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Teachers and Mentors, all in one staff room.
In a world where 'one-size-fits-all' approaches to education are common, MVA breaks the mould with our unique blend of talented teachers and dedicated mentors. Our teachers deliver world-class education, while our mentors provide one-to-one Self Study support and personal guidance, ensuring no student falls behind. Many of our teachers also serve as mentors, fostering an integrated, supportive community that promotes academic achievement and personal growth for every student.
Cheryl
Cheryl is a seasoned Science teacher with 12+ years of experience in various educational settings in the UK and Spain. She's been a form tutor, science teacher and recently spent 3 years teaching in a private international school in Spain. She's a dedicated teacher, helping students achieve their best in exams, and she brings her hands-on experience from professional science labs to her classes!
Zoe
Zoe has 18 years of experience teaching Spanish at a leading UK private school, nurturing students from beginner to A-Level. Her teaching journey began in Bolivia, where she taught English and tutored Spanish, experiences that deepened her love for the Hispanic language and culture. Zoe has also served as a boarding housemistress and Head of PSHE, roles that enhanced her expertise in pastoral care.
Joe
Joe has been in the education sector for 19 years, predominantly in Yorkshire's schools. He's held the Head of Maths position for 14 years and has also taken up an assistant headteacher role. Alongside his school duties, he's ventured into guest lecturing at Sheffield University. Recognised for his dedication, Joe was nominated for the 'Thank a Teacher' award in West Yorkshire. With a Masters in Teaching and Learning in his portfolio, he's recently transitioned to teaching online at Minerva, sharing his rich expertise in GCSEs, A Levels, and beyond.
Susan
Susan has built a diverse teaching career across the globe, from the UK to Singapore, adapting to a wide range of educational environments. Her recent role as a supply teacher allowed her to interact with students of various ages, enriching her adaptive teaching style. As a mentor, Susan leverages her extensive experience from both professional and personal perspectives, understanding the unique challenges and needs of students and parents alike. With two teenagers of her own, she brings empathy and a deep commitment to guiding young people through their academic and personal journeys.
Zoe
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Zoe brings 13 years of experience teaching Philosophy and Religion in prominent schools across London, Kent, and Hertfordshire. A Cambridge graduate with a MEd and PGCE, she has mentored PGCE trainees and served as an examiner for both GCSE and A Level. Passionate about pastoral support, Zoe has been a guiding force for Sixth Form students. Now settled in coastal Devon, she's excited to mentor students at MVA.
Laura T
Laura is an experienced English teacher and school leader with over 20 years of experience. She has recently focused on working as a part-time tutor of English at KS2, KS3, GCSE, and A-Level, as well as supporting EAL students and those who are homeschooled. She is passionate about supporting students, developing their confidence, and helping them excel in all areas of life. Additionally, she also holds the role as our Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Alanna
Alanna brings a blend of academic expertise and real-world insight to her role at MVA. With 18 years under her belt teaching Religious Studies, Philosophy, and other subjects, she also has a rich background in the TV industry. Alanna holds an MA(Hons) and M.Phil in Theology from Cambridge University. Beyond her core subjects, she has dedicated much of her recent career to championing student well-being, equality, diversity, and inclusion at a top UK boarding school. As part of MVA's Wellbeing programme, Alanna is eager to support and mentor her students, drawing on her vast experience.
Pollyanna
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Pollyanna’s passion for Religious Studies was sparked at the University of St. Andrews, where she achieved a First Class Honours in Theology and Biblical Studies. For over 13 years, she’s been more than a teacher; she’s been a mentor, guiding students at all key stages. With roles like Head of House and Head of Sixth Form under her belt, she's known for her warm approach and dedication. Now at MVA, Pollyanna eagerly embraces the chance to inspire and support a new wave of learners.
Gina
Gina has been a dedicated educator for several years. With a background in Linguistics and Psychology, she has taught psychology for three years and even spent some time teaching German and French. Her passion for languages took her to Peru, where she taught English. She enjoys building connections with her students valuing the experiences they bring from different backgrounds. Having studied in England from a young age, Gina can relate to the challenges of adapting to a new educational environment. At MVA, she looks forward to focusing on mentoring and supporting her students' journeys.
Emily
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Emily is a highly qualified EFL teacher with 12 years of teaching and mentoring experience, including developing personalised curricula in schools internationally and working as a homeschooling tutor for Minerva Tutors. She has taught thousands of hours in a wide variety of subjects, and, as a mentor, has a particular interest in helping students find their motivation and develop a growth mindset in their learning.
Debbie
Debbie's extensive academic career includes roles as a university lecturer at Essex and the Open University, where she combined her expertise in Sociology and Health Studies with a passion for inclusive teaching—a commitment recognized by an Inclusive Teaching Award. She has enriched students' educational paths as a tutor for GCSE and A Level Sociology, and as a lecturer on the Access to Higher Education Diploma, focusing on sociology and academic skills.
Alex
Alex is a highly experienced and well-traveled teacher and mentor, having taught in multiple locations internationally, including Ontario, the Arctic, and Italy. He holds a Masters in Education from the University of Bath and joins MVA as a mentor, History, and global citizenship teacher. He uses his extensive international experiences and world-class lessons to help students gain a broader perspective and understanding of the world around them.
Wayne
Wayne Foster, with 13 years of teaching experience—10 in mainstream schools and 3 with MVA—is no stranger to diverse educational settings. Initially a Business Studies teacher, Wayne transitioned from leading a department to focusing on inclusion and support, especially for students with EHCPs. Now as MVA's SENDCo, he's dedicated to breaking down educational barriers, providing tailored tools and strategies to ensure every student thrives.
Lucy
Lucy, a National Geographic Certified Teacher, started her journey as an Undergraduate in Molecular and Cellular Biology at Bath University. She later delved into Genetics research in Edinburgh. After several years in scientific research and publishing multiple papers, Lucy transitioned to the realm of education, bringing her rich scientific background to the fore. After 12 years of teaching Online for various Online Schools she has found herself, along with her expertise in Online Learning, here at MVA.
Lianne
Lianne's journey in teaching has taken her from UK schools to international classrooms in Spain and online platforms, accumulating 12 years of diverse experience. In 2015, she led a team to clinch victory in the Winston Churchill Public Speaking event, which remains one of her cherished achievements. With a passion for history, she strives to light the same spark in her students.
Clare
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Clare has a strong background in Mathematics with a degree in the subject and 12 years of experience as a Maths teacher. She has worked as a form tutor and has been a marker of A Level math papers for Pearson exam board. She brings a unique and highly creative approach to maths teaching, helping her students develop a passion and respect for all things numerical.
Claire
Claire is an experienced and accomplished teacher and mentor with over 20 years of experience in both academic teaching and pastoral mentoring. She brings her expertise in working with students who have SEMH needs, writing EHCP applications, and knowledge of various therapies and techniques to help young people cope with and navigate the challenges of teenage life. As an MVA mentor, she is dedicated to instilling confidence and building self-esteem in our students.
Lyndsey
Lyndsey combines her deep love for English literature with almost two decades of teaching experience. Having served in roles like Head of English Department and Literacy Coordinator, she's honed her expertise in guiding students to excellence. Living adjacent to the picturesque Yorkshire Moors, her admiration for the Brontës and classic literature comes naturally. Now, as an MVA mentor, Lyndsey is all about nurturing a love for learning while ensuring each student grows confidently in their academic pursuits.
Andrea
Andrea is a multi-lingual teacher with 18 years of experience in teaching English as a Foreign Language, French, German, Spanish, and Modern Greek. She holds a degree from Oxford University and a PGCE, and is fluent in five languages. She has held leadership roles in schools and has experience in preparing students for Oxbridge entrance interviews and applications.
Emma
Emma has dedicated the last nine years to teaching sciences, with a focus on biology and chemistry across various educational stages in both England and Ireland. While proficient in teaching physics and agricultural sciences, her current academic pursuit involves a master's in Animal Welfare and Conservation, reflecting her deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Emma's involvement extends beyond the classroom through her active participation in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award program, where she serves as a qualified supervisor and assessor.
Matthew
Matthew is a seasoned English teacher with 15 years of experience, including roles as Head of Department and Assistant Head at his first Independent school. He brings his considerable expertise to MVA and has additional international experience teaching in northeastern Spain. He encourages all MVA students to read widely and leads by example to promote the importance of reading in the digital age.
Nic
After an early career working as a news editor at the BBC and at Channel 4, Sky, and ITV, Nic qualified as a teacher in 2004 and subsequently became Director of Music at two leading Independent day schools. He joins MVA as our first (and a highly-accomplished!) music teacher. Nic is also part of our unique Mentoring team.
Sarah
Sarah’s teaching career, spanning 19 years, has taken her from the UK to the Dominican Republic, Milan, and Dubai, enriching her expertise in English Language, Literature, and Drama. She's contributed significantly as Deputy Head of English and Head of KS3 Drama, designing curricula and leading school productions. Her commitment to pastoral care is demonstrated through her role as a Mental Health First Aid trainer, equipping her to support both students and staff effectively. Now part of MVA, Sarah continues to inspire students with her passion for education and diverse cultural experiences.
Laura B
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With over 22 years of experience teaching in a variety of State and Independent Schools, Laura has taught a range of subjects including ICT, Computer Science, Online Safety, and Digital Literacy from Reception to 6th Form. She is passionate about addressing gender imbalance in the tech workplace and has spent her entire career teaching in the place she loves most: Devon, including schools in Plymouth, Exeter, and Mid Devon.
Alexia
Alexia is a highly experienced and accomplished teacher, having been Deputy Head (Academic) in two schools, a senior A Level Examiner, whilst also holding two Masters in education. One of her home-schooled students recently achieved the highest mark in the world for IGCSE Geography! She has recently relocated to Cumbria and shares the idyllic hills via virtual field trips to bring immersive Geography lessons to MVA.
Kate
Kate brings a rich 15-year history in education from London’s premier independent day schools. With her specialised skills in dyslexia and SpLDs, Kate champions neurodiversity in learning. Her prior career in journalism in Ireland has honed her communication skills, enhancing her creative and engaging teaching approach aimed at building student confidence and providing lasting educational tools.
Sam
Sam's passion for geography started with a BSc from Manchester University and took her to India to research climate change impacts. From roles as a Homeopath to a Climate Literacy educator in TV and film, she's had a diverse journey. Honoured as a lifelong Fellow by the Royal Geographical Society, she now balances teaching at mainstream schools and MVA.
Noel
Noel's teaching career spans 16 years across diverse educational settings—from Indonesia to Thailand and the UK. Starting as a TEFL teacher, he has taught primary through to secondary levels, specialising in English with a focus on the IGCSE Cambridge syllabus. His international experience is complemented by roles in state schools and charity work in the UK, where he supported youth as a worker and
Rob
After years of moulding minds as an English teacher, Rob pursued a Master's in Psychology in 2020, further enriching his profile with a diploma in counselling. His commitment to young minds extends beyond the classroom, having volunteered with Cruse in bereavement support. Rob's passion lies in aiding students to achieve their fullest potential, academically and personally.
Emma
Emma has dedicated over fifteen years to teaching in mainstream schools, where she has honed her skills in special educational needs, particularly for children with ASD and SEMH. Her expertise extends beyond the classroom; she has led a year group and initiated a nurture support group based on positive psychology principles. Recently, Emma has channelled her extensive experience into running a business that collaborates with families to support their children's development.
Maria
Maria brings 13 years of experience teaching Spanish, from beginners to A-level students, in some of the UK's top schools. Beyond classroom teaching, Maria's expertise extends to pastoral care—she served as a housemistress and completed the HMC Pastoral Leadership Qualification, emphasising the impacts of technology on teenage mental health. As an examiner trained with both AQA and Edexcel, Maria merges her deep knowledge of Spanish language and culture with a genuine enthusiasm for mentoring, ensuring her students not only learn but also appreciate the vibrant Spanish heritage.
Claire
Claire brings 15 years of diverse teaching experience from the UK to Dubai and extended stints in China, along with volunteer teaching in India, South Africa, and Ghana. A physics enthusiast, she has trained non-specialist teachers for the Institute of Physics and crafted resources for AQA Physics. Claire is particularly passionate about the innovative use of technology in education, including simulations, gamification, and AI, to enhance teaching and learning.
Deborah
With two decades of teaching experience, Deborah's journey has taken her from the classrooms of the UK to the shores of Crete, Greece. As 'Head of Computer Science' in three schools, she was pivotal in introducing the first-ever Computer Science GCSE in the UK. Outside the classroom, Deborah's newfound passion for VR gaming sparks lively discussions, making her sessions at MVA a blend of education, culture, and fun.
Chris
With 10 years of teaching experience in international schools across Beijing, Switzerland, Prague, and Norway, Chris brings both passion and a Master's in Astrophysics to the table. A firm believer in the power of critical thinking, he's committed not just to teaching the wonders of physics but also to fostering evidence-based reasoning in his students.
Fiona
Fiona has spent the bulk of her educational career in independent schools in Oxfordshire, embracing roles from Director of Studies to Head of Computing and ICT. Skilled in a range of subjects including Religious Studies and Python coding, she is particularly noted for her effective leadership during the transition to online learning amidst lockdown. Her commitment to the well-being of both pupils and staff has been a hallmark of her tenure, influencing her approach to teaching and administrative responsibilities.
Rachel
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Rachel boasts over 20 years of diverse experience in English education, from Head of English to Deputy Head (Academic) across various school settings. Additionally, she has served as an advisor for English in Buckinghamshire and a team leader for WJEC's GCSE English Literature. Apart from her role at Minerva, Rachel is affiliated with the University of East Anglia and Teach First and is passionate about Shakespearean works. She is dedicated to cultivating a love for literature in her students.
Katy
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Katy has taught in top UK schools for the past 12 years, recently winning the Geographical Association Award for Excellence as a Head of Geography. She has experience as an examiner for OCR, AQA and Pearson and as a Dyslexia Support Worker. With her love of Geography stemming from a young age, Katy moved to online teaching to champion the benefits of a truly 'global' classroom.
Sarah
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With a passion for mathematics, Sarah transitioned from a corporate PR role in the City to education after earning her degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Manchester. She found her true calling as a secondary maths teacher, eventually leading the A-level Maths department in an inner-city boys school. Drawing from her unique background, she thrives on helping students globally understand and love the subject just as she does.