JL (Jan Lewis) Visser is an experienced Physical Education leader with over 12 years of teaching and coaching experience across international and South African schools. As Head of Physical Education, he is passionate about developing students’ physical literacy, wellbeing, resilience, and lifelong love of sport through inclusive and engaging PE programmes. A former national-level sprinter and professional rugby player, JL combines elite sporting experience with a student-centred approach to education. Throughout his career, he has led athletics programmes, coordinated sporting events, and mentored young athletes and student leaders. His experience spans a range of international curricula, including British, IB, U.S. Common Core, and South African CAPS. JL is committed to creating an environment where every student is encouraged to challenge themselves, develop confidence, and enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle both in and beyond the classroom.
Tamar Chogovadze is a PE Teacher and Athletic Director at the BIST, teaching across Primary and Secondary and leading the school’s sports teams, competitions, tournaments and international sporting trips.
With a strong background in handball, Tamar is a former member of the Georgian National Handball Team and currently serves as an EHF Delegate and Vice-Chair of the Competition Commission at the Georgian Handball Federation. Her international experience includes supporting the organization and delivery of national and international competitions.
Tamar is passionate about creating inclusive and engaging sporting opportunities that help students develop physical skills alongside confidence, teamwork, resilience and leadership. She is committed to providing students with opportunities to compete, represent their school and develop a lifelong appreciation of sport.
Zura is a sportsman. He followed sports from school. He started to swim in his childhood and he has been connected with this sport for 17 years. After graduating from the Sports Academy he qualified as a swimming teacher. He worked in various swimming pools as a trainer. He has worked in BIST as a swimming coach from 2017.
Nino is a qualified psychologist and psychotherapist who graduated from the Tbilisi Institute of Psychology with a specialisation in Psychotherapy. She holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and has completed a European certification in Counselling.
Nino has extensive experience supporting children with a wide range of learning, developmental, and emotional needs. She has been a valued member of the British International School of Tbilisi (BIST) for the past 10 years. With her strong professional background and many years of practical experience, Nino is dedicated to promoting the wellbeing, inclusion, and holistic development of every child.
Maria joined BIST in 2023 with experience as a private tutor and a passion for languages and education. She is a multilingual EAL teacher of Greek-Georgian background, fluent in five languages. Maria holds a Master’s degree in Education from East European University. She is passionate about supporting students from diverse cultural backgrounds and helping them grow in confidence and English.
Veriko joined BIST four years ago and has developed her professional experience within the school. She is currently a Primary Art & Design Teacher, with a passion for creativity, self-expression, and inspiring young learners. Veriko holds a Master’s degree in Education from East European University and is committed to creating engaging, inclusive learning experiences that nurture pupils’ confidence, creativity, and artistic development.
Science Laboratory Technician. Trained as a paramedic in Saint Petersburg with experience across emergency, infectious and cardiology departments, Mr Skorokhodski brings a rigorous, protocol-driven discipline to our science laboratories. He is a specialist in accurate documentation, clinical-standard safety compliance and the meticulous preparation that allows practical science to run smoothly and safely. Having since held operations and management roles in Armenia and Georgia, he combines technical precision with strong organisational and team coordination skills. His approach centres on careful preparation and calm decision-making under time pressure, ensuring that every practical lesson at BIST is safe, well resourced and ready for students to explore.
Ms Isabelle Manders-Jones is an experienced French and Spanish teacher with more than 30 years of international teaching and leadership experience across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, the Caribbean, and Australia. She has taught a wide range of curricula, including IB, Cambridge IGCSE, A Level, GCSE, and Key Stage programmes, helping students achieve academic excellence while fostering confidence and a genuine appreciation for languages. Throughout her career, Isabelle has held leadership roles as Head of Modern Languages and has contributed to curriculum development in several international schools. A native French speaker with extensive experience in multilingual and multicultural environments, she is passionate about inspiring students to become effective communicators and globally minded learners.
Mr Gareth Stamp is an experienced educational leader with more than 35 years of international expertise in creative education, innovation, and curriculum development. As Head of the Creative Innovation Department (STEM, Art and Computing), he brings extensive leadership experience from leading British international schools across the UK, Kazakhstan, India, and Kenya. Gareth has successfully led multidisciplinary teams, developed innovative learning programmes, and championed the integration of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, into education. He is an award-winning educator, receiving international recognition for his contributions to design education and creative collaboration. Alongside his work in schools, Gareth is an author, international speaker, editor, and environmental education consultant. Passionate about inspiring curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving, he is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Egle joins BIST and BGA from the Finnish School in Georgia where she has been a music and drama teacher. Prior to this Egle worked in similar roles in American system schools in Tbilisi and in Kuwait and also as a teacher in her native Lithuania. Egle studied music at the Lithuanian National Academy of Music and Theatre. Egle’s interests include pottery, furniture restoration and outdoor activities.
Tekla teaches Art across Years 5 to 13. A practicing artist for over ten years, Drawing on more than a decade of active practice as a professional artist, she earned her degree from the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. Tekla is dedicated to cultivating an encouraging classroom environment where every student gains the confidence to explore their creative voice. Beyond her work in education, she enjoys Georgian dancing and is a passionate maker across diverse artistic mediums.
Maia joined BIST in 2015, initially working as a Learning Support Assistant in the Foundation Stage. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Philology and completed seven years of intensive musical training at a Musical School.
Since 2020, Maia has been teaching Music and Art in the Primary School, and since 2024, she has taught both Music and Drama. As the BIST Primary Performing Arts Teacher, she also leads the KS2 Ukulele Club and directs performances for EYFS and KS1.
Maia is passionate about inspiring creativity, confidence, and self-expression through music, drama, and the performing arts.
Marta Brito leads our Modern Foreign Languages department as Head of MFL, while also taking on the roles of Student Council Coordinator and Year 12 Mentor. Originally from Spain, Marta has taught languages across Slovakia and the UK, most recently at International House Bratislava. She holds Master’s degrees in Fine Arts and Secondary Education (specialising in Drawing and Artistic Education), alongside a PGCE in Modern Foreign Languages (Spanish and French) from Liverpool Hope University. In her free time, Marta enjoys travelling, drawing and design, cooking, and working out.
Julian Manders-Jones is an experienced Computer Science and Educational Technology specialist with over 30 years of international teaching and leadership experience across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and Latin America. He has held senior roles including Head of Computer Science and Director of Technology at leading international schools, teaching Cambridge IGCSE, IB Diploma, AP Computer Science, and A-Level programmes. Julian combines deep expertise in software development, artificial intelligence, and educational technology with a passion for inspiring the next generation of innovators. His work spans curriculum development, technology integration, robotics, AI-powered learning solutions, and strategic digital transformation. Holding a BSc in Mathematics & Computer Science from the University of Liverpool and a PGCE from the University of Bath, Julian is committed to equipping students with the computational thinking and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Robert has been Principal at BIST since August 2024. With over 20 years of experience in education he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our school. Growing up in the UK, he graduated with a degree in Law from the University of Sheffield in 2002, and then undertook a PGCE in secondary mathematics with the University of Plymouth in 2004. While becoming a Head of Mathematics in Devon, he received a distinction in a Diploma in Mathematics with the Open University in 2009. After moving to King’s College School Murcia in 2014, Robert held prominent leadership positions including Director of Studies, Head of Sixth Form, Head of Secondary and Deputy Head. He completed his CPAH (Program for Aspiring Heads) qualification in 2019. Robert is joined in Georgia by his wife and 3 children. He enjoys spending time with his family whether it be reading, creative arts, playing music or walking the mountains.
James is in his fourth year at BIST and is currently Head of Secondary, having previously served as Head of English and Head of Sixth Form. Before joining BIST, he worked in Barcelona, Madrid, London and Worcestershire. James studied at the University of Leicester, the University of Amsterdam and UCL. His interests include literature, international relations, football, cycling and trail running.
Thomas Browning-Stamp has joined the British International School of Tbilisi as Assistant Principal (Co-curricular). Originally from the UK, he has taught in a range of international and UK settings, including Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Germany, and most recently as Head of Boarding in Salisbury, Wiltshire. He holds a degree in Primary Education with a specialism in Early Years and has recently completed the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL).
Thomas is passionate about outdoor learning and the powerful role that co-curricular opportunities play in inspiring and deepening children’s learning. Outside the classroom, he is a qualified ski instructor, rugby coach, and active player – including captaining two teams in recent seasons. He enjoys exploring the outdoors with his wife, Rebecca (also part of BIST), and their Labrador, Shymba. They are all thrilled to be part of the BIST community and to be discovering more of beautiful Georgia.
With over 25 years of experience and leadership roles across the UK, Hong Kong, and Cambodia, Amy brings a wealth of international expertise and a passion for creating joyful, nurturing learning environments.
Alex is originally from the UK, but grew up in Japan and has worked at international schools around the world since 2007. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Studies and Japanese from University of Wales, Cardiff and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education specialising in Primary Education from the Billericay Educational Consortium. He is the Year 1 teacher, as well as the EYKS1 Coordinator and Director of Studies at BIST. He loves Japan and offer a weekly Japanese club to primary students at BIST.
Rebecca Browning-Stamp is a Year 4 teacher and Head of Lower Key Stage 2 at BIST. She brings twenty-nine years of teaching experience from schools across the UK and around the world, including Mongolia, Germany, and Kazakhstan. Most recently, she spent four years at a well-known prep school in the southwest of England. Rebecca studied Geography at the University of Birmingham and completed her PGCE at the University of Lancaster.
Outside the classroom, she enjoys walking in the hills, skiing in the mountains, and people watching with a coffee. She also likes spending time with her family and their dog.
Harry joined our Key Stage 2 team from a British school in Uzbekistan. He has previously worked at a British school in Russia as well as working outside teaching in the UK. Harry studied both Languages and Teaching at the universities of Buckingham, Portsmouth and Sheffield. In his free time, Harry enjoys climbing and running. Harry is originally from Nottingham in the UK.
Samuel joins BIST from a school on Merseyside where he teaches Geography. Samuel studied at the University of Birmingham, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and Liverpool Hope University. Samuel is originally from Manchester, but grew up in the Orkney Islands. Samuel’s interests include wild foraging, literature and a wide range of sports.
Alfie is in his fourth year at BIST and has spent the majority of his teaching hours preparing our students for their external IGCSE and A-Level examinations in his specialism, Physics. He is our current Head of Key Stage Four and is responsible for overseeing all things academic and pastoral in Years 10 and 11. He holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering (BEng) from the University of Sheffield, has taught Science in the UK and has taught abroad in Central Asia.
Haroun Zidi has joined the Modern Foreign Languages department, bringing broad international teaching experience from Spain, Slovakia, and the UK. Most recently, he taught at International House Bratislava and worked as a Cambridge Speaking Examiner.
Originally from France, Haroun holds a BA in English Language and Literature from Université Charles de Gaulle (Lille III) and spent an Erasmus year at The University of Manchester. He has also completed a CELTA, a DELTA, and a PGCE in French and Spanish at Liverpool Hope University. In his free time, he enjoys doing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, exploring new cultures, and live music.
Chantal joined BIST from a school in Thailand where she was a Key Stage 1 teacher. Prior to this she worked in similar roles at schools in Taiwan. Chantal studied at Moreland University in the USA and the University of the Free State in her native South Africa. Chantal’s interests include photography, yoga, and the cuisines of places she visits.
Dr Caradoc Peters is an international education specialist with more than 27 years of experience, including university admissions and counselling. He has supported students in securing offers from leading institutions worldwide, including Stanford, Columbia, Oxford, Cambridge and other Russell Group universities. With a PhD and specialist qualifications in university counselling, Caradoc combines extensive admissions expertise with a personalised, inclusive approach. His international experience and contributions to Times Higher Education reflect his commitment to helping every student make informed, ambitious choices about their future.
Sophie joined the BIST administration team in 2018. Previously she worked as an Examination Centre Coordinator at the Agricultural University of Georgia and the Free University of Tbilisi. Sophie has a Bachelor’s Degree in English Philology and a Master’s Degree in British Studies from Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University.
Tamar is from Tbilisi and joined BIST in August 2021 as an Early Years Learning Support Assistant, before progressing to the role of Foundation class teacher. Before joining BIST she worked as a private English tutor for eight years, teaching children aged 5 to 15, and it was this experience that confirmed her passion for working with young learners. She graduated with a Bachelor of Law degree from the Higher School of Economics in 2011, and has since dedicated herself to professional development in early years education: she completed EYFS Assessment and Child Protection training with the TES Learn Institute in 2023, and earned the COBIS Diploma for International Teaching Assistants in Early Years with Alpha International Training in 2024. Tamar speaks Georgian, English and Russian, and is known for her hardworking, committed approach to every child in her class.
Matthew joined our English faculty from a British school in Colombia. He has previously worked at fellow Black Sea School, BIS Ukraine and schools in the UK and Australia. Matthew studied English and Sports at the Federation University in Victoria, Australia. In his free time, Matthew enjoys hiking, snowboarding and music. Matthew is originally from Geelong, near Melbourne, in Australia.
A graduate of Queens’ University Belfast and Sheffield Hallum University, Andrew worked for international NGOs in Africa and Asia before becoming a teacher. After three years in state schools in Yorkshire, Andrew came to Georgia in 2018 and has been with us ever since. In addition to teaching Physics and Mathematics, Andrew brings his passion for the outdoors to his role as the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Coordinator
Oleh joined our Mathematics faculty from a school in Lancashire in the UK. He has previously worked as a special education needs teacher assistant in Ukraine and the UK, as well as specialist Maths tutor. Oleh studied Engineering at the State University of Telecommunications in Kyiv and Teaching through NMAPS SCITT in the UK. In his free time, Oleh enjoys photography, cooking, languages and technology and is originally from Mariupol, Ukraine.
Dean Breed has joined our Mathematics faculty from Newton Free School, also in Tbilisi, Georgia. Alongside this role, he worked as a private tutor for students studying IGCSE and A-Level. Prior to teaching, Dean worked as a data scientist in the humanitarian and international development sectors.
Originally from Hemel Hempstead in the south of the UK, Dean holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Bath. In his spare time, he enjoys playing football, running in the trails of Mtatsminda, and practising film photography.
Kato joined BIST in 2025 and currently serves as an Administrative Assistant and Communications Manager. In her role, she supports the school’s day-to-day administrative operations, manages school communications, and oversees the administrative coordination of the school bus service and the BatOnRoute application.
Kato studied Psychology and has a diverse professional background, with experience in hospitality and communications in Georgia and Germany as well as back-office operations within an international company. Her varied experience has helped her develop strong organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills, which she brings to her work within the BIST community.
Nina Rusishvili brings over 8 years of experience in the recycling, eco, and environmental protection sector, where she served as Head of Administration and Operations. She has also managed a private art school, bringing together strong management skills with a flexible, hands-on approach. Nina specialises in managing live, continuous operational processes, ensuring seamless day-to-day operations and high efficiency across all workflows.
At BIST, her role involves maintaining Bromcom and learning platforms, managing database systems, and tracking student attendance in line with school policy.
Caroline von Bemberg has joined the Language Department as a German teacher. Originally from Cologne, Germany, she has taught German, Latin, and Art at a high school (Gymnasium) for nearly ten years. She has expanded her qualifications in teaching German as a foreign language through the Goethe-Institut and currently teaches at the Goethe-Institut in Tbilisi. In Germany, she has also worked with Ukrainian refugee children. In addition, Caroline is a trained actress and voice artist, with stage experience in Bonn and Aachen, as well as in radio drama. She has led school drama clubs and enjoys choral singing, cooking, traveling, and reading. We warmly welcome Caroline to the BIST community.
Ia Sisauri is the Head of Admissions at the British International School of Tbilisi (BIST). Having previously served as Communications and Events Manager, she led major community initiatives, including the school’s annual Christmas Market.
Ia holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations with a minor in Business Administration and is planning to pursue her MBA. Beyond BIST, she is an active speaker and participant in prestigious global diplomacy and youth leadership forums, including the NATO Youth Summit, TFAS Prague, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Democracy Lab, the World Bank Group Youth Summit, and the Robert Schuman Foundation. Additionally, she was a runner-up in the National Public Speaking Contest, a participant in Korean speaking contests, and an invited speaker at the Begin Edu University Fair 2026.
Ketevan recently joined our team following her work at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs within the Directorate of Diplomatic Protocol. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Free University. Her background includes active involvement in global initiatives such as Erasmus+ and IFLRY.
Sophie has been working as an Early Years Teacher for six years. She taught in the British Georgian Academy for 3 years before moving across to BIST in 2018. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Anglistics and Useful Psychology at Ilia State University, Tbilisi in 2013. After graduating university Sophie received her Master’s Degree in English Philology at the University of Georgia and she is working on her PhD topic ”Modern Systems Socio-psychological Analysis within Early Years Education” presently.
Darin has been working at BIST since 2023, initially as maternity cover teacher for Foundation 2 and then teaching English as an Additional Language. He then became our Year 1 teacher in 2024. Darin will be responsible for further developing the Computing programme across our Primary section. He has previously worked in Mexico before coming to Georgia.
Keti joined BIST in August 2019 as an Early Years Learning Support Assistant. She has been teaching English to young children since 2008, and from 2013 worked as a kindergarten teacher before moving across to BIST. Keti graduated from Georgian National University SEU in 2008 with a Bachelor’s degree in English, qualifying as an interpreter-reviewer, and speaks Georgian, English and Russian. She is a creative presence in the classroom: in her free time she composes children’s songs and writes poems in both English and Georgian, which she loves sharing with her pupils.
Luke Johnston is an experienced English educator with over 14 years of teaching and academic leadership experience across the United Kingdom, Mongolia, and Nepal. He holds a First-Class Honours degree in English Literature from Aberystwyth University and a Graduate Certificate in Education in English from Bishop Grosseteste University. Throughout his career, Luke has taught across Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4, A Level, and Cambridge programmes, while also serving in senior leadership roles, including Head of English and Head of Secondary. Passionate about developing confident communicators and critical thinkers, he is committed to creating engaging, inclusive learning environments where students can thrive academically and personally. Beyond the classroom, Luke has led Model United Nations initiatives and literary competitions, helping students develop leadership, collaboration, and a lifelong appreciation of language and literature.
Tina holds a degree in English Language Philology from Tbilisi State University. She is a qualified Senior English Teacher and a certified Speech and Language Therapist. Prior to joining BIST in 2014, she taught English across several public and private schools, as well as educational centres. Since 2020, she has been serving at BIST as a Georgian language teacher and a Special Educational Needs (SEN) teacher, bringing a rich background in language pedagogy and speech therapy to her role.
Clifford joins BIST from our fellow Black Sea School, British International School of Ukraine where he has been Assistant Head of Secondary School and a Science teacher. Prior to working in Ukraine, Clifford worked at schools in China, Russia, Kuwait, the Falkland Islands and the Isle of Man. Clifford studied at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne and Edge Hill University and is from Lancashire. Clifford’s interests include board games, computer games, Scottish dancing and walking.
Melissa joined our Science faculty from a British school in Nepal. Prior to this, she worked at a school in England. She studied both Chemistry and Teaching at the universities of Sheffield and Nottingham. In her free time, Melissa enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and rafting. Melissa is originally from Huddersfield in Yorkshire, UK.
Christopher joined BIST after serving as Head of Geography at a large school in North London. He has an honours degree in Geography from Staffordshire University and teaching qualifications from nearby University of Keele. Christopher is from East Yorkshire.
Mariam joined BIST as a Foundation 1 Classroom Learning Support Assistant at the start of her career in education. She discovered early that teaching is the work that gives her the greatest happiness, and she brings energy, curiosity and a strong work ethic to the Foundation classroom every day. Committed to making a positive difference in the lives of her pupils, Mariam is an excellent communicator who builds warm, effective relationships with children, parents and colleagues alike, and she is continually developing her practical skills within the BIST community.
Primary Teacher. With eleven years of Early Years and Key Stage One teaching across Thailand and Kazakhstan, Ms Fulton brings international best practice in early childhood education to our youngest learners. A first-class honours graduate in Early Years Education with QTS and holder of the NPQML, she is a specialist in play-based, child-led learning, having led continuous provision, in-the-moment planning, a structured Jolly Phonics programme, loose parts play and the design of an outdoor STEAM garden. As a former Head of Year she has driven whole-school curriculum development, online assessment systems and staff CPD. Her philosophy centres on enabling environments that grow curiosity, creativity, confidence and resilience in every child.
Nino joined the British International School of Tbilisi as a Learning Support Assistant in 2023 and has developed extensive experience supporting primary-aged students in an international school environment. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Philology from Tbilisi State University and is currently completing a Master’s degree in Educational Research and Administration at East European University. She is passionate about inclusive education and is currently undertaking the Focus Awards Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants (RQF).
Mr. Bartek Kubowicz is an Economics teacher with a strong academic background in economics, finance, and mathematics. He holds a BA (Hons) in Economics and Politics from Lancaster University, an MSc in Banking and Finance from Sheffield Hallam University, and a PGCE in Mathematics with Qualified Teacher Status. He currently teaches A-Level Economics and is an AQA-approved Economics examiner, bringing valuable insight into assessment standards and examination success.
His teaching combines real-world economic examples with engaging, data-driven learning, helping students develop analytical thinking and a deep understanding of global economic issues. Passionate about Economics and education, Mr. Kubowicz is committed to creating an inclusive classroom where students are encouraged to think critically, develop their understanding of economics, and achieve their full potential.
Davia Lionel has joined BIST as the Year 2L class teacher. She brings a strong understanding of the British curriculum and modern teaching strategies, having worked in outstanding schools across the UK. Davia holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Queen Mary University of London and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, equipping her with a deep understanding of child development and learning. Most recently, she taught at a British school in Panama.
Davia is excited to embrace Georgian traditions and enjoys staying active and exploring new places in her free time.
George Coombes is an experienced and CELTA-qualified English teacher with over seven years of international teaching experience across the United Kingdom, Thailand, and Georgia. He has taught English Language and Literature within the IB MYP and the UK National Curriculum (KS3–KS5), helping students develop strong analytical, communication, and academic writing skills. George is passionate about creating engaging, inclusive learning environments where every student can thrive. His experience spans international schools and the British Council, working with learners of diverse ages, backgrounds, and abilities. With a student-centred approach and a commitment to academic excellence, he encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence, supporting students in reaching their full potential both inside and beyond the classroom.
Mariami joined the British International School of Tbilisi as a Learning Support Assistant in 2019. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Philology, completed in 2016, and a Master’s degree, completed in 2018, from the University of Georgia.
Before joining BIST, she worked as a Foundation Stage Teacher and has since gained valuable experience supporting children in Primary, particularly in KS1. She has also taught Georgian as a Foreign Language and completed Ruth Miskin Training, including Read Write Inc.
Mariami is a warm, caring and communicative person who enjoys building positive relationships with children and creating a supportive and welcoming learning environment. She is passionate about art and creativity and enjoys designing fun and engaging activities for children in her free time. She particularly enjoys helping children express themselves creatively and develop confidence in their own ideas.
Rory Molloy is an experienced History teacher and educational leader with over nine years of teaching experience in leading British international and UK schools. He previously served as Head of Humanities and Assessment Data Co-ordinator at Nobel Algarve British International School in Portugal, where he led on curriculum development, drove academic excellence, and supported whole school improvement. A Teach First Ambassador and graduate of the Teach First Leadership Development Programme, Rory is passionate about inspiring students through engaging, enquiry-based History lessons while fostering critical thinking and a lifelong love of learning. He has extensive experience teaching Key Stage 3, IGCSE, and A Level History and is also an AQA examiner. Rory is committed to high-quality teaching, professional development, and creating an inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
David joined BIST from a British school in Bratislava, Slovakia where he has been working for a number of years following a period teaching in South Wales. As well as being a class teacher, David will be responsible for further developing the Mathematics programme across our Primary section. David is from South Wales in the UK and did his undergraduate and teaching qualifications at the University of South Wales.
Stacy Corless is Head of Performing Arts at BIST, where she has been part of the school community for nine years. Having taught across all age ranges in England, Ghana, Russia and Thailand, she now teaches Drama from Year 8 to A Level. Stacy believes Drama is essential to holistic learning, providing a safe environment where students can take risks, develop confidence and creativity, and reimagine the world around them. She particularly enjoys directing productions, with Night at the Theatre and the Key Stage 3 shows among her favourites. A Year 7 tutor, Stacy also loves musicals and a little on-stage magic!
Matthew joins BIST from our fellow Black Sea School, British International School of Ukraine where he is a Key Stage 2 teacher and leader. Prior to working in the Ukraine, Matthew worked at schools in the UK. Matthew studied at the University of Huddersfield and is originally from Greater Manchester. Matthew’s interests include football, swimming and travel.
Ketevan joined BIST in June 2025 as a Learning Support Assistant. She graduated from Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in English Philology from the Faculty of Humanities, and went on to complete the university’s 60-credit teacher training programme in 2025. Alongside her work in education, Ketevan is a published literary translator: her translation of Rodrigo GarcÃa’s “A Farewell to Gabo and Mercedes” was published by Intelekti Publishing, and her work was selected for the translators’ section of the 5th edition of the “Debut” literary collection. She has also taken part in training for junior translators organised by Diogene Publishing and GeoLab. Ketevan speaks Georgian and English, and brings her love of language and literature into her daily work supporting pupils in the classroom.
Nata joined BIST as a Classroom Learning Support Assistant while completing her degree in Business Administration at Ilia State University, which she began in 2018. Before moving into education she built strong communication and customer care skills working as a consultant with Krombacher and with Georgia’s largest bookstore chain, Biblusi – experience that taught her patience, attentiveness and how to connect with people of all ages. Nata speaks Georgian and English, with a working knowledge of Russian, and is confident with Excel, Word and PowerPoint. Her interests include banking and finance, art and travelling.
Anna joined BIST as a Year 5 Teacher, bringing with her a wealth of experience from British international schools and nurseries in Moscow and Tashkent, where she supported learning across year groups from Pre-Nursery to Year 6. Most of her experience lies in Key Stage 2: while in Moscow, her school achieved an ISI judgement of ‘Excellent’, and in Tashkent she was part of the KS2 team during the school’s first successful BSO inspection. Anna has worked closely with Phase Leaders, planning and delivering lessons, assessing pupils’ progress and adapting learning to meet individual needs, and has held whole-school roles including Assistant Teacher Coordinator, Displays Coordinator and Yearbook Coordinator. Her approach to teaching is child-centred, inclusive and focused on building strong relationships, where expectations are clear and effort is celebrated. In her spare time Anna enjoys crocheting and embroidery, creating personalised gifts and resources for her pupils, and is a keen supporter of creative clubs and enrichment activities.
Ana joined BIST as a Classroom Learning Support Assistant and also coordinates the Junior Duke Programme. She graduated from Georgian National University SEU with a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, during which she completed an internship at the Parliament of Georgia, and went on to gain professional experience with Pepsi Georgia, Pasha Bank and Global Marketing Solutions. Committed to a career in education, Ana holds a TESOL certificate and has completed training in Drama Techniques in ELT, a short course on Teaching Lexically, and a course in modern techniques and methods of translation. She believes that the key to her work is quickly identifying and responding to each child’s needs, and that strong communication builds trusting relationships with pupils. Ana speaks Georgian, English and Russian, and outside school enjoys music and reading.
With classroom experience in Kazakhstan and Thailand and a professional background in mental health nursing and cognitive behavioural therapy, Mr James brings distinctive pastoral depth to primary teaching. By integrating strategies from his mental health expertise, he actively supports children in understanding their emotions and building emotional resilience. His philosophy centres on creating inclusive, supportive classrooms where pupils feel safe enough to take risks, learn from mistakes, and celebrate progress with a growth mindset. Ultimately, Mr James is dedicated to nurturing not only academic success, but also the overall well-being and confidence of every child.
Salome Kavteladze joined BIST in January 2025 and began her role as a Learning Support Assistant (LSA) in Year 4. She is now working as an LSA in Year 5, supporting pupils in their learning and development. Salome holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Ilia State University. She provides individual and small-group support, helping children overcome academic challenges and build confidence while creating a positive, supportive environment for them.
Mariam graduated from Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. She has worked with children throughout her career: she began as a kindergarten teacher in Tbilisi in 2021, moved on to teach preschool children at an American kindergarten, and then spent a year as a Teaching Assistant at the European School in Tbilisi before joining BIST. Alongside her classroom experience she earned a Certified Virtual Assistant qualification in 2023, strengthening her organisational and communication skills. Mariam is valued for her leadership, strategic thinking and relationship-building, and speaks Georgian, English and Russian.
Primary and Computing Teacher. With teaching experience in China, Ghana and the United Kingdom, and many summers leading adventure programmes in the United States, Ms Mills brings energy and breadth to primary and middle years teaching. A Chichester graduate in Physical Education with QTS and holder of an advanced Trinity College London TEFL qualification, she is a specialist in computing and physical education, having led Computing as subject leader, taught GCSE-level content and rolled out Google Classroom to over four hundred pupils during lockdown. Her philosophy centres on independence and confidence built through real experience. She is committed to school life beyond lessons, from residentials and assemblies to code, netball, football and rounders clubs.
Nikala graduated from the University of Georgia in 2020 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and completed a diploma in UX/UI Design and Web Design in 2022. He worked as an Operations Specialist at Bolt (2022–2023) and TBC Bank (2023–2024), developing strong organisational and communication skills. Since 2024, he has been part of the BIST team and has also participated in Summer Camps as a Class Teacher since 2022, also While studying in France, Nikala worked as an English Language Tutor. He speaks Georgian, English, and Russian.
Mr Ian Barker is the Head of Mathematics at the British International School of Tbilisi, bringing more than 30 years of experience teaching and leading mathematics departments in leading British international schools across the UK, China, Uzbekistan, Malaysia and Thailand. He holds a BEng (Hons) in Mathematical Engineering from Loughborough University, a PGCE in Secondary Education from the University of London, and the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL). Throughout his career, Mr Barker has taught IGCSE, A Level and Further Mathematics while leading high-performing teams and driving excellence in teaching, assessment and curriculum development. He is passionate about creating engaging learning environments where every student is encouraged to think critically, build confidence and achieve their full mathematical potential.
Primary Teacher. With more than thirty years of primary teaching across Egypt, Libya, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and the United Kingdom, Ms Usher brings a global gold standard of early primary expertise to our community. She is a specialist in early literacy and creative curriculum design, having introduced the Drawing Club approach, Floorbooks, Read Write Inc and the Big Creative Curriculum in the schools she has served, alongside roles as Literacy Coordinator, KS2 Leader and Maths Documenter. Her philosophy centres on inclusive practice through Universal Design for Learning, with cross-curricular, practical learning at its heart. She is committed to stimulating, well-structured classrooms where careful assessment translates into genuine progress, confidence and independence.
Mr. Fady Hanna is a certified Business and Economics teacher with over ten years of international teaching experience across the IB Diploma Programme and Cambridge IGCSE, AS & A Level. With more than a decade of professional experience working with multinational organisations in business development, international marketing, sales and training, he brings real-world business perspectives into the classroom. His teaching develops critical thinking, commercial awareness and confident decision-making, preparing students for academic success and future careers.
