PRIMARY & PRE-PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Louise Stylianou
School leader with international experience in primary education, curriculum development, and teacher mentoring, driving student success and inclusive school culture.
PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS 25-26
In the 2025–2026 academic year, we are proud to present a team of experienced and dedicated teachers who will continue to enrich our students’ learning journey in the Primary School.
Leadership Team
PYP COORDINATOR
Tatevik Nalbandyan
IB expert and international educator with extensive experience in PYP coordination, curriculum development, and school improvement, fostering collaborative and inclusive learning communities.
WALDORF PRIMARY COORDINATOR, CLASS TEACHER
Maria Jansen Hilvering
Waldorf educator and school leader with extensive international experience in holistic education, programme leadership, and child-centred pedagogy.
MONTESSORI PRIMARY COORDINATOR, HOMEROOM TEACHER
Maria Grzybowska
Montessori educator and programme leader with international experience in early childhood education, programme development, and child-centred learning.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE & ENGLISH LITERATURE COORDINATOR
Lisa Codd
English educator and Literature Coordinator with extensive experience in teaching, curriculum design, and student-centred learning across local and international schools.
ENGLISH AS ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE (EAL) COORDINATOR
Anita Michail
EAL educator and department leader with expertise in multilingual education, inclusive practices, and curriculum support for diverse learners.
PYP MATHS COORDINATOR, HOMEROOM TEACHER
Dung Tran Thuy (Zoom)
PYP educator and Maths Coordinator with international experience in inquiry-based learning, curriculum leadership, and cross-grade collaboration.
GREEK LANGUAGE COORDINATOR
Christiana Pitta
Greek Language Coordinator with expertise in bilingual education, curriculum development, and language programme leadership across all age groups.
IB Homeroom Teachers
PYP MENTOR & HOMEROOM TEACHER
Selene Grajeda-Lourenço
PYP Mentor and Homeroom Teacher with international experience in early and primary years education, inquiry-based learning, and curriculum support.
PYP MENTOR & HOMEROOM TEACHER
Karen Rodriguez
PYP Homeroom Teacher and Mentor with international experience in inquiry-based learning, student-centred education, and collaborative curriculum planning.
PYP HOMEROOM TEACHER
Tammy Schwarz
PYP Homeroom Teacher with international experience in inclusive education, inquiry-based learning, and STEAM-integrated teaching.
PYP HOMEROOM TEACHER
Alexandra Watson
PYP Homeroom Teacher with international experience in inquiry-based learning, EAL support, and holistic child development.
PYP HOMEROOM TEACHER
Victoria Fay
PYP Homeroom Teacher with extensive international experience in primary education, inquiry-based learning, and innovative teaching practices.
PYP MATHS COORDINATOR, HOMEROOM TEACHER
Dung Tran Thuy (Zoom)
PYP educator and Maths Coordinator with international experience in inquiry-based learning, curriculum leadership, and cross-grade collaboration.
PYP HOMEROOM TEACHER
Andre Van Blerk
PYP Homeroom Teacher with international experience in concept-based inquiry, holistic education, and student-centred learning.
PYP HOMEROOM TEACHER
Anastasios Tsiamourou
English educator with experience in literacy development, student-centred teaching, and creative learning strategies.
PYP HOMEROOM TEACHER
Elena Rodionova
English educator with international experience in teaching, psychology, and student support, focused on fostering inclusive and creative learning environments.
PYP HOMEROOM TEACHER
Vaiva Savva
PYP educator with international experience in primary and language education, CLIL methodology, and student-centred teaching.
PYP HOMEROOM TEACHER
Leyli Annakurdova
PYP Homeroom Teacher with international experience in inquiry-based learning, inclusive education, and student-centred teaching.
IB Co-Teachers
PYP CO-TEACHER
Eleni Perikleous
Co-Teacher with experience in primary education, Greek language instruction, and creative, play-based learning.
PYP CO-TEACHER
Timoklia Panayiotou
Co-Teacher with experience in primary education, Greek language teaching, and inclusive, play-based learning.
PYP CO-TEACHER
Antria Michail
Co-Teacher with experience in multilingual education, language teaching, and cross-cultural communication.
PYP CO-TEACHER
Marilena Theofanous
Co-Teacher with experience in early years and primary education, inclusive practices, and collaborative classroom support.
PYP CO-TEACHER
Christina Shari
Co-Teacher with extensive experience in language teaching, multilingual education, and student-centred learning support.
EAL Teachers
PYP EAL TEACHER
Evridiki Hadjisergi
EAL Teacher with extensive experience in language education, early childhood teaching, and supporting multilingual learners.
PYP EAL TEACHER
Styliana Neophytou
EAL Teacher with expertise in English language development, inclusive education, and tailored learning strategies for multilingual students.
PYP EAL TEACHER
Carmen Moolman
PYP EAL Teacher with international experience in language development, inclusive education, and creative, student-centred learning.
Arts Faculty
PYP ARTS TEACHER
Christianna Orros
PYP Arts Teacher with experience in visual arts education, multidisciplinary programme development, and fostering creative expression.
PYP MUSIC TEACHER
Iro Michael
PYP Music Teacher with expertise in music education, performance, and creative student engagement.
DRAMA TEACHER
Vasia Antoniou
A dedicated drama educator and actor with extensive experience in theatre education and community-based arts projects.
PE Faculty
PYP PE TEACHER
Aleksandrina Vacheva
PYP PE Teacher with expertise in sports education, youth athletic development, and team coaching.
PYP PE TEACHER
Kyriakos Ioannou
PYP PE Teacher with expertise in athletic performance, youth coaching, and physical education.
LOUISE STYLIANOU
Primary & Pre-Primary School Principal
Strategic leadership Certified PGCE tutor Bilingual communicator
Louise is a dedicated and visionary school leader with extensive experience in both UK and international education. She joined The Island Private School in September 2023 as the Principal of Primary and Pre-Primary, bringing with her a deep passion for teaching and learning, strong leadership skills, and a collaborative spirit.
Louise holds a Master’s degree in International Education (Leadership & Management) from Sunderland University, a PGCE from the Institute of Education/UCL, and a BA in English Literature from the University of Southampton.
Her career spans over a decade, including leadership roles in Outstanding-rated schools in London, such as St John & St James and Springfield Primary School, as well as leadership experience in Heritage school in Cyprus. Louise has served as a Deputy Headteacher, Head of Literacy, Lead Practitioner, and Head of Teaching & Learning, where she led school-wide strategies in assessment, behaviour, curriculum development, and professional development.
Louise’s teaching style is grounded in student-centred pedagogies, positive behaviour management, and collaborative learning. She believes in empowering both students and teachers through reflective practice, clear structures, and authentic relationships. She is also a certified PGCE tutor, mentoring and observing trainee teachers across Cyprus.
Louise is bilingual in English and Greek and brings a global mindset combined with deep local understanding. She is committed to building a strong and inclusive school culture where every child thrives and every educator grows.
TATEVIK NALBANDYAN
PYP Coordinator
IB workshop leader Strategic academic leadership Multilingual communicator
Tatevik Nalbandyan is a highly experienced international educator and IB expert who joined The Island Private School in September 2024 as our PYP Coordinator. With over two decades of experience in education and leadership, she brings deep expertise in curriculum development, school improvement, and international programmes.
Tatevik holds an MSc in Educational and Training Systems Design from the University of Twente in the Netherlands, as well as a Diploma in Radiophysics from Yerevan State University.
Before joining our school, Tatevik worked extensively with the International Baccalaureate as a PYP Workshop Leader, Consultant, and Visiting Team Member, conducting school visits and teacher training across Europe. Most recently, she served as Deputy Director for International Programmes at Shirakatsy Lyceum in Armenia, where she also held roles as PYP Coordinator, High School Principal, and Kindergarten Principal.
Tatevik’s approach to teaching and leadership is inclusive, community-focused, and grounded in lifelong learning. She is passionate about building school-wide understanding of the IB philosophy and creating strong partnerships among teachers, students, and families. Her deep commitment to international-mindedness and civic engagement has shaped both her educational philosophy and her leadership style.
She is fluent in Armenian, Russian, and English.
With her strong IB background, global outlook, and warm, collaborative nature, Tatevik is a valuable addition to our leadership team and learning community.
MARIA JANSEN HILVERING
Waldorf Primary Coordinator, Class Teacher
Waldorf pedagogy expert Multilingual 3 decades of cross-cultural teaching
Maria is a deeply experienced Waldorf educator and school leader who has been part of The Island Private School since September 2022, where she leads the Waldorf Primary Programme with vision, compassion, and a lifelong dedication to holistic education.
Maria completed her Waldorf Class Teacher Training in Munich and holds a Master’s degree in Pedagogy from the University of Arnhem and Nijmegen in the Netherlands. Her qualifications also include a Bachelor's degree in Primary Education from PABO IJsselland and early training as a childcare worker.
Over the past three decades, Maria has worked in a wide range of educational settings across Europe and the Caribbean, including as a class teacher at Waldorf schools in the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and Saba in the Dutch Caribbean. She has also served as a school founder and headmaster at Freie Schule Erlbach in Germany, and held roles in vocational education, counselling, and school management.
Maria’s approach to education is deeply rooted in the principles of Waldorf pedagogy — nurturing the whole child through rhythm, creativity, connection to nature, and age-appropriate learning. Her teaching is thoughtful, grounded, and tailored to the developmental needs of each student, and she is known for creating warm, trusting relationships with both children and their families.
She is fluent in Dutch, German, and English, and brings a truly international and intergenerational perspective to our school community.
MARIA GRZYBOWSKA
Montessori Primary Coordinator, Homeroom Teacher
Certified Montessori specialist Experienced bilingual classroom leader Specialist in child-centred learning
Maria is an experienced and passionate Montessori educator who joined The Island Private School in 2023 to launch and lead the school’s Montessori Programme — the first of its kind at our campus. With over a decade of international experience in Montessori education, Maria brings deep knowledge, gentle guidance, and an unwavering commitment to child-centred learning.
Maria holds multiple academic degrees, including qualifications in Pedagogy of Intellectual Disabilities and Pedagogical Therapy from the Academy of Special Pedagogy in Warsaw, a degree in Early School Education from Warsaw University, and further studies in Education Management from the Łazarski Institute. She also holds a specialisation in Montessori Early School Education from Warsaw University, along with formal training from the Polish Montessori Association in the 0–3, 3–6, and 6–9 age groups and a Diploma in Montessori Programme for 6–9 age group from the NAMC (North American Montessori Center).
Before joining our school, Maria held senior roles in respected Montessori institutions in Warsaw and Nicosia. She was a Lead Teacher in bilingual Montessori classrooms at Warsaw Montessori School, served as Director and Lead Teacher at House of Montessori Kindergarten, and most recently worked at Little Gems Montessori in Cyprus.
Maria is known for her nurturing presence, clarity of structure, and unwavering respect for each child’s individuality and developmental rhythm. As the Montessori Programme Coordinator, she is building a strong foundation for the programme's growth, supporting both children and educators in living the core values of the Montessori method.
She speaks Polish and English, and is a vital part of our diverse, child-focused educational community.
LISA CODD
English Language & English Literature Coordinator
TESOL-qualified Specialist for KS3–KS4 Experienced in assessment design & differentiated instruction
Lisa Codd is a passionate and experienced English educator who joined The Island Private School in 2024 as an English Language Teacher and now serves as our English Language and English Literature Coordinator. With over a decade of teaching experience in both local and international school settings, Lisa brings creativity, dedication, and a student-centred approach to her work.
Lisa holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and a TESOL Teacher Training qualification. She has worked in several well-regarded schools in Cyprus, including Silverline Private School and Pascal Private Education, where she taught English, Literature, and Drama to students across KS3 and KS4. She was also responsible for schemes of work, assessment design, and pastoral care, and played an active role in school events and parental communication.
Lisa’s teaching style is warm, inclusive, and highly differentiated, ensuring that every student is supported to achieve their personal best — including those with additional learning needs or English as a second language. She believes in making literature meaningful and engaging, and she promotes a love of reading through thoughtful selection of texts and interactive lessons.
Lisa is a native English speaker and brings excellent communication, strong organisation, and a calm, professional presence to the English Department and wider school community.
ANITA MICHAIL
EAL Coordinator
DELTA-qualified Cambridge Assessment Specialist Certified in dyslexia & foreign language teaching
Anita Michail is a passionate and student-centred language educator who joined The Island Private School in September 2022 as an EAL Teacher and now leads the department as EAL Coordinator. Her work is driven by a deep belief that with the right motivation and support, every learner can thrive — especially in multilingual and international environments.
Anita holds a Master’s degree in TESOL from the University of Nottingham, a BA in English Language from the University of Essex, and has a DELTA qualification (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). She also holds a Certificate in Dyslexia and Foreign Language Teaching from the University of Lancaster, adding to her expertise in inclusive education.
Before joining the school, Anita built a strong foundation in teaching English across various age groups in Cyprus, preparing students for Cambridge English exams, and creating tailored, communicative, and task-based lesson plans. She has also worked as an Approved Cambridge English Assessment Specialist and held key responsibilities for diversity and creativity in previous roles.
As EAL Coordinator, Anita supports students in accessing the curriculum confidently while also working closely with classroom teachers to ensure inclusive and differentiated learning practices. She brings energy, compassion, and structure to her teaching and leadership, helping multilingual learners feel empowered, seen, and supported.
Anita is fluent in English, Greek and brings a truly international outlook, combined with a warm and motivating presence in the classroom and across the school.
DUNG TRAN THUY (ZOOM)
PYP Maths Coordinator, Homeroom Teacher
iPGCE-qualified Trilingual Expertise in IB PYP mathematics
Zoom is a dynamic and multilingual educator who joined The Island Private School in September 2023 as a PYP Class Teacher, and now also leads mathematics instruction as our Maths Coordinator. With rich international teaching experience across Vietnam, Mongolia, and Cyprus, Dung brings creativity, structure, and a passion for inquiry-based learning to her classroom and leadership role.
Dung holds an International Postgraduate Certificate in Education (iPGCE) from the University of Derby (UK), and a Bachelor’s degree in French Language and Culture with distinction from the University of Languages and International Studies in Hanoi. She is fluent in Vietnamese, English, and French.
Prior to joining our school, Dung taught at several international schools, including Renaissance International School Saigon and The English School of Mongolia, where she delivered IB PYP curricula through student-centred, inquiry-based approaches. She also served as a Curriculum Coordinator at The Western Australia School System in Ho Chi Minh City, supporting academic planning, assessment, and team training within the American Diploma Pathway.
Dung’s approach to teaching is warm, engaging, and responsive to students’ individual learning needs. As Maths Coordinator, she supports cross-grade collaboration, curriculum alignment, and innovative strategies to make mathematics accessible, meaningful, and fun for all learners.
Her collaborative spirit, attention to student well-being, and international perspective make her a valued member of the PYP team and broader school community.
CHRISTIANA PITTA
Greek Language Coordinator
QTS-certified educator Specialist in dyslexia support & phonics Experienced in teaching across UK & Cyprus schools
Christiana Pitta is an experienced and enthusiastic educator who joined The Island Private School in September 2022 and currently leads our Greek Language programme as Greek Language Coordinator across all ages and programmes. With a solid background in bilingual education and curriculum development, Christiana is passionate about helping students embrace the Greek language in a meaningful, engaging, and culturally rich way.
She holds a BA (Hons) in Primary Education from the University of Ioannina in Greece and a Master’s degree in Education with a focus on Bilingualism from London Metropolitan University. She is a QTS-certified teacher and has received additional training in areas such as dyslexia support, behaviour management, and phonics.
Before joining The Island School, Christiana taught in both Cyprus and the UK, including roles at Foley’s School, The Heritage Private School, and Prince of Wales Primary School in London. She has experience across Early Years and Primary levels and has also worked in supplementary Greek schools, after-school clubs, and as an exam invigilator.
Christiana brings creativity, humour, and warmth into the classroom and is known for her ability to build confidence and independence in her students. As Greek Language Coordinator, she supports the alignment of Greek instruction across year groups and ensures the programme reflects both linguistic excellence and cultural appreciation.
She speaks Greek (native) and English (fluent) and is committed to making language learning accessible and enjoyable for every child.
SELENE GRAJEDA-LOURENCO
PYP Mentor & Homeroom Teacher
PGCE-qualified 12+ years at the International School of Paris IB and Montessori certified
Selene is a joyful, reflective, and internationally minded educator who joined The Island Private School in 2024 as a PYP Mentor and Class Teacher. With nearly two decades of teaching experience across Europe and Latin America, Selene brings warmth, creativity, and deep expertise in early and primary years education.
Selene holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Cumbria, as well as an International Baccalaureate Certificate in Teaching and Learning and the International Teacher Certificate through ECIS and the University of Cambridge. She also holds an International Montessori Teaching Certificate and a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from the University of Colima in Mexico.
Before joining our school, Selene spent over 12 years at the International School of Paris, where she taught in both early years and specialist roles. Her teaching style is grounded in play-based and inquiry-led learning, inspired by both the IB PYP and Reggio Emilia approaches. She creates safe, nurturing, and inspiring environments where children are empowered as curious, capable meaning-makers.
As a PYP Mentor, Selene supports her colleagues in curriculum planning, reflection, and creating enriching learning experiences. She is known for her open-minded, collaborative, and mindful approach to both teaching and professional growth.
Selene speaks English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, and brings with her a truly global perspective — both in the classroom and across the school community.
KAREN RODRIGUEZ
PYP Mentor & Homeroom Teacher
PYP Exhibition Lead Teacher Specialist in emotional education & mindfulness practices
Karen Cordova is a passionate, bilingual educator with over a decade of experience in international education and the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Since joining The Island Private School in September 2023, she has played a key role in the PYP team as both a Class Teacher and a Mentor, supporting colleagues in delivering engaging, inquiry-based learning experiences.
Karen holds a Bachelor of Science in Education with a specialisation in English from Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja in Ecuador and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Psychopedagogy through UNIR (Spain). Her educational background is further enriched by a range of professional development courses, including IB PYP training, emotional education, mindfulness, and learning through movement.
Before joining The Island Private School, Karen worked at several international schools, including Colegio Terranova and Colegio Aberto Einstein, where she led PYP classrooms across multiple grades (1st–5th) and served as a PYP Exhibition Lead Teacher and Mentor. She also gained early childhood experience at Children's Center "Burbujitas del Saber" and Sion International Christian School.
Karen’s teaching style is warm, reflective, and highly student-centred. She focuses on inquiry-based and project-based learning, creating meaningful educational experiences tailored to her students' interests, strengths, and needs. As a mentor, she supports colleagues with planning, pedagogy, and reflective practice.
Karen speaks English and Spanish, and brings a compassionate, collaborative spirit to everything she does — helping foster a nurturing and inspiring learning environment for both students and staff.
TAMMY SCHWARZ
PYP Homeroom Teacher
Harvard professional development IB-trained educator Experienced team leader across international schools
Tammy is an experienced international educator who brings over 10 years of classroom expertise from schools across South Africa, Macau, and Cambodia. She joined us in September 2025 as a PYP Class Teacher, bringing with her a deep commitment to inclusive education and a passion for inquiry-based learning.
Tammy holds a Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Development, a Postgraduate Diploma in Inclusive Education, and an Advanced Diploma in Remedial Education. She has completed a range of professional development programmes, including training with the International Baccalaureate, Google Education, and Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Tammy has served as a homeroom teacher across various grade levels and has held team leadership roles at international schools such as The International School of Macao, Rallim Preparatory, and The Canadian International School of Phnom Penh. Her teaching draws on Reggio Emilia-inspired practices, STEAM integration, and structured literacy programmes to foster meaningful, child-centred learning.
Tammy’s educational philosophy centres on empowering students to discover their passions, think critically and creatively, and become confident contributors to their communities. Her classroom is known for being joyful, inclusive, and filled with hands-on learning opportunities.
She is a native English speaker and also speaks Afrikaans as a second language.
ALEXANDRA WATSON
PYP Homeroom Teacher
PGCE-qualified educator Specialist in oracy and guided reading programmes Expert in phonics-based literacy strategies
Alexandra Watson, PYP Class Teacher
Alexandra is a passionate and creative educator with more than a decade of teaching experience in international settings across the UK, China, and Hong Kong. She joined us as a PYP Class Teacher in September 2025, bringing with her a deep enthusiasm for inquiry-based learning and a holistic approach to child development.
Alexandra holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Cumbria, a BA (Hons) in Children’s Literature and Sociology from The Open University, and a CELTA certificate from Cambridge University. Her training also includes classroom management, safeguarding, first aid awareness, and inclusive teaching practices.
Throughout her career, Alexandra has worked in a range of international schools, including St. John’s Catholic Primary School in Hong Kong and Victoria Kindergarten in Shenzhen. She has taught a wide age range of learners, from early years to primary, and has extensive experience as an EAL specialist. Her teaching style combines creativity, structured language development, and student-centred activities that support both academic growth and social-emotional well-being.
In recent years, Alexandra has led oracy programmes, guided reading initiatives, and student wellness activities such as yoga and dance. She integrates literacy technologies and phonics-based strategies (like Jolly Phonics and Space Town) into her teaching to enhance learner engagement.
Alexandra speaks English (native) and has lived and taught in multilingual, multicultural environments. She is committed to nurturing each child’s curiosity and confidence through a joyful, respectful classroom culture.
VICTORIA FAY
PYP Homeroom Teacher
PGCE and M.Ed. qualified Former Key Stage 1 Coordinator Former Primary Science Lead Skilled in integrating AI & 3D printing into learning
Victoria is a highly experienced international educator who joined The Island Private School as a PYP Class Teacher in September 2025. With a rich background in primary education across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, she brings deep expertise, cultural awareness, and a passion for nurturing confident, creative learners.
Victoria holds a PGCE in Primary Education from the University of Buckingham, a Master’s in Education (Applied Linguistics) from The Open University, and a BA in International Business and Japanese from Dublin City University. Her additional training spans inclusive education, languages, and innovative teaching tools such as AI and 3D printing.
Over nearly two decades, Victoria has taught at top international schools, including The Heritage Private School (Cyprus), International British School of Bucharest, and El Plantio British International School in Valencia. She has held leadership roles such as Key Stage 1 Coordinator, Primary Science Lead, and Sustainability Committee Leader. Her teaching blends the British curriculum, project-based learning, and inquiry-led approaches tailored to each student’s needs.
Victoria is known for her compassionate classroom management, clear communication with families, and dedication to creating inclusive and dynamic learning environments. She has also led extracurricular activities in languages, science, and student well-being.
She speaks English (native), Japanese (advanced), Spanish (intermediate), and has studied Romanian and Greek. Victoria believes in lifelong learning and regularly participates in CPD and community service, including volunteer work with children and mental health organisations.
ANDRE VAN BLERK
PYP Homeroom Teacher
Skilled in integrating music & Capoeira Specialist in movement-based & creative teaching Experienced in school-wide planning & accreditation
Andre joined The Island Private School in September 2025 as a PYP Class Teacher. Originally from South Africa, he brings over six years of international teaching experience across diverse educational contexts including South Africa, Sudan, and Cameroon. He holds a Bachelor of Education in Foundation and Intermediate Phases (Grades 1–7) from the Centre for Creative Education in Cape Town, as well as a diploma in Coaching and Fitness Science.
Andre has taught in Waldorf, State, and IB PYP schools and has a strong foundation in Concept-Based Inquiry. Most recently, he worked at the American School of Douala and Khartoum International Community School, where he not only taught primary grades but also led professional learning teams and contributed to school-wide planning and accreditation initiatives.
With a passion for movement-based learning and a background in fitness and Capoeira, Andre integrates creativity, music, and kinaesthetic experiences into his teaching to foster deeper engagement and emotional connection in the classroom. His warm and adaptable teaching style supports student wellbeing while promoting meaningful inquiry.
Andre is a native English speaker and is known for his collaborative approach and deep commitment to child development and holistic education.
ANASTASIOS TSIAMOUROU
PYP Homeroom Teacher
TESOL-qualified Specialist in storytelling-based literacy Skilled in performance coaching
Anastasios (Tasos) joined The Island Private School in September 2023. He holds a Master’s degree in TESOL and a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, both from the University of Leicester, UK.
Before joining our team, Anastasios worked as an English teacher at several private institutions in Cyprus, where he supported young learners’ literacy development through creative storytelling and reading activities. He also has diverse professional experience in the online marketing sector, where he held roles in compliance, quality control, and performance coaching—further enhancing his communication, analytical, and training skills.
Anastasios brings a cheerful, thoughtful, student-centred approach to teaching. His classroom style fosters literacy, confidence, and emotional growth through engaging activities and open communication with both students and parents.
He is fluent in English and Greek and speaks Spanish.
ELENA RODIONOVA
PYP Homeroom Teacher
Specialist in emotional development and SEN support Trained in English and Danish language instruction Multilingual communicator
Elena (Alena) joined The Island Private School in September 2023, bringing with her a diverse background in teaching, psychology, and international education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Pedagogy and Psychology from Moscow State Pedagogical University, and has completed professional retraining in teaching English at the Moscow Academy of Professional Competencies.
Before joining our school, Elena taught English at Wunderpark International School in Moscow and worked as a teaching assistant in a Danish free school, where she taught Danish and English to children and supported students with special educational needs. She also has experience working as a school psychologist and a camp counsellor, with a strong focus on children’s emotional development and creativity.
Elena’s teaching approach is nurturing, creative, and responsive to the individual needs of each child. She fosters a warm, inclusive classroom atmosphere where students feel safe to express themselves and grow academically and emotionally.
She is fluent in Russian and English, speaks Danish, and has some knowledge of Korean.
VAIVA SAVVA
PYP Homeroom Teacher
MSc in Comparative and International Education Specialist in Cambridge curriculum Multilingual communicator
Vaiva joined The Island Private School in September 2024, bringing with her a rich background in primary and language education across multiple countries. She holds a Master of Science in Comparative and International Education from Stockholm University and a Bachelor's degree in Educational Sciences from Klaipėda University, Lithuania.
Over the past decade, Vaiva has taught in Lithuania, Sweden, and Cyprus, working in private English schools and language institutes. Her experience includes teaching English using Cambridge curriculum, developing CLIL-based lesson plans, and integrating interactive, student-centred approaches into her classrooms. Her lessons are known for being dynamic, inclusive, and creatively tailored to meet the needs of individual learners.
Vaiva speaks Lithuanian, English, and conversational Swedish, and has basic knowledge of Russian and Greek. Her warm and flexible teaching style, combined with a passion for language and cultural education, make her a valuable addition to the PYP team.
LEYLI ANNAKURDOVA
PYP Homeroom Teacher
IB-trained educator ECIS-certified teacher Specialist in SEN support
Leyli joined The Island Private School in September 2023 as a PYP Class Teacher, bringing a wealth of experience in international education and child-centred learning. She holds a Bachelor's degree in English and German from Taganrog Teachers Training Institute (Rostov State Economic University) and has completed extensive professional development, including the ECIS International Teaching Certificate and IB PYP training.
Before joining our school, Leyli worked for several years at the Anglo-American School of Moscow, first as a Grade 5 Instructional Assistant and then as a Grade 2 Teacher. She has also taught English to children and adults in various early years and language settings in Russia. Leyli is particularly passionate about inclusive education and has experience supporting students with special educational needs and emotional or behavioural challenges.
Her teaching style is nurturing, structured, and responsive to individual learner needs, with a strong focus on collaboration, agency, and inquiry. Outside the classroom, Leyli has led extracurricular clubs in volleyball and badminton, contributing to students’ physical and social development.
She speaks Russian, English, and has basic knowledge of Turkish and German.