Our Teachers
“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” – Albert Einstein
Best Possible Teacher
Through pooling and drawing on our strengths and expertise, we create the conditions for a professional learning community, and meet the challenges of modelling learning and leading for our students.
The Council of International Schools says: “ICHK is an exciting school for teachers as they are encouraged to seek opportunities and programmes to enhance the learning experience for all students.
The school embraces innovation in educational practice, and its staff are encouraged to explore opportunities beyond usual school practices.”
Our teachers work in partnership to create the best environment for learning, and create both the time and opportunities for students to experience a diverse range of activities and ideas.
They value and foster excitement, they challenge, guide and support, they believe in the power of a Growth Mindset and Positive Psychology.
At ICHK, our educators strive to be the best possible teachers, helping to establish and maintain an environment where all students thrive.
Find out more about joining our dynamic team or learn more about our teaching team by visiting our staff directory below or our series of Staff Sketches.
Our Teachers
Leadership Team
Toby Newton
Executive Head
M.Res, M.A., B.A.(Hons), PGCE | United Kingdom
Toby has worked in senior leadership in schools since 2002, initially in London and, since 2008, in Hong Kong. He joined ICHK as Deputy Head in 2012 and acted as Head of School for a year and a half before making the move permanent in 2016. Toby has been at the forefront of innovation around curriculum and pedagogy throughout his teaching career. He was Assistant Principal Examiner for Media Studies at AQA between 2004 to 2008,where he was responsible for developing academic and vocational courses and leading teams of examiners. While an Assistant Head in London, he wrote a new "learning to learn" course, widely feted by the local education authority, and which has been built on at his subsequent schools. At ICHK, Toby continues this focus on developing a truly 21st century education, supportive of learning for all students in a rapidly changing world, in which qualities of character and self-belief are so central to success
Sean McDermott
Acting Head of School
Dip. Teaching, Dip. TESOL, BEd, MSc. Educational Leadership | New Zealand
Sean started his career as a teacher, curriculum and year group leader Hong Kong, and during this time co-authored a series of English workbooks for Middle School students in China. He completed his Master's Degree, and was appointed to the role of Workshop Leader for The International Baccalaureate, facilitating professional development workshops for over six years. Sean was then appointed as principal of an at-risk school in New Zealand, the improvement of which became a nationally-celebrated story. During this time Sean also acted as a teacher and principal mentor, and was a member of several regional and national policy reference and working groups. He then moved to Malaysia to take up a whole-school leadership position at a four-programme IB International School, before returning to Hong Kong to join ICHK. Sean enjoys keeping fit and active, and likes to spend his time trail running, mountain biking, doing crossfit and anything that involves being outdoors.
Flora Lai
Deputy Head of School - Pastoral
B.A (Hons), PGDE, ESOL | Hong Kong
After completing her schooling in London, Flora went on to read Biology (Natural Sciences) at Cambridge University before completing her PGDE at the Chinese University in Hong Kong. Flora has been a Science teacher at ICHK for more than 10 years and thoroughly enjoys exploring the Sciences through hands-on activities with her students. As the Deputy Head of School - Pastoral at ICHK, Flora oversees the support of student welfare at the school. Flora is a strong believer in ICHK’s 5+1 pastoral model, believing that by encouraging students to adopt a growth mindset, it can help them identify new opportunities and successfully pursue them.
Ross Parker
Deputy Head of School - Curriculum
Master of Teaching, B.Sc.(Hons) | Hong Kong
Ross works alongside staff and students, with the aim of using a range of tools to improve teaching and learning. He brings to ICHK a broad knowledge of technology and its impact on the classroom and beyond. He has a passion for introducing students to the ever-developing role of technology in relation to their development as learners and individuals. Previously Ross was an advisor and training course developer for the English Schools Foundation. Along with teaching IT, Ross has developed our school management system, Gibbon, and the innovative pedagogy Free Learning, both of which are open source and used by many other schools around the world.
Kathryn Lung
Deputy Head of School - Learning
M.A. (English Studies), B.A. Hons., PGCE (English), iSENCO Award | United Kingdom
Kathryn began her teaching career over 20 years ago, teaching English and Drama in UK secondary schools. Over the course of her career, Kathryn’s focus turned towards the areas of English as an additional language and special educational needs. She has extensive experience in managing and supporting students with a range of individual needs, including SpLDs in reading, writing and numeracy, ADHD, ASD, Global Delays and English as an additional language. Kathryn enjoys supporting and building trusting relationships with students and their families in both their personal and academic journeys. She is committed to ICHK’s inclusive ethos and environment, which is reflected in the size and strength of the learning support department.
+1 Centre
Emma Kent-Jones
Head of +1 Centre
BA Hons. | United Kingdom
Emma graduated from St Mary's University, Twickenham, with a BA Hons in Primary Teaching; following this, she taught for four years in the UK and then moved to Hong Kong. Before joining ICHK as the Head of +1 Centre, she worked in two other international schools in Hong Kong within the SEN departments, teaching students from early years to secondary school. Emma strongly believes in a holistic and skills-based approach to teaching students, emphasising real-life situations. Outside of school, Emma Captains her hockey team and is part of the Valley Committee.
Sydney Li
Teacher of SEN
PGDE, MEd, BSc | Hong Kong
Sydney graduated from the University of Nottingham, UK, with a BSc in Psychology. He finished an MEd in Educational Psychology from CUHK and a PGDE in Special Education from HKU after he moved back from the UK. He has worked in an SEN Setting for many years and is skilled in differentiating academic work to the appropriate level. He is also experienced in working with children with a range of social and behavioral needs.
English
Richard Barnes
Head of English
Master of Teaching, B.Sc. (Hons) | United Kingdom
Richard qualified through the TeachFirst programme in the UK and has subsequently taught English Language and Literature, a role he continues at ICHK. Prior to this he has taught English as a Second Language in both Russia and Poland as well as a year spent football coaching in the US. He has completed a Masters in Educational Leadership, specialising in methods of inclusive education.
Erin Loges
IB Coordinator, Teacher of English and Human Technologies
B.Sc. (Education), Masters (Liberal Studies), Ed.Sp. (Mental Health in Schools) | United States
Erin completed her undergraduate and graduate studies in the United States. Prior to joining ICHK she was a Teacher of IB English Literature and TOK at an international school in Portugal. She also taught secondary school English and Mathematics in the United States. Erin is a marathon runner, avid hiker, and yoga instructor.
Jon Rees
Sustainability Coordinator
Masters Education | United Kingdom
Jon is passionate about connecting students with nature through his role as Sustainability Coordinator. He works with our student environmental team, our Outdoor Educators, as well as classroom teachers to promote students' positive engagement with our planet. While on his many dog walks around Hong Kong, Jon is often struck by how vital contact with nature is to sustain ourselves, and how, then, we must do our best to care for our world.
Sky Clarke
Teacher of English
BEd - English Language (Hon) | Hong Kong
Sky completed her English Language teacher training in Hong Kong with first class honours and a special focus in international education. Sky currently teaches lower year English and is developing and supporting the Human Technologies and Humanities department at ICHK. She has experience teaching to students across varying age groups and ability levels. She subscribes to the notion that a happy learner is an effective learner and is dedicated to creating a learning environment that is not only intellectually stimulating, but injected with fun and student-centred activities that give value and purpose to students' school experience here at ICHK.
Adam de Buys
Teacher of English
BA English, M.Ed. | United States
Adam is a seasoned international teacher with almost 20 years experience in Korea, Hong Kong, and South China. He has attained a Master's of Education with a concentration in International Education. His primary focus has always been English, but he has also taught a range of subjects, including Debate and History. Adam loves stories and tries to be action-oriented. He is a strong believer in the power of school culture and is very pleased to have joined ICHK.
Doug Kane
Teacher of English
BA (Hons), PGCE | United Kingdom
Doug has taught English, Theory of Knowledge and Film for many years, after graduating with a degree in English and History of Ideas. Following 6 years in English Sixth Form Colleges, Doug subsequently gained a wide range of experience in classroom and leadership roles in schools in Dubai and Vietnam, before arriving in Hong Kong. He continued to gain experience in prominent Hong Kong international schools and is now delighted to return to ICHK for the second time.
Isabel Khine
Head of Year 7, Transitions Facilitator, Teacher of English and SEN
M.A. (Hons) in English Literature, University of Glasgow | Myanmar
Isabel studied English Literature at the University of Glasgow before completing a PGCE. She grew up in Hong Kong, and values the diversity of experiences and perspectives that students bring to the classroom. Isabel has experience teaching English Language and Literature to students across all age groups at ICHK, including the +1 Centre. She leads the Transitions Programme, which supports Year 7s as they become happy, confident, intelligent warriors who embody ICHK's values. Isabel is committed to the holistic development of principled and reflective students, who engage with each other and the world around them in meaningful ways.
Sanika Kulkarni
Teacher of English & Free Learning
PGCE In English and Drama | Hong Kong
As an International school student herself, Sanika grew up in Hong Kong and embraces her multicultural identity. She studied Language, Communication and Comparative Literature at the University of Hong Kong. She discovered her passion for working in education while working as a learning support assistant for students with Special Education Needs (SEN) after which she completed her PGCE from the University of Sunderland. She believes that language can be used as a tool to navigate the world and she applies this philosophy to her English and Drama classes at ICHK. Sanika is an avid traveler and when she's not at school you will find her scuba diving somewhere in the Pacific Ocean or learning how to cook local food in some other part of the world!
Nelly Loi-Fong
Head of Year 8, Teacher of English
B.A., J.D., TEFL, PGDE (Distinction) | United States
Nelly is a passionate educator, teaching at various International Baccalaureate World schools in Hong Kong before joining ICHK Secondary. She has extensive experience teaching and implementing ESL instructional programs to a range of English language learners including adults. Nelly has taught and created inquiry-based classrooms and developed effective pedagogical approaches in the areas of literacy, mathematics, ICT and social sciences. Nelly values and is deeply committed to students' pastoral care, welfare, and academic progress that encourages intrinsic motivation and a growth mindset.
Emma White
Teacher of English and Media. Head of School Media Team.
BA, MA, PGCE | United Kingdom
Emma is originally from West Sussex, England and has been teaching in Hong Kong for four years. She graduated from the University of Swansea with a Masters Degree in English Teaching and Linguistics and previously studied a Bachelors in French and Media. She spent a year teaching English in France before coming to Hong Kong, here she has attained her PGCE in Secondary Education with the University of Sunderland. In her spare time, Emma enjoys hiking, cycling, reading classical literature, travelling the world to experience different cultures and learning new languages.
Human Technologies
Natalie Bailey
Head of Human Technologies & Teacher of English
B.A (Hons) and PGCE | United Kingdom
Natalie has taught English Language and Literature in the UK, Mainland China, as well as several schools in Hong Kong. She has considerable experience teaching a range of curriculums, and throughout her 16 years of teaching practice, she has enjoyed varying roles in education. She is a qualified yoga instructor and seeks to integrate mindfulness in to students' educational experience. This year, she looks forward to another year developing the Human Technologies curriculum and integrating the "Four Pillars of Health" initiative that supports ICHK's commitment to establishing itself as a "centre of care".
Sandra Kuipers
IT Coordinator and Teacher of Free Learning
MA Learning and Technology, PGCE | Canada
Sandra is a software developer who has discovered a passion for education. She joined ICHK in August 2020 as Learning Systems Specialist and has a Master of Arts in Learning and Technology and a PGCE in Secondary Education. Sandra works in the intersection between education and software development and has worked with a number of international schools to help them establish open source solutions and build sustainable web-based applications. At ICHK, Sandra is actively involved in developing Gibbon, our school management system teaches Free Learning in Year 7, 8 and 9, and leads the Enrichment & Flow program.
Humanities
Alex Hall
Head of Humanities, PD Coordinator
BA (Hons), PGCE, MA Ed. | United Kingdom
After working as an archaeologist for Cambridge University, Alex started teaching in the UK in a state secondary school teaching History up to GCSE level. He then moved to Australia where he taught in several different schools including special needs and behavioural referral units before working as an education consultant for a technology company advising schools and regional governments on the integration of interactive technology in the classroom. Upon moving to Hong Kong, Alex taught IB History, Theory of Knowledge and IB MYP Humanities and was Head of Individuals and Societies at his previous school.
Martin Clarke
Teacher of Humanities & Higher Education Advisor
B.A. (Hons), M.A. (Geography Ed.) | United Kingdom
Martin taught at the Chinese International School for more than 15 years, rising to Head of Economics. He has also taught MYP Humanities, IB Economics, IB ESS, and Theory of Knowledge. Martin has extensive experience in preparing students for Model United Nations and Junior Achievement, and has helped organize the Global Issues Network held in Hong Kong. At ICHK, Martin is also one of our Higher Education advisors.
Christina Hayes
Teacher of Humanities
BA Honours History with English Literature & PGCE History | United Kingdom
Christina started her teaching career in Bath, UK as a History teacher before diversifying into the field of Special Education. She moved to Hong Kong in 2019 seeking to broaden her horizons in the world of International Education. In her spare time she can be found baking, reading, hiking and hunting for castles.
Cathy Tang Hales
Economics and Humanities Teacher
BA (Hons Economics), PGCE, MA | Canada
After completing her BA and teacher training, Cathy taught at a sixth form college in Cambridge, UK. Since then, she has explored teaching in countries including Colombia, Egypt, Malaysia, China and Vietnam, teaching and learning from her students. As a teacher and head of department at previous schools, Cathy has enjoyed promoting the importance of student voice and guiding students as they engage in activities outside the classroom including MUN, International Award and Enterprise challenges. She looks forward to immersing herself in the spirit of ICHK.
Languages
Nicolas Arriaga
Head of Languages, CAS Coordinator, IBDP Pamoja Site-Based Coordinator
B.A. (Philology), PGDE (Language Ed.), “Diploma de Estudios Avanzados” (DEA) | Spain
Nicolas has a broad experience as a lecturer, consultant, examiner, editor, teacher-trainer, IB Workshop Leader as well as IB Global Action Team leader. Prior to his focus moving to secondary school education, he taught a range of subjects in several universities in Spain, mainland China and Hong Kong, and was formerly the Coordinator of Spanish Studies in CUHK. Nicolas joined ICHK in 2010, bringing the school through his comprehensive linguistic background. He shares with our community his passion for food & culture, football, and tennis. He is President of HKSSCF, organizer of the annual Hispanic Culture Festival.
Yoshie Cresp
Teacher of Japanese
B.Ed | Japan
Yoshie brings a wealth of experience to ICHK. Her first degree was in English, but she has taught both English and Japanese. Prior to joining the school, she was a member of the teaching staff at the Hong Kong Japanese School and has also taught in Australia and Japan. She is a keen fan of winter sports as well as a skilled practitioner of taiko (Japanese drums).
Scarlette Leung
Teacher of Chinese
M.A., B.A., PGDE | Hong Kong
Scarlette joined ICHK in 2013. In addition to being a teacher of Chinese, Scarlette also has a BA in Japanese and MA in translation. She is also ICHK's Volleyball coach and higher education advisor focusing on HK universities. Scarlette’s talent for languages, combined with her prowess as a sportswoman, are a great asset to ICHK.
Amanda Luk
Teacher of Chinese
M.A. (In Chinese Studies-Language Education), B.Ed. (Hon) | China
Amanda originally trained as an English Teacher and taught in a Middle School in the Shanghai region. After coming to live in Hong Kong, Amanda taught Chinese to corporate clients and students of all ages. While doing that, she completed her Masters Degree in Chinese Teaching. Her enthusiasm for teaching Chinese, combined with her interactive approach, is a model of engagement for all Language learners. Amanda is an experienced IBDP Chinese teacher and is now a qualified IBDP Chinese Examiner. Amanda’s passion in Chinese teaching extends beyond the traditional curricula - she particularly enjoys organizing language immersive activities for her students. The Exchange Program between ICHK and Nengren Middle School in China is an example of the many projects Amanda has initiated and coordinated during her time here.
Leah Tsao
Teacher of Chinese
M.Ed. (Chinese as Second Language), Cert (Consecutive) | Hong Kong
Leah originally studied at universities in Hong Kong and Taiwan before completing her masters degree in Beijing. She has taught in a number of universities and schools in Hong Kong, including Chinese International School and Australian International School. Along with a major in teaching Chinese as a Second Language, Leah’s diverse studies at university have also included Translation,Accounting and Statistics, testament to the wider experience and skill set that she brings to the classroom.
Vanessa Afonso Pérez
Teacher of Spanish
M.Res (Philippines), M.A, B.A, PGCE (Spain) | Spain
Vanessa brings a wealth of cross-cultural knowledge from her Spanish language teaching experience in Asia, at all levels. She taught in The University of the Philippines, The University of Santo Tomás and HKU, and served as Coordinator in a language school in Hong Kong before switching her focus to Secondary Education. She has extensive experience guiding students to IGCSE, and as an examiner in DELE exams (Spanish Language Diploma). She is determined in sharing her passion for Hispanic cultures, particularly, Literature and Dance, and motivating the students to get immersed in Spanish language.
Jessy Tu
Teacher of Chinese
BA, PGDE (Adult. Education), PGDE (Secondary), M.Ed | Taiwan
Jessy was born in Taiwan, trained and educated in Sydney. She has taught in Australia, Thailand，Singapore and HK. This is Jessy’s third time working in HK since 2007. She is an influencer who has published a few books for children, textbooks for Secondary Chinese students and three books for teachers to guide towards becoming better teachers. A genuine life-long learner with an IB spirit who is renowned as a workshop leader in Asia.
Vincent Wang
Teacher of Chinese
PGDE(Chinese), M.A.(TCSL) B.A.(Language and literature) B.A.(Korean) | China
Having dedicated close to ten years of his life to teaching in Hong Kong, Vincent has come to appreciate the transformative power of education. In his opinion, one of the most crucial aspects of education is the act of accompanying students on their journey of growth. As Teachers guide them through this transformative process, Teachers also find themselves growing and engaging in lifelong learning.The opportunity to once again contribute to the Ichk community, to collaborate with fellow educators, and to inspire students is a privilege that Vincent embraces with gratitude.
Lyrica Xu
Teacher of Chinese
B.A. (Chinese Language and Literature), M.A., PGDE | China
Lyrica earned her bachelor's degree in Chinese language and literature in Mainland China, completed her Master's degree in Thailand, and obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the University of Hong Kong. Before joining ICHK, she worked as a Mandarin teacher in other international schools. She is a passionate teacher who believes that teaching is a profoundly enriching and meaningful vocation, particularly when she witnesses the personal growth of the students, every small step forward is a cause for celebration and encouragement.
Learning Support
Sammi Chan
Assistant Head of Learning Support & Teacher of IB Psychology
CPT3A, PGDE, MSc, BSc | Hong Kong
Sammi studied at the University of Kent, where she completed a BSc in Psychology with Clinical Psychology and a MSc in Neuropsychology. She has also completed a PGDE major in Special Educational Needs at HKU and has worked in SEN settings. She is interested in working with students with diverse learning needs, as well as supporting their individual pathway to success and well-being in ICHK.
Mathematics
Jimmy Lam
Co-Head of Mathematics
B.Sc. (Hon), B.Ed. M.Ed | Canada
Jimmy studied at Waterloo University, the most highly respected of Canada’s universities for Mathematics and Engineering, and has also completed the MEd programme at the University of Bristol. He joins ICHK from the Creative Secondary School where he gained experience teaching mathematics using the MYP’s approach to inquiry-based learning. Prior to this, he taught at the Korean International School, where among his extra-curricular activities, he was responsible for the school’s Year Book.
Mico Wong
Co-Head of Mathematics
BEng. Electronic Engineering, PhD Electronic Engineering | Hong Kong
Mico Wong has been teaching in IB schools and International schools in Hong Kong for more than 10 years. She is experienced in teaching IBDP Mathematics courses, IGCSE Mathematics syllabuses including Additional Mathematics, Extended Mathematics and International Mathematics. She has also been a form tutor in different year levels to provide guidance and pastoral care to students. Mico graduated from The Chinese University of Hong Kong with a degree in Electronic Engineering. She further achieved a Ph. D in Electronic Engineering and obtained her PGDE with Distinction from the same university. Through her years of teaching, Mico has put effort into engaging and supporting students in their learning journey and helping them understand the power and beauty of Mathematics in the real world.
Steve Cheung
Teacher of Mathematics
BMath (Actuarial Science), MAED, PGDE | Hong Kong
At the University of Waterloo, Steve studied actuarial science, a field that revolves around assessing financial risks in life, property/casual, and health insurance. He then obtained his PGDE at HKU and his MAED at HKUST, whilst teaching IGCSE and IB Maths in international schools. Besides teaching, Steve also enjoys shooting nature behind lenses, tinkering with codes, and lifting ingots. Students had called him a wizard and at ICHK, Steve hopes to conjure fun in student learning and continue to grow as a mathemagician. Algebra-kadabra!
Kirstyn Lowe
Head of Year 10, Teacher of Mathematics
BCom, CPA, PGCE | Australia
Kirstyn graduated from Curtin University with a BCom in Accounting and worked in both private practice and corporate enterprises as a Management Accountant. She has worked in many industries including mining, retail, hotels and casinos. Taking a break to raise her children, Kirstyn returned to work as a Learning Support Assistant at ICHK. Completing her PGCE in mathematics she now teaches Years 7 to 13. Kirstyn is patient and understanding of students' needs and brings her experience from many fields to ensure a happy and supportive learning environment at ICHK.
Alex Mrkich
Teacher of Mathematics
Master's Degree | Canada
Alex comes from a long line of teachers, and both his mother and brother are teachers. Alex's original degree is in Engineering, and he later added another degree in Astrophysics. Math and Science are his favourite subjects to teach, but Alex loves STEM work as a whole! Alex's interests outside of teaching relate to the environment: a keen hiker and gardener, he hopes to participate in both activities here at ICHK. Alex also loves reading, and considers Stephen King to his favourite writer. Since moving to HK, Alex has also taken up Mahjong, and loves to play, though he admits he still loses more than he wins. Alex is looking forward to enjoying his time here at ICHK!
Outdoor Education
Dave Addis
Leader of Outdoor and Experiential Learning
M.A. Outdoor Education, B.A. (hons) Adventure Tourism Management | United Kingdom
Dave is a dedicated outdoor educator with a Master’s degree in Outdoor Education. His passion lies in helping young people discover more about themselves, their communities, and the environment through immersive outdoor experiences. With extensive experience in Hong Kong's outdoor education sector, Dave has worked with various organizations and is a director with the Hong Kong Outdoor Learning Association, where he actively contributes to the development of outdoor education in HK. An avid trekker, and a qualified mountain leader and wilderness first aider, he's keen to pass this passion on through the AYP and outdoor education programs at ICHK.
Max Ndlovu
Experiential Educator
Pre and Primary Teaching Training | South Africa
Max started outdoor education in South Africa, in 2011. He has worked in the industry for more than 9 years. He has worked for Outward Bound South Africa, Outward Bound Hong Kong and went for staff placement in New Zealand for a month. He has obtain ACA 3 STAR Kayaing qualification. ACMG top rope instructor qualification. Max's interests are, Sports, outdoors and fitness.
Arthur Wong
Experiential Educator
| Hong Kong
Arthur has worked in Hong Kong outdoor education companies, like Dragonfly, Treasure Island, and Asia Pacific Adventure, for more than seven years. She has also been qualified as a Stand-Up paddling and Sea Kayaking instructor and holds a Wilderness First Responder certification. Her outdoor education experiences, program management skills, creative ideas for team-building activities, environmental awareness, and local cultural knowledge will stimulate students to enjoy learning in a safe outdoor environment.
Performing & Visual Arts
Liam Greenall
Director of Creativity, Head of The Performing & Visual Arts
B.A. (First), PGDE, MVA - Master of Visual Arts (Studio Art and Media) | United Kingdom
Liam has studied performance, physical theatre and visual art. His practice as an artist and educator specialises in contemporary theatre-making and media-based arts. He has worked with a diverse range of artists and organisations on collaborative projects and exhibitions in Europe and Asia and has been a teacher of arts in a number of schools and colleges in England, South Korea and Hong Kong. ICHK’s cutting-edge and award-winning creative theatre works are a testament to his experimentation and inquiry as both an educator and artist.
Jennie Davies
Director of Student Welfare
B.A (Hons), PGCE | United Kingdom
Jennie has a passion for theatre and the arts. She studied Theatre and Performance Studies in London. Before starting a career as a teacher, Jennie worked as an actor and playwright. Jennie is strongly interested in supporting student mental health and fostering well-being through the arts. As an educator, Jennie is dedicated to nurturing her students' overall well-being and creative potential.
Alistair Kanaan
Head of Year 9 and 11, Teacher Of Film, Media, and P.E
MA Hispanic Studies, MA Secondary Education | United Kingdom
Alistair has taught MYP/DP English, TOK, and Film Studies in three different schools in Colombia where he has worked for the past 16 years. Alistair was head of the Film department and the Green Team at his last school and is a current I.B examiner for Film and Extended Essay. He his a Head of Year and teaches Film, Media, and P.E at ICHK.
Amy Thibeault
Teacher of Art
BFA (Glass), MFA (Studio Arts) | United States
Amy has her degree in Glass and Sculpture from Massachusetts College of Art and her Masters of Fine Arts from Mills College in Oakland, California. Prior to joining ICHK, Amy has taught glassblowing, ceramics, sculpture and visual arts at schools and colleges across the globe and most recently as associate professor at Toyama Institute of Glass Art in Japan. Her work can be seen in collections and museums internationally, including the Corning Museum of Glass and the Shanghai Museum of Glass.
Phoebe Wong
Teacher of Music
B.Ed. (Music) & BA | Hong Kong
Phoebe is a multi-instrumentalist who attained a diploma in Erhu and grade 8 in vocal, recorder and music theory. Besides practising classical music, she enjoys music jamming in a pop band, writing her own songs and exploring instruments from all around the world. She completed her degree in Music Education in Hong Kong with first-class honours and was awarded the Hong Kong Jockey Club Scholarship and outstanding teaching practice award. Her studies also cover international and special needs education. Music has always brought her joy, hence she looks forward to sharing it with her students through exploring, improvising and experiencing music with them.
Physical Education
Matthew Ho
Head of PE & Teacher of Science
BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching, PGCE | United Kingdom
Matthew held previous positions in Hong Kong as a middle school fitness coach at HKIS and high school gym coach for Primal Strength. His personal values as a continual learner, combined with passion for health and fitness to promote a better quality of life.
Saie Ryu Lee
Teacher of PE
B.A. (Hons), PGCE | United Kingdom
Saie Ryu completed his undergraduate studies in history at the University of Warwick and then started his career teaching English as a second language in Thailand and Hong Kong. He has a passion for physical fitness and creative expression. As an educator, Saie Ryu strives to create a fun, inclusive, challenging, yet accessible learning environment for his students. He believes that a student-centred, non-judgemental approach to learning encourages a growth mindset and helps foster a stronger sense of community. In his free time, he enjoys acting, performing in theatre, delving into history, playing music, and travelling.
Lucy Fong
Teacher of PE
MEd, iPGCE | Thailand
Lucy joined ICHK in 2024. She earned her Master of Education (MEd) in Health and Physical Education in 2022. Prior to her role at ICHK, Lucy completed her iPGCE teaching practice at Renaissance College, where she honed her skills and passion for inspiring students through physical activity. Lucy enjoys team sports such as volleyball and basketball, and she actively promotes teamwork and healthy competition among her students.
Bop Laidler
Teacher of Science, ESS & PE
| Hong Kong
Bop Laidler, a Hong Kong native, completed her undergraduate degree in Environmental Science at Newcastle University. Bop later discovered her passion for working with students while working as a learning support assistant for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Driven by a commitment to inclusive education, Bop pursued a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) at the University of Sunderland. In her current position, Bop teaches a diverse range of subjects, including ESS (Environmental Systems and Societies), Science, and Physical Education. Her teaching philosophy is centered on fostering a love of learning and empowering her students to reach their full potential. Through embracing a growth mindset, Bop encourages her students to view challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth, rather than as limitations. When she's not in the classroom, you will likely find Bop in the gym or out hiking in nature, channeling her passion for fitness and personal growth.
Science
Jane Thomas
Head of Science
BSc (Hons) Biochemistry and Immunology, MSc Biomedical Science, PGCE (UK) | United Kingdom
Jane embarked on a career in Science education over 20 years ago after working as a Biomedical Scientist at King's College Hospital. She has taught in IB schools in Asia and Hong Kong as a science and biology teacher, MYP Curriculum Project Leader and most recently as Head of Science. She has been an IB Examiner since 2013. Jane is determined to share her love of science and the natural world with her students. She believes that at the heart of science is curiosity because science is not just a subject, it is a way of thinking.
Richard Li
Teacher of Science
BEd - UBC, IB Teaching Certification | Canada
Having lived in Canada my whole life, I decided to cultivate my love of adventure by moving to Hong Kong as a full time science teacher. My teaching philosophy revolves around learning through exploration, and in class you will often find my students on their feet performing a science experiment or participating in a chemistry demonstration. My hobbies include movies, snowboarding, hiking and playing piano or guitar. I love sci-fi and fantasy. When I'm not at school you can often find me at a cinema, out exploring Hong Kong or more recently, playing lots of board games at home!
Kevin Thomas
Teacher of Science
BSc (Hons) - Medical Microbiology | France
Kevin grew up in the UK where he studied Medical Microbiology at the University of Leeds and then trained as a teacher. After spending time working in the financial sector, he returned to teaching in Japan, and then moved to Hong Kong in 2016. He has experience teaching science, mathematics and coding and believes that all students should look to connect their learning to the world around them. In his personal time, he enjoys reading, movies and writing creative fiction.
Jenny Wu
Teacher of Science
BA | United States
Jenny received her degree from the University of Colorado in Boulder and also participated in HHMI research projects there. She has taught in the U.S. and China, and been teaching The International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement for eight years. Jenny enjoys taking learning outside the classroom, and doing unique projects with students. She has taken students on Week Without Walls international field trips, and local field studies to examine the water, soil, and geology of the environment. She also enjoys Maker projects with the students such as putting together mouse trap cars and soldering small electronics.
Chris Holland
Teacher of Science & Mathematics
B.Sc., Teacher of Secondary Math and Science, M.Ed. | Canada
Chris originally studied Engineering at The University of Windsor in Canada. During the 10 years prior to joining ICHK, he taught Mathematics, Science, and English in Seoul, Bangkok and Taipei. His diverse experiences, including preparing students for SATs, teaching yoga and fitness, and teaching EAL, make a great contribution to his role as a teacher at ICHK.