Our Teachers

Elizabeth Rose

Elizabeth Rose

Country of Origin:	United Kingdom
Academic Qualifications:	QTS PGCE (Merit), University of Buckingham BA Drama and English and American Literature (2:1), University of Kent, Canterbury

Originally from London, England, Elizabeth Rose holds a BA (Honours) in Drama and English & American Literature from the University of Kent and a PGCE from the University of Buckingham. Prior to relocating, Elizabeth taught in primary schools across South London and Kent, gaining valuable experience in diverse educational settings.

With a strong passion for the creative arts, Elizabeth has led numerous school drama productions and organized philanthropic charity events that inspire community involvement. Outside the classroom, she enjoys swimming, reading, and listening to music.

Savanna Quaintance

Savanna Quaintance

Country of Origin:	United Kingdom
Academic Qualifications:	Bachelor of Education (Hons) in Primary Education (2:1), University of St Mark and St John

Savanna Quaintance originates from Devon, a small rural county in England. Here, she went to the University of St Mark and St John in Plymouth, where she studied her BEd in Primary Education (with QTS).  

She worked in London for 2 years teaching year 3 and 4 as well as taking on additional duties of Computing and Social Media lead for the school. Now in her third year at King Henry VIII College, she is the Primary Science Curriculum Leader and is passionate about sparking curiosity, encouraging exploration, and making science meaningful for her pupils.

Santiago Lage Cotelo

Santiago Lage Cotelo

Country of Origin:	Spain
Academic Qualifications:	Bachelor’s in Modern Languages and Literature from the University of Granada Master’s in Secondary Education (Spanish Language and Literature) from Valencian International University Master’s in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language from the International University Menéndez Pelayo.

Mr. Santiago Lage Cotelo is a fully qualified Spanish teacher with extensive international experience.

Before moving into the international school sector, he worked in higher education and adult learning as an Academic Director, lecturer, and research assistant at the University of Granada. Over the past decade, he has taught in international schools across Europe and Asia, supporting students from diverse cultural backgrounds and guiding them to success in Spanish at both primary and secondary levels.

In addition to his expertise in Spanish, Mr. Lage Cotelo is fluent in English, Galician, and Russian. His multilingual background allows him to connect with students of different linguistic and cultural identities, enriches his classroom practice, and reinforces his belief that languages are powerful tools for intercultural understanding. A certified DELE and SIELE examiner, he combines academic rigor with international assessment standards to help students achieve excellent outcomes.

Karen Ford

Karen Ford

Country of Origin:	Australia
Academic Qualifications:	BEd & Grad Cert in Primary Mathematics

Karen holds a Bachelor of Education degree and a Graduate Certificate in Primary Mathematics. She is currently completing the final semester of her Master of Education at the Australian Catholic University.

With 20 years of experience working with pupils from Nursery to Year 9, Karen is passionate about Science and Mathematics. She is committed to creating dynamic and inspiring learning environments that encourage pupils to embrace challenges and reach their full potential.

Sam Walker

Sam Walker

Country of Origin:	United Kingdom
Academic Qualifications:	BA (hons) Primary Education (ITT)

Sam holds a BA (Hons) in Primary Education from the University of the West of England. He began his teaching career on the South Coast of England before moving to Bristol to further develop his practice.

With seven years’ teaching experience, and over 15 years of working with children in various capacities, Sam values building positive relationships that foster a love of learning. Passionate about both education and football, he looks forward to inspiring his class at King Henry VIII to achieve their very best.

Erika Lazar

Erika Lazar

Country of Origin:	Hungary
Academic Qualifications:	A (Hons) Education-University of Pécs QTS — Department of Education, London NPQML-— TES Institute

Erika holds a Master’s in Teaching with a focus on Language and Literacy from the University of Pécs in Hungary. She also holds UK Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and completed her National Professional Qualification for Middle Leadership (NPQML) through TES Institute, London.

With more than a decade of international teaching experience in the UK and UAE, Erika specialises in curriculum development, literacy leadership, and inclusive, inquiry-based learning. Most recently, she served as English Lead and Read Write Inc. Coordinator at Al Salam Charter Schools, where she oversaw English curriculum planning across Years 1 to 5 and supported school-wide, data-driven improvement.

Nur Amalina Mohd Noor

Nur Amalina Mohd Noor

Country of Origin:	Malaysia
Academic Qualifications:	PGCE - Primary Education (Univ.Cumbria) QTS - Department of Education (UK) BA Hons in Business Admin

Nur Amalina is an experienced teacher with UK Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and more than 12 years in the profession. She is dedicated to inclusive education and fostering academic excellence.

She has taught extensively in the United Kingdom, working across both primary and secondary schools in London, where she gained experience with pupils of diverse cultural backgrounds and varying levels of English proficiency. Now teaching in Malaysia, Nur Amalina is eager to contribute her expertise in inclusive practice, holistic growth, and academic achievement to King Henry VIII College.

Zoe Ha

Zoe Ha

Academic Qualifications:

Post Graduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) in Primary with MFL, Goldsmith's College, University of London BA (Hons) Business in Europe (a dual degree with equivalent degree in France), Manchester Metropolitan University

Zöe Ha both studied and worked in business before training as a teacher in London. She has worked as a teacher in the UK and in Malaysia. She is highly adaptable, having taught the UK National Curriculum, Cambridge and most recently, American & IB curricula. She has always taught in multicultural classrooms and loves learning about different cultures. She has lived in Malaysia for a long time and particularly enjoys the many festivals and delicious foods.

When she isn't at school, Zöe can be found at the pool with her family. She also loves taking her family for fun foodie adventures and exploring the fantastic nature in Malaysia's parks, jungles and beaches - often camping! She regards herself as an artist and enjoys using her adventures as a source of inspiration for her artwork. During her career break, as well as raising a family, Zöe has been running mum and toddler groups and has both taken and taught art lessons for adults and children.

Aaron Craik

Aaron Craik

Country of Origin:	United Kingdom
Academic Qualifications:	BA (Hons) Childhood Studies, Bangor University PGCEi, Nottingham University

Aaron Craik graduated from Bangor University with a BA (Hons). He later completed his PGCEi from Nottingham University.

Aaron Craik has over 10 years experience in education where he has taught across Key Stage 1 and 2. Most recently, he has spent 10 years teaching in Kuwait at a well established British school. Before this, he spent time in Italy and Peru, working in different educational settings. Aaron have extensive knowledge of the UK National Curriculum. Aaron is currently looking forward to starting his new adventure with KH8.

Qanita Craik

Qanita Craik

Country of Origin:	South Africa
Academic Qualifications:	B.Ed Foundation Phase, Cape Peninsula University of Technology B.Ed (Hons) Foundation Phase, Cape Peninsula University of Technology

Qanita Craik is an experienced educator with international experience spanning South Africa, Kuwait, and now Malaysia. She is excited to join the team at KH8 as a Year 4 teacher, Qanita was fortunate to have worked across Key Stage 1 and 2 as well as early years.

She is dedicated to making a positive impact on her students and her professional journey is fueled by a lifelong love of learning and a belief in the transformative power of education.

Abigail Dook

Abigail Dook

Country of Origin:	United Kingdom
Academic Qualifications:	BA (Hons) Initial Teacher Education

Abigail studied at the University of the West of England, Bristol, UK where she completed her BA (Hons) Initial Teacher Education. She spent 3 years teaching in the UK then embarked on her international career. She has taught in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Qatar and recently Kazakhstan and has taught across Key Stage 1 and 2.

She has been fortunate to work in different international settings and has delivered not only the English National Curriculum but also the Primary Years Programme and the International Primary Curriculum. Abigail is very much looking forward to being apart of the KH8 community and teaching in Year 1 next academic year.

Robert Francis

Robert Francis

Academic Qualifications:

Master of Arts, Framingham State College, Framingham, Massachusetts Bachelor of Education, Univesity of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Bachelor of Education, University of Western Ontario, Ontario, Canada

Robert Francis graduated from: Western University (London, Ontario, Canada) with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Education for Primary and Secondary English; and Framingham State University with a Master's in Educational Leadership.

After working for the Toronto School Board in Canada, Mr. Francis has been teaching overseas in various international schools for the last 20 years. He has taught in schools in China, Korea, Thailand and most recently, Malaysia. With specialist qualifications in Secondary English and primary education, he has taught a variety of subjects at different levels including secondary English and EAL , history, geography and upper primary EAL. Over the last year he has also taken on the role of Year 5 class teacher at the King Henry VIII College.

J’Cee Mvusi

J’Cee Mvusi

Academic Qualifications:

Bachelor of Education Foundation Phase Teaching, University of Pretoria Postgraduate : Honours Educational Psychology (on going)

J’Cee Mvusi graduated at the University of Pretoria with a Bachelor of education and honours in Educational psychology. Before coming to KH8, she worked at an early intervention centre where she was an Austim practicitoner at Blossom interventions. Here she was able to attain the skills of learning Makaton signs , be trained in Aba therapy and learn Prompt therapy which was able to assist in working with children who experience learning barriers such as Autism , Adhd, Cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. Her love for sports also led her to become a Physical education teacher at Irene primary school where she also became a teaching assistant for their Year 3 class , she was able to take over that class while the teacher was on maternity leave.

Nicola Davis

Nicola Davis

Academic Qualifications:

Postgraduate Diploma in Dyslexia and Literacy, Middlesex University, UK Post Graduate Certificate in Structured Teaching Interventation for Dyslexia and Literacy, Middlesex University, UK BA Ed (Hons) Primary Education and Art, University of Exeter, UK

Nicola Davis graduated from the University of Exeter, with an Bachelor of Arts in Education Honours Degree, specialising in Art and Design.

With nearly 30 years teaching experience, Nicola has taught 5 - 13 year olds as both a subject specialist and class teacher. She spent three years living in Kenya, where she was appointed as the Head of Lower School, working at St Andrew's School, Turi. She later took additional qualifications allowing her to teach and support children with additional learning needs. Nicola is currently a Year 3 teacher at KH8.

Liezel Stimie

Liezel Stimie

Academic Qualifications:

PGCE (Intermediate and Senior Phase Gr 4-9), University of South Africa BA Honours in Psychology, University of Stellenbosch BA Social Dynamics, University of Stellenbosch

Liezel Stimie graduated from Stellenbosch University in Cape Town with a Bachelor of Honours degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Dynamics. She was a Trauma Counsellor and decided to further her education with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education at the University of South Africa.

Liezel taught in 6 countries, of which Malaysia is her 7th country, at various international schools across Asia, Northern Europe and Africa. She worked as a PYP 4 Teacher at an IB International school in Cape Town, South Africa prior to accepting the position at King Henry VIII College for Reception Year. Her two daughters have joined us at the school, currently in Year 1 and 2.

Rebekah Belward

Rebekah Belward

Academic Qualifications:

BA (Hons) Primary Teaching (5-11) 2:1, Oxford Brookes University

Rebekah Belward graduated from Oxford Brookes University with a BA (HONS) QTS. She spent three years training, with placements across both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. During her studies, Rebekah took a sabbatical year where she was the Vice President of Student Welfare in the Oxford Brookes Students’ Union.

In the UK, Rebekah has spent 5 years at a primary school in Oxford, teaching across Year 1 and Year 2 classes. Alongside her teaching role, Rebekah has been running the school dance club for 4 years, through which her students have reached the final of a national competition.

Charlotte Cook

Charlotte Cook

Academic Qualifications:

Postgraduate Certificate in Education – Primary (Non-QTS), Goldsmiths College, University of London Bachelor of Arts with Second Class Honours (1st Division) in Early Childhood Studies, Leeds Trinity University

Charlotte Cook graduated from Leeds Trinity University with a degree in Early Childhood Studies.

After graduating, she moved to Malalysia, where she taught English as a foreign language. During this time, she gained valuable experience working with students of all ages and abilities.

Charlotted returned to England from teaching in Ipoh in 2019 and qualified as a teacher. She has gained expereince teaching and supporting in all key stages, from Early Years to Key stage 2.

Natasha Richardson

Natasha Richardson

Academic Qualifications:

PGCE Primary (5-11) with QTS, Birmingham City University BA Philosophy (upper second-class honours), The University of Dundee

Natasha Richardson graduated from The University of Dundee with a BA in Philosophy. She later gained her PGCE in Primary 5-11 (with QTS) from Birmingham City University.

Natasha began her teaching career in Birmingham, United Kingdom, and initially gained most of her experience working in Key Stage One. She has since taught all year groups in primary schools in Kenya, Fiji and most recently, Thailand. For the past four years she has taught in Year Two at an international school in Northern Thailand where she also worked as the Year Two Lead Teacher. Natasha is excited to join the team at King Henry VIII College in August 2023.

Elaine Blando

Elaine Blando

Academic Qualifications:

Master of Education, Major in Early Childhood Education, De La Salle University Manila Bachelor of Liberal Arts, Major in Organisational Systems Development, De La Salle University Manila

Elaine Blando has completed her Masters in Education major in Early Childhood and Bachelor of Arts in Behavioural Science from De La Salle University. She is a licensed teacher and a Diploma Level Education and Care Qualified by the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority.

Elaine has 10 years of international school experience teaching Cambridge, IPC (International Primary Curriculum) and the English National Curriculum as an Early Years and Year 1 Teacher. Before moving to Malaysia, she worked as an EAL and SEN co-ordinator in King’s School Manila, which was chartered by the British Schools Foundation. Elaine has been teaching in international schools in Johor, Malaysia since 2017.

Jeniva Ezra Bien

Jeniva Ezra Bien

Academic Qualifications:

Bachelor of Music in Music Education, University of Santo Tomas, Conservatory of Music

Jeniva Ezra Bien graduated from the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music, where she earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Education with an emphasis in Piano and a minor in Voice (Magna Cum Laude). She also holds a Professional Certificate from Berklee College of Music and has completed certification courses in Piano Pedagogy and the Kodaly Method.

In the Philippines, Jeniva passed the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (Secondary Level – MAPEH) and worked as a primary music teacher at a private institution, where she also directed the school’s choir.

Continuing her career in Singapore, Jeniva worked as a piano and music theory teacher in a music academy. In this role, she guided students in preparing for recitals and music exams, following the ABRSM and Trinity Syllabi. Additionally, she taught music exploration to young learners, incorporating the Kodaly, Orff, and Dalcroze methods into her teaching approach.

Kam Yin Boey

Kam Yin Boey

Country of Origin:	United Kingdom
Academic Qualifications:	BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff PGCE Primary Education, Swansea Metropolitan University

Kam Yin Boey is from Wales, UK. He studied at the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff (UWIC), where he completed a BSc degree in Sport and Exercise Science. He then completed a PGCE in Primary Education, specialising in Physical Education, at Swansea Metropolitan University.

PHe has lived in Malaysia for 10 years, working in Penang and most recently, Rawang. He also worked in Rome for 2 years. He has experience as the Head of Houses and Head of Co-curricular Activities in previous roles. Kam Yin encourages students to take risks and use mistakes as an opportunity to learn.

Joanne Lee

Joanne Lee

Academic Qualifications:

Diploma Executive of Early Childhood Programme , University Malaya. Diploma in Montessori Education through a correspondence course.

Joanne Lee was born, raised and educated in Malaysia. She completed her Early Childhood Education at The University of Malaya. Joanne joined us from Busy Bees global preschool ( The children’s house & Odyssey ) where she taught for 3 years and led the Mandarin Department team for 4 years. Joanne is passionate about creating a fun and attractive environment for her students when learning Mandarin. She believes that the use of technology enhances the student’s creativity and passion for learning languages. Outside school hours, Joanne enjoys cooking and travelling. She is delighted to be part of the King Henry Viii school and is looking forward to the exciting challenges that lie ahead.

Li Gui Yun

Li Gui Yun

Academic Qualifications:

Specialist Diploma in Special Education Needs (PreSchool), Asian International College Diploma in Chinese Language and Literature Education, Chi Zhou Teacher College

Li Gui Yun is a Chinese educator renowned for her extensive background in Mandarin teaching. She accomplished her studies at Chi Zhou Teacher College during 1998-2001 and more recently, at Asian International College in 2022-2023, reflecting her unwavering commitment to professional growth.

Her tenure at Julia Gabriel Mandarin Teaching from 2009 to 2014, followed by a role at D'garden Educare Happy Garden in 2014-2015, cements her expertise in education.

Li's remarkable fluency in Mandarin enriches her capacity to craft tailored learning experiences in diverse classrooms. With a decade-long track record, she is a seasoned educator celebrated for optimizing learning prospects.Li Gui Yun is an adept Mandarin Teacher dedicated to cultivating enhanced learning environments, molding young minds with linguistic finesse.

Nurul Hidayah

Nurul Hidayah

Academic Qualifications:

Bach. Mass Comm (Hons) (Publishing), Universiti Teknologi Mara Diploma of Mass Communication, Universiti Teknologi Mara

Nurul Hidayah, a devoted and enthusiastic individual with a robust background in communication and education. She holds diplomas and degrees in Mass Communication, forming a strong basis for her career.

Driven by a hunger for knowledge and a determination to excel, she pursued higher studies, achieving a Master's degree in Education with a focus on Malay Studies. This advanced qualification provides her with a profound grasp of educational theories and methodologies, especially in Malay studies. With over a decade of teaching experience, she has refined her skills in teaching the Malay language and actively guided primary students and IGCSE candidates. She's had the privilege of working in esteemed international schools around Kuala Lumpur, gaining valuable exposure to diverse educational settings.

Charlotte Dixon

Charlotte Dixon

Country of Origin:	United Kingdom
Academic Qualifications:	PGCE, Canterbury Christ Church University BA (Hons) Childhood Studies, Nottingham Trent University

Charlotte Dixon graduated from Nottingham Trent University with a First Class Honours in Childhood Studies. She then went on to complete a PGCE at Canterbury Christ Church University.

For her first two years of teaching, Charlotte has been a Reception class teacher at a large and diverse Academy school. Here, she has enjoyed being a subject leader for Music, running choir and leading a weekly singing assembly. Charlotte is passionate about supporting children with EAL and SEND, using Makaton signing and visuals to create an inclusive environment. She is incredibly excited to be joining the KH8 community this year.

Prisca Langlais

Prisca Langlais

Academic Qualifications:

Master of Fine Arts (MFA). California State University, Fullerton. Bachelor of Arts. Trinity Western University Certificate in teaching english as a foreign language TEFL/TESOL Foundations of Positive Psychology Specialization. University of Pennsylvania.

Prisca earned her bachelor’s degree from Trinity Western University and her master’s degree in Fine Arts with a specialisation in drawing and painting from California State University, Fullerton. In 2013, she won the Alliance Art Tribute grant to study the art of the Renaissance under Professor Domenic Cretara in Florence, Italy.

Prisca’s artistic practice includes drawing, painting, video, photography, and sculpture. Her work has been shown in 13 of the 50 American States and internationally in France, Italy and Canada. Notably, her work was shown at Schomburg gallery in Bergamot Station, Santa Monica, the Pomona Museum of Art, and is part of the private collection of the AHA Development Group Inc., in Newport Beach, CA.

Prisca is experienced in teaching Arts from EYFS all the way through GCSE and A-Levels Art. Prior to joining KH8, Prisca taught in primary schools and universities. She is passionate about instilling art appreciation and promoting creativity within her students.

Rajini Muniandy

Rajini Muniandy

Academic Qualifications:

Master in Science Information Technology (MSc IT) Bachelor in Management with Education (Information Technology) Google Certified Educator - Level 1 and 2

With a wealth of experience spanning over nineteen years, Rajini has successfully led a Computing department as the Head, overseeing a team of more than ten dedicated teachers. Throughout her distinguished career, she has also served as an esteemed Computer Science and ICT Teacher for over two decades, effectively managing diverse classrooms across government, private, and international schools. Renowned for her ability to inspire students, she firmly believes that fostering high expectations within the school community leads to unparalleled levels of achievement.

Demonstrating unwavering strength, focus, and determination, she stands as a resolute Computer Teacher, driven by the desire to create a lasting impact in the lives of her students. Her passion for the subject matter is palpable, and she continuously strives to uphold the utmost standards of teaching excellence. Notably, her exceptional dedication has been recognized through numerous accolades, including the prestigious Highest Student Achievement Awards for IGCSE ICT and Computer Science, bestowed upon her in Malaysia, Asia, and worldwide.

Amie Smith

Amie Smith

Amie has spent the past 11 years working in a Primary School in the United Kingdom. She has worked with all ages from Reception to Year 6 and has a passion for teaching. Amie is an HLTA qualification and will be working across the whole of Primary as well as supporting and teaching in the PE department. She has a background in coaching Rugby and Netball and hopes to continue her coaching here at KH8.Amie is also involved in Girls Boarding this year and is excited by the opportunities this new experience will provide.

Hannah O’Donnell

Hannah O’Donnell

Country of Origin:	United Kingdom
Academic Qualifications:	BA (hons) Travel & Tourism PGCE

Hannah is an experienced international educator and has worked for 14 years in EFL and International Schools across Asia. Currently, she is based in Hungary. Her love for books and reading has guided her career, leading her to work both as a Primary Class Teacher and a Teacher Librarian.

Hannah is eagerly anticipating her return to Malaysia, where she previously enjoyed her time working in Penang. She can’t wait to share as many books as she can with her new Y2 class.

Grant Mason

Grant Mason

Country of Origin:	Australia
Academic Qualifications:	Bachelor of Education (Primary) University of Sydney, Australia

Grant studied at the University of Sydney, Australia, where he completed a Bachelor of Education (Primary). He is an experienced educator with many years of dedicated teaching experience across Australia, China, and Malaysia.

After 10 years of teaching in Sydney, Grant and his family moved to Shanghai for three years, where he taught at an international school. From Shanghai, they moved to Penang, where they have resided for the past four years. Grant's family enjoy calling Malaysia their home and look forward to joining the KH8 community.

Sorrel Wilson

Sorrel Wilson

Country of Origin:

Wales, United Kingdom

1 st class BA Hons degree in Sport, Physical Education and Coaching Sciences. Sorrel is coming over to Malaysia from Wales to with her husband and two children.

After graduating from the University of Birmingham, Sorrel then went on to the University of Bath to complete my PGCE in Secondary PE. After completing my first PE teaching job at the Red Maids’ School for 3 years I was promoted to Head of Academic PE and Girls Games at Christ College Brecon where I stayed for 5 years before going part time at Haberdashers Monmouth Schools. Besides teaching, I also coach football outside of school and am a Moderator for a GCSE exam board.

Having worked at Christ College Brecon, KH8 feels very familiar to me, in particular our core values. GCSE and A-Level PE are my interests, so I am excited to experience teaching these in a new, culturally diverse environment.

As a family, we love the outdoors and going on adventures so we can’t wait to expose the children to new experiences. I am particularly looking forward to learning from colleagues not only about life at KH8 but also about Malaysia as a whole; places to visit, things to do and most importantly, food to try!

Christopher Graham

Christopher Graham

Country of Origin:

United Kingdom

Chris has 15 years’ experience teaching Physical Education, including the past decade in international schools in Macau, Thailand, and Japan. He is passionate about supporting pupils’ holistic development through sport and physical activity, and is committed to fostering inclusive, engaging environments where learners of all abilities feel challenged, supported, and motivated.

In his most recent role, Chris coached football and co-coached basketball and volleyball, helping pupils develop both technical skills and positive character traits. He is enthusiastic about contributing to KH8’s co-curricular programme and believes that participation in activities beyond the classroom is vital for building confidence, collaboration, and leadership.

Outside of teaching, Chris enjoys golf, mountain biking, football, and strength and conditioning. He is looking forward to exploring Malaysia and embracing the opportunities of this new chapter.

Rebecca Mullins

Rebecca Mullins

Country of Origin:

United Kingdom

I hold a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management and PGCE in teaching from Trinity Saint David's University of South Wales. Over the past 15 years, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of children and young people in schools, communities and outdoor education settings. Passionate in working with children and young people, I believe that physical education is not just about physical activity; it is an opportunity to instill mental and social skills with values such as teamwork, perseverance, self- discipline and respect. My teaching philosophy centres around creating an inclusive atmosphere working towards a therapeutic approach where every student feels valued and motivated to participate, regardless of their abilities. I am dedicated to inspiring students, making learning fun through movement, achieving a love for physical activity, fitness, health and wellbeing ensuring that every student leaves my class feeling happy, accomplished and empowered. I have been involved in sports from a young age competing at international, regional and club levels in the sport’s martial arts, football and rugby. I am very excited to join King Henry school VIII. I am looking forward to gaining international experience in education collaborating with colleagues from across the globe, continuing the growth and success of the school. I’m a strong ambassador for girls and women’s sports participation, developing opportunities and inspiring the next generation.

Jake Edward Brookes

Jake Edward Brookes

Country of Origin:	United Kingdom
Academic Qualifications:	Rugby Coaching and Performance, University of South Wales — 2:1 PGCE with iQTS in Secondary Physical Education Level 1 and 2 World Rugby Coaching Certified

I spent three years at the University of South Wales in Cardiff studying Rugby Coaching and Performance. During this time, I worked as a Performance Analyst for the Welsh Rugby Union and was involved with the Wales 7s national team as well as the Women’s U20 national team.

I then went on to become a semi-professional rugby player and coach with the Kuala Lumpur Tigers, where I spent two years delivering the rugby programme across a number of international schools. I also coached the entire club, from players as young as four through to our oldest player aged 65.

I have since completed my PGCE with iQTS in Secondary Physical Education. I am a keen sportsman and regularly play rugby, golf, and pickleball.

Richard Dook

Richard Dook

Country of Origin:	United Kingdom
Academic Qualifications:	B.Ed Hons Physical Education from Bedford College of Higher Education

Having graduated from Bedford College, Richard taught for 12 years in Suffolk teaching GCSE PE and English. Richard has always wanted to teach a range of different curriculums overseas and to work with students from differing backgrounds and cultures. Since 2004 Richard has taught in The Bahamas, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Qatar and Kazakhstan and believes that the best is yet to come at King Henry VIII College!

In his roles as Head of PE and Director of Sport, Richard believes very strongly in a "Sport for All" ethos; where students are encouraged, engaged and extended to develop a lifelong love of sport and physical activity. He is looking forward to working with all the stakeholders in the school to enrich the experiences of every child.

Sam Ghomashchian

Sam Ghomashchian

Academic Qualifications:

National Professional Qualification for Leading Behaviour and Culture (NPQLBC), February 2023 – Currently undertaking, Best Practice Network in partnership with DfE, UK Duke of Edinburgh’s International Awards: Award Leader: Level 1: Award Induction – Objectives and Outcomes, Level 1: Award Delivery Training- Objectives and Outcomes, Level 2: Delivering the Award workshop – Objectives and Outcome Member of the Chartered College of Teaching (MCCT) : Awarded January 2022, The Chartered College of Teaching, UK Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), September 2013 – December 2014, University of Nottingham, UK Masters in Science - Project Management (Building Sustainability) (MSc), Robert Gordon University, Scotland, UK Bachelors in Science – Project Management (BSc), Glasgow Caledonian University, Scotland, UK Higher National Diploma – Construction Project Management (HND), College of Building and Printing, Scotland, UK

Sam Ghomashchian is an experienced educator with a strong background in teaching Physical Education and Swimming to both Primary and Secondary students. Sam holds a Master of Science (MSc) degree from Robert Gordon University, UK, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from The University of Nottingham, UK. With 10 years of teaching experience, Sam has previously held significant roles as a Co-Curricular Activities Coordinator in whole school settings. Sam has actively contributed to the development of Physical Education departments in international schools in Malaysia, China, and most recently, Singapore. He is currently working towards the UK National Professional Qualification (NPQ) in Leading Behaviour and Culture. In August, Sam will join King Henry VIII International School as a Teacher of Physical Education.

Laega Darsheni

Laega Darsheni

Country of Origin:

Malaysia

Laega graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Honours) in TESOL from the University of Nottingham Malaysia. A fresh graduate, she began her teaching career following a successful internship with KH8 and currently serves as an EAL (English as an Additional Language) teacher in Primary.

She is dedicated to fostering a hands-on and creative approach to learning, encouraging her students to think critically, explore actively, and develop a lifelong love of learning. She firmly believes that every child has unique potential and strives to create an inclusive classroom where students feel confident, supported, and motivated to succeed.

Vasanthamalar Thangarajah

Vasanthamalar Thangarajah

Country of Origin:

Malaysia

Vasantamalar Thangaraja graduated from the University of Selangor with a Bachelor of Education (Honours) specialising in TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language). Having successfully completed her teaching practicum, she is now prepared to embark on her career as an EAL teacher, bringing creative language-teaching methods to support English as an Additional Language learners in the classroom.

She is committed to designing innovative and engaging lessons that spark students’ interest and enhance their learning outcomes. Dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment, she values the diversity of all students and ensures that each one feels appreciated and supported. Her goal is to provide a nurturing and dynamic space that helps young learners develop independence and empowers them to reach their full educational potential.

Nasreen Hannah Shamsul Muhardzi

Nasreen Hannah Shamsul Muhardzi

Country of Origin:

Malaysia

Hannah is a graduate of the University of Nottingham with a Bachelor of Education (Honours) in TESOL. She first joined King Henry VIII College during her practicum before continuing as a Primary EAL teacher at the school. With a passion for helping children learn English, she is dedicated to supporting students in developing both their language skills and their confidence.

In her classroom, Hannah strives to create a fun and welcoming environment where students feel comfortable to learn, grow, and express themselves. She is committed to nurturing not only her learners’ English proficiency but also their love of learning, helping to instil skills and attitudes that will benefit them well beyond the classroom.

Nurul Ain Nor Halim

Nurul Ain Nor Halim

Country of Origin:	Malaysia
Academic Qualifications:	BA Fine Arts (Specialised in Autonoom), Royal Academy of Art, The Hague, Netherlands

Ain graduated from Royal Academy of Arts, The Hague (Koninklijke Academie van Beeldende Kunsten) with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2022. Ain’s passion for teaching art began to take shape in high school in Tokyo, where she was inspired by her art teacher. This passion grew further as she conducted artist talks and workshops in the Netherlands and Malaysia early in her artistic career. Ain is committed to fostering art and cultural appreciation in students, especially young learners, by nurturing their creativity and imagination. She firmly believes that visual thinking and creativity are crucial in supporting children to develop self-autonomy and realise their full potential.

Alongside teaching, Ain continues to pursue her career as a young artist, working across a variety of mediums including video, audio, installation, and collaborative projects. Her artistic practice explores themes such as belonging, language, memory, and national and cultural identity, and her work has been exhibited both locally and internationally.

Yugawaran A/L Krishnan

Yugawaran A/L Krishnan

Country of Origin:

United Kingdom

Yuga has a strong background in teaching Swimming and Physical Education, with experience working with both primary and secondary school students. He holds a Diploma in Sports Coaching and Sports Science, specialising in Swimming.

With over seven years of teaching experience, Yuga has coached swimmers of all ages, from early childhood to adulthood. He also trains competitive swimmers, preparing them to perform in a variety of swim meets.

Yuga believes that sport plays an essential role in life. It helps to cultivate resilience and discipline, supports mental and emotional well-being, and creates opportunities for building meaningful connections.