meet the team

It is a truly great honour to lead at GEMS Wellington Silicon Oasis in my role as Primary Principal. I have been working in education since 2000 and have been lucky enough to teach and lead in some incredible schools both in the UK and in the UAE. My leadership to date has highlighted the value of leading with integrity and approachability, ensuring everyone is a valued member of a unified community.

I remain personally committed to providing our students with value-led experiences that inspire them; ensure their success and ultimately establish a love for learning.

WSO draws amazing students from across the globe, and it is a privilege to work alongside exceptional and talented colleagues who provide aspirational and world-ready educational experiences for every student, every day. Each child will craft their own unique story here at WSO and will have access to world-class education, care and support.

With nearly 30 years of experience in educational leadership across New Zealand, Hong Kong, and the UAE, it is my absolute privilege to lead the Secondary School at GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis (WSO). Our Secondary and Primary Leadership Teams work closely together to ensure a unified and seamless educational experience for every student, from Foundation Stage through to Year 13.

Our long-held Vision and Mission – “World Class, World Ready. A story for every child” – sit at the heart of everything we do. This commitment is deepened by our core values of Unity, Integrity, and Aspiration: acting as one, upholding the highest standards and principles, and striving for the best outcomes for every student and their family. It’s a simple yet powerful recipe that guides us every day.

We look forward to co-authoring this story with you and your children.

After graduating from York University, I worked for a global consumer goods company for sixteen years, in both regional and national roles in Customer Service and Operational Management. Our family moved to Dubai in 2011, and my son, who joined Year 1 on the day the Academy first opened, is now a proud alumnus after 13 wonderful years at WSO.

I began my journey at WSO in 2011 as the Parent Relations Executive and have been the Manager of Academy Operations since 2015. I work closely with the Administration and Support Teams and I am responsible for everything unrelated to teaching; health and safety, all contracted services (ESM, STS, Catering, Security, Threads and Cleaning), site maintenance and development, staff accommodation and dealing with local authorities and regulators.

I am proud to be part of the WSO community, both as a member of staff and previous parent.

I arrived to the Academy in 2015 and have loved seeing the Academy evolve over my time here. Being a Vice Principal at the Academy means I am lucky enough to interact with so many of our amazing students, as they write their own story at WSO.

My passion lies in fostering vibrant and dynamic learning environments, where every lesson ignites curiosity and sparks the imagination. Walking through the corridors of our school, I am continually inspired by the dedication of our teachers and the enthusiasm of our students. Together, we create unforgettable memories, cultivate a love for learning, and achieve exceptional progress.

I am immensely proud of what we represent as an Academy -a community where students are empowered to explore, innovate and succeed. It is a privilege to be part of this journey, nurturing the next generation of leaders and lifelong learners.

WSO is a truly special place which I am very proud to be a part of. It is a privilege to serve as a member of the leadership team to drive our magnificent school forward, creating a story for every child to ensure WSO students are world class and world ready. I am dedicated to lead through unity, integrity and aspiration, to continue to unlock the full potential in each one of our children.

Since joining the Academy in 2013, I have been KS3 Curriculum Coordinator, Director of Performing Arts, Assistant Principal and Deputy Principal. As Vice Principal, my responsibilities are Pastoral and Wellbeing, Safeguarding, Post 16 and Academy Subjects from FS to Post 16 for Performing Arts, Physical Education, Modern Foreign Languages, Outdoor Learning and Islamic. I am passionate about the Wellbeing of our students, staff and parents and strive to ensure that WSO is a community where all can unite and thrive.

Originally from Manchester, England, I completed my bachelor’s degree at Sheffield Hallam University before gaining my Postgraduate Certificate in Education at Edge Hill University.

I began my teaching career at an outstanding school in Greater Manchester, teaching across Years 5 and 6, before joining WSO in August 2017. Since then, I have had the opportunity to work across both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, as well as taking on leadership roles as Head of Year 5 and Head of Year 1.

In 2022, I had the privilege of joining our outstanding Foundation Stage team as Assistant Principal for FS1 and FS2. Today, as Vice Principal, I have the pleasure of overseeing Years 3 and 4, supporting our students as they continue their journey through WSO and ensuring they have the foundations, opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive.

Having worked across so many different stages of school life at WSO, I feel incredibly fortunate to have played a part in the journeys of our students and families over the years. It is a privilege to see our children grow in confidence, develop their individual strengths and make the most of everything WSO has to offer.

WSO is a truly special community and it is a privilege to serve as Academy Vice Principal and Designated Safeguarding Lead. I am passionate about ensuring that every student feels safe, valued and empowered to write their own story. Through collaboration with students, families and colleagues, I strive to lead with integrity, helping to foster a culture where every child can flourish.

My commitment to safeguarding and inclusion is rooted in the belief that every child deserves to feel a genuine sense of belonging. By working closely with students, families and colleagues, we strive to create a culture where wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that all young people have access to the care, support and opportunities they need to thrive. Through our shared values, we empower every student to achieve their full potential and write their own unique story.

Since beginning my career in education in Scotland in 2003 and moving to Dubai in 2015, I have been fortunate to hold a variety of leadership roles, including Head of Year, Head of House and Assistant Principal. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to building strong relationships and creating a sense of belonging for all.

Since joining WSO in 2018, I have been privileged to serve in a school that truly lives its values and maintains a deep connection with its community. My passion lies in creating innovative, world-class opportunities that not only elevate our students’ learning but also strengthen the wider community we serve.

I began my teaching career in 2013 in Leeds, UK, driven by a commitment to creating engaging, supportive, and challenging learning environments. I believe in building strong relationships, inspiring curiosity, and equipping students with the skills and confidence to thrive in and beyond the classroom, a commitment that still drives me today.

As Vice Principal, I am proud to lead a talented and dedicated team of educators. Together, we foster a culture of integrity and aspiration, ensuring every student feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential as responsible global citizens.

I joined WSO in 2013 and, alongside the Academy, have been on a journey of growth and development ever since. As Vice Principal for Assessment and Academic Systems, Safeguarding, and Community Engagement, I am committed to ensuring that every student can follow their own path in education, preparing them for a successful future.

Over my career in school leadership - both in Dubai and the UK - I have led curriculum development, assessment, safeguarding, school improvement, and data management. This has included working in ‘Outstanding’ schools and contributing to the rapid transformation of a school recognised as one of the most improved in England.

I graduated in 2007 with a Master’s degree in Physics from the University of Durham, and I remain passionate about science and technology in education. I believe that scientific literacy and the ability to meaningfully interpret the world are fundamental skills every student should take with them beyond school.

As a parent of two WSO students, I value the strong sense of family within our school community, that makes us feel truly at home. 

I am delighted to serve as Vice Principal at WSO. Having joined when we opened in 2011 and seen the school grow and students succeed in so many different ways, Dubai is now my home and the community here at the school is such a significant part of my life. As a school leader, I am passionate about curriculum development, community engagement and ensuring that our students are prepared for an ever-changing world.

Originally an English teacher, I will always champion a love of reading and relaxing with a good book is my happy place. I also strive to promote the value of oracy skills and the importance of encouraging critical thinking and collaboration through debating. What I value most about WSO is its heart. The warmth, care and sense of belonging within our community make it a truly special place. The successes, growth and wellbeing of our students are the driving force behind everything we do, and it is a privilege to play a part in their journey.

Originally from France, I discovered a passion for languages at a young age, which led me to the UK where I qualified as a Languages teacher in 2003 at the University of Exeter. Over the years, I have taught in a variety of schools, each experience deepening my commitment to helping students reach their full potential.

In 2018, my family and I relocated to Dubai, where I joined WSO as Head of Languages. We immediately fell in love with the school and its community. I am now Academy Assistant Principal, overseeing Academy subjects: Physical Education, Outdoor Learning, Islamic, Modern Foreign Languages, and Performing Arts. Alongside a drive for outstanding teaching and learning, my focus is on creating opportunities that help every student become world-class, world-ready. I value our school’s rich cultural diversity and spirit of tolerance, which inspire me and strengthen our united community. Guided by our mission of creating a story for every child, I ensure each learner’s journey is rich in experiences, skills, values, and aspiration for life beyond the classroom.

As the Assistant Principal for Foundation Stage at WSO, I have the pleasure of leading an exceptional team of dedicated and compassionate teachers. Together, we provide a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment where every child is supported to thrive as an independent and confident learner.

I began my teaching career in the UK in 2014 after completing my Qualified Teacher Status in Primary Education, working in diverse school settings. Since joining WSO in June 2021, I have progressed from Head of Year to my current leadership role, continuing to grow my skills and passion for early childhood education.

I am committed to providing a broad, challenging, and personalised curriculum that recognises the importance of the early school journey. It is a joy to work in partnership with our Foundation Stage families, ensuring that every child’s first steps at WSO are happy, successful, and filled with curiosity and confidence.

Originally from Barrow-in-Furness in the UK, I began my teaching career in 2013 before moving to Dubai and joining WSO in 2018. I have taught across both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 and am passionate about creating opportunities and experiences that have a lasting impact on children’s lives.

As part of the school leadership team, I work closely with teachers across the school to ensure consistently high-quality teaching and learning. I am committed to supporting and developing our staff, strengthening effective systems and contributing to a curriculum that encourages creativity, resilience, aspiration and collaboration in every child.

Throughout my time at WSO, I have held a number of leadership roles, including Lead Teacher, Head of Year and Curriculum Phase Leader. These experiences have given me the opportunity to lead the development of teaching practice and curriculum design across the school. I take great pride in seeing this work come to life in our classrooms and, most importantly, in the positive impact it has on our children and their learning.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, exploring all that Dubai has to offer and travelling together whenever we have the opportunity. I love experiencing new places and cultures and creating memories through our adventures around the world.

I have had the privilege of working at WSO since September 2015 and I am now currently the Assistant Principal for Year 1 and 2, after leading Upper Key Stage Two for two years.

Since working in education, I have experience teaching across both KS1 and KS2, as well as also leading Maths across Primary. My priority is ensuring our Year 1 and 2 pupils are provided with a wide variety of opportunities and meaningful learning experiences, to enable them to thrive in a safe and happy environment.

We ensure that we always meet the individual needs of every child, particularly focusing on their well-being, to ensure every student is a high performer. I am passionate about empowering pupils to develop the vital skills they need to go on to become successful, life-long learners.

I have been fortunate to work at WSO since 2016 and currently serve as the Assistant Principal for Year 5 and 6.

With over sixteen years of teaching experience across all primary year groups from FS1 to Year 6, I bring a broad and well-rounded perspective to my role. I began my career in Scotland, where I taught for eight years before relocating to Dubai in 2016 with my husband and two children.

Since then, I have worked in two GEMS schools, including my current home at WSO. My journey here began teaching in Year 1, followed by a role as Assistant Head of Key Stage 1 at GEMS Metropole, before returning to WSO - a place where I feel deeply connected. That connection is both professional and personal, as my own children are proud WSO students. Being part of this community as both a parent and a leader is a source of immense pride and fulfilment.

It is an honour to be part of the dynamic, forward-thinking leadership team at GEMS Wellington Silicon Oasis.

I have dedicated my professional life to developing a deep understanding of what effective learning looks like across all phases of the academy, and I am excited to be leading on learning. I believe that we are responsible for continuously reflecting on our practice as educators to ensure that our students are exposed to learning opportunities on the cutting edge of pedagogical research.

I firmly believe that when students are encouraged to become agents of learning, high academic performance is an attainable target for everyone. To achieve this, we involve our students in school life to ensure they enjoy autonomy over their learning, work towards mastery and feel a sense of belonging.

I graduated with a BSc Hons in Geography and undertook a PGCE before beginning my career as a Geography Teacher in the Northwest of England in 2010. In the years since, I have held a variety of Academic and Pastoral middle leadership positions in the United Kingdom and Thailand before joining WSO in 2019. I feel incredibly fortunate to be working with dedicated and talented leaders and I look forward to supporting their professional growth as part of my role.

I’m passionate about providing the very best opportunities for students to excel and creating the right environment for each individual to thrive. I believe success cannot be measured on academic achievement alone and I am focused on ensuring a quality and innovative provision for enrichment activities; facilitating unique experiences that allow students to become ‘world class, world ready’.

I have been part of the WSO community since 2018, having begun my teaching career in the UK in 2010. During my career, I have held a range of teaching and leadership roles, including Head of Department and Lead Teacher for Teaching and Learning. These roles have given me the opportunity to work with both staff and students across different areas of the school.

I am particularly interested in how Teaching and Learning can develop students as critical thinkers. As a History and Politics teacher, I firmly believe students should be encouraged to question ideas, consider different perspectives and develop their own informed views, rather than simply acquire knowledge. Students should be encouraged to have their own voice.

I also value the opportunity to develop others. I enjoy working with teachers to reflect on their practice and identify ways to improve their impact in the classroom, while supporting students to become increasingly confident and independent learners. As Assistant Principal, I look forward to working with staff and students across WSO to continue developing high-quality Teaching and Learning and a culture of continuous improvement.

As the Assistant Principal for Ministry of Education Subjects at WSO, I am proud to lead our Arabic, Islamic Studies, Social Studies and Moral Education departments across Foundation Stage to Year 13. Every day, I have the privilege of working alongside dedicated teachers who are passionate about helping our students grow academically, develop strong values and become confident, well-rounded young people.

Having held leadership roles within UAE schools since 2012 and joined WSO in 2021, I have always believed that education extends far beyond the classroom. My passion lies in supporting teachers to deliver exceptional learning experiences, developing engaging curricula and creating meaningful opportunities through enrichment programmes that inspire students to discover their talents, build confidence and develop a genuine love of learning.

I believe that Arabic, Islamic Studies, Social Studies and Moral Education provide students with far more than subject knowledge. They help young people develop a strong sense of identity, appreciate different cultures and perspectives, and build the values, confidence and character needed to make a positive contribution to their communities and the wider world. Working in partnership with our families and the wider school community, I am committed to ensuring that every student feels supported, challenged and inspired to achieve their very best.

I am honored to lead a team of educators in WSO Nursery, which has been ranked among the best in Dubai. Our goal is to create a home-away-from-home experience, ensuring every child feels valued and unique. We are dedicated to creating a personalised learning journey for each student, preparing them to be world class and world ready. Our vision is in harmony with the academy’s focus on unity and integrity, aiming to equip even our youngest children for a global future.

With experience since 2011 in education across the UK and Dubai, I am passionate about creating an environment where every child can thrive, achieve their fullest potential, and enjoy the process along the way. 

I joined GEMS WSO in 2016 and have had the privilege of working with the Leadership Pastoral Team across the Academy, supporting the development, wellbeing and pastoral care of our students.

I am passionate about creating a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment where every student feels known, valued and empowered to thrive. My role focuses on the holistic wellbeing of our students, ensuring their emotional, social and behavioural needs are understood and supported with compassion and consistency.

I am committed to developing students as confident global citizens who embody our school values of Unity, Aspiration and Integrity. I believe that when children feel a strong sense of belonging, they are better able to learn, grow, overcome challenges and discover their potential.

Working closely with our Primary Heads of House, students and wider school community, I am committed to ensuring that every child feels safe, supported and, above all, that they have a strong sense of belonging at WSO.

I joined WSO in 2015, having graduated from St Mary’s University with a BSc in Geography and Sports Science. Since joining the academy, I have held a number of roles that have given me the opportunity to develop a broad understanding of school life and support our community from a range of perspectives.

I began my career as a Geography teacher and have always had a particular passion for cultural geography and understanding how people connect with their environments and with one another. My teaching career has taken me across a range of diverse educational settings in London, Brazil, Australia and Dubai, experiences that have shaped my approach as an educator and strengthened my understanding of the individual needs of students.

At the heart of my leadership is a belief that student wellbeing provides the foundation for young people to flourish, both personally and academically. I believe pastoral care should be proactive, inclusive and responsive to the individual, creating an environment where every student feels known, valued and supported.

As Director of Pastoral Care for Secondary, I am committed to ensuring WSO remains a community where students feel a strong sense of belonging, have the confidence to be themselves and are empowered to reach their full potential.

Originally from Nova Scotia, Canada, I began my teaching career in Kent, UK, before joining GEMS Wellington Academy Silicon Oasis in 2014. Since then, I have had the privilege of serving in a variety of roles, including Head of House, Head of Year 12, Head of Year 13 and Assistant Head of Post-16, before becoming Director of Post-16.

With a background in Media and Film, I am passionate about ensuring every student finds a meaningful and personalised pathway that reflects their individual strengths, interests and aspirations. I strongly believe in the importance of student voice and choice, and in providing a broad range of Post-16 pathways that enable every learner to become truly world class and world ready.

I am committed to WSO’s mission of shaping a story for every child and embedding our values of Unity, Integrity and Aspiration throughout Post-16 life. Supporting our students as they discover their ambitions and grow into confident, capable young adults, ready to take their next steps beyond WSO, is at the heart of what I do.