Principal
Victoria (Vicky) BEWSEY

Hello everyone! My name is Victoria (Vicky) and I am the Principal at Tsing Yi kindergarten. I have been in this post for four years and I am enjoying the challenges of living and working in Hong Kong.

I qualified as a teacher in 1988 gaining a Bachelor of Education (Hons) degree in Early Childhood Studies from the University of Leeds. This degree qualifies me to teach children from the age of two to 9 years old. In 2007 I gained my National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) from the National Leadership College in London. Having this qualification from England equips me to be a Principal in a kindergarten or in a primary school

My teaching career has always been in London, although my family home is in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. I previously worked as Deputy Head in a very large multi cultural primary School in the east end of London. My main duties were to manage the early years unit and infant section of the school. My job also had a strong focus on supporting parents with their own learning and working in the community. During my time at this school we had three OFSTED inspections by the government and during each inspection we were considered to be "outstanding" - something I was very proud of.

I have always been passionate about early year's education and I firmly believe that it is in the kindergarten where the "seeds for learning" are truly planted. Children need solid foundations to build all their future learning on.

Here, at Tsing Yi, it is my absolute priority to provide excellent learning and teaching experiences for all our children through high quality, stimulating enquiry based learning activities. I have a personal interest in supporting children's language development and I will be working closely with all children, staff and parents throughout the year to ensure that we are maximizing every opportunity for the child to develop their use of spoken language.

I am very excited about all the positive changes that are happening here at Tsing Yi. The wealth of experience my International staff brings to the kindergarten will continue to ensure that we will provide the most up to date innovative Early Years practice for your child.

I look forward to working in partnership with you in supporting your child during this exciting but vital stage in their development.

I am delighted to present to you my highly motivated, dedicated and talented staff.

Once again, Welcome to Tsing Yi

Vicky
Principal

PYP Co-ordinator
Allison BANBURY

Hello, my name is Allison and I am the PYP Co-ordinator at Tsing Yi. This year, I will continue to lead on the implementation of the Primary Years Programme (PYP) of which we are in the second year of candidancy. As a member of the senior leadership team and pedagogical leadership team I will be working closely with Vicky and Suzannah to ensure that the school’s plans for the year are successful. I also support learning and teaching in the classrooms and work with teachers on their professional development.

I hold a BEd (Hons) degree in Early Childhood Studies from Leeds University and had been working in nursery classes and schools in the U.K. for twenty three years, the last nine of which as a principal in a nursery school in London, before coming to Hong Kong in August 2010.

I regard the early years as an essential phase in children’s education. Throughout my career I have worked hard to ensure that every child receives high quality provision to promote their learning and development across all areas of the curriculum.

I am looking forward to the year ahead and contributing to the children’s learning journey as well as to the developments in school that will have a positive impact on their education here at Tsing Yi.

Year Group Leader
Suzannah LARGE

My name is Suzannah and I am the Year Group Leader. I also co-ordinate our Language Enrichment program here at Tsing Yi. This year I will be part of the Pedagogical Leadership Team, working with Vicky and Allison on our PYP accreditation process.

I qualified to teach in the U.K. in 2000 and since then I have been fortunate enough to teach children from the age of 3 – 8 in the U.K., America, Italy and now here in Hong Kong. My specialist area is English, with a particular focus on how young children acquire and develop their skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing as part of a language-rich curriculum.

I am looking forward to working with all the children this year and being part of their learning journey.

K1

Bumble Bee Class Teacher
Nikki Haines

Hello. My name is Nicola Haines but I prefer to be called Nikki. I am from the beautiful New Zealand. This is my first time to Hong Kong and I am very excited about the new challenges set before me and I look forward to discovering all aspects of a new way of life here. I am delighted to become part of the Tsing Yi team.

I have been teaching in the Early Childhood profession for 10 years. It all started when I was a mother-helper in my sons kindergarten. Interacting with the children intrigued and inspired me so much I began my training while working there full time. I then moved north of Auckland to Whangarei where I completed my Bachelor of Education in 2006. For the past six years I have been working in a Early Childhood Centre teaching 2-5 years olds, the last three years as Supervisor.

In these all-important preschool years for children, I strive to provide quality care and the best learning outcomes for them. The 'wow' factor for me, is seeing children flourish, not only in confidence but also in knowledge of the world around them. My aspiration for all children is that they grow up as competent and confident learners and communicators, healthy in mind, and body, secure in their sense of belonging and in the knowledge that they make a valued contribution to society. This drives my passion for teaching and learning.

It's going to be an exciting year ahead meeting you, and building reciprocal relationships with you all, your children and my colleagues at Tsing Yi Kindergarten.

Bumble Bee Educational Assistant
Sylvia Yuen

Hello, my name is Sylvia Yuen. This is my first year working as an Educational Assistant at ESF Tsing Yi Kindergarten. I’ve grew up studying at ESF schools and I enjoy being engaged in the multicultural environment.

I’ve graduated from the University of Nottingham last year with a BSc (Hons) Degree in Nutrition and Food Science. I’ve chosen to pursue my passion in working with children. As I’ve been actively involved in classroom based teachings and camps.

I am very excited about working with both the staff and especially the children this academic year.

Butterfly Class Teacher
Allison (Alli) BROWN

Hello, my name is Alli Brown. I arrived in Hong Kong in July 2010 with my husband, son and daughter.

After finishing my education I gained a diploma in Nursery Nursing and started my training as an Early Years teacher. I have taught children aged 3 – 6 years, most of my experience being in the U.K. However, I was fortunate to teach in Holland for 3 years in an international environment with children from all over the world.

I have a Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood Education and have undertaken research projects in Childhood Bereavement and Transitions.

Butterfly Educational Assistant
Gloria COATES

My name is Gloria S. Coates. I was born in the Philippines and I have two children. I’ve been living in Hong Kong for 17 years. I graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Science Commerce, major in Accounting. I have worked for two years as an Educational Assistant in an International Primary School and another two years for an International Kindergarten in Hong Kong.

In my spare time, I am actively involved with the Alpha course in Hong Kong. I also devote my time to helping underprivileged children to have an education in the Philippines. This involves motivational talks to the youth of my own province Nueva Ecija, Philippines and also hosting charity events. As education is my passion, I try to give back to my community even though I spend most of the time in Hong Kong.

Now I am enjoying my learning journey in ESF Tsing Yi Kindergarten.

Caterpillar Class Teacher
Katie Adams

Hello, my name is Katie.

This will be my first year in Hong Kong and I am thoroughly looking forward to teaching here and becoming a part of ESF.

I am from the UK and graduated from Sheffield University with a degree in Geography. I completed my teacher training qualification at Sheffield Hallam University specialising in Early Years of Education. Since graduating I have enjoyed teaching for 3 years at a school in England, and I am now excited about this new challenge ahead.

I look forward to meeting you and your child this year and working together to provide the best opportunities to support them in these early stages of their education.

Caterpillar Class Educational Assistant
Raihana RAUF

Hi, my name is Raihana Rauf. I am from Sri Lanka. I am a native English speaker and I can speak Sinhalese and Tamil as well.

I have been living in Hong Kong for the past five years. I have been working for ESF since 2008 as an EA. I have completed the Paediatric First Aid, Standard CPR and AED course.

This is my third year as an EA at ESF Tsing Yi Kindergarten and I greatly enjoy working with the children. I am so looking forward to having fun with them this year.

Ladybird Class Teacher
Leah KONG

My name is Leah and I am the Ladybird class teacher. I have been working at Tsing Yi Kindergarten for twelve years, and I am one of the longest serving members of staff in the Kindergarten. I enjoy working with young children as they are unique. It is a pleasure to watch the improvement and growth of the young children.

I hold a Bachelor Degree in Psychology, a Master Degree in Counselling as well as the Qualified Kindergarten Teacher qualification. I am currently studying the Postgraduate Diploma in Education at Hong Kong University.

Ladybird Class Educational Assistant
Gail SCURVILLE

My name is Gail D’Vaz and I am from Bangalore, India. This is my first year at the ESF Kindergarten in Tsing Yi and I am really excited about my role as an EA. I have graduated in Commerce and have experience working with young children in some of my previous assignments in Hong Kong.

I have a little boy of 3 years which has taught me to fully appreciate the behaviour of small children. Every child is special and as an EA, I play an important role in facilitating the development of the child.

In the past I have worked at multinational IT companies so I understand the demands of a corporate environment. However, even more fulfilling and rewarding than a corporate career is the sense of satisfaction, one derives from working and learning from young children.

K1 Discover Area Team

Hi! My name is Ethel Del Fierro, currently assigned as EA to the Discover Team.

After 10 years of pursuing a Banking and Finance career, I was quite surprised at how much more fulfilled I felt spending my time and energy contributing to the education of young learners. It is such a joy witnessing them transform from shy 3-year olds, to the confident 5-year olds they become as they finish their kindergarten years.

My involvement with ESF Tsing Yi Kindergarten started as a parent volunteer years before I decided to work as an EA. My kids, Joaquin who is now 13, and Ysabel 10, who started with Tsing Yi Kindergarten, are now enjoying their experiences at ESF King George V and ESF Kowloon Junior School. Yes, you can say that I am a true fan of an ESF education.

It has been 6 years since I joined the ESF Tsing Yi Kindergarten team, still enjoying myself immensely, and I am looking forward to more years with ESF.

Educational Assistant
Matis FURUYA

Hello, my name is Maria Teresa Furuya but everyone, even my Mum, calls me Matis. I come from a northern province in the Philippines called Kalinga. I have been working overseas for 16 years, 3 years in Singapore and the rest here in Hong Kong where I now live with my husband, Mike.

This is my first year as an educational assistant and I am enjoying it immensely. I am very much looking forward to working with the children this year and many more to come.

Educational Assistant
Aida SHER

My name is Aida and I am the Panda class Educational Assistant. I am from the Philippines and I have been living in Hong Kong for more than 22 years. I have been married for over 17 years and have a 13 year old daughter who is now in Form 2 and a 9 year old son who is studying in Shatin Junior School.

I started working with children last year. I find myself enjoying the work and the challenges ahead of me in this school year and looking forward to a great time with the children.

K2

Elephant Class Teacher
Michelle HWANG

My name is Michelle Hwang. This is my sixth year in ESF. I am very excited to teach again in a K2 class after having the experience of teaching K2s, K1s and mixed age groups. I also had the experience of being a Korean advisor/Language Enrichment teacher during previous years. I was born in Korea and went to Canada to attend university to study Psychology and Early Childhood Education. I have also attained the Post-Graduate Diploma in Education from Hong Kong University this year.

I am looking forward to a great year with the K2 Elephant students!

Elephant Class Educational Assistant
Catherine JANTSCHAR

My name is Catherine. This is my fourth year working as an Educational Assistant and this is my second academic year working at ESF Tsing Yi Kindergarten. Prior to being an Educational Assistant, I have worked many years in the advertising and graphic design industry both in Hong Kong and in the Philippines.

My career shift was brought about by the persistent desire to pursue my passion to work with children. My Bachelors Degree in Fine Arts from the University of the Philippines has been vital in helping me to thresh out the creativity and imagination in children and encourage them to express themselves through art, speech, music and movement. It has been a blessing to work with kids and I am looking forward to learning from them in the process.

Giraffe Class Teacher
Victoria (Viki) RADFORD

My name is Viki Radford. I am from the UK, and I first became involved in education when working as an administrator for the International Baccalaureate Organisation’s Diploma Programme. This is my seventh year teaching in Hong Kong, and my fourth year as K2 teacher here at Tsing Yi. Before coming to Tsing Yi Kindergarten, I spent three years as English Team Leader at Hong Kong Soka Kindergarten (a Cantonese-medium kindergarten), and in November 2008 I graduated from Hong Kong Institute of Education with a PGDE in Early Childhood Education.

Language and learning have long been my passion: my first degree was in English Literature and when not teaching I write and perform poetry. My poetry has been published in anthologies and journals across four continents, and my first solo collection debuted at the Man Hong Kong International Literary Festival in 2008. In 2009 I co-edited an international anthology of contemporary women’s poetry which has been launched in America, Bali, Canada, Hong Kong and the U.K. I have led seminars on the teaching of poetry in secondary schools for the Education Bureau and the Hong Kong Institute of Education. I’m very excited to be embarking on a new learning journey with the Giraffes.

Educational Assistant
Zoe TSANG

My name is Zoe Tsang and I am the Educational Assistant in K2 Giraffe this academic year. I have completed my Higher Diploma in Child Care and Education and am also a qualified first aider. During my studies, I had several placements and volunteer services in kindergartens and child care centres. I was a playroom assistant and English nursery rhythm classes tutor.

I enjoy spending time with children and hope to grow up with them as they are all special, unique and have unlimited potential. It's my pleasure to start my first year here at ESF International Kindergarten (Tsing Yi) and I am very much looking forward to it.

Tiger Class Teacher
Lucy WRIGHT

Hello, my name is Lucy and I will be the Tiger class teacher this year. I arrived in Hong Kong in August 2011.

I studied at The University of Bristol. Then I completed my teacher training qualification specialising in the Early Years of Education. Prior to arriving in Hong Kong I taught in a Primary School in England for 3 years.

I particularly enjoy teaching Kindergarten aged children and find children’s enthusiasm for learning inspirational. I believe that all children are individual and undertake a learning journey that is unique, dependent on their development, skills and personality.

I look forward to getting to know you and your child this academic year.

Tiger Class Educational Assistant
Janet Kelly

My name is Janet and I joined the kindergarten in November 2012. I am currently working in the Tiger Class. I have previously worked as an Education Assistant in Kennedy School for six years. This is my first experience of working in a kindergarten and I am thoroughly enjoying the learning experience and most of all working with younger children.

Panda Class Teacher
Victoria ALEXANDER

Hello there! My name is Victoria Alexander and this is my second year at ESF. I am from a very small town in Michigan in the United States. I took off one day and move to Korea where I taught as an ESL teacher for five years before continuing on to Hong Kong in 2006. Since my stay here, I have been teaching in the early year's schools and acquired my Post Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood education at Hong Kong Baptist University. I am a new teacher to ESF and I am very excited to find what this experience brings me. I look forward to meeting all the new faces and making lots of good friends.

Panda Class Educational Assistant
Dammika (Dammi) FOK

My name is Dammi and I am the EA in the Panda Class. I am from Sri Lanka and I have been living in Hong Kong for 13 years.

I have a Montessori Teaching Diploma from the North American Montessori Centre. I am qualified to administer Paediatric First Aid and Standard CPR and AED and I have been working at ESF International Kindergarten Tsing Yi since 2003.

I qualified as a Teacher in 2013 with a Bachelor of Education degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Southern Queensland, Australia.

I believe the early childhood environment is a place where children are encouraged to grow into life-long independent inquiriers and learners.

K2 Discover Area Team

Educational Assistant
Anthony LEE

Hello, my name is Anthony Lee and I am an Educational Assistant in the K2 Discovery Team.

I graduated with a BEng (Hons) in Electronics & Computer Engineering from Napier University of Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom. After graduating I came to Hong Kong and worked as a System Engineer, while working part-time tutoring and doing supply work in schools through a Tutorial Centre.

It was a great opportunity to see how teaching was taught within a different country and experience teaching in a multicultural setting. Through this, I discovered my passion for teaching and that I liked working with children. My goal as is to install a love of learning for each student.

I am very excited and happy to be working within an ESF Kindergarten that provides students a wonderful learning environment, with small classes and an excellent curriculum.

Educational Assistant
Jonathan Petrashune

My name is Jonathan and I am an Educational Assistant in the K2 Discover Team. I was born in the United States but I have been living in Hong Kong for most of my life. I was raised through the ESF educational system, first attending Kowloon Junior School and then King George V School. Due to this, I have a great understanding of the high standards that are expected of ESF’s staff and students and of the curriculum that is provided. I enjoy the creativity and imagination that children have and the emphasis on independence in this kindergarten really allows those qualities to flourish. I look forward to working with the children this year to help them become confident and motivated inquirers.

Educational Assistant
Jin Young Hwang

Hello! My name is Jin and I am one of the Educational Assistants in the K2 Discovery Area team. I have attended ESF Primary and Secondary Schools and this is my first year working as an Educational Assistant. I have recently completed my International Baccalaureate diploma and I believe that my experience will support the children’s learning. I have always enjoyed working with children and was an active staff member for ESF Summer Sports Camps and I was one of the community service teachers during my high school studies.

Putonghua Teacher
Shirley SUEN

Hello - my name is Shirley. This is my sixth year in ESF and my first year at Tsing Yi as a Mandarin Teacher. I originally came from Dalian, a port city in Northern China. I have been in HK since 2002. I obtained my Postgraduate Diploma in Education at Hong Kong Institute of Education last year. I am looking forward to a great year with all the students and teachers in Tsing YI.

Administrative Team

Senior Administrator
Betty YAU

I was born in Scotland where I studied and worked in local government until moving to Hong Kong in 2003. I hold a Certificate in TESOL and taught English for 5 years until my daughter was born, and became involved in the pre-school she attended. I became the Administrator at Wu Kai Sha kindergarten when it opened in 2009, following which I returned to the UK to work in local government again. Hong Kong is one of those places that once you leave, you really miss, and when opportunity called, we returned to Hong Kong in 2011. I enjoy very much working in the kindergarten, and seeing the children’s interaction and learning each day. I am also delighted to teach very young learners in Playgroup Classes for ESL, our Language Section and support lesson planning. This enables me to remain involved in teaching and it is a privilege to see children as they grow and develop at this stage in their lives.

We have a great admin team at Tsing Yi and we look forward to working with you in the year ahead.

Administrator
Joey LEUNG

My name is Joey and I have been with our Kindergarten since 2000. I am in fact the “founding” Assistant Administrator of the Kindergarten. My office is on the front desk of the Kindergarten and I deal with all enquiries and I know the daily routines very well.

Assistant Administrator
Summer LEE

I’m Summer and work as part of the administration team. I have worked at two ESF Kindergertens-Tsing Yi and Wu Kai Sha for 4 years (2007 - 2011). This year I am back at Tsing Yi Kindergarten and I’m happy to work here again.

Caretaker Terry HO	Cleaner Apple LUI	Cleaner Maggie LEUNG
Our established cleaning team have been with Tsing Yi Kindergarten for a number of years and work together to ensure the highest standards of cleanliness around the kindergarten.