Joined Oryx in (year)
2018
Qualifications
BA (Hons) Fine Art and Critical Theory, University of Galway, Ireland
Postgraduate Certificate in Primary Education, University of Sunderland, UK
TEFL – English as an Additional Language
Bio
I am originally from Ireland, where I completed my BA (Hons) in Fine Art and Critical Theory at the University of Galway. I later completed my Postgraduate qualification in Primary Education at the University of Sunderland, UK.
I have over 19 years of teaching experience, working with students from FS1 through to Year 12. I have lived and worked in Qatar for almost 18 years, mostly as a primary teacher, where I gained extensive experience supporting students whose first language is not English. This experience sparked a strong passion for inclusive teaching and led me to spend much of my time developing practical classroom strategies to support EAL learners.
I went on to complete a specialist qualification in English as an Additional Language and have since spent the last seven years working as an EAL teacher, and two years as EAL Lead across both Primary and Secondary. Prior to joining Oryx International School, I worked as Head of Primary at an international school, where I gained valuable insight into departmental leadership and whole-school practice.
I am delighted to be part of the team at Oryx International School for the past eight years, where I continue to advocate for inclusive, language-rich learning environments that enable all students to succeed.
Fun fact
I grew up on a large farm in the remote west of Ireland, an experience that shaped my strong work ethic, resilience, and belief in learning through observation and hands-on practice. My background in Fine Art continues to influence my teaching through the use of visual strategies, creativity, and alternative ways for students to demonstrate understanding. I also come from a musical family and, when I am home in Ireland, I sing at weddings with my siblings. You will always hear me singing down the school corridors.
