Our Teaching Team

 

We pride ourselves on having a highly-qualified teaching team that is dedicated to supporting our students. Our teachers are all university graduates, PGDE qualified, and many hold aspiring teachers who provide excellent additional resources

 

Our school provides comprehensive support for our teachers to continuously hone their professional skills in the classroom and support our students’ physical, mental and emotional health. All teachers are required to obtain the qualifications of Apple and Google educators, so that they can integrate the best technology and 21st -century skills into the classroom. Furthermore, our teachers can take certified first-aid and student mental health courses to support each student’s needs.

 

 

 

Our Teacher`s Profiles

 

 

Ramida Din’s Bio
Principal

 

With an education degree from Canada and a diverse experience serving one of the largest school boards in Toronto, I embarked on a new chapter when I moved to Hong Kong where I obtained a Master of Education at the University of Hong Kong and held various leadership roles in international, DSS and private schools, focusing on curriculum development, learning strategies, bilingual education, and gifted education.  I am not just bringing this wealth of knowledge and experience to the Anchors community but also a deep commitment to our shared goals. I am dedicated to fostering a passion for learning, maximizing the benefits of innovation and bilingual education, and promoting effective teaching and learning strategies and high-order thinking skills at Anchors Academy.

 

 

Amy Thomas
Class Teacher – 1A

Hi, I am Miss Thomas, and I'm currently a Year 1 teacher. I am from Cape Town, South Africa, and I've been in Hong Kong since 2019. I hold a Bachelor of Education degree specializing in Lower Primary, which has provided me with a solid foundation in teaching young learners. Over the past four years, I have gained valuable experience as a classroom teacher, working directly with students to nurture their academic and social growth. My focus has been on creating engaging and supportive learning environments that encourage curiosity and foster a love for learning.
My educational philosophy centers on the belief that every child has the potential to succeed when given the right tools and support. I strive to create an inclusive classroom where each student feels valued, heard, and empowered to explore their unique abilities.

 

 

Sara Beesley
Class Teacher – 1B

Hello there! I am Miss Beesley, I am currently a year 1 teacher. I am originally from Wales in the UK and moved to Hong Kong in 2023. My 4 years of experience in the UK and 2 years in Hong Kong allow me to bring a diverse background to my teaching practice. I hold a First Class BA (Hons) degree in Childhood Studies and a PGCE with QTS in Primary Education, equipping me with a strong foundation in both educational theory, child development, and practical classroom management. My experiences in different cultural contexts have enriched my approach to teaching, allowing me to foster an inclusive and engaging learning environment for my students. I am eager to promote a whole-child-centred approach within my teaching, with a passion for being a holistic and caring practitioner. "Never give up".

Outside of the classroom, I am passionate about a variety of activities that keep me active and inspired. I enjoy playing netball, climbing, and hiking, as well as surfing and skiing whenever I get the chance. Reading and photography are also close to my heart, providing me with opportunities to explore new ideas and capture memories. Additionally, I cherish spending quality time with my family, as they are my biggest motivation and support in both my personal and professional life.  

 

 

Jenny Francisco
Year 1 Educational Assistant 

 

Hello everyone! My name is Jenny Francisco, and I am excited to be the educational assistant for Year 1 this year. I hold a Bachelor’s degree and am currently pursuing my Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the University of Sunderland in the United Kingdom. This marks my fourth year as an educational assistant, and I have truly found my calling in this role—it fills my soul with joy! I believe that education is a lifelong journey, and I am dedicated to instilling a love for learning in my students. I encourage them to explore new ideas and emphasize the importance of inclusivity and diversity within our classroom.
In my free time, I love to travel, as it allows me to meet new people and learn about their beliefs and cultures. I also enjoy swimming and freediving, where I can immerse myself in the beauty of the underwater world. I look forward to a wonderful year of learning and growth with all of you!

 

Ilarina Zhou

Year 1 Educational Assistant

 

Hello there! I’m Ilarina Zhou, currently an Educational Assistant at Anchors Academy. I graduated from the University of Hong Kong with a Master of Journalism Degree and hold a Bachelor of Social Science (Hons) in Government and International Affairs from Lingnan University. Fluent in English, Mandarin, and Russian, I excel in communicating and connecting with diverse student audiences.

With extensive experience tutoring students from various cultural, socioeconomic, and academic backgrounds, I bring a wealth of knowledge and empathy to my role. I indulge in my passions for musical performances, journaling, and designing websites and digital games for kids, blending creativity with technology to inspire young minds!
 

 

Stephen Owen
Class Teacher – Year 2A

My name is Stephen Owen and I am a Year 2 teacher at Anchors Academy.  I have a BA Hons in Science & Music.
I have taught Years 1 - 12 and I have experience working with ASD children and spent time working in an ASD unit. Furthermore, I have taught in England, Bahrain, and Hong Kong.
I am committed to the belief that every child matters. I strive to create a nurturing learning environment where all students feel empowered and valued. I believe a positive classroom atmosphere encourages creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. By implementing a variety of teaching strategies tailored to diverse learning styles, I aim to engage every student and support their individual growth.

 

 

Nicola Cleverdon
Class Teacher – Year 2B

I have taught internationally for the past 10 years in both the UAE and Hong Kong. I obtained a wealth of experience working within the Early Years and Key Stage 1, following the UK National Curriculum. I studied in Bristol, UK, and hold a bachelor’s degree in education as well as a PGCE. Before my teaching studies, I worked in childcare settings in the USA and Australia. I enjoy travelling and working with children from different backgrounds; this is my fourth year teaching in Hong Kong. I enjoy teaching English to second-language learners and putting my TEFL qualifications to use.

I joined Anchors Academy in 2023 and enjoy using the various spaces and facilities that are on offer here. I plan and deliver exciting, engaging lessons that promote independence and challenge the students’ critical thinking skills.

 

 

Hema Dura

Year 2 Educational Assistant

 

Hello everyone! I’m Hema Dura, currently serving as a Year 2 Educational Assistant at Anchors Academy. I hold a Master’s degree in Counselling from Hong Kong Baptist University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. Fluent in English, Cantonese, Nepali, and Hindi, I thrive on connecting with students from diverse backgrounds.

My experience working with individuals of various ages has equipped me with the skills to effectively support their academic and emotional development. I am dedicated to creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment, often integrating creative activities to enhance student engagement. As a good listener, I value open communication and, in my spare time, I enjoy spending quality moments with my family.

 

 

Dione Hopton
Class Teacher – Year 3A

Hello, my name is Miss Hopton, and I am originally from Wales in the UK. I hold a BA (Honours) in Primary Education and a PGCE, which have equipped me to create engaging, interactive, and effective learning experiences for my students. I have teaching experience in the UK and have spent the last three years in Hong Kong, where I developed inclusive teaching strategies tailored to meet the diverse needs of all students, including those learning English as a second language.
In addition to my teaching, I have a strong interest in reading and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I believe that staying fit and healthy is crucial for overall well-being, and I strive to promote this mindset within my classroom. I aim to foster a caring and supportive environment where every child feels valued and inspired to reach their full potential.

 

 

Julien Siu
Class Teacher – Year 3

Julien Siu is an enthusiastic Year 3 class teacher with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Kent and a PGCE from the University of Sunderland. He began his teaching journey as an international kindergarten teacher in Wuxi and Shanghai, where he honed his skills in teaching English as a second language. His experiences in these dynamic environments allowed him to create engaging, interactive lessons that effectively captivate young learners. 

Julien believes in a balanced educational philosophy that combines structure with engagement, promoting responsibility while fostering a stimulating learning environment. Passionate about language acquisition and cultural understanding, he is dedicated to inspiring his students to achieve their full potential. 

 

 

Cindy Ho

Chinese Specialist

Cindy Ho joined the Anchors Academy faculty in 2023. Having grown up in Taipei, Taiwan, she holds a BA in Literature and Language Education from the National Taipei University of Education. She also obtained an MA in teaching Chinese as a second language at Taiwan Normal University. Cindy has teaching experience at all grade levels, from K to adult, across Thailand, Taiwan, and Hong Kong since 2007.

Outside of teaching, Cindy enjoys singing, playing ukulele, traveling, cheering for baseball games, andplaying board games with family. She also likes learning different languages and observing different cultures. She looks forward to making creative and fun lessons in the classroom which will help the children develop and thrive. 

 

 

Amy Zhu
Chinese Specialist

 

I hold an Education Diploma in Teaching Chinese as a second language from The University of Hong Kong, a Bachelor of English Studies degree from Tianjin Agricultural University, and a Master's degree in Language Studies from The City University of Hong Kong.

Before I joined Anchors Academy, I was a Chinese student teacher at an international school in Hong Kong where I taught Chinese with PYP lesson plans, prepared themed activities, and provided help to students with special needs.

I believe every child is unique and their potential is beyond our imagination.

In my spare time, I enjoy music and traveling, exploring different places where people share their life experiences with me enriching my understanding of the world.

 

 

Sarah Hin
STEAM & ICT Specialist

Hello, I’m Ms. Hin. I was born in Hong Kong and raised in Canada, where I completed my undergraduate degree in neuroscience at a Canadian university. After that, I pursued my postgraduate studies and earned my Master of Education in Hong Kong. Currently, I am working on another Master’s degree in Educational Psychology. With five years of teaching experience, I have a strong passion for science and enjoy teaching STEAM subjects. 

In my free time, I love exploring and discovering new things, as well as conducting experiments with my students. I am dedicated to learning and equipping myself with knowledge in my teaching area.

 

 

Simon Yim 
PE Specialist 

 

Mr. Simon Yim is a dedicated Physical Education teacher known for his passion for instilling a love for movement and wellness in his students. With a bachelor’s degree in psychology, PGDEs in Liberal Studies and Physical Education, and a master’s degree in Education (Physical Education) from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, he is committed to promoting physical fitness and creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive.
Mr. Yim has served in various schools over the past decade. These experiences have not only sharpened his teaching skills but also broadened his perspective on education. His teaching philosophy revolves around the belief that physical activity is not only crucial for health but also for personal growth and development. By designing a range of activities and exercises tailored to individual needs and abilities, he aims to inspire a lifelong appreciation for fitness and well-being.

 

 

Alan Chen
Music Specialist

Hello everyone! I am Mr. Alan Chen. It is my second year serving the school as the music specialist in the Primary division.

Major in Education of Music (B.Ed, Music) and minor in English from The Education University of Hong Kong, I started my teaching career in April 2022 as the Music panel and English teacher for a secondary school. Among my music certificates, I obtained LTCL Violin Diploma and ABRSM Grade 8 Theory in 2012 and 2016 respectively. 

Apart from the qualifications mentioned, I have engaged in several International Choir competitions in the past several years, i.e. World Choir Games (2012, 2014, 2023) and Tokyo International Competition (2024) with the Diocesan Choral Society. In the 2024-25 school year, I am appointed as one of the assistant conductors.

When I am not singing or playing violin, I love to go for a hike, a game of snooker, and cook a few dishes!