Executive Leadership team

Hello! I’m Malaika Dorai, the Treehouse Manager. I believe that a library should be more than just a place to read, it should be a space where students feel safe to explore, create, challenge ideas, and grow together. My hope is for the Treehouse to become just that – a vibrant, nurturing environment that inspires curiosity, collaboration, and leadership.

I started my professional journey in Marketing, but a powerful teaching experience showed me just how meaningful and rewarding working in education can be. That moment changed the direction of my career, and I haven’t looked back since.

I truly believe in the power that reading holds, it truly can transform how we think, feel, and connect with ourselves and those around us. In today’s fast-paced, digital world, I’m committed to fostering a strong reading culture and a genuine love for books within our school community.

I’m truly excited to be part of each student’s learning journey and equally grateful for the ways they’ll shape mine.

Hello, my name is Katrina Downie. I was born in the West of England (Bristol), before studying up North in Hull, moving South to London, then on to Essex before getting on a plane to sunny Dubai in 2023! I brought my family along for the ride and have been so happy that they are happy!

I’m so incredibly proud to be one of the founder Secondary Teachers of our school community at DBSJ, and look forward to embedding systems that help to remove any potential barriers to your child’s learning. I always aim to build enjoyment into our wide and varied curriculum (focusing on my two specialisms, ICT and Computer Science), so that all students feel successful in the subjects. When your child enjoys learning and is taught to identify and develop high level learning, they are more able to embrace agile thinking, innovative ideas and problem solving skills. ICT and CS are both subjects that are ever dynamic and requires each of the qualities and skills mentioned. They are finely honed from Year 5 onwards during Computing sessions.

I have been teaching for a long time – over 20 years – and have done so with incredible results because the children I teach have such great aspirations and I can give them the tools to get them there, and making it as real as possible to them as we go on the learning journey together.

It is a privilege to introduce myself as part of the Secondary Founding Team at Dubai British School Jumeira. For the past three years, I have taught at a British International School in Saudi Arabia, where I have enjoyed guiding students through KS3, IGCSE, and IB Theatre and Performing Arts. I believe Drama is a powerful tool for building confidence, empathy, and creativity, and my aim is always to create a classroom where every student feels encouraged to take risks, work collaboratively, and develop their own unique voice.
I look forward to working with DBS Jumeira students, families, and colleagues to establish a Secondary Performing Arts department full of energy, imagination, and opportunity.

Hola! My name is Cristina Requena, and I’m thrilled to be teaching Spanish at DBSJ across both Primary and Secondary. I was born in Barcelona, Spain, where I earned my BSc in Education and began my teaching career in Spanish state schools, working with infant and primary students.

After several years in Spain, I moved to London, where I gained my Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and completed a Masters in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language. I then transitioned into international education, working as a Spanish lecturer at the University of Roehampton and teaching Secondary at ACS Egham.

Following five years in London, my family and I relocated to Singapore, where I spent six years teaching Spanish in a very well-known international school. I taught students from Year 7 to Year 13, preparing them for IGCSE and IB exams, and I’m proud to say they achieved excellent results.

Now in Dubai, I’m excited to be part of the vibrant DBSJ community. In my classroom, I aim to create a fun and engaging environment where students not only learn the Spanish language but also explore its rich culture and traditions.

I speak three languages: Spanish, Catalan, and English. I am passionate about languages and strive to inspire my students to appreciate their value, as multilingualism is a key asset for their personal and professional futures. Outside of school, I love travelling, meeting new people, cycling, and swimming.

My name is Ms. Smith and I am the Secondary Art and Design teacher. I’m originally from England and have lived in the UAE for the past 17 years. I’m really passionate about teaching Art and Design and love helping students explore their creativity and discover new ways of seeing the world. Outside of school, I enjoy travelling, visiting galleries, exploring architecture and history, and discovering new places through sightseeing.

Hello, founding families of Dubai British School Jumeira! My name is Michael, and I am excited to join this wonderful school community as the Assistant Head of Primary.

I’d like to share a bit about my background, interests, and educational philosophy so that you can get to know me better.

For the past six years, I have been a part of the Dubai British School Jumeirah Park, where I taught Year 6. During my time there, I enjoyed exploring topics such as World War II and Africa with the students. I am thrilled to bring some of the cultural and outstanding learning practices from Jumeirah Park to our new school.

I am looking forward to getting into all the classes and working with everyone to explore different learning opportunities. Together, with all our brilliant teachers I am looking forward to creating a dynamic and nurturing educational environment at DBSJ. I believe in creating an environment where students feel valued and enthusiastic about their education. I am passionate about finding innovative learning opportunities and integrating them into the classroom to enhance student engagement and growth.

Outside of school, I cherish spending time with my family, traveling, and exploring Dubai and beyond.

As a graduate of the University of Edinburgh, I began my teaching career in Scotland before moving to Spain, where I first experienced the rewards of international education. This inspired a move to Dubai, where I’ve spent the past 10 years teaching in international schools across FS1 to KS2.

In recent years, I’ve taken on a leadership role in Lower Key Stage 2, supporting children through the critical transition from KS1 and fostering a love of learning through diverse and engaging experiences. I’m passionate about continuous professional development and have completed the National Primary Qualification in Middle and Senior Leadership.

I am excited and motivated to begin my new role at Dubai British School Jumeira as Assistant Headteacher. As a dedicated educator, I’m passionate about exploring innovative teaching approaches and have actively participated in action research projects, including the CEAR initiative in Dubai. My goal is always to equip children with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy an active lifestyle and make the most of Dubai’s fantastic weather (whenever possible!) — whether it’s on the golf course or skiing… inside! I’m truly looking forward to becoming part of this vibrant school community and contributing to the continued success and vision of DBSJ.

Ashlee is the Assistant Head Teacher Lower Primary at DBSJ. Ashlee is a passionate educator with ten years of experience in the UAE.

She believes in playful approaches that enable children to develop their skills as they explore their imagination, curiosity, and joy of learning. She holds a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, along with numerous other qualifications, and her passion for learning continues to grow. She is currently working on her Doctorate of Education, further enhancing her expertise and commitment to providing exceptional educational experiences for young learners. With a passion for education and a commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment, Ashlee cultivates relationships with parents that ensure consistent connection, involvement, and communication with the DBSJ community. She believes that when parents feel valued and actively involved in their child’s learning journey, educational experiences are greatly enhanced.

Ashlee looks forward to working together to support the growth and success of all DBSJ students.Over the last decade, Ashlee has trained many early years teachers across the UAE and loves to support the professional development of staff through a coaching culture approach. She is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented atmosphere for both students and colleagues.

Outside of her professional life, Ashlee loves being active. This includes traveling,hiking the local UAE trails with her dog. Ashlee also enjoys both playing sports and encouraging physical activity as key components of a well-rounded education.

Hello there! My name is Mrs. Helene Harrison, a long-time bookworm and Dubai resident. I am delighted to be joining DBS Jumeira to set up their Primary Library.

I was born and educated in South Africa. My childhood unfolded among bookshelves as both my grandmother and mother were school librarians! It was with surprise that I found myself following in their footsteps later in life. After working in a UK curriculum primary school library in Dubai for over a decade it was time for a new chapter! I can’t wait to introduce all the students to the magic of the written word. I endeavour to live by Kate DiCamillo’s words; “Reading should not be presented to children as a chore, a duty. It should be offered as a gift.”

As a primary librarian, I love all the illustrated literary treasures that can be found amongst the library shelves. Tales from distant lands, mysteries waiting to be unravelled, and adventures yet to be embarked upon, all ready for young minds to explore and discover. There is no place quite as inspiring for young or old as a well-stocked library in my opinion!

My home life is usually busy; a travelling husband, three teenagers, four cats and hundreds of guppies keep me occupied after hours. When I am not reading, I can usually be found propagating various and assorted plants and succulents. Alternatively I will be planning our next family travel adventure. I do enjoy exploring new countries and cultures during the school holidays.

I am extremely excited to embark on the next chapter of my “Life in Dubai” as the new librarian for DBS Jumeira.