Your Academic Team
Our teaching and academic staff deliver exhilaration, creativity and Science based education for your child through their innovative approach to teaching. We consider your child as the hero of our success story and we are here to prepare them for success in the classroom, in their university choices and the future challenges.
Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada
Mr. Conor Doherty
High School Social Studies.
I am very excited to be part of the Maplewood family! This is my third year at this amazing school, and my 7th year teaching in multiple different assignment, including Social Studies, English, and Physical Education along with various elective courses as well. And my present-day assignment is High School Social Studies.
Sout Africa
Ms. Lorinda Visagie
Head of Options, PE Teacher
My name is Lorinda Visagie and I am from South Africa. I am the Head of Options and teach Physical Education to Gr 6 - 12 students at Maplewood Canadian International School.
This is my second year with Maplewood and I am so thankful for each moment I get to teach and improve students within their physical and sporting abilities. I previously worked as a senior University lecturer in the Degree of Sport Science at a private university back in South Africa and I have more than 10 years of experience working with student athletes in various sporting codes at prestigious sporting high schools. What I value most about my professional experience is that it led me to work with the most amazing educator mentors and student athletes. It also has allowed me to work abroad and to improve my own educational practice
Alberta, Canada
Ms. Ashley Row
Mathematics teacher
I am very excited to be part of the Maplewood family! This is my third year at this amazing school, and my 7th year teaching in multiple different assignment, including Social Studies, English, and Physical Education along with various elective courses as well. And my present-day assignment is High School Social Studies. I fondly anticipate imparting my love of teaching with my students each year.
South Africa
Mr. Yusuf Moolla
Science Teacher, Middle School
My name is Yusuf Moolla and I teach Science from grade 7 to 10. I enjoy teaching the Alberta Science curriculum because it covers a broad range of topics and provides students with a solid base for further development of their scientific knowledge.This is my third year at Maplewood. I like the diversity of teaching students from all over the world. I have been living and teaching in the UAE for 6 years. I have recently taken an interest in cooking because it feels a lot like doing chemistry experiments
Dublin, Ireland
Ms. Trish Keogan
KG1 Teacher
My name is Trish Keogan and I am from a little village outside of Dublin, Ireland. I have been teaching and living abroad for over 11 years. I am the KG1 teacher here at MCIS.
I have been living in Abu Dhabi and teaching at Maplewood since 2015. I have had the pleasure to work with and meet some incredible students and teachers who have become friends for life. The wonderful community at Maplewood has kept me returning year after year.
After completing my degree I traveled to Australia and taught with Aboriginal students. From there I went to Thailand where I lived and worked in a school for 3 years. My passion for teaching and traveling has made my time at Maplewood both rewarding and exciting
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Ms. Aviwe Kitshini
Science Teacher, High School
My name is Aviwe Kitshini. I am from Port Elizabeth, South Africa. I have a Bachelor's degree in Education, specializing in Sciences. I teach Biology and Physics in grades 11 and 12.I've been teaching for the past 8 years, 4 of which were in South Africa and 4 years here in the UAE, all of which I have called Maplewood home.
I believe everyday has something new to teach us, regardless of our age, and I learn from my students as much as they learn from me.
The 2 things I try to teach my students in every class I teach are
1. Kindness should know no boundaries… It costs us nothing to be kind and everyone needs a kind word or action everyday.
2. Learning is not an event:- It's a lifelong process and you have to give it time. It’s not characterised by a % or level… It’s characterised by a change in behaviour/ attitude. When we know better, we do better!
Egypt
Ms. Eman Mahmoud
UAE Social Studies and Moral Education Teacher
My name is Eman Mahmoud and I am from Egypt. I currently teach UAE Social studies and Moral education fromGr.1 - Grade 12. I love teaching and drawing.This is my eight year teaching experience at Maplewood Canadian International School. I love the Maple Wood family, and I love the mutual respect between the staff and the students. On holidays, I enjoy spending my time reading or spending time with my children and friends, I enjoy cooking and making dishes from different countries
Ontario, canada
Ms. Maura Flood
Grade 5 Teacher
My name is Maura Flood from Ontario, Canada and I am a Grade 5 teacher! This is my first year at Maplewood and I am really excited to have the opportunity to be part of this community. I have been living in the UAE since 2016 and prior to that I was teaching in London, England. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, reading, and sports.
Westmeath, Ireland
Mr. David Stone
Social Studies Teacher
My Name is David Stone and I come from Westmeath, Ireland. I teach social studies to grades 7-10 at Maplewood as well as coaching the U15 football team. This my first year in the UAE and I have loved my time here so far. The sense of unity amongst management, staff and students was something I was immediately taken by and this is what makes Maplewood a truly special place to teach and learn. In my short time here I have grown so much and embraced the diversity and vibrancy of our school community. Previously, I have worked as a grade 7-12 English and history teacher in Ireland while also volunteering at kids camps during this summer. Coaching u15 football has enabled me to combine two of my biggest passions: sports and working with young people. In my spare time I also enjoy reading, traveling and live music.
Ontario, Canada
Ms. Rasna Dhami
Primary Class Teacher
My name is Rasna Dhami, and I am from Ontario, Canada. I teach grade 1 at Maplewood Canadian International School. This is my first year in Abu Dhabi and MCIS. I am thrilled to be part of such a diverse and inclusive community! It’s been a pleasure working with peers and teaching students from different nationalities and cultures. Before joining Maplewood, I spent two years teaching K-5 in Canada. When I am not teaching, I enjoy yoga, trying new foods, painting and traveling.
Edmonton, Canada
Ms. Sheila Barry
French & Dram Teacher
My name is Sheila Barry. I am Anglophone from Edmonton, Alberta–proof that the Core French programme offered by Alberta Education can lead to full bilingualism. I completed my Master’s degree in English & French at the Université de Montréal; I now have the great fortune of being a permanent resident of Cannes, France. I teach French, Drama, and Communications. This is my first semester with Maplewood. I came here because I believe in the Canadian Curriculum and its ability to manifest critical thinking in students. Previously, I spent 18 years in the UAE–I taught Academic English at Zayed University & College Foundations at Dubai Men’s College (HCT). I have also taught at universities in Canada and the US as well as at school boards in Toronto and Cannes. My goal is to provide students with the academic and life skills they need to succeed in an international post-secondary/work environment.
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Ms. Maggie Dillon
Grade 3 teacher
My name is Maggie Dillon and I am from a small town in Ontario, Canada and I am a Grade 3 Teacher. This is my first year teaching at Maplewood and living in the UAE. I am enjoying living and teaching in such a diverse and inclusive environment. I previously taught English in Thailand, Spain and Poland! Outside of teaching, I like to spend my time being active, spending time with my friends and family, and traveling :)
Montreal, Canada
Mr. Matthew Outerbridge
ELA Teacher, High School
My name is Matthew Outerbridge, and I am from Montreal, Canada. I teach grade 11 and 12 ELA at Maplewood Canadian International School. This is my first year at Maplewood and I am enjoying the camaraderie and vibrant school culture. Previously, I have worked as a secondary psychology/English teacher in a First Nations school near Vancouver Island, and as a primary school teacher in Taiwan.
I am thrilled about the opportunity to share my enthusiasm for the written word with students on a daily basis. Maplewood’s focus on inclusive education and fostering both academic and personal growth makes it a great environment to thrive in–for students and teachers alike
Alberta, Canada
Ms. Kristin Lewis
Physical Education Teacher
I am Ms. Kristin from Alberta, Canada. This is my first year in the UAE and at Maplewood International School. I teach Physical Education for grades 6-10 and CALM Studies for grade 10. I have a specialization in Physical Literacy, which takes a holistic approach to lifelong learning through movement and physical activity. Previous experiences include designing and implementing Physical Education programs from Grade 1-9, teaching Physical Education to students in grades 7-12 for the past five years, and coaching sports in after school programs. I was also heavily involved in development programs for youth in sport; primarily facilitating and leading the Volleyball programs from Grade 1 through to 12. In my spare time I love coaching and playing volleyball, running outside, and travelling the world
Mossel Bay, South Africa
Mr. Dane Henegan
Middle school coordinator
My name is Dane Henegan from a small town in South Africa called Mossel Bay. I am the middle school coordinator at Maplewood International school, and teach math to grade 6’s and Physical Education to grades 7-10.I arrived in Abu Dhabi and started teaching at Maplewood at the start of 2022. In my short time here I have learnt so much and have grown as a teacher. The Diversity within the school provides me with the opportunity to learn about different cultures and nationalities.I previously taught for four years at a school called Bridge House in Franschhoek, SA. I have an incredible passion for sport. If i'm not at school you could find me watching, playing or coaching a variety of sports. I also have a newfound love of traveling with my wife. We are hoping to tick off all the places on our bucket list.
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Mr. Matthew Loewen
Math and Science Teacher
My name is Matthew Loewen and I teach grade 4. I love all sports, but my top 3 are: running, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and rugby. I currently have my blue belt in BJJ. This is my 6th year at Maplewood Canadian International School. I met my wife here and I have two amazing daughters: Maylala and Hannah
Previous to coming to the UAE, I taught in Alberta. I had my own grade 3, 4, and 5 classroom; however, through substitute teaching, I have taught every grade level.
South Africa
Ms. Tanya Fourie
PE Teacher
My name is Tanya Fourie and I am from South Africa. I currently teach Physical Education from KG - Grade 5. I love teaching and playing various sports. My main sport has always been Field Hockey and have coached and managed many teams over the years.
This is my seventh year teaching at Maplewood Canadian International School. The diversity of staff and students makes for a holistic learning environment, for myself and students.
I have been living and teaching in the UAE for 14 years. Outside of teaching, I am involved in the animal welfare community in Abu Dhabi as I have a passion for animals.
Toronto, Canada
Mr. Riley Di Nardo
Primary Class Teacher
My name is Riley Di Nardo and I am from Toronto, Canada. I am honored to be a part of this fantastic school community as a teacher. With a passion for education and a love of learning, I strive to create a positive and engaging classroom environment where all students can thrive.
In my free time, I enjoy watching TV, cooking, and trying new things. I am also an avid rugby player and have a passion for athletics. This is my first year here at Maplewood! I have 2 years of experience teaching primary school, and I hold an education degree from Queen’s university in Canada. I believe that every student has unique talents and strengths, and it is my goal to help each student discover and develop their full potential.
Jordan
Ms. Randa Batarseh
Arabic Teacher
My name is Randa Batarseh. I am from Jordan. I am an Arabic teacher at Maplewood Canadian International School. I graduated from the University of Jordan. I have a master degree in Arabic language. I have been working for six years till now at Maplewood Canadian International School. I loved working at school because I feel like it’s my second family.Previously, I worked as an Arabic language teacher in Jordan in the American school for five years then we moved to Abu Dhabi from 2012 I worked for five years in belvedere British school till 2017 then I moved to Maplewood Canadian international school till now, I love Maplewood so much it’s my second family and I love teaching it’s my passion.On holidays, I enjoy spending my time with my family and friends, I enjoy cooking and making lovely fruit deciduous cake .
Your Support Team
Our Senior Leadership Team at Maplewood Canadian International School believes passionately in creative thinking, and our outstanding learning approach to education continues to help our students achieve brilliant results securing a bright future for our students.
Calgary AB, Canada
Ms. Laura Cepek
Vice Principal & SEN Coordinator
My name is Laura Cepek from Ontario, Canada and I am the Vice Principal and SEN Coordinator at Maplewood Canadian International School. This is my first year with Maplewood and I've been loving living in the UAE and meeting people of many diverse backgrounds. Previously, I have worked as a Social- Emotional and College Counsellor in both Panama and Vietnam. My teaching background began in Alberta Curriculum as a Social Studies and English Teacher, as well as the SEN Coordinator. I value all the parts of my professional experience, as it has led me to many different countries and allowed me to combine my love of travelling with my career. Maplewood has been a great fit because of its curriculum, community and most importantly the staff and students
Egypt
Ms. Nagat
Arabic Coordinator
My name is Nagat Mohamed from Egypt , I am Arabic Coordinator at Maplewood Canadian International School. I have been working for five years at Maplewood Canadian International School. I loved working at school because I feel like I belong in my family
Previously, I worked as an Arabic language teacher for grade 6-7-9-10-11 at Rosary Private School in Abu Dhabi for 8 years.I joined Al Basma British School to teach grades 1-4 for one years. I joined 5 years ago at MapleWood Canadian International School as an Arabic language teacher for grades 7-12, and finally an Arabic language teacher for grade 12 in addition to coordinating. Maplewood has been very relevant because of its curriculum, its community and most importantly its staff and students.
Alberta, Canada
Mr. Cale Wright
Department head, Mathematics and Science
My name is Cale Wright, I am from Foremost, Alberta Canada. I teach High School Mathematics and am the Mathematics and Science Department head.This is now my 5th year at MCIS and I am enjoying it more and more each year. MCIS has a great sense of community and it has been great seeing the students progress through their studies over the years.
Before coming to the UAE I taught at Sir Winston Churchill High School in Lethbridge, Alberta. I thoroughly enjoy sports and staying active, but now my biggest passion in life is travel. I am very grateful to live in a country that has such great access to so many different neighbouring countries and cultures
Cork, Ireland
Mr. Oisin Gately
Head of Science, Chemistry Teacher Grade 11-12
Hello! My name is Oisin Gately. I have been teaching high school Sciences for the past 8 years. I am the Head of Science at Maplewood Canadian International School and will be teaching grade 11 and 12 Chemistry this year.
I worked in the Ministry of Education for a year before I joined the Maplewood Family in 2019. I have taught in Ireland and London before travelling here to Abu Dhabi for a new experience and to try to find new challenges in education.
I also have a keen interest in sports and coached the under 15 boys football team last year and hopefully will get to again in the not so far future.
Alabama, USA
Ms. Kimberly Ngozichukwu
Head of Humanities, K-12 ELL Coordinator
“Character will take your further in life than marks and talent!”
My name is Mrs. Kimberly Ngozichukwu. I am from the USA by way of Montgomery, Alabama. I’ve been teaching in the UAE since 2017 and was awarded the coveted Teacher of the Year award at my first school during the 2017-2018 school year! I often refer to it as the confirmation that my journey overseas (for the first time) was not in vain!. My highest level of education obtained is a Master’s degree in Secondary English Language Arts, and I’ve been teaching full-time for 11 years. I’ve been at Maplewood since November of 2021, and I currently serve as the Head of Humanities and the K-12 ELL Coordinator. Serving our diverse population brings me great joy!