the 5997 remake of Return of
the Jedi).
Adrian writes: “Teaching young people has
always been close to my heart and I regard
teaching as a vital part of a professional musi-
cian's life. I am hugely excited to join Cran-
leigh Abu Dhabi and am looking forward to
being a member of the community in the cul-
tural center of Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island.
My aims are to set up a variety of music en-
Music
Adrian Lane - Music (Brass)
sembles and jazz groups within the
school and to teach all instruments of
the brass family including trumpet,
cornet, baritone horn, euphonium,
trombone and tuba.”
David holds a Bachelor of Music degree, specialis-
ing in Music Technology, from Nelson Mandela
Metropolitan University, South Africa, as well as a
PGCEi from Nottingham University. He is a whizz
on all matters technical and will be as actively in-
volved in the theatre as he will be in the music
school. He is a multi-talented musician as well as
class teacher, so children will enjoy his group as
well as individual lessons spanning classical as well
as contemporary music. When not in the music
school, expect to find him up a ladder in the audito-
rium, preparing the concert stage sound and light-
ing systems, or on the sports fields.
He writes: "I grew up in Port Elizabeth, South Afri-
ca where I completed my primary and tertiary edu-
cation, and met my wife, Tara-Lyn, who will also be
joining the Cranleigh team as a Key Stage 2 teacher.
It was in Port Elizabeth that I began my teaching
journey at Erica Girls' Primary School, where I
taught class music, individual instrumental lessons
and headed up the Senior Band Programme. I also
performed in various orchestras, big bands and a
rock band."
In 2010 my wife and I relocated to Dubai where I
was offered a position at a leading sound engineer-
ing firm. Here I was fortunate enough to travel
around the UAE and abroad, working with artists
such as Stevie Wonder, Andrea Bocelli, Dubai Na-
tional Philharmonic Orchestra and Thirty Seconds
to Mars, gaining valuable experience in audio engi-
neering and recording of live events.
In 2012 I returned to teaching at Brighton College,
Abu Dhabi, as an instrumental teacher and theatre
manager. Some of my duties included being heavily
involved in theatre events and theatre mainte-
nance, as well as teaching saxophone and clarinet
instrumental lessons. A definite highlight for me
was setting up the school's band programme and
conducting the senior concert band. I al-
so implemented theatre, recording studio and vide-
David Gibson- Music Teacher
ography extra-curricular pro-
grammes for both junior and senior
school pupils.
I am thrilled to be joining Cranleigh
Abu Dhabi and being involved in what
I'm sure will be an excellent music de-
partment. The school's location on Saa-
diyat Island means that it will be an ex-
citing place to be in terms of Arts and
Culture in Abu Dhabi. I am passionate
about music education and particularly
in implementing technology into every-
day music lessons and life. I aim to en-
courage pupils to strive to be the
best musicians they can be. Outside of
school I enjoy playing sport and be-
ing outdoors, as well as travelling. I
grew up playing a variety of sports, so
am looking forward to also being in-
volved in the various sports pro-
grammes at Cranleigh too."
Jennifer graduated from Birmingham School of
Acting with first class BA Hons in Acting. She
then went on to complete a Postgraduate Diplo-
ma at the Royal Academy of Music specialising
in Musical Theatre and became an LRAM certi-
fied teacher in 2010. Prior to teaching, Jennifer
was a touring backing vocalist for names such
as Elton John and Brian May. In addition, Jen-
nifer has also run her own Theatre Company
for young people as well as being a vocal coach
and singing therapist for amateur and profes-
sional singers.
Jennifer writes: “Music education has proven to
assist in other areas of the school curriculum,
including quicker neurological responses,
Jennifer Mitchell- Music Teacher
learning a language and basic literacy and
numeracy skills. I believe that music in the
early years are vital; learning and develop-
ing creative thinking and the correct prac-
tical technique are imperative. I am excited
to be adding my musical knowledge and
creativity to the Music team at Cranleigh
Abu Dhabi and sharing my professional
experience in a subject that I am passion-
ate about. My family and I are looking for-
ward to the new and exciting adventure as
well as playing a part in the growth and
development of the Cranleigh Abu Dhabi
project."
Damien holds a BA from the University of Ulster
and a PGCE from the University of Bedford. He
is currently working at Al Yasmina within their
Senior Management Team. Outside of the class-
room, Damien is a keen sportsman, having
played football semi- professionally and also
having worked with professional golfers in fit-
ness and conditioning.
Damien writes: “I was born in Co. Donegal in
Ireland and went to school at St. Columb’s Col-
lege in Derry, Northern Ireland. I was raised
playing Gaelic Football and Soccer and through-
ly enjoyed the competitive and collaborative
element team sports provided.
Damien Ward– Acting Head of Science
I was fortunate to study under one of Ire-
land’s leading Biomechanists and this
sparked my affiliation with golf. I am an
avid golfer and a member of the nearby
Yas Links Golf Club where I can be found
most weekends! I am very much looking
forward to working with the Students
and Parents of Cranleigh; most notably
the young golfers!
Having grown up at Wellington School, Jessica em-
braces all that is on offer in the life a busy inde-
pendent school. Following her BSc Honours at
Nottingham, University, she went to Cambridge
University to complete her PGCE in Secondary sci-
ences. Jessica is no shrinking violet: when not
teaching children to split the atom, she can be
found digging trenches in the military, having
been actively involved in the Combined Cadet
Force: she has extensive leadership training and
Duke of Edinburgh Award experience and moun-
taneering. She has taught in various independent
as well as maintained schools.
Jessica writes: “I am currently Head of Science at
St Edward’s Royal Middle School in Windsor (UK),
and have been teaching there for the last 2 and a
half years. So now is the perfect time for a new ad-
venture! I am very excited to be joining the sci-
ence team at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi as learning sci-
ence is all about asking questions, investigating
ideas, and keeping up with the ever-changing na-
ture of science. Swapping fieldwork in the UK for
the new environment of Saadiyat will allow me to
learn alongside my students to appreciate all that
Abu Dhabi has to offer.
Jessica Taylor- Science Teacher and Deputy Housemaster of Zaeem
In my free time I enjoy climbing, hiking,
sailing, cooking and baking to name but
a few. I also volunteer with a Brownie
pack and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
group and can’t wait to get involved with
similar activities and more at Cranleigh
Abu Dhabi!
Science
Tom qualified with a BSc Hons in Chemistry from
the University of Bristol before completing his
GTP at The University of Wolverhapton. He is a
member of the Royal Society of Chemistry and
has also completed a stint in the Territorial Ar-
my. He has a wealth of experience in both UK in-
dependent boarding schools, such as Owestry
School in Shropshire, as well as international
schools: his current post is as Science Teacher at
St Christopher’s, Bahrain.
Tom writes: “I am looking forward to moving to
Abu Dhabi and continuing my experience of liv-
ing in the Middle East. I have lived in a variety of
countries: Japan, France, Singapore, England,
Scotland and more recently Qatar and Bahrain. I
am half English and half French, which makes
watching the Rugby 6 Nations very difficult! I
love playing Rugby and anything to do with it.
At Cranleigh Abu Dhabi I will be teaching Chem-
istry and some French. I am involved with the
Royal Society of Chemistry and I look forward to
creating links between CAD, local industries and
other academic institutions.
I love the outdoors whether it is sea kayaking,
river boating or hiking in the mountains. One of
my claims to fame is that I reached the summit of
Mount Kilimanjaro. I love being involved with the
Duke of Edinburgh International Award and
Tom Shorrock – Science Teacher
working in the great outdoors with stu-
dents. One of the things I am looking for-
ward to the most is being able to plan
great road trips across the Emirates.
There is so much to see and do; it’s go-
ing to be epic!”
Amanda is a highly qualified teacher, TESOL
specialist and linguist, with various degrees and
qualifications from the Universities of Western
Australia, New England, Macquarie and Daito
Bunka (Japan). In addition to the Masters in
Education (TESOL), which she is soon to com-
plete with the University of Tasmania, she is
fluent in Japanese and has a French qualifica-
tion. She has taught at various schools in and
around Sydney, New South Wales. Her most
recent post is at the prestigious St Mary’s Col-
lege, Tasmania, where she teaches EAL, English
and Japanese.
Amanda writes: “As a dedicated and enthusias-
tic educator, I have 14 years’ experience teach-
ing in both primary and secondary schools in
Australia and Japan. I enjoy working with a
range of students from a wide community of
countries and cultures. I speak, read and write
Japanese. I have attained Bachelor of Arts and
Bachelor of Teaching degrees. To further my
educational background, I am close to complet-
ing a Master of Education degree specifically in
teaching English as a second language.
As a mother of two young boys, I am eager to
provide them with a culturally diverse upbring-
ing. The eldest will be commencing with Cran-
leigh Abu Dhabi at the start of the school year
and the youngest commencing in the following
Amanda Maxwell – Head of EAL and GTP Mentor
year. I look forward to being a part of
the Cranleigh community, as well as
providing both my children with an in-
ternational education in Abu Dhabi. In
my spare time, I love learning about
new languages and cultures. I have
lived and studied in Japan, as well as
having travelled extensively around the
world.”
SEN & EAL
Hayley qualified in South Africa at the University of
Cape Town, with Bachelor of Social Science (English
and Psychology majors) and a Higher Diploma of Ed-
ucation. Having taught English and Drama at various
Cape Town schools, she moved to the UK, where she
taught at two major independent boarding schools,
Worth and Stowe School, covering special education-
al needs as well as English and Drama. She is cur-
rently at Emirates National Schools in Abu Dhabi.
Hayley writes: “Teaching is a career that fulfills all
my interests: art, drama, language and psychology. I
love to inspire and be inspired by others on a daily
basis, knowing that what I do can make the differ-
ence between a child achieving self-confidence and
success or feeling they have nothing important to
contribute to society.
I have taught across four continents for the past 14
years, ten in the UK, and I moved to Abu Dhabi with
my husband and two children in 2011 to be part of
the cutting edge education reform in the UAE. The
perpetual sunshine is also a definite advantage! I
have taught Drama, English and SEN and acted as Co-
ordinator of English, Language and Drama depart-
ments; I’ve also served as IB Diploma Programme
Coordinator, taking a school through the process of
applying for candidacy to achieving authorization at
a UAE National School.
Hayley Milne – SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator)
I love all things creative, golf and watch-
ing rugby and I believe fun and laughter
should be part of every person’s day. I
cannot wait to be part of the Cranleigh
Community as a staff member and par-
ent and I look forward to getting to know
each individual that joins our extended
family.”
Tara-Lyn holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychol-
ogy and English Language & Linguistics as well as a
PGCE from Rhodes University, South Africa. She also
holds an Advanced Certificate in Education (ACE)
specialising in Special Needs Education from Nelson
Mandela Metropolitan University, South Africa. She
has a passion for supporting the individual and gives
her all to them.
She writes: “I am passionate about teaching and have
always wanted to work with children. I grew up in
Port Elizabeth, South Africa, where I went to school
and met my husband, David, who will also be joining
the Cranleigh team. During my time in South Africa I
completed my studies and gained teaching experi-
ence as a Year 2 class teacher and worked for a com-
pany providing free literacy support to children in
impoverished areas.
I have lived in the UAE for the past four years and
absolutely love living and working in such an inter-
national community. I spent two years at Emirates
International School, Meadows, Dubai and am cur-
rently employed as a Special Needs Teacher at
Brighton College Abu Dhabi. I have enjoyed working
with children from all walks of life, and have gained
valuable experience teaching pupils from Key Stage 1
& 2 with a range of abilities and those for whom Eng-
lish is an Additional Language. I believe in taking
time to get to know the pupils in my care and strive
to help them flourish into inquisitive, creative and
confident individuals who love to learn.
Tara- Lyn Gibson- SENCO
I have always been interested in Drama
and the Arts, and love visiting the thea-
tre whenever I can. I also enjoy reading
and cooking in my free time and I love to
travel!
I am so excited about joining the Cran-
leigh Abu Dhabi team and being part of
what I’m sure will be a very special
school. I look forward to meeting the
children and their families at the start of
the first term.”
Alan holds a Bachelor of Education (Hons) De-
gree in Secondary Physical Education (Majoring
in Sports Biomechanics, Rugby & Athletics), in
addition to an MSc in Applied Sport & Exercise
Psychology, which he achieved in 2011. He has
a huge list of professional sporting qualifica-
tions to his credit. Alan has held numerous PE
and Director of Sport roles in various UK inde-
pendent schools, as well as international
schools, both in the Middle East and the Cay-
man Islands. His current role is Director of
Sport & Co-Head of Pastoral at St. Edward’s Pre-
paratory School, Berkshire. Alan is married to
Anna McGarry (Head of English) and they have
two sons, who will be joining Cranleigh Abu
Dhabi.
Alan writes: “I have played Rugby League & Un-
ion since childhood, having played for Abu Dha-
bi and Dubai Hurricanes whilst living previous-
ly in the UAE. I have numerous coaching qualifi-
cations and continue to add to these to ensure
my own & others’ skill & personal development
is a key focus throughout my work. I love the
Outdoors and have a passion for Kayaking and
Trekking. I am one who will find it difficult to
stay still, even for short periods of time and I
love the excitement and the unknown that sport
can bring to all.
I also have a great love of and possess a large
and eclectic collection of music and world and
Alan Bond – Director of Sport
foreign language cinema – the Annual
Dubai Film Festival is a fantastic expe-
rience not to be missed! I also play the
drums on a recreational basis, although
I am no Buddy Rich! In addition I love
to travel, having visited countries such
as Sri Lanka, Africa, Australia, Thailand,
Italy and the USA.”
Sport and Extra Curricular
Wayne grew up, and was educated in Wales be-
fore moving to Bedford to Study a B. Ed. degree
in Physical Education at De Montfort University,
where he also completed his teacher training.
Since then, Wayne and his wife have worked in
both Oman and Abu Dhabi. Most recently
Wayne has been working at Brighton College as
a Senior Housemaster.
Wayne writes: “I spent 6 enjoyable years teach-
ing in the UK before my wife and I decided to
fulfil a dream of ours and teach abroad. After
much careful consideration we decided that the
Middle East would be the ideal place to fulfil
this dream and accepted a post at an Interna-
tional School in Muscat, Oman. Having fallen in
love with the lifestyle, traditions and culture
that Oman had to offer we wanted to explore
other parts of the Middle East.
Abu Dhabi was our next destination; joining
Brighton College in its inaugural year. During
the next four years I fulfilled roles as Director of
Sport, Senior Housemaster and Deputy Head of
the Senior School. On a personal level this is
where we were blessed with the arrival of our
two children, Amelia and Aaron.
Abu Dhabi is where our family calls home and
we are very excited by the next stage of our
journey. Having followed Cranleigh with close
interest it is amazing to see how much progress
has been in such a short space of time and I feel
Wayne Davies – Deputy head Co-Curricular
privileged to now be part of this jour-
ney. The facilities and location are out-
standing and I can’t wait to work with
the staff, parents, pupils and the wider
community to further develop the co-
curricular programme as it establishes
itself as the best in Abu Dhabi and the
surrounding regions. Many of my last-
ing memories from school are of co-
curricular activities and I am keen for
the pupils of Cranleigh to experience
and share the same.”
Shaun qualified with a BEd Hons in Physical Edu-
cation from the University of Chichester. He has
extensive PE teaching experience across the full
age range, 3 – 18 years old, having taught in the
UK and abroad. He is passionate about sport as
well as all aspects of the extra-curricular involve-
ment of a busy school like Cranleigh: having led
various PE departments, he is excellently pre-
pared to grow and develop our extensive co-
curricular programme. Shaun is married to Deb-
orah Gillam (Early Years teacher) and they have
three children, all of who will attend Cranleigh.
Shaun writes: “I feel so blessed to be part of the
start up team at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi (CAD). It
fills me with excitement, joy and a desire to make
CAD a centre of excellence for sport in the Middle
East. My aim as a Physical Education and Sports
teacher is to help young people reach their full
potential through fun, interactive and challenging
activities and sports. My personal inspiration for
teaching came from my own experience of partic-
ipating in school competitions where I learnt
how to be part of a successful team but also it
showed me the enjoyment and elation of win-
ning, respect, determination and how to deal
with life’s challenges.
I love to run and cycle, which has enabled me to
complete many challenging events to raise mon-
ey for charities close to my heart. I have complet-
Shaun Gillam – Head of Co-Curricular Activities
ed the London Marathon and cycled the
length of the UK in recent times. I also
enjoy taking part in cricket, football and
rugby. I have a young family who will be
attending CAD and they can not wait to
meet their new teachers and see the
amazing new facilities. As a family we
enjoy visits to parks, beaches, playing
sports and taking in the local cultural
events and activities. We look forward
to being part of this new multi-cultural
community.”
Joey holds a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science
from the University of Gloucestershire and a
PGCE in Secondary Physical Education from the
University of Wales. In addition, Joey holds many
further coaching qualifications which she is very
much looking forward to putting into use at
Cranleigh.
Joey writes: “I was born and brought up in Kenya
and educated in England. I am fortunate to have
travelled to many different countries around the
world, Rome and Sydney being two of my favour-
ite cities.
Keeping active is a key ingredient in my life;
whether it be showjumping, competing in triath-
lons and endurance races or playing netball; I en-
joy competition and taking on new challenges. I
am so very excited to move to Abu Dhabi and join
the Cranleigh community. I look forward to meet-
ing everyone and teaching Games, core PE and
IGCSE PE.”
Joanna Markham—Physical Education Teacher
Laura hails from Australia, where she qualified at
the Australian Catholic University with BSc Exer-
cise and Sports Science and a PDHPE
(Secondary). Having started her career in the
West London Academy, she has since moved to
Putney High School, a major independent girls’
school in London. She is acting Director of Sport
and brings with her a wealth of qualifications and
the ability to cover all areas of sport from Pre-
Prep to A Level.
Laura writes: “I am very much looking forward to
joining the team at Cranleigh School in Abu Dhabi
this September. I have spent the last six years
teaching at an outstanding academic and sport-
ing school in London which enabled me to facili-
tate each pupil’s individual needs in sport
through my holistic approach to teaching. I have
competed at regional level for swimming and
netball and my favourite pastimes are playing
netball, tennis, swimming, cycling and running.
This enables me to lead a healthy lifestyle as well
as working as part of a team.
I have enjoyed seeing many girls experience suc-
cess and have been delighted to see my netball
and tennis teams win Surrey finals, attend Na-
tional netball and tennis finals. With the fantastic
new facilities I know Cranleigh will allow each
pupil the opportunity to find a sport they enjoy. I
Laura Rigon – Physical Education Teacher and Housemaster of Al Sharaf
thoroughly enjoy motivating and engag-
ing pupils in lessons as well as stretch-
ing them to reach their full potential. I
look forward to meeting you and your
children in the very near future, whilst
embracing the culture and new experi-
ences Cranleigh has to offer.”
Leo graduated with a BSc in Sport Science and
Football from Liverpool John Moores University
and a PGCE Secondary PE from London Metro-
politan University. Leo also holds many addition-
al coaching qualifications, across a range of
sports, which further ads to his repertoire of
skills. Well-travelled, Leo has taught in London,
America as well as the Emirates and he joins us
after a successful stint as Head of Boys PE at Vic-
toria English school in Shajah.
Having already lived, worked and travelled
across the world, I am thrilled to be spending the
next chapter in my personal and professional life
at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi. My teaching background
has come from a range of hugely multicultural
environments, and I use this experience to suc-
cessfully cater for all ages, backgrounds and
sporting abilities. I am a firm believer that every
child has a talent, and it is our job as teachers to
Leo Milton– Physical Education Teacher
facilitate the opportunities that can nur-
ture each and every student’s unique
ability, and I know that Cranleigh Abu
Dhabi is exactly the place to achieve this.
I have worked closely with many top-
level football clubs both in the UK and
abroad, and I hope to be able to transfer
my expertise to the UAE, as I can see just
how popular football has become in the
Middle East! Aside from this, I enjoy
teaching any activity that gets students
active and encourages them to lead a
healthy lifestyle. Away from school you
will usually find me at the beach, in the
gym or playing some kind of sport, and I
know Saadiyat Island will be the perfect
place to keep me busy!
Natassja qualified with a BA Hons in Dance Stud-
ies from Roehampton University, and a PGCE in
Secondary Dance from the University of Hert-
fordshire. She also holds a National Diploma of
Performing Arts from North West Kent College.
She has taught in both Primary and Secondary
schools in London, most recently Hampstead
School, where her results have been outstanding.
She is richly experienced teaching dance from the
Early Years through to GCSE and beyond. No
doubt Cranleighans will be inspired by her pas-
sionate approach.
Natassja writes: “I am thrilled to be part of Cran-
leigh Abu Dhabi’s learning community being able
to combine my two passions of Dance and teach-
ing is truly a dream of mine. I believe the arts are
an essential element of education; developing
pupil’s confidence, creativity and imagination. I
have vast amount of vocational and teaching ex-
perience in the styles of Ballet, Contemporary,
Street, Jazz, Tap and Musical Theatre. After stud-
ying a Bachelor of Arts in Dance Studies at Roe-
hampton University I began my teaching career
in London, England. I have experience in setting
up dance departments in schools and make sure I
provide the pupils with the best educational ex-
periences. I have always had a passion for travel-
ling and working in multi-cultural environments
that is why working in Abu Dhabi is a profession-
Natassja Williams – Head of Dance and Housemaster of Etihad
al and personal goal of mine. I am excit-
ed to be able to share the talents of
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi with the rest of the
community and I know that the journey
of Dance at Cranleigh is going to be out-
standing!”
“Great dancers are not great because of
their technique; they are great because
of their passion.” ― Martha Graham.