- Junior School
- Senior School
- Teaching Assistants
- Administration
- Boarding
Maxine Driscoll
After holding the position of Deputy Head at PTIS for four years Maxine is now very excited to accept the position as Head of School/Junior School Principal.
Maxine originally came to Prem in April 2004 on a sabbatical to learn more about the International Baccalaureate. She was invited to return as Junior School Principal/Deputy Head of School in July 2005. As Deputy Head she assumed cross-school responsibilities for the co-ordination of the three IB programmes: PYP, MYP and DP.
She was previously Head of the Junior School at Kardinia International College, Geelong, Australia, a position she held for six years. Maxine was directly responsible for 400 students and 40 staff in this K - 12 coeducational school of over 1500 students.
Previous to this, over 12 years, she held teaching and administrative positions up to Deputy Head at Geelong College Preparatory School, another well-known school.
As a highly respected educator in Australia, Maxine was on the National Executive of the Australian Primary Principals Association. In 1997, she received a National Excellence in Teaching Award.
She was the Quality Teacher Program Coordinator in 2001-2005 in a case study being conducted at Kardinia by the University of Melboume. She was a Member of the Australian College of Educator. She has an M.Ed and a B.Ed from Deakin University.
Maxine is a trained workshop leader and a trained authorization/evaluation visiting team leader for the International Baccalaureate Organization. She has lead workshops or evaluated schools in Indonesia, Korea, the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia and India.
Anita Veitch
Anita has a BEd with a double major in Education and Geography from the University of Waikato, New Zealand. She is also a trained Reading Recovery Teacher (Auckland University, New Zealand). She has taught in schools in New Zealand, the Cook Islands and the Philippines. She has a special interest in Junior Literacy.
Prior to teacher training, Anita was in the business world studying Accountancy. She left this to follow a career in education after being inspired by one of her teachers. Anita's special interests include: drama, archery, fishing, organic gardening, the beach and travel.
Kathryne
Baragwanath-Smith
Baragwanath-Smith
Kathryne has a BEd, majoring in English, from the Victoria University of Technology, Australia. Kathryne has taught in both Melbourne and Perth using the Inquiry Method and has taught the IB PYP in the International School Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
As an avid learner, Kathryne has been involved in professional development covering such areas as early years curriculum planning and teaching, curriculum writing, and mathematics curriculum. Her interests include bushwalking, camping, canoeing, diving, yoga, mixed media arts, cooking, gardening and travel.
John Veitch
John has an MEd (Administration) and a BEd, New Zealand. His previous post as Head of PE and Health Faculty and Boarding Director was at St. Peters School, Cambridge, New Zealand.
John has also been the Athletics Director and Boarding Director at Brent International School, Baguio, Philippines. Prior to that John worked at four other schools in New Zealand. John's interests include most sports but in particular golf, squash, rugby and tennis.
Rhondda Mackenzie
Rhondda has a Diploma of Teaching General Primary, from Kuring-gai College of Advanced Education, Australia; a Bachelor of Education (Primary) from Deakin University, Australia and a BA (Music) from the University of New England, Australia.
She has developed an extensive music program in a school in Australia and taught music at an IB school in Turkey. Rhondda is passionate about teaching music at all levels and enjoys playing and tutoring piano and keyboard, walking, sadoku puzzles, attending concerts and musicals, exploring galleries and museums, and traveling.
Jane Harrison
Jane has a B A (Hons) University of Reading, UK, and a PGCE, University of Warwick, UK. She has taught for over twenty years, fifteen in overseas schools in Egypt, Kuwait, Mexico, Moscow, Malta , China and Kazakhstan.
She is an IB PYP trained teacher. She completed the ESL in the Mainstream course whilst in China. Her interests include swimming, trekking and camping. She has climbed the volcano Popocatapetl in Mexico and trekked in Nepal many times.
Walter Hueneke
Walter has held a number of leadership roles in Physical and Outdoor Education in Australia.
Along with a Diploma in Teaching, he has advanced certification in mountain leadership, rock-climbing and canoeing, has coached most major sports, been involved with the Duke of Edinburgh program and is a keen environmentalist.
Mary MacLachlan
Mary has a BA (Hons.) and a BEd from Queen's University, Canada; a Diploma Superieur d'Etudes Francaises, Centre Linquistique Applique, Besancon, France; an MEd in International Education, Framingham State College, USA.
Mary has taught in Canada and at international schools in Egypt, Venezuela and Japan. Her special interests include drama, music, crafts, and travel.
Yuwadee Makpan
Yuwadee has a BA, Dip Science Education. She taught English at a bilingual school for three years prior to coming to PTIS. She has completed IB PYP training.
Yuwadee is keenly interested in environmental education, sport and the arts.
Ann Gaillard
Ann Gaillard can be described as a hybrid of Asian values and Western thinking. Born and raised in the Philippines, Ann moved to France after being awarded a WHO grant.
While in Europe, Ann earned Masters degrees in Communication and TESOL. Ann has taught in four countries, sharing her enthusiasm and expertise in language acquisition, inquiry-based learning, literacy and teaching to diverse learners.
Ann and her husband Sebastien are both committed to community service and a peaceful world for their three children to inherit.
Panwara
Riamtong Wilson
Riamtong Wilson
Panwara has a BEd from Chiang Mai University (CMU) in Thai and a Certificate in English from Sukothai Thammathirat University. She is presently studying for a BA, majoring in Evaluation and Measurement Education for Kindergarten and Elementary.
Previously JJ taught Thai at the Demonstration School, CMU and Lanna International School. She has completed IB PYP training.
Natalia Rose
Natalia has a Dip Ed From the Australian Catholic University and a BEd from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. She is a very experienced teacher, having taught in Australia, New Zealand and Thailand.
In her five years at PTIS, Natalia has held positions in Admissions, PE, ESOL, as a Junior School classroom teacher and most recently as the Art teacher for Grades 1-5. Her interests include environmental initiatives, yoga, dancing and reading.
John Schuster
John has an MS of Guidance and Counselling, University of Wisconsin. He has worked as a university and a school counselor at the Pechersck School International, Kyiv, Ukraine. John has also worked in Singapore, Chile and the US.
His interests include food and wine, traveling, running, reading and cooking.
Wannapa Suksang
Tiew has a degree in English and an MEd in Elementary Education from Chiang Mai University. She was the recipient of an Excellent Teacher Award in 1999. Wannapa teaches Thai in both the Junior and Senior Schools.
Jeremy Gaysek
Jeremy has been a teacher in the USA and in Bangladesh. He is PYP trained. He has an MA in Curriculum and Instruction and a BSc in Early Childhood Education, both from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USA.
Jeremy and his wife, Tamayo, have a young son, Noa. Jeremy enjoys making grilled cheese sandwiches, traveling and playing &Anpanman& with his son. His hobbies include collecting and mixing records and reading &Choose Your Own Adventure& books. In the future he would like to create and publish children's stories.
Tamayo Gaysek
Tamayo has been a teacher in the USA and Bangladesh and is PYP trained and experienced. Tamayo has a BA in Social Science from U.C. Berkeley, California, USA and an AS in Early Childhood Education, from Skyline College, USA.
Tamayo has worked in the business world but her passion for educating others has resulted in her becoming an Early Childhood teacher.
Nicola Murphy
Nicola has comprehensive experience in both the UK and New Zealand. She was nominated for the New Zealand Teaching of Excellence Award 2007-2008. Nicola has a BEd from Massey University, and a Diploma of Teaching from Palmerston North College of Education, both in New Zealand.
Nicola has undertaken professional development in numeracy and literacy development and has worked with special needs students and ESOL students. She has also undertaken extensive learning in teaching for inquiry. She enjoys running and cycling, competitive netball and tennis. She has completed the Paris marathon and successfully coached primary netball, volleyball, swimming and athletic teams.
Nicola’s husband, Richard, teaches in the Senior School.
Diana Van Mersbergen
Diana van Mersbergen obtained her Bachelor of Education degree in the Netherlands in 1997. After completing her degree, she traveled to Laos to set up an independent Dutch Language and Culture Programme, teaching Dutch children living in Vientiane.
Diana worked at this school for 2 years as the sole teacher of all students aged 3-14. Together with a Board of parents, she was also responsible for all matters concerning the running of the school.
After her time in Laos, she went to work at The International School of Bogor, Indonesia, where she received PYP training. In 2003, Diana came to PTIS and she has been working in the Grade 1-3 area ever since.
Diana is a very experienced PYP teacher and is also an IB Asia-Pacific PYP workshop leader. She is currently teaching Grade 2 and is the Grade 1-3 Team Leader.
Quinten Smit
Quinten was Head of Music at the Tianjin Rego International School, China where he taught Music and ESL. Quinten also organized a number of school concerts and musical productions, as well as initiating private instrumental tutoring with the Tianjin Music Academy.
He has prepared students for external examinations in violin, piano and voice. He has completed IBDP Music training. Quinten is a Centre Assessor for Music for Edexcel and Cambridge examinations.
Supporting language learning, Quinten has led teachers on a five day cultural and personal development course. He has a BA in Music and English from the University of South Africa, adjacent to his home country of Zimbabwe.
Jana Hartmann
Jana Hartmann recently graduated with a Bachelor of Education specialising in primary teaching from the University of Canberra, Australia.
Jana successfully completed her professional experience as a pre-service teacher at Prem last year, during which time she worked closely with A. Diana. Jana gradually took on more responsibility for the class, resulting in full duty of care and being a qualified relief teacher.
Jana is excited to continue her studies, having enrolled in a Master of Education focusing on international schooling, education and development and also in professional development courses including: Teaching ESL Students in the Mainstream Classroom, and First Steps Literacy Program. Jana is delighted to be a part of the Prem community once again as an ESOL Teacher in the Junior School and also as a boarding intern.
Kathryn O’Connell
After growing up in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Kathryn O’Connell (née Dodge) attended Michigan State University in Lansing, Michigan. While there she developed a strong interest in travel and majored in Education.
After completing further study in France and Thailand, Kate quickly took to the international teaching scene, with stints in China and Tanzania. Upon returning to teach in Chicago, Kate sat on various select policy committees where her deep knowledge of research-based instruction proved invaluable.
Her interests include eastern philosophy, yoga and organic cooking. After the birth of her first child, Alanna, in August 2008, Kate has found a whole new passion to take up her time.
Craig Rodgers
Craig celebrates his fifth year as Senior School Principal this year. His achievements beyond the smooth running of the Senior School, its curriculum and co-curricular programs are numerous.
He has developed a weekend workshop, Grade 12 Resilience Program, to prepare students for life after Prem. He has established a regional Student Support Network with other international schools in Chiang Mai. Craig has also organised the annual Professional Development Day for schools in the Chiang Mai region for the past three years.
A firm believer in encouraging student participation and achievement, Craig has instituted a Day Out Program, Merit Awards, Student Led Initiative Awards to support existing subject and sports awards, exhibitions, performances and presentations.
Craig is an IB assistant examiner and workshop leader for the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), presenting the first video-link workshop for the IB Asia-Pacific between Mumbai and Delhi in 2004. He was also invited as world teacher representative to Cardiff in 2006.
Craig is known to the international education community as CIS team member and IBAP conference presenter. He is in the process of writing his Master of Education thesis and has a Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Studies in Education, and, a Bachelor of Science Education from the University of Melbourne.
He has previously worked at IB schools in Australia, as Director of Studies, and Colombia, as Head of Department (Mathematics).
Craig takes great pleasure in each day’s opportunities and conversations with students, parents and staff. He enjoys the intellectual challenge of leading an ethical, sustainable school which delivers confident, principled and skilled future leaders. He is known to sing and play squash and is a keen participant in the school’s service programs.
Christopher Dickerson
Christopher has a BA (HMS) + HDE, from the University of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. He has taught English, History, and Physical Education in South Africa, England, Kenya, Argentina and India.
In Kenya he was Director of Sport and Outdoor education and a member of the schools senior management. He was also Director of Sport and Physical Education in Argentina and in India he was the schools IGCSE coordinator. He is an IB Diploma History Examiner and has taught at both Diploma and MYP levels.
At Prem he is teaching English B and B advanced and is the Chairman of the Student and Community Life committee for CIS accreditation. He is a keen sportsman coaching cricket and playing cricket, golf and squash socially. He is also a qualified SCUBA Diver.
Robert Service
Robert has a B.Ed from York University, Canada, and a B.Applied Arts: Geography, Ryerson Polytechnical University, Canada. Robert is teaching Design Technology.
Previously Robert was an International Baccalaureate Middle Years teacher and Science Curriculum Leader at United Nations International School, Hanoi. He gained extensive environmental and outdoor education experience while teaching environmental studies at Toronto Island Summer Schools, as well as at the Toronto Urban Studies Center.
Dr. Alison Dangerfield
Alison has a BSc (Hons) University of Liverpool, a PhD University of Aberdeen, and Post Graduate Certificate of Education from the Northern College of Education. Ali is teaching IB Biology and other sciences. She was responsible for IGCSE, and for teaching Science and Maths in the International School of Brunei.
Ali began her career as a researcher in the pharmaceutical industry and then became an educational researcher in curricula and assessment for European pre-university courses at the London School of Economics, before becoming a Science teacher.
Jon Hartmann
Jon has a BA (Hons) Adelaide University, Dip. Ed, University of New England and is a certified Career Counsellor.
He has extensive experience with the testing and preparing of students for colleges and universities worldwide and has considerable success in helping students attain scholarships. He now brings this experience to Prem. Jon has also taught history at a number of schools both in Australia and internationally.
At Prem, he will be the College Counselor and will teach IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK). He is especially interested in sustainable agriculture, animal husbandry, cricket, and football.
Natalie Kunst
Natalie holds a BA (Fine Arts), a Graduate Diploma in Art Education and a Graduate Certificate in TESOL.
Natalie has previously taught art, ESL and film studies in Australia and in international schools in Thailand and Laos. She has undertaken MYP Arts and IB Diploma Visual Arts training and is an Assistant Examiner in Visual Arts with the IBO.
Natalie is a practicing artist and has a strong interest in community-based art projects.
In 2009, she completed an artist in residency in Java, Indonesia and in 2008 participated in a weaving study-tour of East Timor. At PTIS, she is a Technology Leader and is currently working towards a Masters degree.
Joel Tallman
Joel recently taught IBDP English A1 and English A2, English to grade 7 and 9 students and grade 6 drama at the Escuela Bella Vista in Venezuela. He has IBDP training in English A1 and A2 and qualifications including a MA in Educational Technology and BA in English from Michigan State University, USA.
Joel has presented at a number of international education conferences titles including "A Class Website that Works", "Oh, No! Not Lord of the Flies Again!" and "Teaching Shakespeare to ESL Students".
A truly international teacher, Joel has also taught in Lebanon, Switzerland, Turkey and the USA. As he likes to share his learning with others, you are invited to visit his website: www.tallmania.com Joel will teach English in the Senior School.
Harold Rinehart
Harold has a BA in Japanese, University of Colorado, and an MA (TESOL), Monterey Institute of International Studies, USA. For over fifteen years he has taught English in Japanese schools, conducted teacher workshops and also operated his own English language school in Japan.
Apart from his years in Japan, Harold has lived in Zambia and India and traveled world-wide. At Prem, he will be teaching ESOL.
Lydia Eckstein
Lydia will join our English for Academic Purposes Program (EAPP). At the Istanbul International Community School, Turkey, Lydia was Head of Language B and taught ESOL in addition to IBMYP and IBDP French and Spanish.
She has been deeply involved in previous schools’ activities having held positions including Teacher Adviser to the Student Council, Orphanage Co-ordinator, Squash Coach and as a member of selection panels and other committees.
In the last year, Lydia took maternity leave but continued private tutoring in English, humanities and languages. Lydia earned a BA with honors in French and Spanish from Middlesex University and PGCE from the University of London, UK. She and her husband, Eric, join the Prem community with their children Lilly and Callum.
Andrew MacLachlan
Andrew has a BA (Hons), Acadia University and a B.Ed, University of Ottawa. He also has an M.Ed , Framingham State College, USA and a Certificate in ESLM.
He has taught history in Canada, Venezuela, Egypt and most recently in Japan and is experienced with both IB and AP History programs.
He is active with Model United Nations and his interests include sports, wood-carving, music, and travel.
Sebastién Galliard
Sebastién will be our new CAS Coordinator and French teacher. For the past four years, he held similar positions at the Canadian Academy in Japan.
Sebastién engaged students as a CAS Coordinator though Habitat for Humanity building projects which included fundraising with students to lead them to on site experiences in India, Vietnam and Thailand. He is an IB team leader of examiners in French B and presented at the 2007 EARCOS conference in Manila on "Finding Crossroads: An Approach to Teaching Modern History."
His references consistently describe him as an inspiring teacher and promoter of service. Sebastién has an MA in French Civilization and BA in History and Geography from the Université Jean Moulin, France as well as Baccalauréat, Letters and Languages Lycée from Jean Perrin, France. He will also be our Head of Languages Other Than English (LOTE) next year.
Eric Eckstein
Eric has a MS in Mathematics Education from Portland State University, USA following on from his BS in Engineering at Oregon State University, and, Secondary Teaching License from Eastern Oregon University, USA.
He was Head of the Mathematics Department at the Istanbul International Community School in Turkey, where he taught Mathematics and Physics at all levels. Eric also has recent IBDP workshop training in both of these subjects.
In 1997, Eric was runner-up in the Statewide Innovative Teacher of the Year Award and has attended several professional conferences, including the 2007 Physicists and Astronomers Conference in Seattle, Washington, USA.
He has coached soccer and been an active member on many school wide committees throughout his career. He will be Head of Mathematics at PTIS this year.
Janet Powell
Janet has a B Ed. Honours in Physical Education (PE) and Special Needs from Brighton University, UK. Most recently Janet held the post of Athletics Director and Head of PE at Pechersk School International, Kyiv, Ukraine.
Janet is very pleased to be returning to the position of Head of PE at Prem. She also was the Head of PE at Claremont High in London and taught PE and ESL at Helsinki International School in Finland. Janet's interests are coaching basketball, volleyball, track and field, softball, outdoor education and skiing.
Paul Rose
Paul holds a BSc (Hons) in Biochemistry from McMaster University, Canada and a BEd (Hons) from the University of Western Ontario, Canada. He is an IB Assistant Examiner for Chemistry and an MYP (Sciences) Workshop Leader.
Now in his sixth year at PTIS, he has been Head of the Science Department for the past three years and has taught Diploma Chemistry, Biology and Environmental Systems and Societies; MYP Science and Mathematics and IGCSE Science and Geography.
Paul has previous teaching experience in Canada, New Zealand and Australia, where he was Head of Science at Wesley College, a prominent independent school in Melbourne.
At PTIS, Paul has continued to promote a variety of environmental projects for students and education for a sustainable future, drawing on previous field and educational experiences in Canada, Jamaica, Costa Rica, and Australasia. He is currently the Chairperson of the Sustainability Committee.
Paul is a keen sportsman, playing soccer, tennis and volleyball. He is also an accomplished ornithologist and often leads field trips in northern Thailand. Paul continues with coaching the U20 varsity football team and has founded a Selects Football Club featuring top players from international schools across Chiang Mai.
Borys Maciburko
Borys was Head of Drama at the Emirates International School in Dubai, United Arab Emirates where he was also a teacher of IBDP Theatre Arts, TOK and middle school drama. Borys visited Prem last year as part of the IB TAPS workshop. In addition to several highly successful school productions, he has also been producer and director of many professional performing arts shows in the Ukraine and Australia.
He has a BA in Educational Theatre from the University of Adelaide, Australia, PGCE from the University of Sunderland, UK and CELTA from Sydney, Australia. Borys has also taught MYP drama, English and ESOL as well as working in intellectual disability services.
Borys believes in fostering creative and intellectual excellence in all his students. He will be teaching Drama, TOK and English B.
Brian Kim
Brian Kim attended Sung Kyun Kwan University in Korea for both his undergraduate and graduate career. He holds a BA in Korean Language and Literature and an MA in Korean Education.
Prior to coming to PTIS, Brian taught in Korea for four years and at the Korean International School in Qingdao, China for two years. Here at Prem he will serve as a Korean Teacher and as a liaison for Korean students.
In his free time he enjoys learning to play traditional musical instruments from around the world, most recently including the Chinese string instrument the Er-hu. Brian looks forward to attempting to master a new Thai instrument this year.
Christopher Watson
Christopher has a B.Sc, Master in Curriculum and teaching, Michigan State University, USA. He has taught science, biology and chemistry in the USA, Japan and recently in Egypt and has taught IB Diploma Biology.
He has conducted the Science Olympiad. He will play an important role in the MYP science and math programs. He is an experienced cello player and a keen sportsman.
Daniel O'Connell
Daniel O’Connell was born in Dublin, Ireland and moved to Chicago, Illinois at the age of ten. He participated in many sports in high school before moving on to the University of Wisconsin at Madison where he studied law and history.
After university Daniel worked his way up in two fields which culminated in him becoming a sous-chef at a four-star Italian restaurant and Head of Carat Interactive Ireland (though not at the same time!).
In 2002 he followed his desire to teach and obtained a Master’s Degree in Social Policy and Education from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. His interests include golf, soccer, American football, reading in many areas and his family.
Eric Towell
Eric has an M.Ed in Teaching from the Virginia Commonwealth University and a B.A in Political Economy, Tulane University, USA. He has taught the Humanities (History, Geography and Economics) at both Middle School and High School levels at the International School of Brussels, the American International School of Genoa, Italy and San Jose, Costa Rica.
Prior to coming to PTIS, he taught at the Ross School, Long Island, New York. He has a longstanding record as a successful soccer coach and speaks Italian, French and some Spanish.
Fiona Dawson
Fiona has a BSc in geography and psychology and HDE from the University of Natal, Pietermariztburg, in South Africa. She has a Counselling Diploma from the Institute of Natural Health, UK.
Fiona taught geography and guidance counselling in Zimbabwe and for many years was financial director of an agricultural enterprise where she set up and ran a pre-school and a clinic for the employees.
Having lived most of her life in Zimbabwe, Fiona comes with a wealth of knowledge about the developing world, business, agriculture and different cultures. Zimbabwe’s erratic political climate has given her a comprehensive experience in handling emotional trauma, as well as day-to-day teen problems.
She is teaching MYP Humanities, Diploma Psychology, and is the Senior School Counsellor. Fiona is also a member of the Student Support Team.
Forrest Brandt
Forrest attended Pacific University, Oregon, USA where he earned a BA in Sociology and received awards for humanitarian work and excellence in research. Forrest also has a TEFL Certification from the International TEFL Teacher Training (ITTT) course.
Forrest is currently teaching English For Academic Purposes (EAPP) at PTIS.
Before starting full employment at PTIS, Forrest was privately tutoring PTIS students in English. Forrest's previous educational experience include teaching English at Maweni Joy School in Diani, Kenya and supervising an after school environmental and social justice club at Niel Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove, Oregon, USA.
Forrest's interests include music, organic gardening, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and community service. Forrest was born in Bangkok, Thailand and grew up attending international schools in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Nepal.
Jeff Ormrod
Jeff attended the University of New Hampshire where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BA in history. While there, Jeff studied abroad twice, one semester in London at Regents College and one summer in Florence at Lorenzo d'Medici school. He also served as a resident assistant for two years.
After finishing his degree, he spent two years working here at Prem as a Boarding Intern and then Senior Boarding Intern. He moved back to the U.S.A. last year to complete his Masters and teaching certification at Columbia University Teachers College in New York.
Jeff returns to us this year as a teacher of I.T. (and possibly others) and a Boarding House Parent.
John Veitch
John has a Masters in Education Administration and a B Ed., New Zealand. His previous post as Head of PE and Health Faculty and Boarding Director was at St. Peters School, Cambridge, New Zealand.
John has also been the Athletics Director and Boarding Director at Brent International School, Baguio, Philippines. Prior to that John worked at four other schools in New Zealand. John's interests include most sports but in particular golf, squash, rugby and tennis.
Jonathan Adams
Jon has a BA in mathematics from Drury University and an MSEd with emphasis in mathematics from Missouri State University. He worked as a private tutor for several years, tutoring middle and high school students in all core subjects, and developing a staff of tutors.
He particularly excelled at preparing students for standardized college entrance exams. Jon then taught high school maths for five years at Central High School, Springfield, Missouri, where he taught IB Math HL, IB Computer Science, computer programming, algebra, and integrated math.
Prior to joining Prem, Jon was also a landlord of several rental properties, and enjoyed interacting with tenants and helping them with budgeting, employment and character issues.
Jon and his wife have a young daughter. When not playing with his daughter and watching her learn, Jon can be found playing computer games and completing logic puzzles.
Lucy Kyte
Lucy has a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics and a PGCE from the University of Southampton. She taught Mathematics first in England , then at the International School Milan, Italy, before moving to the International School Brunei as Head of Maths, where she later joined the Senior Management Team as Curriculum Manager for Sciences.
She enjoys learning languages, skiing and the arts. Lucy will be teaching Senior School MYP and IBDP Mathematics.
Marie Baird
Marie is an IB Assistant Examiner for English A2 and an IB Workshop Leader for Languages B and English A2.
She has taught at Lester Pearson United World College in Canada and Waterford Kamhlaba UWC in Swaziland, and most recently was the ESL Coordinator and CAS Coordinator at the United Nations International School (UNIS) Hanoi, Vietnam.
She has had extensive teaching experience with adults at post-secondary level.
Marie has an MA in Linguistics (University of Victoria, Canada); a BEd in language and literature (University of British Columbia, Canada); and a BA in Literature and Philosophy (University of Saskatchewan, Canada).
She has undertaken additional PYP, MYP and IB Diploma training (English A2, English A1, CAS).
A mother of three, Marie's passions are family, travel, reading, fitness and the pursuit of balance in all things.
Marzia Nicastro
Marzia is an accredited language teacher in French, Spanish at the junior and high school levels. She has IB experience in both subjects and at all levels and has taught at the Convent of Jesus and Mary, a language college in Harlesden, UK and at Southbank International School in London, UK.
She has also taught at the International school of Caracas in Venezuela. She has a degree from France (D.E.U.G. in Modern Literature, University of PARIS VII), from UK (B.A. Bachelors of Arts and a Diploma in French, The Open University), a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE in Spanish, French and Italian, the University of North London) a MEd (Master of Education, Applied Linguistics, the Open University) and a Diploma in TESOL (The English Language Centre, London, UK).
Besides Italian and French, she speaks English and Spanish fluently and also some German. Marzia is an IB assistant examiner in language B. Her other interests include travelling, cooking, swimming and reading.
Matthew Farrelly
Matthew has a BA in English, Monash University, a Graduate Diploma of Education, Murdoch University and CELTA from St Mark’s International College in Perth, Australia.
Prior to coming to PTIS, Matthew taught for four year at Yupparaj Wittayalai School in Chiang Mai and served his final year there as the English Program Foreign Head. Matthew’s role at Prem will be teaching within the MYP English and ESOL departments.
Matthew is a keen sportsman having previously taught Physical Education. He returns to coach the U16 and U20 basketball teams which he assisted last year while completing a professional internship at PTIS during Terms 2 and 3.
Melanie Dickerson
Melanie has a BA Hons and PGCE in English Language, Literature and Drama. She qualified in Sheffield, England, and has taught in international schools in Kenya, Argentina and India, where she has had considerable experience of teaching English both as a first and second language.
Melanie will be teaching English Language A and B at MYP and Diploma levels. She loves her subject, and thus loves reading, writing and being creative. More actively she enjoys outdoor pursuits, including hiking, trekking and camping.
Michael Koronkiewicz
Michael has a BSc, Southern Connecticut State and an MA (Ed), Teachers College, Columbia University , USA. He has worked in recent years as a knowledge architect designing interactive e-learning programs for corporate clients in New York, and as an instructional designer with UNESCO, Bangkok.
Michael will be teaching IT at Prem. He has also taught English Language for youth and professionals in Thailand and the USA, and headed a project for troubled teens in the USA.
Nicholas Lin
Nicholas has a MA, Michigan State University, USA. His most recent teaching post was at Taipei American School, Taiwan. Nicholas has also taught at Bowdoin College, ME, USA. His interests include folk art and photography.
Nicholas will be teaching Mandarin at Prem and will be brining 18 years of experience to the role and also an interest in continuing to promote Chinese cultural activities to the students. Nicholas was proud to have served as the Vice President of the PDK Taiwan Chapter for 3 years.
Panwara
Riamtong Wilson
Riamtong Wilson
Panwara has a B Ed from Chiang Mai University (CMU) in Thai and a Certificate in English from Sukothai Thammathirat University. She is presently studying for a B A at the latter university, majoring in Evaluation and Measurement Education for Kindergarten and Elementary. She is teaching Thai.
Previously she taught Thai at the Demonstration School, CMU and Lanna International School and has completed IB PYP training.
Quinten Smit
Quinten was Head of Music at the Tianjin Rego International School, China. There he taught Music and ESL in the secondary school. Quinten also organized a number of school concerts and musical productions, as well as initiating private instrumental tutoring with the Tianjin Music Academy. He has prepared students for external examinations in violin, piano and voice. He trained in IBDP Music in order to come to Prem.
Quinten is a Centre Assessor for Music for Edexcel and Cambridge examinations. Supporting language learning, Quinten has led teachers on a five day cultural and personal development course. He has a BA in Music and English from the University of South Africa, adjacent to his home country of Zimbabwe. Quinten will teach Music from grades 4 to 11.
Relle Maxwell
Relle has a B Ed, Deakin University, Australia and Dip Ed - Secondary, Queensland University of Technology, Australia. She has taught Health and Physical Education, and Mathematics at a number of schools in Australia, the Philippines and Thailand.
She is a qualified coach/referee in basketball, soccer and orienteering, and enjoys playing and coaching all team sports.
Richard Murphy
Richard will teach MYP P.E. and science at PTIS this year. Richard was employed in the same subjects at the Taupo-nui-a-Tia College in New Zealand. There he was teacher-in-charge of Junior Physical Education and has been teacher-in-charge of Junior Science, Outdoor Education, Endurance Sports and developed and led a cornerstone values course.
Richard earned a BS in Sport and Exercise Science from the University of Auckland, New Zealand, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching from the University of Waikato, New Zealand.
He has coached many personal achievements as a triathlon and rugby coach, and has participated in endurance sports including ironman competitions and rugby. Richard’s other training includes swim coaching, risk assessment and management for school trips and teaching literacy across the curriculum.
Rob Handley
Rob has a B. Eng (Hons) and a PGCE, Staffordshire University. He has most recently held the position of Science Co-ordinator and teacher at St. Stephen's International School, Bangkok. He has previously taught Prince Andrew School, St. Helena Island and Leftwich High School, UK.
His interests include playing the drums, blues harmonica, cycling, walking and camping. Rob will be teaching IB Diploma Physics and MYP Science. Rob has three children also enrolled at Prem, Lewis, Izaak and Eskie.
Sarah Handley
Sarah is a Technology Leader at Prem and teaches MYP English A and B and Humanities. She holds an MA in English (TEYL, Uni. of York, UK), a CELTA and a PGCE (Uni. of Sunderland. UK).
Sarah’s interests include spending time with her family, dreaming up where they can travel to next, caring for their numerous animals, reading and continuously learning. Sarah started her working life as a Nursery Nurse (NNEB) in England.
Seeking a new challenge she re-trained as a chef (BTEC) and ran a successful catering company for 7 years before selling the business and travelling, together with her family, for 2 years throughout Asia and India.
In addition to IB teaching, she has worked as an English teacher to asylum seekers in the UK, as a humanities, drama, and English teacher on St. Helena and as a Kindergarten teacher in an international pre-school in Bangkok.
Shan Hattwell
Shan was Head of Department responsible for three Design Technology teachers at the International School of Stuttgart, Germany, where she introduced MYP Design Technology and Computer Technology into the school. Shan has also taught and run workshops for students from grades 5 to 12 and trained in IBDP Visual Arts.
Shan graduated from Charles Sturt University, Australia, with a BA in Fine Arts and completed a Graduate Diploma of Education in Art/Design Technology with distinction. Her work with students includes units on recycled materials design, plastics and student presentations on a redesign of the school playground. She will teach MYP Design Technology.
Sukanya Suphonlakit
Sukanya has a BA (Thai Language and Literature), Prince of Songkha University, and recently studied the Teaching of Thai to Foreigners Program, Graduate School, Chiang Mai University.
She has taught Thai at Dara Academy and in recent years Thai Literature and Thai to Foreigners at the Rajamangala Institute of Technology. She will be teaching Thai in the Senior School.
Triesha
Crothers-Hueneke
Crothers-Hueneke
Triesha has over 20 years of Librarian experience. She is completing an M.Ed at Charles Stuart University, has a Graduate Dip. Ed (Science Education), Deakin University, and a Dip. Teaching, Salisbury, Australia.
During her career Triesha has coordinated the introduction and integration of learning technologies in schools and been responsible for the teaching and professional development of IT skills for staff and students. She also has extensive experience in science and primary education.
Voula Anson
Voula joins us from the International School of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where she taught IBDP Chemistry, TOK and MYP Science. Additionally Voula has taught IBDP Mathematics, IGCSE Chemistry, Physics and Integrated Mathematics.
She is an IB Assistant Examiner in Chemistry for scripts in English and French, and has attended a number of IB training workshops. Prior to Ho Chi Minh, Voula taught in Colombo, Sri Lanka where she was IBDP Co-ordinator.
In her extensive career, Voula has also taught in Canada, Morocco, Venezuela and Thailand, after graduating with a BS from the University of Manitoba and Teaching Certification from the University of British Colombia, Canada. Voula’s hobbies include amateur radio, chess, astronomy and soap making. She will teach Chemistry and Mathematics at PTIS.
Wannapa Suksang
Wannapa has a degree in English and an M Ed in Elementary Education from Chiang Mai University. She was the recipient of an Excellent Teacher Award in 1999.
Wannapa is teaching Thai in the Junior and Senior schools.
Yuwadee Makpan
Yuwadee has a B A, Dip Science Education. She taught English at a bilingual school for 3 years, has been a teacher assistant at Prem Tinsulanonda International School for 4 years and has completed IB PYP training.
Yuwadee is keenly interested in environmental education, sport and the arts. She is teaching Thai.
Duenpen
Phahonthammasan
Phahonthammasan
Duenpen Phahonthammasan (Tukta), has a Bachelor Degree in Business Administration, Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna.
She has a Diploma Degree in Business Computer, Chiang Mai Vocational College.
She is a teacher assistant in Grade 2 and Grade 3, and has completed IB PYP training.
Mananschada
Tantiwong
Tantiwong
Som has a Bachelor’s Degree from Far Eastern College and a Vocation Certificate from Radjaphat University in Chiang Rai.
She taught K3 for 2 years at a Thai School and has been at PTIS for over a year. Her interest include reading, music, art, sport, cooking and nature.
Pojanalai Pukrung
Pojanalai Pukrung (Tae), has a Bachelor of Education Degree in Kindergarten, Chiang Mai Rajabhat University.
She has taught in Thai School for 2 years. She is the ‘Little Explorers’ kindergarten teacher and has also been a teacher assistant in Kindergarten of PTIS for 3 years.
She has completed IB PYP training. Her interests include traveling, cooking and dancing.
Sakate Thongthiang
Sakate (Kate) Thongthiang has a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Linguistics from Naresuan University and has been studying a Masters of Education in English Teaching at Chiang Mai University.
She has been working in the Junior School for over a year and is now working in Grades 4 and 5.
Her interests include traveling, reading and music.
Sarunphorn Prosong
Sarunphorn Prosong (Bank) has a Diploma in Administration, Chiang Mai Rajabhat University.
She is a teacher assistant and has completed IB PYP training.
Her interests in the arts include craft, mixed media and dance.
Umarin Somkaew
Au has a Bachelor’s Degree from Chiang Mai University in Fine Arts (BFA) and a Diploma of Printmaking and Painting minor.
She was involved in Chiangmai city Arts and Culture Center for 2 years and was involved in arts exhibitions.
Her interests include photography, travel and barista.
Wassana Kheunnin
Wassana Kheunnin (Ting) is a teacher assistant at PTIS. She is currently working with the Grade 5 classroom. She has also worked with the Kindergarten students and special area classrooms which include IT, ESOL, Music, Thai and French.
She has her Bachelor degree in Information System from Rajamangala University of Technology in Bangkok. Ting also attended the IBAP in-school workshop for the Primary Years Programme in Inquiry.
Her interests include technology, traveling, reading and swimming.
Wassana Jom-ngam
Wassana Jom-ngam (Nok) has a Bachelor Degree of Arts in English major, Chiang Mai Rajabhat University.
She is a Teacher Assistant at PTIS and currently working with the Grade 1 and Grade 4 classroom.
Wilailuck Abkum
Wilailuck Abkum (Jum) been working with The Prem in 2004. She has been responsible for Kindergarten.
She learned business from Sukothai Thammathirat University.
She is trained in English language and Early Childhood Education and has completed various IB PYP training.
David Baird
David came to Prem in 2005 as Head of School. He was previously Head of Middle /High School for five years at United Nations International School (UNIS), Hanoi, Vietnam - an IB World School with all three programmes fully implemented.
Amongst David's many contributions there, he played major roles in CIS and NEASC, IB MYP and IB Diploma accreditations and authorisations, and the development of a purpose-built campus for the school. David has also been an Elementary and Middle School Principal in Canada.
David was the founding Director of the Bill Mason Outdoor Education and Environmental Studies Centre in Ottawa, Canada, serving over one hundred schools. He has led a number of student canoeing and mountaineering expeditions in Canada, the USA, and the former USSR.
He has been an Environmental Education Consultant, a guest lecturer at several universities (Queens, Illinois) and a Canadian National Park Naturalist.
David’s work with the IB has spanned twenty-five years. He has taught IB Diploma Biology, Chemistry, Applied Chemistry and Environmental Systems at Waterford Kamhlaba United World College of Southern Africa (Swaziland), and at the Lester B Pearson United World College of the Pacific (Canada).
David and his wife had substantial residential responsibilities at both of these IB schools. His early teaching was done in the British Columbia public school system.
David has an MED from the University of Ottawa, a BA from Mt Allison University, New Brunswick, and a BEd from the University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. He has also completed leadership training at Harvard University.
A recipient of the Klingenstein Fellowship for 2010, David looks forward to two weeks of intensive reflection and study at Columbia University, New York in January 2010 where he will pursue his commitment to sustainability and further his understanding of leadership in an educational context.
Maxine Driscoll
After holding the position of Deputy Head at PTIS for four years Maxine is now very excited to accept the position as Head of School.
Maxine originally came to Prem in April 2004 on a sabbatical to learn more about the International Baccalaureate. She was invited to return as Junior School Principal/Deputy Head of School in July 2005. As Deputy Head she assumed cross-school responsibilities for the co-ordination of the three IB programmes: PYP, MYP and DP.
She was previously Head of the Junior School at Kardinia International College, Geelong, Australia, a position she held for six years. Maxine was directly responsible for 400 students and 40 staff in this K - 12 coeducational school of over 1500 students.
Previous to this, over 12 years, she held teaching and administrative positions up to Deputy Head at Geelong College Preparatory School, another well-known school.
As a highly respected educator in Australia, Maxine was on the National Executive of the Australian Primary Principals Association. In 1997, she received a National Excellence in Teaching Award.
She was the Quality Teacher Program Coordinator in 2001-2005 in a case study being conducted at Kardinia by the University of Melboume. She was a Member of the Australian College of Educator. She has an M.Ed and a B.Ed from Deakin University.
Maxine is a trained workshop leader and a trained authorization/evaluation visiting team leader for the International Baccalaureate Organization. She has lead workshops or evaluated schools in Indonesia, Korea, the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia and India.
Craig Rodgers
Craig was the IB Diploma Programme Coordinator at PTIS since the start of Term 3 in January, 2005. He came to PTIS from The Kilmore International School, Australia, where he was Director of Studies. Kilmore is one of Australia 's highest performing IB Diploma schools, with over 100 students sitting the IB annually. Most of the students are boarders from overseas.
At Kilmore, Craig was responsible for development and review of the Grades 7-12 curriculum, and staff professional development and was a major force behind whole school policy development. Craig was Head of Department (TOK) and, in alternating years, was Head of Year 11 and 12. He was also CAS Co-ordinator for a year.
Prior to Kilmore, Craig was Head of Department, Mathematics at the International School of Bogota, Colombia, also an IB school, where he conducted workshops for IB Diploma Mathematics internal assessment in Spanish.
Early in his career, Craig was Head of Department, Maths and Science, Head of Year and Numeracy Co-ordinator in a large secondary college in Melbourne , Australia . During this time, Craig was appointed Curriculum Network Manager for the school district.
Craig is an IB Asia Pacific Workshop Leader for the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), presenting the first video-link workshop for the IBO between Mumbai and Delhi last year. He is an IB Assistant Examiner for Maths Studies and TOK. He is in the process of writing his M. Ed. Thesis with the University of Melbourne and has a Bachelor of Science Education from the University of Melbourne. Craig also holds certification in the teaching of ESL.
Christopher Hall
Chris holds a BA from the University of Queensland and a Secondary Teaching Certificate from the Kelvin Grove Teacers' College. He is an Associate of Trinity College London (ATCL) and in 2007 completed his Cambridge University CELTA training with International House in Chiang Mai.
Chris has a solid background as an English teacher as well extensive experience in marketing, admissions and working with parents. He was the Executive Director of the Hutchins Foundation and Director of Development for The Hutchins School, Hobart, an independent day and boarding school for boys.
Chris has extensive experience with events management, alumni relations and working with international agents. He also has a broad base of experience with design, public relations and all kinds of publications.
Lynda Rolph
Lynda was most recently Director of the Prem Center Magic Eyes Barge Program in Bangkok. Her involvement with the program spanned over 6 years during which she created a range of popular Primary School trips and saw the program grow both geographically to 10 sites around the country and numerically to over 3,000 visitors a year.
Lynda graduated with a B.Ed and taught for 9 years in the London Borough of Hillingdon. During this time she did part time work as a teacher tutor attached to Hertfordshire University, before moving to Thailand to teach primary science in a bi-lingual school.
Holding an RSA Celta qualification, Lynda has led teams to former Czechoslovakia and to Russia, encouraging young people to speak English and to develop youth programs. She worked with the Girl Guide Association of Thailand to set up pre-schools in northern villages. For many years she has led groups in camping and outdoor activities.
Maen Sirijaruwong
Maen received a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) from Assumption University of Bangkok. He also holds a Master Degree in Business Management from the SASIN Graduate Institute of Business Administration, a program in collaboration betweeen Chulalongkorn University, Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University and the Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania.
He began his career with the Bangkok Bank, Headquartered in Bangkok as a lending officer in the property development section. In 1988, he joined Moblex Group Company as an Internal Auditor working with several hotels in the group reviewing and improving internal control standards in their operations.
In 1990, he joined the team setting up and managing the pre-operation of a 5-star hotel in the north of Thailand. His main responsibility was for human resources, housekeeping, food catering, and guest services.
In 1994, he entered into the property development business of Tridhos Group Company as Financial Comptroller responsible for all fiscal matters of the group.
In 2000, he was appointed Business Manager at the Prem Center in Chiangmai. He has had direct responsibility for Finance and accounting, purchasing, human resources, government liaison, property management, community relations, food catering, and transportation. After serving in positions of increasing responsibility, in 2004, he was appointed General Manager at Prem Center.
He manages the overall operations of the Prem Center campus. He collaborates closely with the CEO and the COO/Head of School in overseeing the implementation of the strategic development of the Prem Center. He is a member of the Company's board of directors. He is also presently a committee member of the International School Association of Thailand.
Eiamsri Chulamorkodt
Eiamsri Chulamorkodt received her B.A. degree from Kasetsart University Bangkok, Thailand, and received her M.A. in Economics and Finance from Middle Tennessee State University, Tenn. She furthered her accounting in the early eighties by attending St. Louis University, Mo. U.S.A.
At Prem, she brings a wealth of experience in finance, accounting and managerial skill from her work overseas with property real estate development and hotel management businesses
She worked with a large commercial real estate and property development company and was the Assistance Financial Controller for the Holiday Inn Embassy Suites Hotel in St.Louis. Later she joined an accounting team with Southwestern Bell Yellow Pages Co., in St.Louis as accuracy assurance for payroll processing nationwide.
Eiamsri had her career in Thailand as Financial Controller for many 4-5 star international hotel chains such as the Holiday Inn Phuket and the Hilton Park Nai Lert in Bangkok.
Having had strong financial and managerial back ground in 1992 she was given an opportunity as an Owner Representative to lead the operation of an Integrated Resort in Phuket servicing own 5 stars luxury hotels i.e. Sheraton Hotel, Laguna Beach Resort, Banyan tree Hotel and the Dusit Laguna Hotel and financially review the hotels performance report to MD of the company.
In 1999 she worked with M.L.Tri's hotels and properties development in Phuket as Vice-President of Finance handling all accounting control, finance and loan management for companies in the group especially for new development Baan Kata Villa and Villa Royal.
K. Eiamsri heads up the Finance Department at Prem and will be working with all of Prem Centers operations.
Prem International School
Boarding Staff
Linda Buck
Linda came to Prem as a House Mother in 2004. Her background is in P.R. and Marketing, having spent fifteen years working with major airlines to set up and run Conference and Event Handling Divisions. For her pioneer work in this field Linda won a Business Woman of the Year Award.
For eleven years, prior to coming to Thailand, Linda and her husband David owned a hotel, with its own cricket pitch in the grounds. They established a school for talented cricketers. This school was registered with the English Schools Board and followed a normal school curriculum with cricket training three to four hours a day after school.
Linda relaxes by writing and has had articles published in International and National newspapers and magazines both here and in England. She has had two factual historical books published in the U.K.
Sean Healy
Sean has a BSc., majoring in Biology and Environmental Science, as well as a Graduate Diploma in Education, specialising in Secondary Science. Upon graduation he taught English as a Second language in Korea and Japan.
For the past eight years Sean has been teaching ecology, biology, chemistry and physical science at an international boarding school in Canada where he also held the position of assistant houseparent. He coached American football and alpine skiing; he is a Level III International alpine skiing instructor.
His interests include a variety of outdoor sports (ice hockey, skiing, cycling, golf, hiking, etc.) as well as reading and travel.
Sean and his wife, Tiffany, have two children, Siarra and Kai, who also attend Prem.
David Buck
David started his cricket career representing Hampshire, England at the age of 18 in the National Under 25 Tournament. Due to relocation back to Hampshire, he focused on his new venture of building his own pitch in the grounds of his hotel and establishing a school for talented cricketers. This school was registered with the English schools Board and followed a normal school curriculum with cricket training three to four hours per day after school.
In 1993, David obtained his English Cricket Board (ECB) Elementary Coaching Award and in 1998 had rapidly worked his way up to the Advanced Coaching Award. In 1998 he became Head Coach at Dorset and it was at this time that he was invited to join Duncan Fletcher’s elite Level III course.
In 1999, David qualified as a Level III Coach and was a part of the National Coaches for the English Federation Courses. He began specialized coaching and lecturing for the ECB and was awarded full ECB Staff Coach status in 2000. David brings an exceptional wealth of experience to Prem.
Felicity Arnott
Felicity worked as a Registered Nurse for 12 years specialising in oncology/palliative care, Aboriginal health and acute care.
Felicity was previously employed at Kilmore International School in Australia in the capacity of school nurse for 18 months.
Nakaret "Nicky"
Butthuam
Butthuam
After receiving schooling both in the United States and in Thailand, Nicky, who is fluent in English and Thai earned his BA in English from Rajabhat University, Thailand. Prior to coming to Prem Nicky worked teaching English literature and conversation at the Lanna Commercial College and was also a teaching assistant to English students in the YMCA in Chiang Mai.
In addition to his work in education, he also enjoys ice hockey and has been involved in fundraising for the creation of prosthetic limbs through the Suan dok Hospital in Chiang Mai. This year he will be assisting with classes in art and design technology, leading pool and table tennis in the extracurricular realm and participating in boarding.
Aime Perrin
I grew up in Hertfordshire, England. I went to college to study for a diploma in Music Technology as I wanted a career behind the scenes of a music company or radio. While I was at college I also trained and worked as a Fitness Instructor.
After college I decided to pursue a career in the health and fitness industry. I have just finished my BSc in Sports Rehabilitation and Injury Prevention at Middlesex University and I plan to go back to university to study a Master's degree in Physiotherapy after my year at Prem.
My interests include horse riding and I have two horses. I also play Netball, playing for my school, town and University. I was Captain of my university team for the 08/09 season and had great success, winning the South Eastern Students Sports Association (SESSA) league and SESSA cup runners up.
I am also a qualified Level 1 netball coach and have worked with Barnet Youth football club for two seasons completing a course in first aid at games and work placement with a physiotherapist.
Claire Russo
I received a Bachelor's degree in Visual Art and the History of Art and Architecture from Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, USA in May 2009.
In college, I made sculptures, practiced drawing and painting, sewed quilts and made clothing from recycled materials. I also played Club Field Hockey, and taught art classes at a local school (middle school and lower school Scrap Booking, Sewing, Food Art, and Movie Production).
I enjoy cooking, reading, and playing the piano.
Grace Nutter
I was born in The States but lived abroad in Jakarta, Indonesia and Hong Kong, before moving back to the U.S. I have since lived in Vermont and New York City.
In May, I graduated from Ithaca College with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. While at school I took a special interest in classes focusing on gender studies and student-led a psychology research team examining gendered attitudes towards sexist humor.
I also became actively involved in student and local community groups focusing on environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
During my senior year I joined a Community Outreach program, and as a result was able to assistant teach art at a local elementary school. My time spent working there has truly been one of my most rewarding experiences thus far.
My other interests include: painting, print-making, live music, cooking, and really amateur rock-climbing.
Jonathan Ahmed
Lahraoui
Lahraoui
After growing up in Hertfordshire, England, I headed northwards to Manchester to study a Bachelor’s Degree in mathematics.
Upon completing my first year, I worked as a youth counsellor at a summer camp for disadvantaged youths. I then continued to volunteer with children from disadvantaged backgrounds during my second year of university, encouraging the children to reach their full potential.
I spent my final year working as a part-time tutor helping children of all ages improve their understanding of mathematics.
I hold coaching qualifications in tennis and swimming. I am a qualified American Red Cross lifeguard and spent last summer teaching children to swim in the lakes of Concord, New Hampshire, USA.
My interests include football (soccer), squash, theatre, foreign travel and supporting my beloved Arsenal Football Club.
Kris Mac Mahon
I grew up in Dublin, Ireland. When I was eight I moved to Kildare, where I have spent most of my life.
After school I studied for a diploma in Sport and Leisure Management at Inchicore College of Further Education in Dublin. I then moved to London to study a BSc in Sports Rehabilitation and Injury Prevention at Middlesex University.
During my time in Inchicore and London I enjoyed success in Football as a player, captain and a coach. As part of my studies I qualified as a Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer. I have always been a keen sportsman, but football has become my favourite sport.
I am looking forward to working at Prem and cannot wait to get started.
Paul Middleton
I grew up in Nottingham, UK, and have just completed my four years of studying for my BSc in International Management at the University of Manchester, England. This gave me the opportunity to spend my third year studying abroad at the Singapore Management University, which brought many opportunities for exploration of the South East Asian region.
My ambition is to put the theory I've learnt in my degree program into practice by working in the business environment across many different cultural backgrounds, combining my love for business with my love for travelling.
In terms of extra curicular activities, I have experience in volunteering, coaching of various sports and have held a variety of marketing-related work experience positions. My personal interests include both playing and watching a variety of sports (predominantly football), discovering new music, watching live bands, and travel.
Riki McDermott
Riki graduated from Williams College in June 2009 with a BA in Sociology. As a sociology major she enjoyed studying the topics of interracial marriage and biracial identity, which culminated in her writing an honors thesis on biracial identity in modern America her senior year. Her other academic interests include psychology, legal studies, and reading fiction.
Outside of the classroom, Riki dedicated her high school and college years to working with kids. She tutored students with learning disorders and mental disabilities throughout high school, and moved on in college to start her own mentor program for teenage girls, at a local middle school.
When Riki's not studying or working with children, she spends her time playing volleyball. She was a member of the Women's Varsity Volleyball team at Williams and enjoys playing beach volleyball doubles back home in California. Riki's other hobbies include arts and crafts, tap dancing, hiking, backpacking, camping, snowboarding, traveling, and cycling.
Vivien Dapp
I am half Thai-Swiss and grew up in Chiang Mai, Thailand. After graduating from Prem in 2005, I took a law course at the University of Leicester, England. My subjects of interest were International Law, Human Rights Law and Criminology.
During my university years, I participated in the United Nations Youth Student Association (UNYSA) club activities and became the club captain of the women’s basketball team.
My other interests include photography, reading, baking, traveling and football. After my year at Prem, I am hoping to study a Master's degree in International Humanitarian Law in Geneva, Switzerland.