Nicola is a passionate and experienced Early Years educator from the UK with 8 years of teaching experience and over 17 years in education. Having worked in a range of roles including Nursery Manager and Literacy Specialist, she holds a degree in Early Childhood Development and has supported schools in developing research-based early reading practices and whole-school literacy strategies. Nicola has taught across various settings in both the UK and UAE. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing, play-based environment where children feel confident, curious, and excited to learn. A strong advocate for child-centred learning, she believes in the power of play to support both academic and personal growth.

In addition to her teaching expertise, Nicola is a reflective and collaborative leader. She has experience coaching staff, delivering professional development, and leading parent workshops on early reading and writing. She is committed to building strong relationships with children, staff, and families, and is passionate about fostering a positive school culture where everyone can thrive.

Nicola is especially passionate about early reading and fostering a love of books and stories from the very beginning. Her aim is to create an engaging and inclusive classroom where every child can flourish, develop a love of learning, and feel proud of their achievements.

Megan has been teaching for 10 years in the UK, UAE and South Korea. This is her third year at Dubai Heights Academy. She believes that her role as a teacher is to enable her pupils to see opportunity in every situation and that they work best through a positive, creative and engaging approach. She ensures they are encouraged to explore their strengths and weaknesses to develop a natural curiosity. She is progressive in her approach to teaching, incorporating technology, innovation and creativity into her daily classroom learning to promote children's interests.

Noreen pursued her education in Dublin, earning a BSc in Computer Applications in DCU and completing her PGDE at Hibernia College. Over the course of 16 years, she has had the privilege of teaching across Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2 in schools in the northwest of Ireland. Her teaching journey has been deeply rewarding, filled with opportunities to cultivate valuable experiences and skills to bring to Dubai Heights Academy. She firmly believes in a child-centred approach to education, where each student's unique abilities are nurtured and celebrated. Creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment is a top priority for her, as is fostering open communication and positive relationships with both students and parents.

Charlotte is a dedicated primary school teacher from the UK who has experience teaching in both Key Stage 1 and 2 in the UK and the UAE. After completing her degree in Psychology and Special educational needs, she gained her PGCE in primary education. Charlotte is a passionate and nurturing teacher with a heart for making a difference and she strives to inspire each child to reach their full potential. She creates a welcoming classroom environment where each mind feels valued and encouraged.

Liam is a dedicated and innovative primary school teacher with over 20 years of experience across the UK and Dubai. He holds a degree from the UK and a PGCE in Primary Education, alongside further professional qualifications in leadership, coaching, science education and the use of AI in the classroom. Throughout his career, Liam has taught across all primary year groups, with a particular passion for Key Stage 1 and Lower Key Stage 2. He has held a variety of leadership roles within his schools, helping to raise science standards and foster inquiry-based, engaging learning.

Liam strongly believes that the relationships built with children and parents are at the heart of successful learning. He often says that “children only get one chance to be five,” and works to ensure they enjoy the best possible experiences in their early years at school. He is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive classrooms where every child feels valued and inspired to achieve.

Beyond teaching, Liam enjoys golf, football coaching, and spending time with his family.

Lillie is an experienced Primary School Teacher from the UK, with seven years worth of experience across the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Primary phases. She graduated with a BA (Honours) in Primary Education with QTS from the University of Sunderland. Her professional journey has taken her from classrooms in the North of England to an enriching international role in the heart of the Capital, Abu Dhabi. While teaching in Abu Dhabi, Lillie embraced the opportunity to work within a diverse, multicultural community and took on the leadership of phonics for FS2. She is deeply committed to Early Literacy and to implementing evidence-based strategies that support children in developing essential reading and writing skills.

Beyond her professional life, Lillie is a passionate gymnast and dancer who values maintaining an active lifestyle. She also enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, travelling to new places and going on lots of shopping trips!

Hannah is a dedicated and passionate educator who holds a First Class BA (Hons) degree from the University of Salford and a PGCE from the University of Birmingham. Originally from Yorkshire, she brings a calm, professional, and nurturing presence to her role as Year 2 Leader. Hannah is passionate about creating a classroom environment that is warm, engaging, and centred on imaginative, hands-on learning experiences. She firmly believes that this approach not only fosters a deep love of learning but also supports the development of essential social and emotional skills, preparing pupils for life beyond the classroom. As Year 2 Leader, Hannah is committed to maintaining high standards of teaching and learning across the year group. She promotes a collaborative and inclusive ethos among staff and pupils, ensuring consistency, creativity, and a strong sense of community in all aspects of school life.

Lauren is a creative and dedicated primary school teacher from North England with experience teaching both Key Stage 1 and 2. She received a BA (Hons) degree specialising in Art and Design and following this, gained a PGDE in Primary Education and Masters in Leadership in Learning. The past several years, she has gained experience teaching in England and the UAE. Lauren is dedicated to positively impacting each child's personal and academic growth. She continually works to create a nurturing learning atmosphere that empowers all students to thrive and cultivate a true passion for education. It is her continuous aim to deliver outstanding lessons that spark imagination, curiosity, captivate, and present challenges suited to students with diverse abilities.

Taylor is a dedicated Key Stage 1 teacher from the UK with five years of teaching experience across both England and the UAE. She holds a First-Class Honours degree in Theatre from the University of Chichester and went on to gain her PGCE through The South Downs SCITT. With a strong passion for early literacy and the performing arts, she brings creativity, energy, and a sense of fun into the classroom to make learning engaging and meaningful for young children.

Her background in theatre has had a lasting influence on her teaching practice. Taylor believes that performance is not only a way to build confidence and communication skills but also a powerful tool for sparking imagination and curiosity in the classroom. She enjoys incorporating drama, storytelling, and role-play into her lessons, giving children opportunities to express themselves and learn in interactive, memorable ways.

Deeply committed to children’s wellbeing and the development of positive learning behaviours, Taylor’s goal is to create a supportive, inclusive environment where every child feels encouraged and inspired to reach their full potential.

Hannah brings over 15 years of primary teaching experience, including the past 9 years in a British international school in Dubai. She holds a BSc in Primary Education with ICT and QTS from Durham University and is passionate about creating inclusive, engaging classrooms where every child feels valued and inspired to learn. As a member of her previous school's Innovation Team, Hannah has led initiatives integrating technology to enhance student engagement and critical thinking. She has also organised and led various extracurricular activities, including eco-clubs and digital learning workshops, reflecting her commitment to sustainability and real-world learning.

Outside the classroom, Hannah is an avid scuba diver and actively participates in reef monitoring and beach clean-ups. These experiences enrich her teaching, allowing her to bring global environmental issues into the classroom in age-appropriate and inspiring ways. Hannah believes in fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where students are encouraged to explore, question, and develop a lifelong love for learning.

Michaela Boltman is a highly accomplished educator with over a decade of teaching and leadership experience across Ireland, the UK, and the UAE. With a strong foundation in both classroom instruction and strategic leadership, Michaela has previously served as a Grade Level Leader and currently leads Year 3, driving curriculum innovation, team collaboration, and student achievement.

Renowned for creating inclusive, engaging, and future-focused learning environments, Michaela designs and delivers rich learning experiences tailored to individual student needs. She is skilled in integrating technology to enhance learning, embedding cross-curricular approaches, and cultivating a love of learning in every child. Her passion lies in developing young learners into critical thinkers, problem solvers, and compassionate global citizens. Michaela has championed initiatives such as Design for Change, empowering students through the 'I Can' mindset and hands-on STEAM learning, fostering creativity, confidence, and purpose in the classroom and beyond.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Michaela is currently studying for her National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL), further strengthening her expertise in leading school improvement and driving impactful change.

She is also a proud mother to two young girls, and her experiences as a parent enrich her empathetic, supportive approach to teaching and leadership, enabling her to build strong, meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues alike.

Charlotte is a positive and resourceful teacher. Her recent roles as primary class teacher and the Head of Primary Science, has given her the opportunity to further connect with learners across the primary phase and develop her leadership skills. She is passionate about fostering a love for science and exploration among students. She is keen on providing personalised learning opportunities that cater to the diverse needs of students, ensuring they can thrive and reach their full potential. She believes that all children are unique and that the provision for their learning should nurture and reflect this.

Christopher has been teaching for 8 years; with 5 years of experience in Ireland and the past 3 years in the UAE. He is stepping into the role of Primary Maths Lead, a position that reflects his passion for the subject. Christopher is particulary committed to fostering a love of mathematics through innovation and creativity, with a strong focus on devloping future problem-solvers. He believes in child-centred learning and strives to create an environment where every child can achieve their full potential.

Outside of the classroom, Christopher's love of sport remains a big part of his life, having played GAA and football from a young age. He is also continuing his interest in personal development, drawing inspiration from books like Pat Divilly's Fit Mind, which has helped him embrace new challenges and stay focused in his professional growth.

Mahwash is a dedicated and forward-thinking primary teacher with four years of experience creating classroom environments where every child feels valued and supported to achieve their full potential. With a strong academic foundation from the University of Birmingham, UK, and additional training in evidence-informed practice through the Chartered College of Teaching, she takes an approach centred on effective and purposeful learning. She is passionate about grounding learning in real-world contexts, enabling students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving and confidence. Her action research on the skills young children need to use AI safely and effectively reflects her commitment to preparing students for a rapidly advancing world and encouraging lifelong learning.

Kerri is a dedicated and highly professional educator with seven years of invaluable teaching experience. She earned her undergraduate degree in Education from the University of Strathclyde, followed by a PGDE from the University of Glasgow. Further enhancing her expertise, Kerri completed a year as a nurture teacher in Scotland equipping her with a strong foundation in the pastoral and wellbeing aspects of education. This academic journey has shaped her into a compassionate, well-rounded educator with a deep understanding of both academic and emotional development.

For the past four years, Kerri has been teaching in Dubai, where she has developed a strong connection to the local community and educational environment. Passionate about fostering high standards across both student development and curriculum design, Kerri looks forward to playing an active role in shaping a supportive and inspiring learning experience for all children.

Chelsea is an experienced Primary School teacher from England with 10 years of teaching across Key Stage 1 and 2. She holds a Bachelor of Education in Primary Education and has taught in both the UK and the UAE. Chelsea is a passionate and dedicated educator who brings a fun and personalised approach to learning. With a strong focus on inclusion and student wellbeing, she creates a warm classroom environment where every student feels valued and supported. Outside the classroom, Chelsea enjoys swimming, exploring new destinations through travel and getting lost in a good book.

Chloe has 7 years of experience working across primary, both in the UK and in the UAE, equipping her with vast knowledge on the English Curriculum, as well as the KHDA's directives. Chloe promotes a love of learning by inspiring curiosity in all of her students through a supportive and stimulating environment, and engaging lessons and experiences. She believes in providing high-quality teaching and supports all needs. Chloe emboldens children to love reading for pleasure and to always be kind.

This year, Chloe will be a head of house, encouraging her house to partipate in competitions, games and be the best versions of themselves.

Danielle is a dedicated primary teacher with over 10 years of experience in Dubai. Having grown up in the Middle East, she brings a unique, relatable perspective to her classroom. With expertise in both the British and IB curricula, Danielle encourages students to take ownership of their learning, providing support while challenging them to excel. She holds an MSc from Kingston University London and a PGCE from the University of Sunderland, bringing a strong academic background to her teaching. Her holistic teaching approach focuses on nurturing independence and fostering creativity through technology and innovation. Danielle creates an environment where students feel empowered to explore, ask questions, and grow, helping them build confidence, resilience, and critical thinking skills for the future.

Zena is an enthusiastic and dedicated teacher with 9 years experience both in the UK and the UAE. Zena is adept at creating engaging learning environments that captivate her students' curiosity and foster a genuine love for learning. She skilfully encourages children to become critical thinkers and independent learners, inspiring them to explore and question the world around them.

Zena understands that a love for reading is the cornerstone for life long learning and so instills a deep passion for reading in her students by imparting essential literacy skills and an affection for books. She is committed to delivering high quality, personalised learning experiences for her students and empowers them to be the best version of themselves.

Holly has a background in Performing Arts and love for all things creative. She has been teaching in the UK and internationally for 17 years in both British and IB schools. In the classroom she aims to boost children's confidence in using the English language to express themselves and help young people discover books and characters they can connect with. Outside of school, she enjoys winning at board games and spending time with her rescue dog.

Tyler is a dynamic and innovative teacher who is determined to inspire confidence, individuality and self-esteem amongst learners. He received a BA (Hons) degree in Primary Education from the University of Chester and has experience of teaching in schools throughout the UK and Dubai.

He is committed to the well-being, social and academic progress of each child and strives to deliver all curriculum subjects in a way that is integrated, stimulates inquiry and sets high standards for students. He consistently provides high quality learning opportunities to those within his care and ensures an inclusive and engaging education is at the forefront of his teaching philosophy.

Mary is a dedicated primary school teacher originally from Ireland who has been living in Dubai since 2001 and has been teaching in various schools in the city since then. She is truly grateful for the incredible teaching opportunities she has had and for the chance to explore different parts of the world. One of Mary's greatest passions is promoting a love for reading among her students. She also believes in challenging and expanding her students' thinking abilities, fostering their creativity, and encouraging them to be inquisitive learners throughout their educational journey. Mary also places a strong emphasis on connecting classroom learning to real-life experiences, the local culture of the UAE and sustainability providing her students with a well-rounded education.

Outside of her teaching duties, Mary is a busy parent, spending quality time with her son at the pool, beach, or cheering him on from the sidelines during his football matches.

Kimberley is a passionate Primary teacher from Scotland, UK. She received an MA (Hons) in Spanish from the University of Glasgow, before attaining her PGDE in Primary Teaching. She has been teaching in Upper Primary for the past three years, preparing pupils for their transition to Secondary school. Kimberley has years of experience teaching various curricula; in Spain, Scotland and Dubai. She is an enthusiastic teacher who strives to create a fun and engaging learning environment where pupils feel safe, encouraged and ready to learn. She is dedicated to creating meaningful learning experiences for students, linking learning across subject areas and making connections to real life experiences.

Shane brings 13 years of teaching experience, including the past 7 years in a British international school in Dubai. He holds a PGCE from London Metropolitan University and began his career teaching in London before moving to the UAE. Shane is passionate about delivering fun, engaging lessons and places great importance on children’s wellbeing. He believes that when pupils learn in a positive and supportive environment, they are happier, more confident, and achieve greater success in their academics.

During his time as Head of Mathematics at his previous school, Shane developed a range of initiatives and events designed to promote problem-solving and critical thinking across the year groups. He enjoys finding ways to connect learning to real-life situations, making maths meaningful and exciting for all pupils. Beyond the classroom, Shane is regularly involved in supporting school sports teams and leading extracurricular activities, including boxing sessions that help children build confidence, resilience, and teamwork skills.

Outside of school, Shane has competed as a boxer for over 20 years and continues to be deeply passionate about health and fitness. He believes in the strong link between physical activity, wellbeing, and learning, and enjoys bringing this perspective into his teaching. By sharing his enthusiasm for fitness and resilience, Shane aims to inspire pupils to lead healthy, balanced, and active lives.

Helen is a passionate and dedicated primary teacher who believes in creating inclusive, engaging classrooms where every child feels confident to thrive. She encourages students to build resilience, independence, and a love of learning by tailoring lessons to their interests and needs. With over nine years of experience teaching the British Curriculum in both the UK and UAE, Helen has worked extensively across Key Stage 2. She has a strong track record of supporting children to reach their full potential through personalised and meaningful learning experiences.

Outside the classroom, Helen is very creative and has a strong passion for art and design. She enjoys finding ways to bring creativity into learning and believes it is not only enjoyable but also an essential skill for children to carry into their future.

Issy is an experienced French teacher with a diverse educational background. She holds a Bachelor's degree in French and Business Studies from the UK and a PGCE, which have equipped her with a solid foundation for language teaching. Her studies have involved multiple placements in French schools, giving her valuable insight into native French educational practices and cultural nuances.

Issy is passionate about making French language learning accessible and enjoyable for students of all abilities. She employs various interactive methods and cultural activities to bring the language to life in the classroom, encouraging students to develop their confidence in both speaking and writing French. Her approach emphasizes real-world application and cultural understanding, preparing students not just for exams but for meaningful engagement with the French-speaking world.

Sam is a committed and enthusiastic educator from the UK with a focus on Geography and History. He holds a BA (Hons) in History with Geography and an MA in War, Conflict and Society with the University of Portsmouth. His academic journey has taken him to diverse locations including Turkey, Belgium, and France, enriching his understanding of global perspectives and international relations.

Sam brings two years of valuable teaching experience in the UK, where he developed a passion for creating engaging lessons that bring geographical concepts to life. He is dedicated to helping students understand the interconnections between human activities and environmental systems, using real-world examples and current events to make geography relevant and exciting. His goal is to inspire students to become thoughtful global citizens who understand the world around them.

Danielle is an accomplished educator with a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Chemical Engineering and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) in Mathematics. With four years of teaching experience across the UAE and the UK, she brings a unique analytical approach to mathematics education, drawing on her engineering background to make mathematical concepts practical and relevant.

Danielle is passionate about making mathematics accessible to all students, regardless of their initial confidence level. She believes in creating a supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions and explore mathematical thinking. Her teaching style emphasizes problem-solving skills and real-world applications, helping students see the value and beauty of mathematics in everyday life.

Rabekah is a Science teacher (Biology specialist) from The UK with 9 years' experience teaching Key Stage 3, 4 and 5. She received a BSc degree in Biological Science and Biological Anthropology from Reading University and a PGCE from Hertfordshire University. Her expertise spans across all three sciences, with a particular passion for Biology and its real-world applications.

Rabekah is dedicated to making science accessible, engaging, and relevant for all students. She believes in hands-on learning and regularly incorporates practical experiments and investigations into her lessons. Her approach encourages students to think scientifically, ask questions, and develop critical thinking skills that extend beyond the science classroom. She is committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and helping students understand the important role science plays in addressing global challenges.

Mohammed is a passionate and experienced Computer Science teacher with over six years of teaching in the UAE. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science from the University of Birmingham. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to inspiring students to explore the world of technology and develop essential digital skills for the 21st century.

Mohammed's teaching philosophy centers on making Computer Science accessible and engaging for all students, regardless of their technical background. He believes in project-based learning and hands-on coding experiences that allow students to see the practical applications of their learning. His goal is to prepare students for a digital future while developing their computational thinking, problem-solving abilities, and creativity through technology.

Shahriar is an experienced and adaptable Secondary English teacher with over five years of teaching in both the UK and the UAE. He holds a BA in English from Coventry University and a PGCE in Secondary English from Newman University, Birmingham. His teaching background spans KS3 to KS5 within the British National Curriculum, as well as MYP and DP English in the IB framework.

Shahriar is passionate about making English relevant, engaging, and accessible for all learners. He places a strong emphasis on oracy, believing that both confident verbal and written communication is essential for students' academic success and future opportunities. His classroom approach blends high expectations with creativity, real-world connections, and a focus on critical thinking.

Andy is from the United Kingdom and has been in the UAE since 2010. With over 13 years of experience teaching the British curriculum, he brings a wealth of creative expertise and passion to the classroom. His extensive experience spans various artistic mediums and techniques, making him well-equipped to guide students through their creative journeys.

Andy believes that art education goes beyond developing technical skills; it's about fostering creativity, self-expression, and critical thinking. He encourages students to explore different artistic styles and mediums while developing their personal artistic voice. His supportive and encouraging approach helps students build confidence in their creative abilities and appreciate the role of art in society and culture.

Uzayr Arif holds a BA in English and Education along with a PGCE in English with QTS. With a diverse teaching background, he has taught English language and literature both in England and Qatar, enriching his understanding of different educational environments.

In addition to teaching, Uzayr has gained valuable middle leadership experience, collaborating with various educational stakeholders to enhance student outcomes. His educational philosophy centres on a child-centred approach, aiming to prepare students to become lifelong learners. He believes that while academic success is crucial, instilling morality and values is equally important in shaping students into exemplary members of society.

Outside of the classroom, Uzayr has a passion for travel, learning languages, and playing sports. He actively volunteers with local communities to promote education and sports, reflecting his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the school environment.

Luke is a History and Politics Teacher with over 6 years of experience in the UAE and the UK, having studied History and English literature at University and obtaining his masters in Education. He is passionate about developing students' critical thinking skills and helping them understand the complexities of human society throughout history.

Luke believes that history education should be engaging, relevant, and thought-provoking. He uses a variety of teaching methods including debates, role-playing, and source analysis to bring historical events to life. His goal is to help students develop analytical skills, empathy, and a deep understanding of how past events shape our present world. He encourages students to think like historians, asking questions and evaluating evidence to form their own conclusions.

Lydia is a passionate and dedicated secondary Business and Economics teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Cork and a Master's in Education from Hibernia College, Dublin. With extensive experience in business education, she brings real-world knowledge and practical insights to her teaching.

Lydia believes in making business studies relevant and engaging by connecting classroom learning to current business trends and real-world scenarios. She encourages students to think entrepreneurially and develop critical business skills including analysis, decision-making, and communication. Her teaching approach emphasizes the importance of understanding economic principles and their practical applications in today's global marketplace.

Kamran is a dedicated Computer Science educator with almost a decade of international teaching experience in China, Turkey, the UK and now in the UAE. Fueled by a passion for programming, he transitioned from TEFL to Computer Science, emphasising hands-on learning and problem-solving. His expertise in Python, HTML, Java, and Swift is complemented by his proactive approach to integrating technology across disciplines. With a vision for innovative projects and a dedication to ongoing professional development, he aims to inspire the next generation of computer-literate individuals, particularly in the UAE, where he continues to thrive in the teaching profession.

George is a Science teacher and Physics specialist, dedicated to sparking the same enthuisiam for the subject in his students. George holds a BSc degree in Mathematics and Economics from University of Reading and began his teaching career in the UK in 2019, after gaining his PGCE at Greenwich University and completing his training at Stopsley High School in Bedfordshire. He has 5 years experience working in schools with a variety of students, including those with special educational and social, emotional needs. George believes that a love of physics is fostered by real world application and has thus been actively involved in keeping students up to date with the latest happenings in local and international settings. He has also taken the lead for many outside the classroom initiatives. George has taught in Dubai for the last 4 years and understands the importance of embedding global perspectives within every lesson he teaches. Outside of the classroom, George is a devoted dog dad and loves taking his cockapoo Marley on adventures around the UAE.

Kofo is an experienced mathematics educator with over eight years of teaching across the UK and Dubai. She gained her Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) at University College London through the Teach First programme, and is proud to be a Teach First Ambassador. Over the course of her career, Kofo has held a variety of leadership roles, including Maths Mastery Lead, Head of Year, and Head of Mathematics - a position she has now held for four years. She also leads on Maths Circles, fostering problem-solving and critical thinking beyond the traditional classroom. Kofo is passionate about ensuring that mathematics is accessible, engaging, and challenging for all learners. She draws on her wide-ranging leadership experience to develop teaching practices that inspire both pupils and staff, with a focus on deep conceptual understanding and long-term success.

Outside of the classroom, Kofo has a love for travel and is on a personal mission to visit 40 countries before turning 40.

Sarah is an accomplished secondary school teacher specialising in Design Technology and Art at Dubai Heights Academy. With an impressive 16-year teaching journey, including 12 years within the UAE, she brings a wealth of experience to her role. Sarah's expertise spans a wide range, from Key Stage 2 (KS2) to Key Stage 5 (KS5), allowing her to effectively engage students across various age groups. Her passion for merging artistic expression with technological innovation has inspired countless students to explore their creative potential.

Outside of the classroom, Sarah enjoys spending quality time with her young family, embracing outdoor adventures and exploring new countries.

Hayley Burrows is a highly dedicated UK educator with a wealth of experience in both teaching and leadership roles. She holds a BA (Hons) in Sociology and Psychology, as well as a PGCE in Primary Education from University College Northampton. Over her 9 years in UAE education and 4 years at DHA, Hayley has demonstrated versatility and expertise, having successfully worked across all year groups. Currently, she serves as the Computing teacher for KS1 and KS2, and her impact extends to KS3 through her active involvement in our collaboration with MIT, where she plays a crucial role in enhancing AI learning.

Hayley is deeply passionate about integrating coding across all year levels and advancing digital literacy, making her an invaluable contributor to the ongoing development of our Computing curriculum. As the Designated Safeguarding Lead, she is instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of both students and staff. Beyond her teaching responsibilities, Hayley has been pivotal in nurturing student leadership through the successful development of the Student Council, driving numerous school initiatives and fostering community engagement. This year, she is particularly focused on further empowering student leaders and championing sustainability efforts within the school. Hayley's teaching approach is both innovative and adaptable, designed to engage students with a diverse range of computing projects tailored to different skill levels.

Outside of her professional life, she is an animal lover, having rescued two cats, and enjoys watching crime dramas. Her creative side shines through in her love for drawing and painting. She is also a music enthusiast who enjoys attending live events and festivals. Hayley thrives on inspiring students with her passion for computing and commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.

Robin has over 10 years of teaching experience in Dubai and has developed a strong passion for integrating technology into education in meaningful and engaging ways. He is committed to helping students use computers responsibly and confidently, ensuring that technology supports rather than replaces their fundamental learning and growth.

Robin enjoys introducing coding to children from a young age, encouraging them to explore problem-solving, logic, and creativity through hands-on projects. He also promotes the responsible use of AI and emphasises the importance of online safety, helping students become thoughtful and responsible digital citizens. He believes that when technology is used meaningfully it can inspire curiosity, build resilience, and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in a fast-changing digital world.

Prakash is a passionate and experienced Science Teacher from the UK with over 10 years of experience teaching Key Stages 3, 4 and 5. He holds a Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering with Management and a PGCE in Secondary Science Education from the University of Birmingham. Prakash has taught in a variety of schools across the UK, including Cambridge and Birmingham, and has experience mentoring PGCE trainees and leading science enrichment activities such as Science Week, museum trips and open evening events.

Prakash is dedicated to inspiring a love of science through engaging and accessible lessons for all students. He is committed to academic excellence and student growth, and believes in nurturing curiosity, creativity, and resilience in the classroom. With a strong background in both science education and leadership outside the classroom, Prakash brings a well-rounded and enthusiastic approach to teaching and learning.

Heather is an enthusiastic and positive Head of Performing Arts from the UK, specialising in Drama. She has nine years of teaching experience; seven in the UK and two in the UAE. Heather holds a BA (Hons) in Drama and Theatre Arts from St Mary's University, Twickenham, and a PGCE with QTS from the University of Buckingham.

As a qualified Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and an AQA Drama examiner, Heather is committed to promoting wellbeing and fostering engagement through the arts. She believes Drama is for everyone and ensures her teaching is inclusive and adaptive for SEN and EAL learners.

Heather has taught KS3 Drama and Music, GCSE Drama, A-Level Drama and Theatre Arts, and BTEC Performing Arts. She has consistently delivered outstanding examination results and served as a mentor for trainee teachers in the UK. Beyond the classroom, Heather actively contributes to school life by directing productions, creating performance opportunities, and teaching LAMDA for Public Speaking, Acting, and Reading for Performance, with exceptional outcomes.

Her professional ethos centres on inclusive, creative, and high-impact arts education.

Rachel has 10 years of experience in Music and Performing Arts departments in the UK, Dubai, and Tanzania, and she has a breadth of teaching experiences and interests across primary and secondary Music and Drama. Her teaching methodology is to foster curious and independent learners within a supportive Performing Arts environment that encourages collaboration, exploration, celebrating successes, and to feel confident in learning from essential mistakes. Rachel is particularly passionate about providing an enjoyable and formative Performing Arts experience for every child, regardless of background, prior experience, or ability. As a multi-disciplinary musician and instrumentalist, Rachel has a wide range of extracurricular experience, including choirs, orchestras and instrumental ensembles, musical theatre productions, composition, songwriting and music theory workshops.

George is a highly motivated and experienced Kenyan music educator with nearly a decade of international school teaching experience in Nigeria, Kenya and 4 years the UAE. He has experience specialising in both Primary and Secondary National Curriculum of music, Cambridge IGCSE and Pearson Edexcel IGCSE Music. George holds a Bachelor's of Music degree from Kenyatta University from Kenya, and a PGCEi from Liverpool John Moore University in the UK. George is a multi-instrumentalist proficient in piano (ABRSM Grade 8), trumpet, trombone, tuba, classical and rock guitar, bass guitar, violin, saxophone, drums, and vocals. He is also a skilled composer for orchestra and brass ensembles, with experience in film scoring and contemporary arrangements.

Outside his teaching profession in Dubai, he performs as a trumpeter with the Emirates Community Society Orchestra and plays both trumpet and tuba with the Drum Corp United. George maintains a keen interest in emerging technologies and AI integration, and enjoys movies, playing football and basketball. His commitment to music education is driven by a dedication to students' growth and the opportunity to showcase emerging talents. A safe environment for self-expression makes the difference.

Kate is a passionate and committed secondary Economics teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Mathematics from the University College Dublin, followed by a Masters of Science degree in Finance, specialising in Econometrics and Time Series Analysis from the Technological University of Dublin and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the Leeds Beckett University. With a strong background in economics and education, she brings both academic depth and practical understanding to the classroom.

Kate believes in making economics accessible, relevant, and engaging by linking key economic theories to real-world issues, current affairs, and global economic trends. She fosters a learning environment that encourages inquiry, debate, and critical thinking, helping students to explore complex economic concepts and apply them in meaningful ways.

Her teaching approach focuses on developing students' qualitative and quantitative skills, equipping them with the tools to understand both microeconomic and macroeconomic frameworks and their impact on societies, governments, and markets. She is especially passionate about preparing students to become informed, responsible citizens who can navigate and contribute to an ever-changing global economy.

Anne is an enthusiastic and experienced teacher of Modern Foreign Languages, specialising in French and Spanish. After obtaining a BA (Hons) from the University of Leeds, UK, Anne worked as a translator and teacher of EFL in Spain before returning to UK and pursuing a career in Finance. In need of a new challenge, Anne returned to teaching 19 years ago working in the UK secondary sector before moving to the Middle East in 2011. After two years in Kuwait teaching French and Maths at British School of Kuwait, she moved to Dubai and has worked in a series of British and IB schools as a teacher of French and Spanish. Having decided to commit fully to the Primary sector, Anne has also worked as a general Primary cover teacher, giving her an in-depth knowledge of the entire UK curriculum across both Key Stages 1 and 2. Her approach to teaching languages is very communicative, giving all students opportunities to interact in the target language primarily through speaking and listening activities which are then supplemented by reading and writing tasks. Fostering a positive attitude to learning and the development of transferable learning skills underpin all her lessons.

Outside school, Anne enjoys golf, padel tennis, pilates, travel and lots of family time.

Kira is embarking on her 8th year as a teacher, gaining experience teaching across all Key Stages in the UK and UAE. Her passion for fostering physical well-being and growth shines through her role as a dedicated Physical Education and swimming teacher. She received her BA (Hons) Degree from York St John University before going on to complete a PGCE in Physical Education at Sheffield Hallam University.

Kira's heart resonates most with the grace and dynamism of gymnastics, formerly being a competitive gymnast for an impressive 13 years. Her journey extends beyond the mat, as she also competed internationally as a cheerleader, further embodying the spirit of camaraderie and teamwork. In her PE classes, Kira infuses her deep-rooted love for movement and sport, encouraging students of all ages to discover the joy of staying active while nurturing essential life skills. Additionally, Her expertise in swimming imparts invaluable water safety knowledge and stroke techniques to her eager learners.

Kira believes that well-being is a key ingredient for success and is passionate about supporting the staff, students, and wider community of Dubai Heights Academy. Now in her 5th year at Dubai Heights Academy, she continues to be deeply committed to making a positive impact.

Joshua is a positive and hardworking PE teacher with a passion for creating fun and engaging learning environments and instilling a lifelong sports participation mindset. Joshua is keen on ensuring that each learner can achieve their goals and reach their full potential, whilst fostering a growth mindset, allowing them to go outside their comfort zones and build their physical, mental and social wellbeing.

Nicola is originally from Stratford Upon Avon, England and has been in the UAE for 3 years, 2 years as a KS1 Class Teacher in Ras al Khaimah and 1 year as a PE teacher and Swim Lead at Dubai Heights Academy. She has a first-class degree in Physical Education and Youth Sport, and was the Head of Swimming at a top independent school in the UK for 5 years. She has also set up and ran a successful swim school in England, teaching over 250 children each week. As an accomplished swimmer herself, Nicola has a huge interest in swimming, both as a life skill and as a competitive sport. She has competed at the British Olympic Trials and represented England. Now in her 10th year of teaching, Nicola is excited to continue developing both curriculum and competitive swimming at Dubai Heights Academy.

Ryan is a dedicated and enthusiastic Physical Education Teacher from Brighton and Hove, England. He brings nearly a decade of experience inspiring and guiding students. His academic foundation was established at the University of Bedfordshire, where he obtained a BA (Hons) degree in Secondary Physical Education with (QTS).

Throughout his career, Ryan has positively impacted a variety of educational settings, from state to independent schools across the UK, including institutions ranking within the top 4% academically and in the top 1% for their sporting achievements. Ryan is passionate about fostering a positive learning environment that encourages the growth and development of students of all abilities across a wide range of sports. His particular expertise lies within football, an enthusiasm that has led to valuable experience working within the professional game as an academy coach at both Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club and Stevenage Football Club, where he worked with some of the most promising players in the country.

Ryan is deeply committed to creating supportive yet challenging environments where every student can explore and achieve their maximum sporting potential.

Arran holds a BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Science from Leeds Beckett University and completed his QTS and PGCE at the University of Greenwich. He also holds multiple coaching qualifications. He is a passionate teacher who promotes a love of sports. His primary focus is to foster a positive and enjoyable environment for students to grow and develop. Arran has spent the past four years as a PE teacher in an East London school; prior to this, he taught swimming in Dubai for two years.

In his free time, Arran is a keen sportsman. He has competed for GB in Age-group World & European Triathlon Championships and played football as a goalkeeper.

Katy received her BA (Hons) Degree from the University of Derby, before going on to complete a PGCE in Physical Education at Loughborough University. She has a passion for promoting health, wellness, and teamwork through fun, engaging physical activity. She has 7 years of teaching experience in the UK and 9 years teaching experience in Dubai.

Katy has been very active and passionate about sport throughout her whole life. Her biggest achievements is competing for Great Britain in the World Championships Triathlon. She completed an ironman triathlon and represented her county in synchronised swimming. Currently, she enjoys playing golf, padel and you will find her biking most weekends at the cycle track in Al Qudra.