How We Teach

ABOUT OUR TEACHERS

inspiring greatness in your child

Our highly skilled, abundantly qualified educators don’t just teach, they inspire. Fully committed to our progressive ethos, they’ll unlock your child’s unique potential through a personalised blend of pastoral support, British academic rigour, and exciting interactive experiences.

In small class sizes, our teachers have the time and space to build a strong rapport with each student, tailoring learning to their individual talents and goals. Empowered to believe in themselves and follow their passions, your child will blossom as an individual and achieve remarkable academic success.

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MEET OUR TEAM

Our senior leadership team cultivates a relaxed yet academically ambitious environment that brings out the best in every student.

Patrick Horne

Principal

Patrick has a wealth of senior leadership experience, having led teams at outstanding independent schools in the UK, China, and Dubai. A firm believer in the importance of a holistic education that nurtures both personal growth and academic success, Patrick ensures our young people develop the values, skills, and character they need to make a positive difference to our society.

Andrew Gillespie

Academic Director

Andrew has more than 30 years' experience in education, having worked in several leading UK and international schools. In addition to his role at d’Overbroeck’s, Andrew is the Executive Principal of Oxford International College, Brighton, Chair of Examiners for GCSE and A-Levels, and a qualified schools inspector. Andrew has authored many teacher training courses and textbooks, placing him at the vanguard of best practice in the sector.

Alasdair Macpherson

Vice Principal (Head of Sixth Form)

Alasdair is a longstanding member of the d’Overbroeck’s community who joined us in 1992. He has held a variety of roles across the school, including Head of Department and Director of Studies. As Head of Sixth Form, Alasdair uses his in-depth understanding of our ethos and progressive approach to ensure our students have everything they need to succeed.

Stephen Creamer

Vice Principal (Staff and Curriculum)

After enjoying a successful career in sustainable energy in Switzerland, Stephen qualified as a teacher in London, where he quickly progressed into a Head of Chemistry position. In his role as Vice Principal, Stephen manages teaching across our three sites, ensuring students learn in environments – and through approaches – that accelerate their progress.

Ted McGrath

Vice Principal (Head of The International School)

Ted is passionate about the many benefits of international education, having taught and held senior leadership posts at top schools in Thailand and Vietnam. Ted has also been a trainer for the International Baccalaureate Organisation across the Asia-Pacific region, and was the founding head of the EF Academy in Oxford, where she helped the school grow from 38 to more than 200 students.

Nick Haines

Vice Principal (Head of Years 7-11)

After gaining a Master’s in Mathematics and Philosophy from the University of Oxford, Nick joined d’Overbroeck’s in 2010. Nick initially taught maths to our Year 7-13 students before becoming our Head of Years 7-11. Nick is passionate about delivering an exceptional academic education infused with engaging experiences that bring learning to life.

Sarah Squire

Pastoral Director and Dedicated Safeguarding Lead

Sarah has a Doctorate in Experimental Psychology from the University of Oxford, where she tutored and lectured for several years. Following her passion for education and student wellbeing, Sarah moved into teaching, joining us as Pastoral Director in 2020. Placing the welfare and progress of the individual at the heart of learning, Sarah ensures our students are happy, included, and engaged.

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teacher-led technology

TECH THAT TRANSFORMS LEARNING

Our teachers embrace innovation in and beyond the classroom, finding new ways to push the boundaries and spark our students’ imaginations.

We’re proud to be a cutting-edge Microsoft Showcase School, one of only 78 in the UK and 600 globally. This highlights our team’s commitment to creating immersive experiences that develop the digital skills our students need now and in the future.

In our contemporary learning spaces, labs, and suites, our teachers expertly integrate the latest education technology (EdTech) across the curriculum. This includes Microsoft Surface tablets, 3D printers, and virtual reality equipment, which facilitate research, design thinking, and creativity, and unlock unforgettable learning experiences.

QUALITY ASSURANCE

HELPING OUR TEACHERS develop and grow

At d’Overbroeck’s, everyone benefits from our commitment to personalised learning. This includes our talented team of teachers, who enjoy career-boosting professional development opportunities, study for an array of new qualifications, and reflect on their practice in line with their interests, goals, and aspirations.

On the award-winning Nord Anglia University platform, for example, our teachers share innovative ideas with trailblazers across the world, and study for hundreds of courses each year. Our performing arts and STEAM specialists also benefit from collaborations with The Juilliard School and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which keep them at the cutting-edge of global trends.

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QUALITY ASSURANCE

SETTING THE BAR HIGH

Our teaching standards are second to none. We’re rated ‘excellent’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, which reflects the exceptional quality of our educators – and their comprehensive approach.

Many of our teachers have Master’s degrees or PhDs, and several are national and international examiners. Their expertise enriches our curriculum and enables us to adapt how subjects are taught to give our students an even greater chance of success. We also attract specialists who have excelled in the industry they now teach in.

We’re constantly improving how we do things, too, which guarantees our students enjoy a truly outstanding experience. We also regularly assess our staff against local and national benchmarks, as well as Nord Anglia’s stringent Quality Assurance Framework.

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JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

WORKING AT D'OVERBROECK'S

Our school is a truly special place to work. Mutual respect, fun, and laughter are at the heart of everything we do, and our progressive educational approach – delivered in an informal yet focused environment – enables every member of our community to be their best.

Working here, you’ll inspire and empower the next generation of creators, thinkers, and change-makers. In return, we’ll make sure you have everything you need to fulfil your personal and professional ambitions.

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