The Finest School in the World

Emily Howard is a dedicated Primary Class Teacher with five years of experience and Qualified Teacher Status from Canterbury Christ Church University. She began her career at an Outstanding London primary school, leading Physical Education and Music. She pioneered ‘Fitness Fridays’ and directed the school choir, performing at prestigious venues. Passionate about holistic education, she fosters a love for learning, physical activity, and mental well-being in every student.

Mr. Monaghan is a globally respected educator whose distinguished career spans more than 30 years across the UAE, UK, USA, and South Korea. He brings with him a legacy of excellence from leading top-performing schools, including North London Collegiate School (NLCS) in Dubai and South Korea. His leadership is driven by innovation, academic rigour, and a deep belief in student empowerment, values that align perfectly with the pioneering mission of SRI.

Adrienne joins SRI as a Prep Teacher and Maths Subject Lead with 11 years of experience. She holds a PGCE from Anglia Ruskin University and a Diploma in Middle Management from Buckingham University. Previously, she taught at a leading UK prep school, preparing students for 11+ and secondary entrance exams. Passionate about literature, the arts, and running, she fosters curiosity, creativity, and perseverance in her students.

Jiannan brings 15 years of international teaching experience in top schools across the UAE, UK, South Korea, and the Philippines. A specialist in IB and IGCSE Mandarin, she is passionate about fostering global awareness through language and culture. She has played a key role in shaping world-class language programs, designing innovative curricula, and inspiring a lifelong love of learning.

Jane is an accomplished cellist and educator with leadership experience in both the UK and Dubai. A graduate of the Purcell School and Royal College of Music, she has performed at venues including the Royal Albert Hall and Tchaikovsky Hall. Formerly Assistant Head of Junior Programmes at RCM, Jane is passionate about nurturing creativity and has guided students to success in GCSE, A-Level, and vocational music qualifications.

Nick brings over 20 years’ experience in UK independent schools to his role as Director of Performing and Creative Arts at SRI. Formerly Director of Drama at Wellington College, his department was shortlisted for an Outstanding Drama Department award. A published playwright and senior A-Level examiner, Nick combines curriculum expertise with a passion for creativity, collaboration, and emotional intelligence to lead an inclusive, innovative Arts programme.

Daniel joins SRI with 14 years of experience in top UK independent schools, including Woodhouse Grove and Merchant Taylors’. He has led teams, driven school improvement, and served as a Team Inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate. A former Vice-Chair Governor at a leading UK grammar school, he holds a PGCE, a Master’s in Management, and is pursuing a Master’s in Educational Leadership.

Dr. Chris Coetzee is an educational leader with over 25 years of experience in Computer Science and digital innovation. As Vice Principal (Research, Innovation & Technology) at GEMS SRI, he will drive research-led transformation. Previously, he led digital strategy at King’s School Rochester, securing the Quality in AI mark. A dedicated rugby coach, he is committed to academic excellence and strong pastoral care.

Dominique joins SRI with over 15 years of teaching and leadership experience, including roles at Hendon Prep and Lambrook School. She holds a First-Class degree in Education (Early Childhood) and a PGCE from Goldsmiths, University of London. Passionate about excellence and innovation, she has contributed to numerous publications, including the Eton Journal for Innovation and Research in Education, shaping thought leadership in early years education.

Dr Graham Williams is a leading coach, researcher, and specialist in youth sport. Currently Head of Sport Programmes at Millfield School, the UK’s top school for sport, he holds a Professional Doctorate in Elite Performance and a Master’s in Strength and Conditioning. An award-winning coach, he has developed athletes to national, European, world, and Olympic success while collaborating with professional academies and national governing bodies.

Irene is a passionate Modern Foreign Languages teacher with over eight years’ experience teaching Spanish across all Key Stages. She holds a BEd in Primary Education and a master’s in Bilingual Education. Known for her evidence-based, data-driven approach, Irene consistently achieves strong outcomes in high-stakes exams. She is committed to creating a supportive classroom where students are empowered to thrive academically and personally.

Lauren holds a PGCE from the University of Northampton and has over eight years’ experience teaching in international and high-achieving independent schools. She has worked in Malaysia and across London, where she developed a passion for innovative curricula. Committed to a holistic approach, Lauren nurtures both academic excellence and the personal growth and well-being of her students.

With a BA in Childhood Studies and a PGCE in Primary Education, Leona brings 12 years of teaching and senior leadership experience in outstanding schools across both the state and independent sectors. Passionate about Early Years education, Leona has spent time in Finland exploring their Early Years education system in order to enhance her own work with the latest innovative practices.

Miki has over a decade of experience teaching at top schools worldwide. He began at Oundle School before joining the founding team at King's College School, Chengdu. Most recently, he was Deputy Head Academic at Dulwich College, London. He holds a Master’s in Education and is researching reductionism in education for his PhD.

Joseph is a dynamic primary educator with over six years’ teaching and leadership experience, most recently as Head of Year at Danes Hill School. A former semi-professional footballer, he holds a BSc in Sports Science and Nutrition and an MSc in Applied Sport Psychology. Joseph blends academic rigour with a passion for sport, fostering a collaborative, inclusive learning environment through innovative, student-centred teaching strategies.

Hannah has 15 years of experience in UK and international primary education, including leadership roles in top-performing schools. She has taught Year 6 for four years and specialises in data analysis, curriculum development, and evidence-based teaching. Currently a senior leader and Special Educational Needs Coordinator, she is completing her NPQ SENDCO qualification.

Alexandra joins SRI as Head of Lower School with nine years of experience. She holds a PGCE from Roehampton University and an NPQSL. Previously, she led an Outstanding school in Highgate, London, ranked in the UK’s top 3%, with students progressing to prestigious institutions. Passionate about holistic development, she fosters curiosity, confidence, and collaboration, ensuring students excel academically while thriving emotionally and socially.