I am an experienced educator who has had the privilege of serving in a wide range of roles within schools, from classroom teacher to leadership positions. At the heart of my philosophy is a deep commitment to placing students first, ensuring that their learning journey is both inspiring and challenging, while also providing the support… Continue reading James Godber
Team Category: Secondary Teachers
Beth Upton
My name is Ms. Beth Upton, and I am delighted to join the founding Secondary team at Dubai British School Jumeira, where I will be teaching Science to our very first cohort of Year 7 students. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Biological Sciences (Zoology) from the University of Leicester and am passionate about fostering… Continue reading Beth Upton
Samuel Buse
I am a passionate academic leader and humanities teacher originally from Cornwall, UK. After graduating with a BA (Hons) in Geography from the University of Plymouth, I have been teaching for eleven years, including eight years overseas in both the UAE and Portugal. At DBSJ, I’m eager to contribute to the growth of the new… Continue reading Samuel Buse
Sophia Rhodes
My name is Sophia Rhodes, and I am thrilled to be part of the founding Secondary team at Dubai British School Jumeira, where I will be teaching Mathematics. I hold a degree in Mathematics and Teaching from the University of Chichester and have over four years of experience teaching Key Stage 3 and 4 Maths… Continue reading Sophia Rhodes
Malaika Dorai
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… Continue reading Malaika Dorai
Katrina Downie
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… Continue reading Katrina Downie
Tamarin Carlson
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… Continue reading Tamarin Carlson
Cristina Requena
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… Continue reading Cristina Requena
Jo Isabel Smith
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,… Continue reading Jo Isabel Smith
Daniel Nicholson
Hello! I’m Mr. Daniel Nicholson, and I am very excited to be joining Dubai British School Jumeira as part of the founding secondary team, where I will be teaching Physical Education. I bring with me 5 years of teaching experience, 3 of which were spent in Kuwait, giving me valuable insight into both UK and… Continue reading Daniel Nicholson
