Our Team (OWIS Newton Campus)

PYP Coordinator

Irma Suryani Shahlan

Irma is a Singaporean with a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from the University of Manitoba, Canada and a Diploma in Early Childhood Education from MMI (London) Singapore.

Irma has been a dedicated educator for the past 19 years, both in Singapore preschools and international schools in Jakarta, Indonesia. She has taught students from various grades with age ranging from 3 to 18 years old.

Irma is passionate about her belief that every child has the potential to excel and that learning is a lifelong journey for both teacher and student.

Irma loves baking and has a soft spot for pastries.

Behavioural Counsellor

Prem Kumar Rajoo

Kumar is a Singaporean who has been serving as an educator for the past 13 years. He holds a Diploma in Education from NIE, Singapore, and a Degree in Social Sciences (Counselling) as well. In his time as a teacher, he has received the Caring Teacher Award and was a finalist for the MOE President Award for Teachers. He has held several roles in school leadership in both MOE and international schools.

Kumar believes that every student can learn, and it is the job of every teacher to guide students toward being their best selves. By helping students take ownership of their learning, children learn to be independent and confident.

Kumar was inspired to become a teacher by his former teachers, who showed kindness towards students and passion for making a difference in the lives of others. At OWIS, he looks forward to journeying with different individuals whilst imparting and co-constructing knowledge.

Kumar enjoys spending time with his children, exercising, and being out at the beach with his family in his free time.

Early Childhood 1/2 Teacher

XiaoXi Li (Jackie)

Jackie, born in China, moved to Singapore 13 years ago and has greatly enjoyed the strong sense of respect and harmony within its diverse culture. She finds that the clean, safe, and well-organized environment makes daily life both pleasant and convenient. Jackie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Preschool Education from Changchun Normal University and was awarded Outstanding Curriculum Implementation by Busy Bees in 2019. With 13 years of experience in early childhood education, she has built a strong foundation in both international and local preschool settings. Her background includes working with the IB curriculum and Reggio Emilia-inspired inquiry-based learning in international schools, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and independence in young learners. In local preschools, she has implemented theme-based approaches aligned with national standards while promoting engaging, holistic development.

Jackie’s diverse experience has equipped her with adaptable teaching strategies, cross-cultural communication skills, and a deep commitment to nurturing each child’s unique potential. She believes that every child holds unique potential, and it is the role of educators to uncover, nurture, and ignite that potential. By recognizing each child’s strengths and using them as a catalyst, she empowers learners to develop valuable skills and a genuine curiosity for the world around them.

At OWIS, Jackie looks forward to being part of a kind and nurturing environment where both educators and students are supported in their growth and learning. In her free time, she enjoys weight lifting, outdoor walks, handcrafts, and reading.

Early Childhood 3 Teacher

Cassidy Tan

Cassidy, born in Singapore, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education (Early Years) from Monash University, Clayton. Her teaching journey began as an assistant teacher in local childcare centres, and while pursuing her diploma, she was given the opportunity to join an international early years centre, where she later progressed to the role of lead educator. In her most recent position, she helped to establish and run a start-up play centre inspired by the IB PYP framework. With over eight years of experience in the early childhood sector, Cassidy has built a strong foundation in creating engaging and meaningful learning environments for young children.

She is passionate about play-based and inquiry-led learning, which she believes are essential foundations for lifelong learning. Drawing inspiration from the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Cassidy strives to create playful, child-led environments where curiosity is encouraged, and children are empowered to explore, wonder, and lead their own learning journeys. She believes that children learn best when they feel safe, listened to, and supported in exploring the world around them. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in fostering curiosity and supporting children in constructing their own understanding.

At OWIS, Cassidy is excited to become part of a large international school community where she can continue learning alongside pupils, families, and experienced educators. Outside the classroom, she enjoys travelling and embracing new experiences, whether that is exploring different cultures, trying new cuisines, or spending time in nature. These adventures inspire her and keep her curiosity alive.

Teaching Assistant

Vanessa Daisy

Teaching Assistant Early Childhood 3

Maisarah Binti Hassan

Grade 5 Teacher

Anjali Rathi

Anjali Rathi was born in India. She holds a Master’s in Guidance and Counselling from James Cook University, Singapore, and a Bachelor’s in Education from Maharishi Dayanand University, India. She has 15 years of teaching experience in both India and Singapore, with 10 years of experience teaching the IB Primary Years Programme.

She is passionate about creating inclusive, student-centered classrooms that nurture curiosity, independence, and emotional well-being. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in building strong relationships and encouraging learners to think critically, collaborate meaningfully, and grow with confidence.

Anjali looks forward to being part of an excellent working environment with support and collaboration from HODs and colleagues at OWIS. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, and biking.

Grade 1 Teacher

Sunetra Khandke

Sunetra Khandke, from India, holds a BA Triple Major in Psychology, Sociology and Literature from Christ University, Bangalore, and a PGCE from the University of Sunderland. For the past four years, she has worked as a Teaching Assistant in an international school, where she has led whole-class lessons across multiple subjects as well as levelled literacy instruction. These experiences have given her a solid grounding in supporting students’ academic growth alongside their emotional development.

She views education as a transformative journey that extends beyond the transmission of knowledge. Guided by the principles in The Whole-Brain Child by Dr Daniel Siegel and Dr Tina Payne Bryson, Sunetra’s teaching philosophy emphasises the integration of all parts of the brain in learning. In practice, this means fostering emotional regulation, reflective thinking, and secure teacher-student relationships. By creating a safe and supportive environment, she aims to help students build resilience, develop critical thinking skills, and grow in confidence while nurturing a deeper understanding of themselves and others.

At OWIS, Sunetra is excited to be part of a warm, diverse community that values kindness, respect, and international mindedness. She looks forward to contributing to the school’s holistic and inclusive approach to education.

Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading both novels and non-fiction, spending time outdoors, especially going to the beach with her dog, watching films, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. Cooking and sharing meals with family and friends are among her favourite ways to recharge and find inspiration.

Grade 4 Teacher

Serena Loke

Serena Loke Yuin Yee, from Singapore, holds a BA in Education from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and a BA in Fine Arts from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT). With over 15 years of teaching experience, she has taught in diverse educational settings, including public schools in Singapore, an international school in Nantong, China, and a special needs school supporting students with autism. Her teaching spans multiple subjects such as Visual Arts, English, and the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP).

Serena believes that every child can learn with the right support and instruction. She recognises that each student is unique and that learning looks different for everyone. Her goal is to teach foundational skills clearly while also creating space for exploration, application, and growth. By balancing structure with flexibility, she strives to help students build confidence and develop a lifelong love of learning.

At OWIS, Serena looks forward to drawing from her varied teaching experiences to inspire and support her students.

In her free time, she enjoys hiking and reading, which provide her with both relaxation and inspiration.

Grade 3 Homeroom Teacher

Nidhi Nagar

Nidhi Nagar, from India, moved to Singapore 15 years ago, and over time it has truly become her second home. She appreciates the country’s respect for diversity, where people from many nationalities live together in peace and harmony. Nidhi holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the University of Nottingham and a Master of Science in Computer Science from Banasthali Vidyapith, India. She has been in the field of education for about seven years, with experience as a Software Trainer at NIIT (National Institute of Information Technology) and as a lecturer in West Africa.

In Singapore, she has taught as a Primary homeroom teacher and Mathematics subject specialist at an international school and has also served as a STEM trainer in multiple local schools. Additionally, she volunteered as a shadow teacher for a special needs child in Switzerland and has taught both the Cambridge and IPC curricula.

Nidhi believes that children perform their best when they feel nurtured and encouraged in the right way. Her teaching philosophy centres on the idea that learning goes beyond academics, encompassing the overall growth of a child’s personality, creativity, physical fitness, mental well-being, and confidence. She is passionate about fostering inquiry-based learning and supporting students to develop skills that will serve them both inside and outside the classroom.

At OWIS, Nidhi is excited about the opportunity to contribute to a collaborative, student-centred learning community. She looks forward to inspiring her students, guiding them to reach their full potential, and embracing the diversity that makes OWIS unique. In her free time, she enjoys swimming and cycling with her children, watching Bollywood movies, and exploring new places.

Teaching Assistant

Nurul Fatin Binte Shahrul Amran

Grade 2 Teacher

Kimberley Choo

Kimberley Choo, from Singapore, holds a Master of Teaching in Early Years and Primary Education from Monash University and a Bachelor of Design in Communication Design from RMIT. She has 4.5 years of experience in the education sector in Melbourne, Australia. Kimberley has worked as a Kindergarten Teacher, Educational Leader and Art Teacher. These experiences have equipped her with the ability to support children’s holistic growth while fostering creativity and expression.

She is passionate about creating safe, inclusive, and engaging environments where children feel empowered to explore, express themselves, and grow. Kimberley believes that teaching is not simply the delivery of knowledge, but about nurturing curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. Through her practice, she encourages students to build confidence, develop independence, and enjoy the process of discovery.

At OWIS, Kimberley looks forward to bringing her creativity and international teaching experience to the classroom, while collaborating with colleagues in a dynamic and supportive learning community.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her cat, Tofu, going on hikes, and keeping active through running.

French Teacher

Emmanuelle Gagnier

Emmanuelle Gagnier, from France, holds the DAEFLE qualification (Diplôme d’Aptitude à l’Enseignement du Français Langue Étrangère) with a specialisation in teaching French to children, graduating with honours. She studied through CNED (French National Centre for Distance Education). Since 2021, she has been teaching French in Singapore, gaining extensive experience across a wide range of curricula. She has taught the official French curricula developed by the French Ministry of Education to native-speaking children and has also worked with children from ages 3 to 14 as well as adults following the CEFR framework.

Emmanuelle has served as the main French teacher for MOE secondary students from Secondary 1 to 4, preparing them for the GCE O-Level French examination. She has also prepared learners for the IGCSE French exam and has tutored IB ab initio students. Her diverse teaching experience has equipped her with the ability to support learners of all ages and backgrounds, whether they are beginners or advanced students, native speakers or new learners. She is dedicated to helping each student achieve their best while enjoying the process of learning.

Her teaching philosophy is rooted in kindness, inclusivity, curiosity, and a genuine sense of fun. She strives to ensure that every learner feels welcome, supported, and motivated to explore the French language and culture. At OWIS, she looks forward to nurturing her students’ confidence and passion for languages. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality moments with her family and friends, cooking for them, as well as travelling and discovering new places.

Mandarin Teacher

Wu Yuchen

PE Teacher

Gisela Barenys Llort

Gisela Barenys Llort, born in Spain, holds a Degree in Physical Education and Sports Science from Barcelona University. She has over 10 years of teaching experience, beginning her career in Japan as a Spanish teacher, where she also coached in a football academy. She later taught health education in Spain and India to students from early years to high school. Most recently, she has been teaching football in various international schools across Singapore. Among her achievements is representing Catalonia in the Spanish Football Championship in 2008.

Gisela’s teaching philosophy focuses on fostering holistic development by considering students’ physical, social, and emotional growth through engaging and inclusive learning experiences. She believes that every student should feel valued, motivated, and capable of achieving personal success, and she designs her lessons to inspire confidence and resilience both in and out of the classroom.

At OWIS, Gisela looks forward to contributing to a diverse and dynamic learning community that values holistic education. She is excited to inspire students through meaningful PE and wellness programmes while collaborating with passionate educators. In her free time, she enjoys sports and playing with her children.

Art & Music Teacher

Caroline Chia Tui Ling

Chia Tui Ling Caroline, from Singapore, holds an MA in Music Psychology in Education from the University of Sheffield and a BSc (Hons) in Food Science from the University Malaysia Sabah. She has also attained a Certificate of Teaching (CT ABRSM) from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, a DipABRSM in Teaching with Distinction, and a DipLCM in Piano Performance from the London College of Music, University of West London. With 19 years of teaching experience, Caroline has taught piano in her own home studio, in music schools, and in international schools.

Her teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that every student is unique and has the potential to flourish when nurtured in a supportive, respectful, and inclusive environment. She is committed to guiding students in their musical journey with patience, encouragement, and high expectations, while fostering both technical ability and a genuine appreciation for music. She values the process of learning as much as the outcomes and strives to create meaningful experiences that inspire confidence and joy in her students.

At OWIS, Caroline looks forward to contributing to a vibrant and diverse learning community where music enriches the lives of learners. In her free time, she enjoys playing both the piano and harp, as well as baking and cooking for her loved ones.

Executive Assistant to Head of School & Teacher Librarian

Yuk Yu Hei

Japanese Teacher

Miki Nakao

Miki Nakao, from Japan, holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication and Computer Engineering. She also earned an Upper Secondary School Teacher’s Certificate in Japanese Language from Nihon University, and an Upper Secondary School Teacher’s Certificate in Industry from Fukuoka Institute of Technology. In Singapore, she has taught Japanese Language and Culture at The Japanese Supplementary School, working with Grades 2, 5, 7, and 8 for more than six years. In addition, she has taught IB MYP Japanese Literature and Language SSST for two years, and IB DP Japanese Literature A SSST for three years.

With a diverse teaching background across age groups and curricula, Miki is deeply committed to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. She believes that language education is most impactful when it is paired with an understanding of culture, and she aims to help students build both linguistic proficiency and intercultural appreciation. Her teaching philosophy centres on nurturing curiosity, building confidence, and inspiring learners to connect meaningfully with the Japanese language and culture.

At OWIS, Miki looks forward to supporting students in their language journey and contributing to a multicultural community of learners. In her free time, she enjoys reading books, which provide her with both inspiration and relaxation.

Behavioural Counsellor

Prem Kumar Rajoo

Kumar is a Singaporean who has been serving as an educator for the past 13 years. He holds a Diploma in Education from NIE, Singapore, and a Degree in Social Sciences (Counselling) as well. In his time as a teacher, he has received the Caring Teacher Award and was a finalist for the MOE President Award for Teachers. He has held several roles in school leadership in both MOE and international schools.

Kumar believes that every student can learn, and it is the job of every teacher to guide students toward being their best selves. By helping students take ownership of their learning, children learn to be independent and confident.

Kumar was inspired to become a teacher by his former teachers, who showed kindness towards students and passion for making a difference in the lives of others. At OWIS, he looks forward to journeying with different individuals whilst imparting and co-constructing knowledge.

Kumar enjoys spending time with his children, exercising, and being out at the beach with his family in his free time.

English Teacher

Jennifer Leigh

Jennifer holds a Bachelor of English Language and Literature from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, a Master of Information Resources and Library Science from the University of Arizona, a Post Baccalaureate Teaching from Pima Community College in Tucson, Arizona, a Gifted Teaching Credential from Central New Mexico Community College and endorsements/qualifications for Secondary English, Elementary Pre K-8, Computer Science, Library Science, Gifted and Reading Specialist.

Before embarking on her teaching journey, she gained professional experience in the writing and software development sectors. Her teaching expertise encompasses Library Media, Geometry, Algebra, Special Education Math and English. Additionally, she has experience in teaching students with autism.

In her teaching philosophy, she believes every child is precious and worthy of care, guidance and encouragement as they grow into compassionate, capable and contributing individuals. She advocates for providing challenges to all students, recognising that embracing mistakes and deriving lessons from them cultivates resilience, perseverance and a drive to pursue even the loftiest aspirations.

Jennifer has three rules in her teaching: be kind, learn all of the good things that you can and help others learn all of the good things that they can. She firmly believes these rules encapsulate every learning standard, value and educational philosophy.

In her leisure hours, Jennifer finds joy in a diverse range of activities, including hiking, swimming, painting, training dogs, exploring new destinations, designing jewellery, reading, dancing, home remodelling, engaging in service projects and above all else — spending time with family.

Admissions Counsellor

Sara Lebabi

Admissions Counsellor

Charlotte Romulo Harayo

Deputy Divisional Manager – Admissions

Nidhi Puranik

Admissions Counsellor

Misuzu Oshiro

Manager, Communications & Content

Arati Rao

Executive – Communications & Content

Fizah Faizal

Senior Social Media Executive

Nick Oh

Manager – Marketing

Muhammad Ruzaini Bin Abd Razak

Business Development Manager

Michelle Alejandrino

Senior Business Development Executive

Jemelle Castro

Assistant Business Development Manager

Sui XinYing (Gina)

Senior HR Executive

Ana Gaynulin

Senior HR Manager

Anandhi Ashwin

Operations Executive

Nurul Rahman

Financial Controller

Sumanta Das

Finance Manager

Anupam Konhar

Senior Finance Executive

Mohamed Riyaz

School Nurse

Mas Hidayu Nani