Our Staff

Magnus Bashaarat - Head

Toby Fisher - Senior Deputy Head

BMus(Hons) Jazz, Popular and Commercial Music, University of Sunderland; PGCE (Secondary Education), Institute of Education (UCL)

Nicki Ridley - Deputy Head Academic & Teacher of English

BA(Hons) English Literature, University of Southampton; MA(Hons) English Literature, King’s College London; PGCE (Secondary Education), Institute of Education (UCL)

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

Brought up in a home in which discussion, debate, and disagreement were expected and strongly promoted, I enjoy instilling in our Pupils the interest in, and ability to analyse, evaluate, and critique. Sharing opinions, understanding perspectives, and crafting responses lead to effective communication, which is immeasurably significant to us all. Outside of School, I enjoy keeping fit with F45, cycling and running; leisurely meals with family and friends, and exploring new places.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

The energy and creativity present in the Pupils and staff!

Dr Nicola Grant-Stevenson – SENCo and Head of Support for Learning

BSc(Hons) Applied Chemistry, University of Nottingham; EdD (University of Glasgow)

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

Having worked as an analytical chemist and in medical laboratories, I decided I wanted to bring my passion for Chemistry to Pupils in Schools. I love teaching Chemistry and showing Pupils how it can be applied to the real world. As the mum of an autistic daughter, I found myself drawn to supporting Pupils with additional learning needs, so also trained as a SENCo. I am passionate about helping all Pupils achieve their best, no matter the barriers or challenges that they might face. I love finding a different way to explain things!

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I enjoy being able to support Pupils throughout the School and that we embrace neurodiversity. The facilities are, of course, amazing - which makes life as a teacher so much better! There is great team spirit here, and we really are like a family - everyone matters.

Carly Yeomans – Director of Sport and Enrichment

BSc(Hons), Loughborough University; PGCE, Buckingham University

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I have always loved sports of every kind. Once I started to coach netball, I realised how much I enjoyed seeing people improve and enjoy themselves. I love that I am always learning new things and that every day is different.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I really like the community feel to the School and the support given from both peers and Pupils. I also love the fact that it is a new School and I can use my prior experience to implement new programs and ideas.

Lucy Pask - Head of English and Literacy Lead

BA(Hons) English Language and Literature, Newcastle Upon Tyne; PGCE Secondary (English) 

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I wanted a profession that would encompass my love of literature and provide opportunities to continue learning; schools and education are forever evolving, and no two days are the same. 

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

The community feel; the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Plus we are located in one of the most exciting cities in the world! 

Nicki Ridley - Deputy Head Academic & Teacher of English

BA(Hons) English Literature, University of Southampton; MA(Hons) English Literature, King’s College London; PGCE (Secondary Education), Institute of Education (UCL)

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

Brought up in a home in which discussion, debate, and disagreement were expected and strongly promoted, I enjoy instilling in our Pupils the interest in, and ability to analyse, evaluate, and critique. Sharing opinions, understanding perspectives, and crafting responses lead to effective communication, which is immeasurably significant to us all. Outside of School, I enjoy keeping fit with F45, cycling and running; leisurely meals with family and friends, and exploring new places.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

The energy and creativity present in the Pupils and staff!

Amelia (Milly) Pocock - Teacher of English

BA(Hons) English and Film Studies, University of Leeds; PGCE (with QTS) Secondary English, St Mary's University, Twickenham

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

Having volunteered with young people with disabilities, I found that I was happiest when helping others. This brought me in a natural progression to teaching, where I realised how much enjoyment can be had when helping people grasp something they had previously thought was not possible.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

What I like most about teaching at MVS is the fact that it's a new and small School, which allows everyone to develop together. We are all open to growing and bettering ourselves, and our School, which means that we are always getting better.

Anastasia Argyrou - Teacher of English and Drama

BA Theatre and Educational Studies, St Olaf College (USA); MFA Acting, Stella Adler Studio of Acting (USA); MA Education Policy, King's College London

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I have always been inspired by teachers myself. They have taught me resilience, determination and empathy. I aspire to be that kind of teacher to my Pupils. I also hope to inspire confidence through performing arts and School productions, and develop their imagination and creativity through literature. 

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

MVS fosters a holistic and creative approach to education. There is a great emphasis on individuality as well as community. The staff are always very supportive of each other and eager to create a safe and positive environment for our Pupils. I especially like how the performing arts are so highly appreciated at our School. 

Lauren Proctor – Head of Maths

BSc(Hons) Economics, University of Sheffield

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I was inspired to go into teaching when I realised how grateful I was for the incredible teachers that supported me through my studies and encouraged me to love learning and reach my full potential. Without sounding cliché, this made me want to give something back. Despite trying other careers, I have never found anything as motivating and rewarding as teaching, as I truly love working with young people on a daily basis.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I love working at Maida Vale School because there is a real family feel, which is warm and supportive. The Pupils are a joy to teach and staff work hard to take care of each other. The building itself is also beautiful and an inspiring place to work.

Elizabeth Hill – Teacher of Maths

BA(Hons), University College London; PGCE, London Metropolitan University 

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I believe that everyone can 'do' Maths, and yet many adults have a poor opinion of their own mathematical ability. I like to encourage all Pupils to have a go, to make mistakes, to learn, and to gain confidence in trying, so that they feel they can 'do' Maths when they enter the working world, where skills in Mathematics are highly beneficial.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

Working with like-minded colleagues.

Natalie Young - Teacher of Maths

BSc(Hons) Economics, University of Bath; MA STEM Education, King's College London

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

There is no other subject quite as satisfying as Maths! I love when students share my delight in completing a proof or solving an equation. 

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

To be part of a truly unique community, and contributing towards future adventures in the world of post-16! 

Josh Forman - Head of Science

BSc Biochemistry, University of Liverpool; MA Leadership, Institute of Education (UCL); PGCE

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I decided to become a teacher because it brought my two work-based passions together: Science and working with children. I find Science an awe-inspiring and beautiful field, and bringing that perspective to others is my passion. The ability to contribute to someone else's development and growth is my key motivator, and the role of a teacher is so fundamental to the development of the next generation; I find it an honour.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I really enjoy working with our Pupils, they're full of life, laughs and spirit. My colleagues are fantastic and passionate, which I find inspirational.

Alex Maughan - Head of Chemistry

BSc(Hons) Chemistry, University of Bristol; PGDE Science Education, Institute of Education (UCL)

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I never enjoyed Science lessons when I was in Secondary School and was reluctant to choose a Science for A Level. However, when I started my A Level in Chemistry, I absolutely loved it and was eager to go to my lessons and find out more! I realised this came down to having an excellent teacher, who brought the subject to life, and who inspired me to go on and study a degree in Chemistry. I have always had a passion to work with children and wanted to ensure that all students had access to an engaging and thorough education in Chemistry. The skills and understanding of the world around us that Chemistry provides is what makes it such a valuable subject to a child’s education. Teaching for me is a career, and I love spending my days in the classroom watching students' understanding grow.

Jess Hunt - Head of Physics

BSc Natural Science (Physics), Durham University;  MEd Transforming Practice (University of Cambridge)

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

After supporting several family friends with their studies whilst I was at school, I found that I really enjoyed working with younger people. This lead me to volunteer at a local school throughout my undergraduate degree, as well as several summers helping in schools and sports camps. So as soon as I'd finished my degree I knew the career for me!

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

The community feel and care for every student's individual interests and passions. Whatever it is you get excited about, let us know and we'll help you pursue it!

Ben Reeve - Science Technician

BSc (Animal Science) & GDipSci (Physiology), Massey University, New Zealand

Jonathan Finnerty - Head of Geography

BSoSc Geography, University of Waikato

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

Teaching is by far the most enjoyable of professions and it is not often you can say that you teach your favourite subject at School and at University everyday for work. Knowing that you are able to support and challenge the next generation of Pupils to learn, develop and improve as individuals is highly rewarding.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I feel very fortunate to be working at Maida Vale School. I was drawn to the opportunity on being part of an exciting journey that involved helping to develop a first class School where Pupils are actively encouraged to be creative in their thinking and resilient when faced with challenges. It is also a pleasure to work with an outstanding team of dedicated, passionate and knowledgeable professionals that all share a clear vision on providing a fully rounded education and excellent pastoral care to every Pupil at Maida Vale School.

Amira Ali - Teacher of Religious Studies 

Kate Trafford – Head of Modern Languages

BA(Hons) French and Hispanics; PGCE Modern Languages; MA Education King's College London

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

Being a Languages teacher means that I see Pupils fall in love with different cultures and open their minds to new ways of thinking. I also hope to empower young people and help them realise their full potential.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

MVS allows Pupils and teachers to be creative and dream big. Pupils bring a great energy to lessons and produce inspiring creative work.

Alexandra Berlioz – Teacher of French

BA English Literature, Civilisation & Linguistics; MA French as a Foreign Language, Université Lyon II; Lancaster University, PGCE

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I have always been passionate about languages and foreign cultures. I speak French, English and Spanish and I’ve lived in three different countries and travelled to +25 countries (and still counting...). I figured out very early on in my life (I was 12…!) that I would love sharing and teaching my own language and my own culture as a job. I think languages should be an essential element of everybody’s personal development. The study of a language provides opportunities for people to become more accepting of diversity, more respectful of others and more aware of their place in the international community.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I like the small community vibe.

Anastasia Christou – Teacher of Latin

BA(Hons) Ancient History, King's College London University; MA Education (Middlesex University); PGCE Classics (King's College London University)

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences, inspirations?

My passions are twofold: the Classical World and working with young people. I have always had an interest in the achievements and legacies of the Ancient Greeks and Romans, who laid the foundations of the modern Western World. Thus, a career in teaching the subject I love to the next generation was always a natural choice for me.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I am honoured to be setting up the Classics provision at MVS and thoroughly enjoy teaching talented, enthusiastic and reflective Pupils and being part of a passionate, hard-working and professional staff body. I like the balance of excellent academic standards and attentive pastoral care. I enjoy incorporating the MVS Values into my practice as I believe they are an integral part of every aspect of the School and they enhance the Pupils' School experience and progress.  

Jane Stott - Director of Music

BMus(Hons) Music, Royal Holloway, University of London; MA (Music Education) Institute of Education (UCL); PGCE, University of Cambridge

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I was lucky enough to be encouraged to learn a number of instruments as a hobby when I was young; later on these became a life-enhancing way for me to express myself and to connect with other people, and I became a teacher to provide others with the opportunity to feel the same. I enjoy all different kinds of music, with a slight leaning towards orchestral music from the 19th Century. I'm inspired by anyone who has embarked upon the journey towards being musical; it can be hard work at times but it is well worth it.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

Interesting Pupils who are creative and capable, lovely colleagues who are a pleasure to work with, all in a magnificent building in a fantastic part of London. 

Toby Fisher - Senior Deputy Head

BMus(Hons) Jazz, Popular and Commercial Music, University of Sunderland; PGCE (Secondary Education), Institute of Education (UCL)

Charlotte Cattrall – Head of Drama

BA(Hons) Drama & Theatre Studies, Royal Holloway, University of London; PGCE(with QTS) in Secondary Drama and English, Institute of Education (UCL)

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

My passion for the performing arts and how transformative it can be for young peoples' mental health and confidence inspired me to be a teacher. I’m inspired every time I see a Pupil proud of what they have achieved and how far they have come. When I watch a production I have directed and see Pupils who lacked confidence showing resilience and performing with confidence, I feel really lucky to be a Drama teacher.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

How enthusiastic and happy our Pupils and staff are, and the value placed on individuality, creativity, and importance of a holistic approach to education. I also love how supportive staff are to each other and how they value the performing arts.

Anastasia Argyrou - Teacher of English and Drama

BA Theatre and Educational Studies, St Olaf College (USA); MFA Acting, Stella Adler Studio of Acting (USA); MA Education Policy, King's College London

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I have always been inspired by teachers myself. They have taught me resilience, determination and empathy. I aspire to be that kind of teacher to my Pupils. I also hope to inspire confidence through performing arts and School productions, and develop their imagination and creativity through literature. 

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

MVS fosters a holistic and creative approach to education. There is a great emphasis on individuality as well as community. The staff are always very supportive of each other and eager to create a safe and positive environment for our Pupils. I especially like how the performing arts are so highly appreciated at our School.

Sophie Alice Jimenez – Head of Art

Art Foundation, Middlesex University, Cat Hill; BA (Hons) Fine Art (Printmaking), Manchester Metropolitan University; PGCE Art and Design, Middlesex University, Trent Park

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

My own art teacher inspired me to become a teacher. I am passionate about Art. I visit galleries in my spare time and make art every day, sharing my work. Currently, I have a sketchbook on display in the Brooklyn Sketchbook Gallery. I have a broad experience of Art teaching and working with young people. I believe that drawing is the core to all art, but also think that students should understand and make contemporary work, such as they would see in the Tate Modern. Art trips and workshops are an important part of the Art course. I won a ‘Teaching Award of Excellence’ from the British Council whilst on a Fulbright Teacher Exchange in New York. I was awarded ‘Outstanding Leader’ by the Jack Petchey Foundation (February 2016) for motivating young people through my LGBTQ+ work.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I love teaching in an amazing environment, with enthusiastic staff and Pupils, and the opportunity to be innovative - Exciting times ahead!

Sevgi Kelesoglu - Creative Arts Technician

Art Foundation, Ba(Hons) Fine Art, Bath Spa University 

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

My inspiration has been my previous teacher. Her dedication and passion encouraged and motivated me to want to follow in her footsteps. My passions have always been helping others and the creative arts, finally I am able to combine the two together.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

The welcoming staff members, and enthusiastic children.

Richard Barrett – Head of Design Technology

Ingrid Mahdi – Head of Computing

BA Systems Engineering; PGCE in Information and Communication Technology, St Mary's, Twickenham

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I feel great satisfaction when I look into children's faces and their sense of pride in achieving new skills that would help them for the rest of their lives. Technology is part of every career they might decide to take in the future. Therefore, it is paramount for them to feel confident in their digital and computational skills. Besides, there are very few women in technology, and I would like to be an inspiration and a role model to girls to become involved in this fantastic field.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

At Maida Vale School, technology is used in every lesson, which help pupils to feel confident and familiar with technology. The School's senior leaders are very supportive and well organised; support given to pupils is well planned and efficient; the quality of teaching and resources is outstanding; pupils are well behaved, well mannered, respectful and polite towards teachers and their peers. The constant use of Microsoft Teams among teachers and pupils helps to break the barriers of lack of communication, which used to be a problem previously in teaching. Communication at Maida Vale School is very efficient - it is possible to track pupils' performance promptly, which enable us to identify much quicker pupils' needs and to assist them accordingly.

Carly Yeomans – Director of Sport and Enrichment

BSc(Hons), Loughborough University; PGCE, Buckingham University

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

I have always loved sports of every kind. Once I started to coach netball, I realised how much I enjoyed seeing people improve and enjoy themselves. I love that I am always learning new things and that every day is different.

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I really like the community feel to the School and the support given from both peers and Pupils. I also love the fact that it is a new School and I can use my prior experience to implement new programs and ideas.

Harry Benjamin - Teacher of PE and Games

BSc (Hons) Sports and Exercise Science, Oxford Brookes University; PGCE in Physical Education, University of Hertfordshire

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations? 

Some of the teachers and coaches that I had at School always made new information fun and engaging. They created an environment where you could explore new ideas and learn through your successes or failures. I looked up to them as role models and strived to be like them in the future. After I started coaching a number of sports whilst still at School, I fell in love with education and having the ability to enable others to have the experience I had at School. 

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

The enthusiastic Pupils, fantastic School building and friendly staff.

Charlie Ricks - Teacher of PE and Games

BSc Sports Coaching Science, Canterbury Christ Church University; iPGCE in Physical Education, Buckingham University

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations? 

I have a huge passion for Sport and I wanted to be able to influence and inspire the next generation in their sporting journeys. I have a love of learning new things and sharing this love with the Pupils is a really rewarding experience. 

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I am really looking forward to joining MVS, and joining a growing and fast paced School. There is plenty of Sport on offer and I can't wait to get involved whilst helping the Pupils develop and improve. 

Dr Nicola Grant-Stevenson – SENCo and Head of Support for Learning

BSc(Hons) Applied Chemistry, University of Nottingham; EdD (University of Glasgow)

Why did you decide to become a teacher? What are your passions, influences and inspirations?

Having worked as an analytical chemist and in medical laboratories, I decided I wanted to bring my passion for Chemistry to Pupils in Schools. I love teaching Chemistry and showing Pupils how it can be applied to the real world. As the mum of an autistic daughter, I found myself drawn to supporting Pupils with additional learning needs, so also trained as a SENCo. I am passionate about helping all Pupils achieve their best, no matter the barriers or challenges that they might face. I love finding a different way to explain things!

What do you like most about teaching at MVS?

I enjoy being able to support Pupils throughout the School and that we embrace neurodiversity. The facilities are, of course, amazing - which makes life as a teacher so much better! There is great team spirit here, and we really are like a family - everyone matters.

Jasna Demirdzic - Assistant SENCo

BA (Hons) Education with QTS, Goldsmiths University London

Patricia Hilton – Learning Support Assistant

Mansha Sakhrani - Learning Support Assistant

Suky Grant - Learning Support Assistant

Jessica Mulcahy - Learning Support Assistant

Aisha Aziz - Learning Support Assistant 

Paulette Noel - Learning Support Assistant

Tracey Grealish - Learing Support Assistant

Office Staff

Ms Harriet Williams – Headmaster's PA and Registrar

Ms Marian Tang – Office Manager

Miss Abigail Seward – School Secretary

Mr Matthew Nottidge - Exam Administrator and Assistant Registrar 

Site Team

Mr Simon Boyer - Site Manager

Mr Roberto Giaguarino - Assistant Site Manager

Mr Mateus Da Goia – Assistant Site Manager

Kitchen Staff

Mr Ba Diakhaby – Kitchen Manager

Ms Bouchra Elgbouri – Kitchen Assistant

Ms Mirela Matei - Kitchen Assistant

Ms Rosiya Sial - Kitchen Assistant

Mr Simon Hannah - Kitchen Porter

School Nurse

Ms Rheanna Williams

Library

Mrs Christelle Aguillon-Williams - Librarian

Ms Salli Donovan - Finance Officer and MIS Manager

Ms Ling Lee - Finance Manager

Ms Edyta Chojnacka - Finance Officer

Ms Darshna Patel - Finance Assistant

Mr Andrew Ritchie - Director of Estates and Services

Mr Jules Fordick - Estates and Services Manager

Ms Deanne Field - Estates and Services Coordinator 

Ms Anita Ral - HR Advisor

Ms Hinda Ahmed - Payroll & HR Coordinator

Ms Samina Bulgin - HR Administrator

Ms Sharon Andrews - Catering Manager

Mr Hitesh Bhojani - IT Support Manager

Ms Sophie Hill - Business Development Manager

Ms Jessica Orrett - Marketing Manager

Ms Evangeline Lovelock - Marketing and Communications Assistant