Our Staff

Rebecca has been a part of the Ark network since 2012 and a Principal since 2018. Since joining Ark Byron, she has introduced initiatives including five new pupil-led committees; half-termly outdoor learning experiences for every child and weekly coaching for all teaching members of staff. Rebecca is passionate about enhancing Byron’s whole school community by creating more opportunities for staff, pupils and parents to work collaboratively.

Rebecca completed her PGCE at the Institute of Education and has also received the National Professional Qualification for Headship. She is passionate about providing children with the chance to learn the skills and knowledge required to achieve excellence both academically and beyond the curriculum. Before teaching, Rebecca graduated from the University of Durham with a degree in Natural Sciences.

Outside of her work, Rebecca enjoys spending time in the great outdoors with her family.

Rachael joined Ark Byron in 2017 as a trainee teacher, becoming Assistant Principal in 2021. Rachael has had the privilege to teach nearly every cohort in the school and has a held a range of leadership responsibilities in her time at Ark Byron. In her current role, Rachael leads on EYFS and Key Stage 1, ATT as well as Art and DT. She is passionate about ensuring that the early years of school creates an excellent foundation for the rest of a child’s life, as well as allowing children to develop strong creative skills. Every child has the right to be happy, to be safe and to learn.

Prior to teaching, Rachael graduated from the University of Exeter with a degree in Theology. She was elected as President of her Student Union, a role that she undertook for a year before becoming a freelance illustrator and designer. Rachael loves travelling, reading, and watching cricket. Time with family and her dogs Harry and Olive, is very important to her, as well as time to be creative, anything from drawing to watching musical theatre.

Sabrina joined Ark Byron in January 2023, having worked previously in Buckinghamshire and Berkshire. She has worked across all year groups with most of her teaching experience in Year 6. Before teaching, Sabrina graduated at City University with a degree in Optometry. Becoming a school governor encouraged her to change careers.

Outside of school, Sabrina enjoys spending quality time with her children and is a passionate Liverpool football fan!

Alison joined Ark Byron in January 2020, a few months before the World went into lockdown. Prior to Byron, Alison worked as a class teacher for 12 years in a mainstream school in London, and then completed a Masters and the NASENCO award in order to become a trained SENCO, a role she has held since 2015. During lockdown, Alison had little boy, who she is extremely proud of. Alison enjoys her role as DSL and seeks to support parents when times are hard (in any way).

Outside of work Alison still enjoys going to music festivals, even though she can’t stay up late anymore!

Shauna worked previously in local authority, and has 25 years experience within the education sector. Shauna's school career started as a Teaching Assistant back in 2000 at Bentworth Primary School, now one of our Ark schools. In 2010 Shauna moved into school administration and set herself a goal to become a School Business Manager. She has been doing this role since 2017. Shauna started at Ark Byron in February 2025, and is excited to be a part of the Byron family.

Outside of work Shauna loves spending quality time with her family, going to concerts and eating out. She also loves going on long country walks with her dog Polly and kayaking along the Thames, which Polly loves too. 

Shauna worked previously in local authority, and has 25 years experience within the education sector. Shauna's school career started as a Teaching Assistant back in 2000 at Bentworth Primary School, now one of our Ark schools. In 2010 Shauna moved into school administration and set herself a goal to become a School Business Manager. She has been doing this role since 2017. Shauna started at Ark Byron in February 2025, and is excited to be a part of the Byron family.

Outside of work Shauna loves spending quality time with her family, going to concerts and eating out. She also loves going on long country walks with her dog Polly and kayaking along the Thames, which Polly loves too. 

Vanessa transitioned from a 14-year career as a Personal Assistant in the NHS to education in 2017, joining Ark Byron Primary Academy when the school was just starting with only two year groups. Vanessa now serves as the Admissions and Attendance Officer at Ark Byron on a part-time basis. Additionally, Vanessa works as a Clerk to Governors for six different Ark schools across London. 

Sasha is a dedicated Receptionist and Administrator at Ark Byron Primary School, bringing several years of experience from previous roles in secondary education. Passionate about creating a welcoming and efficient front office environment, she is committed to supporting staff, students, and parents while ensuring the smooth day to day operations of the school. In her free time, Sasha enjoys spending time outdoors.

Athea graduated from the University of the West of England with a degree in Politics and International Relations in 2021. She then went onto to study her PGCE at Bath university. In September 2022, she joined Ark Byron as a Reception teacher, where she has continued to teach in the Reception year group.

Athea is a lover of sport and books. She often enjoys going to watch rugby matches, supporting Wales her home country. Outside of school Athea plays on a netball team. She is also an avid reader and will happily chat to anyone about the book she is currently reading, or to get any recommendations!

Jen graduated with a BSc in Early Years Development and Education and has since gained extensive experience in supporting roles within SEND education, adult care, and nursery settings. In 2020, she moved to London to pursue an MSc in Psychodynamics of Human Development at Birkbeck College, followed by a PGCE from the University of Buckingham. Jen joined Ark Byron in September 2024 and is excited to be teaching the Nightingales class.

Outside of school, Jen enjoys nature walks, staying fit, and travelling.

Olivia graduated from Nottingham Trent University with First-Class Honours in Criminal Justice. In her final year, she specialised in Youth Justice and gained valuable experience working in a Pupil Referral Unit. Since completing her teacher training, she has accumulated nine years of teaching experience, predominantly in Key Stage 1. Currently, Olivia is pursuing an MA in Dyslexia and Specialist Literacy Interventions. 

Olivia is passionate about traveling and has spent extended periods in South America and Asia. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, and has a particular love for baking - especially lemon cake!

Rachael joined Ark Byron in 2017 as a trainee teacher, becoming Assistant Principal in 2021. Rachael has had the privilege to teach nearly every cohort in the school and has a held a range of leadership responsibilities in her time at Ark Byron. In her current role, Rachael leads on EYFS and Key Stage 1, ATT as well as Art and DT. She is passionate about ensuring that the early years of school creates an excellent foundation for the rest of a child’s life, as well as allowing children to develop strong creative skills. Every child has the right to be happy, to be safe and to learn.

Prior to teaching, Rachael graduated from the University of Exeter with a degree in Theology. She was elected as President of her Student Union, a role that she undertook for a year before becoming a freelance illustrator and designer. Rachael loves travelling, reading, and watching cricket. Time with family and her dogs Harry and Olive, is very important to her, as well as time to be creative, anything from drawing to watching musical theatre.

Anya discovered a love for teaching as a TA in a primary school in Richmond prior to graduating from the University of Westminster in 2022, with a degree in Creative Writing and English Language. Following this, she went on to work in Kindred nurseries to build further experience in working with children before accomplishing her PGCE and QTS at Roehampton University, Surrey. Since joining Ark Byron, Anya has completed a year teaching Reception and is now excitedly continuing her journey in teaching within KS1. 

Outside of school, Anya is an avid reader and is always keen to share her love of stories. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends, and trying out new cake recipes when baking!

Rosina earned her degree in education from the Institute of Education and completed her PGCE at Southbank University. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their dog, Zuko. Rosina is an avid theatre enthusiast and has a passion for singing. She is deeply compassionate about teaching and believes that all children can reach for the stars.

Ella previously led a career in public relations and charity work but felt inspired to transition into teaching during the pandemic. Ella went back to university whilst working full time, to study for a degree in Childhood and Youth studies. After graduating, Ella joined Ark Byron in 2023 as an ATT, during which her love and passion for teaching was confirmed!

Outside of school, Ella is a very passionate cook and a self-confessed foodie. She also enjoys hiking, camping and travelling to new, exciting places.

Kristina graduated with her PGCE from the University of Greenwich and began her journey in education as a Teaching Assistant in 2013.

She joined Ark Schools in 2025 and has loved being part of a community that inspires and supports every child to achieve their best. Kristina has taught across different year groups and enjoys mentoring trainee teachers as they begin their own teaching journeys.

She is currently completing her National Professional Qualification for Leading Teaching (NPQLT).

Outside the classroom, Kristina loves visiting the theatre, spending quality time with her family and exploring new places when travelling.

Oliver joined Ark Byron Primary Academy in September 2024. Oliver fell in love with Ark Byron due to the pertinence placed on community within the school and the excellent teaching standards set.

Oliver graduated from Nottingham Trent University with a BSc in Sports Science and Management; the course was 4 years long due to a year in industry in his third year. Whilst on this year, Oliver embarked on the trip of a lifetime for 3 months to Cape Town, South Africa to coach children between the ages of 3-18 cricket. On this trip, Oliver developed a love for passing on information and decided to do a PGCE after his final year at university. 

Outside of work, Oliver is a keen sportsman. He loves running, going to the gym, playing cricket, and watching a myriad of different sports. He is also fascinated by mindfulness which has helped him throughout his life.

Laura graduated with her PGCE and degree in psychology and Education from the University of Pretoria before embarking on her journey towards teaching and education reform at SPARK schools in sunny South Africa. 

Laura joined Ark schools in 2017 when starting a new adventure in London. She has worked in most year groups across KS2 throughout her time at Ark. She joined Ark Byron in 2021, where she has taught and mentored teacher trainees. Currently, she is completing her national certificate in leading teaching and learning. 

Outside of the classroom, she enjoys walking in beautiful London parks and spending time with her family.

Ilona joined Ark Byron as the first intake reception teacher in January 2016. Over the years, Ilona has taught Year 1 and Year 2 pupils, building a strong foundation in both literacy and numeracy skills. Alongside classroom teaching, Ilona has taken on key leadership roles, including serving as the school’s Science and Phonics Lead. In these roles, Ilona played a vital part in developing engaging curriculums and leading initiatives to boost pupil outcomes in both subjects

She is dedicated and team – orientated education professional with a passion for teaching Phonics. She is friendly and approachable when helping pupils and staff on individual basis with daily assignments and maintaining a safe, organised, and comfortable classroom environment.

This year, Ilona has transitioned to teaching Year 5, where the focus has shifted to preparing students for the next phase of their educational journey. Alongside teaching, Ilona now serves as the Science and Digital Lead, merging a love of science with a drive to integrate technology into learning. 

She speaks five languages, three of which fluently; Russian, Lithuanian and English.

Sabrina joined Ark Byron in January 2023, having worked previously in Buckinghamshire and Berkshire. She has worked across all year groups with most of her teaching experience in Year 6. Before teaching, Sabrina graduated at City University with a degree in Optometry. Becoming a school governor encouraged her to change careers.

Outside of school, Sabrina enjoys spending quality time with her children and is a passionate Liverpool football fan!

Souzane has been a Teaching Assistant at Ark Byron since 2023, bringing with her a decade of experience dedicated to helping children grow and reach their full potential. Her journey in education began at King Fahad Academy in 2014, where she worked for eight years. Souzane specializes in maximizing the potential of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

As a trilingual professional, Souzane confidently speaks Arabic, French, and English. Born in Lebanon, she possesses a deep understanding of the Arabic language, particularly its grammar. She has also trained as an Early Years teacher at a supplementary school for Arabic speakers.

Souzane firmly believes that maintaining a positive and resilient attitude is essential for fostering a conducive learning environment.

Elyse joined Ark Byron in 2019 after working in a private nursery for 5 years. She has spent her time in early years helping to cultivate a love of learning within the pupils to give them the best start at school. Now in year 1, Elyse is keen to support the children in tackling new challenges and develop their learning further. Outside of school, Elyse loves to spend time with her family and enjoys drawing and reading.

Francesca  joined Ark Byron in September 2023. She holds a BSc in Clinical Psychology and an MSc in Child and Adolescent Mental Health. After completing her studies, she gained valuable experience working as a supply Teaching Assistant in various school environments, including nurseries and primary schools. Her passion for understanding children's mental health and development continues to drive her professional journey.

In her free time, Francesca enjoys spending quality time with her family and traveling. She frequently visits Italy during the holidays to reconnect with loved ones. Francesca also has a keen interest in learning new languages.

Rachida was born in Casablanca, Morocco. Growing up in a large family with three brothers and two sisters, she developed an early interest in cooking. Rachida is a proud mother of twins, a boy and a girl, who are currently in their second year of university.

Rachida has been working at Ark Byron since 2019 as a Teaching Assistant, a role she thoroughly enjoys. She is passionate about teaching the next generation and strives to continue growing in both her professional and personal life.

Outside of work, Rachida loves cooking and exercising, always seeking new ways to stay active and inspired.

Alfred joined Ark Byron in February 2024, initially serving as a Teaching Assistant in Reception before advancing to his current role as a Year 3 Teaching Assistant. His commitment to education is reflected in his continuous self-improvement; he has recently earned a first aid certificate. Throughout his journey at Ark Byron, Alfred has worked with a diverse range of students, marveling at each child’s unique language and talents. He enjoys engaging with students through games, fully immersing himself in their realities.

Before joining Ark Byron, Alfred worked as a freelance teacher in photography and English language for about three years. He holds a degree in English Language and Literature from a prestigious university in Tehran and has also obtained a filmmaker certificate after studying for a year. Having moved to the UK a year ago, Alfred has embraced new opportunities in education and beyond.

In addition to his teaching endeavors, Alfred enjoys learning new languages, currently focusing on French. He occasionally works in event design and the fashion industry. In his personal life, he loves barbecues, off-road driving, and camping with his wife and friends.

Israa joined Ark Byron in 2023 and has been working as a Teaching Assistant in Reception. Currently, she is supporting teaching and learning in Year 4. Israa holds a Diploma Level 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools.

Outside of work, she enjoys taking morning walks in the park, cooking delicious meals for her family, and traveling to visit her parents, siblings, niece, and nephews.

Nadia Sabar has been a dedicated Teaching Assistant at Ark Byron since 2017. As a general TA working in Key Stage 2, she provides valuable support to students across various subjects. She leads interventions such as the Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) program and works with pupils who have Special Educational Needs (SEN). She delivers targeted support to pupils through structured intervention sessions in English and Maths.

Outside of her professional role, Nadia enjoys swimming, taking long walks and travelling to different countries with her family.

Fahmida has been working at Ark Byron for nearly 7 years. She has worked in both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.  Fahmida has a degree in Education and Early Childhood Studies from Roehampton University. Fahmida loves working with children of all ages, she is very passionate about her role at Ark Byron.

Outside of work, Fahmida enjoys baking, cooking and spending time with her family. She also loves travelling. 

Jolanta was born, raised, and educated in Poland and holds a Master's degree in History. Seventeen years ago, she moved to London with her family and has since embraced life in the UK. In 2016, she joined Ark Byron Academy, where she has been working as a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA). Jolanta enjoys contributing to the academic environment and is particularly enthusiastic about the school’s educational approach.

Beyond her work at the school, Jolanta is passionate about books, films, and travel. She has a deep love for learning foreign languages and even led a Classic Latin club at Ark Byron. As a naturally curious person, she thrives on discovering new cultures and expanding her horizons.

Bridget joined Ark Byron in 2019 and as the chef she has been able to combine her passion for cooking with her love for working with children.  Bridget feels privileged to be in a unique position to create a positive, memorable impact on children through food.

Sita has been a part of the Ark Byron family since the school opened on September 18, 2018, and was the first member of the catering team. When Sita joined Byron, there was only Reception, Year 1, and Year 2. Since then, she has witnessed many changes and growth within the school.

Sita enjoys her role and has also had the opportunity to assist in the Reception classes as well as Key Stage 2. Last year, she accompanied Year 6 on their residential trip, which was an amazing experience filled with fun and memorable moments. Sita is looking forward to many more years with the Ark Byron family!

Erjona joined Ark Byron in 2022 as a Catering Assistant and also works with Aktiva who provide after school care at Byron. Erjona has a passion for working with children, as they always bring a smile to her face. She strives to ensure that they have a happy and positive experience at school.

Outside of work, Erjona enjoys going on walks and traveling to different countries, embracing new cultures and experiences along the way.

Jennifer has been the librarian at Ark Byron for 2 years. She is passionate about building a reading-for-pleasure culture at the school and enjoys supporting all children in their reading journey. Before her role as a librarian Jennifer worked in publishing as a copy editor and production editor. After having three children Jennifer was keen to use the skills from her career in publishing and her love of literature to engage children with the joy of reading and creative writing. 

Over the past two years Jennifer has encouraged children to enter national and local creative writing competitions. The number of children from Ark Byron who have won prizes in the competitions has been so remarkable that several local news outlets have written about the achievement. 

Jennifer strives to ensure that the library is filled with the vital windows and mirrors that will create curious, imaginative and empathetic thinkers. 

Before her career in publishing Jennifer gained a PGDip (Distinction) in Publishing Studies from Robert Gordon University and a BA in Humanities from Brunel University.

Taina is an Integrative Child Psychotherapist who has been leading the school counselling service at Ark Byron for the past six years. She has worked in primary schools across the borough of Ealing for over a decade and brings a wealth of experience in supporting children’s emotional wellbeing.

Passionate about promoting positive mental health, Taina believes that early intervention is vital and is committed to ensuring that children feel confident in seeking support when they need it. She takes a holistic approach, working closely with the whole school community, including, children, parents and carers, and staff, to create a supportive and nurturing environment where every child can thrive.

Taina trained at The Institute for Arts in Therapy and Education with an MA in Integrative child psychotherapy and is a registered member of the British Association for counselling and psychotherapy.