Executive Leadership team

I am delighted to introduce myself as Marwa El-Bahrway, joining the esteemed Dubai British School Jumeira as an Islamic teacher.

My educational journey commenced with a focus on Arabic Language and Literature, along with Islamic Studies, at Zagazig University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree. Subsequently, I pursued a teaching certification in Quran Sciences from Al-Azhar University in Cairo. With sixteen years of experience in international schools as both a teacher and a leader, I bring a wealth of expertise to my new role.

My teaching career has predominantly centered on guiding students aged 6 to 16 years old. I am passionate about creating an interactive classroom environment where students can deeply engage with the profound teachings of the Holy Quran and the life of the Prophet (PBUH). At the core of my teaching philosophy is placing students at the forefront of their learning journey, employing innovative methods and practical applications.

Beyond my professional life, I derive great joy from reading both Arabic and English literature. One particular book that has deeply resonated with me is “”Life will change,”” which beautifully illustrates the transformative power of love and inspiration in overcoming life’s adversities.

When I’m not immersed in literature, I indulge my curiosity for diverse cultures through travel, an activity that continues to enrich my perspective. Recently, I’ve also discovered a newfound passion for tennis, finding it to be both a mentally stimulating and physically rewarding pursuit.

I am enthusiastic about becoming an integral part of the DBSJ community and am committed to fostering excellence. By engaging students in diverse activities and nurturing their innate curiosity, my aim is to inspire a lifelong love for learning in each of my students. Let’s begin a thrilling educational adventure together.

Hello! My name is Élodie Cottin, and I am thrilled to join the dynamic community at DBSJ as your new French language teacher.

I am originally from France and have spent the last eight years in education. I hold a Professional Teaching Certificate and a Master’s degree in Sciences of Education from the American University in Dubai.

My teaching journey includes experiences in IB and international school education, primarily working with diverse age groups (6 to 11 years old) as a French bilingual homeroom teacher. I have a special interest in Special Educational Needs and learning disabilities, driving my commitment to an inclusive classroom environment. My goal is to tailor my strategies to meet the diverse needs of all my students, ensuring everyone can thrive and enjoy learning French.

In my classroom, expect a student-centered approach where learning is fun, interactive, and connected to real-life experiences. Engaging activities and a supportive atmosphere are key to building confidence and proficiency in French.

Outside of teaching, I am sporty and adventurous. I play beach volleyball, do CrossFit, and enjoy hiking. I spend most weekends exploring the UAE’s desert landscapes, driving off-road, and camping when the season allows.

Additionally, I have a passion for reading, particularly adventure books, historical fiction, and philosophical works. Two of my favorite books are “”The Lord of the Rings”” by J.R.R. Tolkien and “”The Forty Rules of Love”” by Elif Shafak. I love these books because they made me cry, laugh, identify with the characters, and gave me a lot to think about. I believe in the power of reading and that books can change our lives.

I am excited to join the DBSJ community and look forward to creating a vibrant and inspiring learning environment. I am eager to engage with the diverse school community and support our students’ growth as confident and enthusiastic French speakers. Let’s make this a wonderful year of learning and growth together!

Hello DBSJ families!

I’m Ms Pavla Gariboli, a specialist SEN teacher who has spent the past 15 years championing inclusive learning in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I hold a BA in Early Childhood & Special Education and a Post-grad Diploma in Special & Additional Learning Needs from the University of East London, and I’m currently completing an MSc in Psychology of Mental Health and Well-being with the University of Wolverhampton.

My experience ranges from nursery through Year 2, but my true passion is tailoring support for learners who think and feel differently—whether that’s early-speech intervention, sensory strategies, or enrichment for twice-exceptional pupils. Families can expect a classroom where routines feel safe, mistakes are celebrated as “first attempts in learning,” and every child’s voice is amplified through visuals, movement and play.

Away from school, you’ll find me on Dubai’s cycling tracks, practising yoga, or devouring the latest research article with a strong coffee in hand. My favourite picture book is The Invisible String by Patrice Karst; its gentle message—that we are always connected to those we love—beautifully support emotional resilience.

I’m excited to join the vibrant DBSJ community, collaborate with you, and help each child discover the unique strengths that make them shine.

I am delighted to introduce myself, I am Holly Westpfel. Growing up, I spent lots of time with my Nan who was a teacher. We used to play schools and she would show me all the fun things that she would teach her class.

This piqued my interest in teaching as my Nan always spoke so positively about school. I went onto study Primary Education at University and have now been teaching for 10 years, teaching between FS2 and Year 4.

I love to learn myself and try to foster a love of learning to all who I teach. I also believe that to be academically successful, we must foster secure and meaningful relationships and ensure that children feel safe and happy. One of my favourite parts about teaching is spending time creating learning environments that are engaging and evoke curiosity. In my spare time, I enjoy going to the beach and reading books. My favourite book as a child was ‘Esio Trot’ by Roald Dhal. I still hope that one day I will have a tortoise of my own.

Hello families of Dubai British School Jumeira!

My name is Jess Griffin and I am thrilled to be joining your wonderful school community.

As the oldest of four siblings and part of a large family, I fostered a love for supporting and helping children from a young age. It was always my ambition to become a teacher, led me to pursue a Primary Education degree at the University of Brighton.

Since graduating 9 years ago, I have worked throughout the Primary and Early years, learning an growing alongside many pupils. Most recently, my role has developed into a SENDCo position, teaching pupils with identified speech and language needs.

Within my teaching, I have developed a passion for creativity, learning through play and the power of communication.

I strongly believe that, with the right support, every child has the ability to achieve their goals, growing to reach their full potential.

I pride myself on a nurturing approach to teaching, allowing all learners to feel valued, included and confident.

When I am away from the classroom, I can often be found reading, shopping or spending time with my family. I love live music and often attend concerts and festivals. I am a big fan of country music!

My favourite book series growing up was Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling. I love these stories for their magic and the enchanting worlds they create, whilst celebrating the power of friendship and bravery.

Hi, I’m Jenni and I’m so excited to be part of the DBSJ community as the school counsellor.

I am a BACP-registered integrative counsellor with a Master’s degree in Counselling Children and Young People. Over the past eight years, I’ve had the privilege of working with children in various settings and am passionate about supporting them through life’s challenges and making a positive difference in their lives.

I am relatable, down to earth, and someone young people can feel comfortable talking to. I’m here to listen without judgement and to work alongside students, staff, and families to promote emotional wellbeing across the school. Whether it’s anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, or friendship issues, my aim is to create a safe, supportive space where every child feels seen, heard, and understood.

The wonderful thing about being an integrative counsellor is having the flexibility to draw on different therapeutic modalities, allowing me to tailor support to each child and work with them to explore, understand and manage their feelings and develop healthier ways of coping. My practice incorporates elements from cognitive behavioural therapy, psychodynamic, humanistic, and creative approaches such as play and art therapy.

When I’m not working, I’m fully committed to living my best life – preferably poolside or on a beach somewhere sipping a cup of English tea. I love spontaneous adventures, escaping on holidays, and spending time with family and friends, ideally somewhere with good food. Since moving to Dubai, trying new restaurants and exploring different cuisines has become my unofficial hobby!

I feel incredibly lucky to be part of the DBSJ team and look forward to helping students navigate challenges, build emotional resilience, and feel confident in who they are – while empowering them to strive to become the best versions of themselves.

My name is Nikki and I’m the Head of Admissions for the Dubai British Schools Group, I have been with the group since January 2022, having previously lived in Singapore for 9 years where I was the Head of Admissions for Dulwich College (Singapore). I have two daughters, aged 4 and 3, and understand how important it is finding the perfect school for your children. I am on hand to help you as you start this journey to Dubai British School Jumeira and can’t wait to meet you and your children.​

I am the Admissions Manager at Dubai British School Jumeira, where I lead the admissions process and support families in joining our growing school community. My role focuses on guiding parents and students through every step of the journey — from enquiry to enrolment — while ensuring each family feels welcomed, supported, and confident in their decision to join DBS Jumeira.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Teaching Mandarin and a Master’s degree in Law with a specialization in International Relations, both earned in China. This academic foundation, combined with my professional experience in education, allows me to connect with families from diverse cultural backgrounds and approach admissions with both precision and empathy.

Fluent in English, Russian, and Mandarin, I work closely with our Principal, academic leaders, and the wider community to ensure our admissions practices reflect the values of inclusivity, excellence, and care that define DBS Jumeira.

Hi, I’m Nicola, the Admissions Assistant here at DBS Jumeria. I’m originally from Scotland and moved to the UAE with my family in 2024. I’m also a proud parent of two children who attend the school, which gives me a personal perspective on the admissions process and the school community.

Before joining the education sector, I spent 18 years working in the UK insurance market. While it was a rewarding career, I decided to make a change and pursue a role that aligned more closely with my passion for working with people and supporting families.

Having recently gone through the experience of relocating and choosing a new school for my own children, I understand how important it is to feel supported during that journey. I’m here to help make the admissions process as smooth and welcoming as possible, whether you’re moving from abroad or simply exploring new options.

I’m proud to be part of such a warm and inclusive community, and I look forward to helping your family feel at home here too.