OUR AMAZING TEAM
At The Aquila School, we are proud to say that we only recruit teaching staff with a passion for lifelong learning and the desire to share that passion with children, colleagues and the community.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Safe recruitment practices, pre-employment background checks, and police checks are undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
Four of our teachers have worked with our leadership team at their previous ‘Outstanding’ school in Abu Dhabi.
Wayne Howsen
Principal

Wayne Howsen
Principal
Wayne has over twenty five years' experience as a teacher and is in his twentieth year of Headship - initially in the UK and more recently in the UAE.
Wayne is proud to be coming from the only primary school ever that has been graded as outstanding in all areas by the Abu Dhabi regulatory authority.
As well as a teaching qualification, Wayne holds the UK National Professional Qualification for Headship as well as an MA in Education.
Wayne enjoys growing learning communities and working with staff to create a happy, stimulating school environment where learning is relevant and enjoyable
"I am excited and privileged to be the Founding Principal of The Aquila School and look forward to welcoming our first children who will experience amazing learning."
Kylie Cleworth
Head of Primary

Kylie Cleworth
Head of Primary
Kylie has ten years' experience working with children and has lived and worked in the UAE for the past seven years. During this time Kylie was assistant principal at the first ever school in Abu Dhabi to be graded as outstanding. Kylie has worked across the entire primary range and has a particular interest in supporting children in the Early Years to ensure their learning is amazing and they enjoy going to school every day.
As well as being a qualified teacher, Kylie has also completed her PENTA inspection training.
Benjamin Atkins
Head of Secondary

Benjamin Atkins
Head of Secondary
A left-brained digital native, Benjamin is analytical and research-driven. After reading mathematics at University, Benjamin was the first graduate in his family. A firm believer in life-long education, after qualifying as a teacher he has continued to study and holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Management, a PGCE in Inclusion, the National Award for SEN Coordination and the National Professional Qualification for Headship. Currently, he is completing his Doctorate in Social Care, Policy and Practice with a focus on school attendance.
Benjamin is a facilitator with the Institute of Education (UCL) and Infinite Learning on the UK National Professional Qualification courses for Middle and Senior Leaders. He also works with PENTA International to accredit schools as British Schools Overseas. Benjamin is currently the Designated Safeguarding Lead and Inclusion Champion in his school; he is also a GCSE Expert Examiner for the UK’s largest examination awarding
Scott Ahearne
Year 2 and Year 3 Leader

Scott Ahearne
Year 2 and Year 3 Leader
Scott is an experienced teacher and school leader, who has taught in primary and middle schools in the UK, the United States, Japan, Peru, Mexico and Russia. He has a real passion for education and strongly believes that it is an educator's role to nurture a joy of learning in children through engaging and innovative learning. Scott is very excited about the opportunity to move to Dubai with his family and join the Aquila learning community.
In line with The Aquila School’s focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that outside of teaching Scott is a keen ultra-marathon runner so you may well see him trotting along the pathways of Dubai.
Amy Eaton
PE and Swimming Teacher

Amy Eaton
PE and Swimming Teacher
Amy has taught in the UK and Dubai and loves helping children be active and develop their sport skills.
In line with The Aquila Schools focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Amy is amazing at juggling.
Mahbouba Hassan
Head of Arabic and Islamic studies

Mahbouba Hassan
Head of Arabic and Islamic studies
Mahbouba has previously worked in an outstanding school in Dubai as Head of Arabic and Islamic. Her passion lies with creating a love of learning for all children.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Mahbouba has two children and loves to spend time with her family.
Mary-Rose Connolly
KS3 Leader

Mary-Rose Connolly
KS3 Leader
Mary Rose Connolly has taught in the UK, Ireland and the UAE, and strives to create learning environments where students feel happy, confident and valued as she believes this is the cornerstone of all amazing learning.
Ginette Moore
Head of Inclusion

Ginette Moore
Head of Inclusion
Ginette has taught in London and the UAE and enjoys ensuring every child can make as much progress as possible.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Ginette loves running.
Jessica Evans
FS and Year 1 Leader

Jessica Evans
FS and Year 1 Leader
Jess previously taught in the UK and UAE and enjoys providing amazing learning opportunities that are exciting and personalised to the children’s needs.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Jess enjoys Skiing and can speak Welsh.
Sophia Hunter
Teacher

Sophia Hunter
Teacher
Sophia has taught in the UK and enjoys developing a sense of independence and creativity though learning and play.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – Sophia is amazing at yoga and meditation. Sophia can also sign in Makaton.
Brodie Mclaren
Teacher

Brodie Mclaren
Teacher
Brodie has taught in Scotland and enjoys using different technology such as virtual and augmented reality to enhance learning as well as prepare pupils for the future.
In line with The Aquila School’s focus on amazing learning we are excited to know that Brodie has been learning Tae Kwon Do for over 10 years and is both a black belt and a World Cup Champion.
Aoife Clifford
Inclusion Teacher

Aoife Clifford
Inclusion Teacher
Aoife has taught in Ireland and Dubai and especially enjoys creating an inclusive and holistic learning environment.
In line with The Aquila Schools focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Aoife is amazing at Irish Dancing.
Andrew May
Teacher

Andrew May
Teacher
Andrew has taught in the UK and Dubai and especially enjoys helping children develop a love of reading.
In line with The Aquila Schools focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Andrew is currently studying for a Masters degree in Education.
Hala Hemid Aly
MOE Teacher

Hala Hemid Aly
MOE Teacher
Hala enjoys ensuring children have a love and respect of the traditions of Islam.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Hala loves to read.
Andrew Churm
Teacher

Andrew Churm
Teacher
Andy has taught in the UK and Abu Dhabi and especially enjoys making maths lessons fun, engaging and challenging.
In line with The Aquila Schools focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Andy enjoys playing the guitar.
Chris Collins-Reed
PE Teacher

Chris Collins-Reed
PE Teacher
Chris has taught in the UK and enjoys helping every child to develop their gymnastic skills.
In line with The Aquila Schools focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Chris is amazing at balancing a ball on his foot.
Lynsey O’Brien
Teacher

Lynsey O’Brien
Teacher
Lynsey has taught in the UK and Abu Dhabi and enjoys creating exciting and child led learning activities.
In line with The Aquila School’s focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Lynsey is amazing at making cheesecakes!
Julie Churm
Teacher

Julie Churm
Teacher
Julie Churm has taught both in the UK and in Abu Dhabi and enjoys developing excellent relationships with the smallest children in school and helping them to make outstanding progress.
Dominic Williams
PE Teacher

Dominic Williams
PE Teacher
Dom has taught in the UK and enjoys helping children get better at swimming.
In line with The Aquila Schools focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Dom is amazing at doing handstands.
Julie Hoyland
Teacher

Julie Hoyland
Teacher
Julie has taught in the UK and UAE and strives to deliver excited, engaging and relevant lessons to all of her children.
In line with The Aquila School’s focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Julie is amazing at playing the guitar.
Ellen Middlemiss
Teacher

Ellen Middlemiss
Teacher
Ellen has taught in the UK and UAE and enjoys giving children ownership of their learning.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Ellen enjoys looking after her pet Turtle.
Eloise Charles
Teacher

Eloise Charles
Teacher
Eloise has taught in the UK and enjoys developing a sense of community and belonging.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Eloise is training for a half marathon!
Fairouz El Sheikh
MOE Teacher

Fairouz El Sheikh
MOE Teacher
Fairouz has taught in the UAE and enjoys children love the Arabic language.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Fairouz loves cooking dishes from around the world
Heather Wright
Teacher

Heather Wright
Teacher
Heather has taught in the UK and Abu Dhabi and loves helping children get better at maths through talking, looking and doing.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Heather is amazing at Zumba.
Jane Eagle
Teacher

Jane Eagle
Teacher
Jane has taught in the UK and loves helping children become resilient and independent.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Jane can put her hand at teaching anything from Maths to Spanish.
Banan Amra
MOE Teacher

Banan Amra
MOE Teacher
Banan has taught in the UAE and enjoys teaching children about Islam. In line with The Aquila School focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Banan enjoys reading and painting.
Bethany Salter
Teacher

Bethany Salter
Teacher
Bethany has taught in the UK and in Dubai and loves ensuring that her lessons are exciting for all learners.
In line with The Aquila School’s focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Bethany is amazing at cooking but also loves singing and dancing!
Chantelle Robb
Teacher

Chantelle Robb
Teacher
Chantelle has taught in Wales and Dubai and enjoys providing fun and exciting learning experiences so that children can become resilient, capable and confident learners.
In line with The Aquila School’s focus on amazing learning, we are excited to know that Chantelle is a keen dancer and enjoys performing on stage.
Lizzie Howden
Teacher

Lizzie Howden
Teacher
Lizzie has taught in the UAE and UK and enjoys delivering exciting and creative lessons to her children.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Lizzie enjoys boxing and going to the gym.
Michael Ryan
KS3 Teacher

Michael Ryan
KS3 Teacher
Michael has taught in the UK, Ireland and UAE. Michael aims to develop children into lifelong learners who mature to acquire a growth mindset - a mindset which reflects hard work, enquiry and a positive attitude to learning, difficulties and mistakes.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Michael plays Gaelic Football.
Mohamed Omar
MOE Teacher

Mohamed Omar
MOE Teacher
Mohamed Omar has previously taught in Dubai.
Mohamed Omar is passionate about supporting children progress with their learning.
In line with The Aquila Schools focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Mohamed Omar loves to read.
Musab Biroutieh
MOE Teacher

Musab Biroutieh
MOE Teacher
Musab has previously taught in the UAE and Syria.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Musab is a published author and avid poet.
Faten Sadek
MOE Teacher

Faten Sadek
MOE Teacher
Faten has taught in the UAE and strives to provide all children with an exciting educational environment to help them make as much progress as possible.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Faten loves maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Robert McCarthy
Teacher

Robert McCarthy
Teacher
Rob has previously taught in Ireland and enjoys implementing different learning styles in the classroom to create an engaging environment for learning.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Rob has a keen interest in sport and enjoys leading an active lifestyle.
Francine Keown
Teacher

Francine Keown
Teacher
Francine has taught in the UK and loves creating a nurturing environment where children can express their individual talents and thrive in their learning.
In line with The Aquila School’s focus on amazing learning - we are excited to know that Francine loves theatre, keeping fit, travel and reading.
Tara O’Grady
Teacher

Tara O’Grady
Teacher
Tara has worked in schools in both the UAE and Ireland. Tara strives to support all children to reach their potential.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Tara loves cooking and trying out new recipes and is also an avid reader. This love of reading is something she strongly encourages in her children. Tara has a background in psychology and has worked to co-author several published and soon-to-be published articles. She is passionate about education and theories behind how children learn and using this to help her children. Part of this is encouraging students to engage in mindfulness throughout the day.
Joshua Gibson
Teacher

Joshua Gibson
Teacher
Josh has previously lived in Dubai and has been teaching in the UK. He always likes to make learning as practical as possible and focused on the interests of the class.
In line with The Aquila School’s focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Josh enjoys doing card tricks and playing water polo.
Warda Samir
MOE Teacher

Warda Samir
MOE Teacher
Warda has previously taught Arabic in outstanding schools in the UAE. She believes in active learning and creating engaging and enjoyable learning experience for her children.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Warda loves to read and travel overseas.
Aisha Khan
Teacher

Aisha Khan
Teacher
Aisha has taught in London and loves ensuring lessons are creative, ensuring children make as much progress as possible.
In line with The Aquila School’s focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Aisha is amazing at debating!
Megan Anderson
Teacher

Megan Anderson
Teacher
Megan has previously taught in both the UK and the UAE. Megan is passionate about ensuring learning is accessible for all children in order to help them reach their full potential.
In line with The Aquila School’s focus on amazing learning, we are excited to know that Megan is a big fan of all things PE and sport-related, where from a young age, she took part in a range of activities including field hockey, netball and horse riding to name a few.
Minal Tailor
PE Teacher

Minal Tailor
PE Teacher
Minal has previously taught in the UK and UAE. Minal enjoys developing pupils’ confidence in physical activity and embedding their love of learning through PE.
In line with The Aquila Schools focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Minal plays Rugby.
Ameena Zaheer
School Counsellor

Ameena Zaheer
School Counsellor
Working with children and ensuring that they have an enriching and sound learning environment is what I love doing. The science of the mind and behavior is what fascinates me the most. I was born and raised in the UAE, completed by graduation with majors in Psychology and Social Work. I have also previously worked as a Counsellor in Sharjah. My role is to ensure all pupils, teachers and staff at school are happy, safe and enjoy the Amazing Learning.
Keeping in mind the values of our school, I look forward to aiding pupils develop in their character’s values of respect, kindness, excellence, empowerment, cooperation and honesty.
Lesley Al-Ahmad
HL Teaching Assistant

Lesley Al-Ahmad
HL Teaching Assistant
Lesley has worked in schools both in UK and Dubai.
In line with The Aquila School's focus on amazing learning – we are excited to know that Lesley loves trying foods from around the world.