Tracey Ann Mercieca

Primary Teacher

• Bachelor of Education

Tracey is from Melbourne, Australia. She has over 13 years of teaching experience in Australia and Norway. Tracey is passionate about early years education and childhood development and she is looking forward to teaching at AIS, being a member of the community and experiencing Vietnamese culture. Tracey loves being a mother to her sons Luke and Jeremy. She enjoys travelling, swimming, racquet sports and walking her dog Douglas

Paraic Edward Garry

Primary Teacher

• MA (with distinction) international education
• PGCE – Primary Education

Paraic is joining the AIS community from Cambodia where he worked at the leading IB international school in Phnom Penh. He taught grade 3 and led the Maths and STEAM curriculums. With a background in engineering, Paraic is particularly passionate about STEAM education, guiding students to be creative problem-solvers, and encouraging them to be thinkers and risk-takers through fun, engaging learning experiences. His experience working in EAL has given him the skills to support students of varying English language abilities.

Paraic enjoys motorbike trips in countryside and learning about local cultures. He has a keen interest in sports and plays soccer, rugby, and tennis. He loves music, playing the guitar and some piano. He also enjoys art, especially sketching..

Van Chau Nguyen

Primary Teacher

• Bachelor of Education (Early childhood/ primary)
• Diploma of children’s services (Education & Care)
• Certificate 3 in children’s services

Van was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. She graduated from Victoria University with a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood & Primary). This is her seventh year of teaching. During her career she was fortunate enough to have enjoyed a variety of roles within the school such as classroom teacher, team leader and leading the ukulele club. One of the many highlights from her teaching career was when she took a group of students on a school exchange program to Japan where she was able to teach students and engage in many cultural activities within the Japanese school and the wider community.

Van enjoys swimming, playing music, travelling – experiencing new cultures and their food. She also enjoys spending time with her dog, Maggie

Ian Osberg

Primary Teacher

• Bachelor of Arts;
• Teaching certification in Elementary Education

Originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, Ian has called the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City home since 2011. Ian’s goal is to create a warm and welcoming learning community that is engaging, meets the socio-emotional needs of learners, is built on respect, and has all the children excited to come to school to learn. Ian’s classes involve a mixture of active learning, independent work, and collaborative group work. In addition to teaching, Ian enjoys spending time with his two children, going to the cinema, playing video games, and participating in fitness classes.

Alexander Peter Shipkov

Primary Teacher

• Master of Teaching (Primary)

With 18 years teaching experience, delivering high quality practice across all curriculum areas, Alex can’t wait to join AIS Saigon. He is a passionate teacher with a strong commitment to the profession and all learners. Throughout his career he has been responsible for leading in a range of roles, most recently as Deputy Principal.

As a teacher his practice incorporates proven theory and is driven by evidence of effective pedagogy. Alex delivers an engaging, modern program, with learning at the forefront, to cater for varied learning styles. High expectations for all is central to his teaching philosophy, complementing the aspirational theme to ‘Be your Best” at AIS.

Alex loves spending time with family, and turning moments into memories. He has a passion for sport, music and exploring his surroundings and loves to travel and experience the rich diversity our world has to offer. Alex can’t wait to live in Vietnam!

Paul John Holland

Primary Teacher

• Bachelor of Arts
• PGCE international

Paul comes from Nottingham, England, famous for the legendary Robin Hood. He has been living and teaching in Vietnam since 2009 and joined AIS in 2017 teaching Year 5 before moving to Year 4. Before becoming a teacher, Paul worked in management, within various industries, for over 10 years which brings with it a wealth of experience in the training and development of people. Paul loves playing and watching football and is the Junior Football Coordinator at AIS.

Arnelle Adelaide Salida

Primary Teacher

• Bachelor of Teaching and learning (Primary)

Nationality: South African

I took the opportunity many years ago to relocate to New Zealand from South Africa with my family, we now call New Zealand home. My dream of teaching continued in New Zealand as I obtained my teaching qualification and full certification to teach. Working collaboratively with colleagues who are passionate, supported my teaching in a way that led to me to taking up leadership positions fairly early in my teaching career. A highlight in my teaching career was when I had the opportunity to present research and inquiry about play based learning, where we developed innovative practices
to improve learning outcomes. As a team we presented at an educational conference to teachers from around New Zealand. Having this opportunity in my first year of teaching has further developed my pedagogy of understand how students are agents of their own learning.
My passions and interests include reading, hiking, running, baking, travelling
and spending time with my family.

Sarah Heidenreich

Primary Teacher

• Bachelor of Education

Rebecca Jane Heidenreich

Primary Teacher

• Bachelor of Education
• Graduate Diploma of Theology in Education

Bachelor of Education, University of Tasmania, Specialising in Early Childhood Education Graduate Diploma of Theology in Education.

Rebecca has 17 years experience in teaching, ranging from Kindergarten to Year 10. Her previous school, Eastside Lutheran College in Hobart, Tasmania was the fastest growing school in Tasmania in the five years from 2013 to 2018. Rebecca loves travelling and spending time with her family. Her latest family pursuits include wakeboarding and fishing, she also love dancing, especially classical ballet

Deirdre Capuano

Primary Teacher

• Bachelor of Teaching and a Post Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies (Student Welfare)

Nationality: Australian

Deirdre has a wealth of experience as a Primary School educator, having taught all year levels in both the Catholic and Independent sectors for over 25 years.
She is known for her focus on pastoral care; fostering confidence in every child’s individual talents.
Throughout her career, Deirdre has led professional teams in learning and teaching, particularly in the area of Literacy. Though primarily a classroom teacher, she has also worked in Individual Needs, building expertise in this specialist area. In her leisure time, Deirdre enjoys travelling, reading and
keeping company with her husband and family. She is very much looking
forward to her new adventures in Vietnam, including experiencing the culture and lifestyle, and all the richness it has to offer.

Aoife Marie Brandon

Primary Music Teacher

• Bachelor of Education, 2nd Class Honours (2:1) Coláiste Mhuire, Ballygar, County Galway, Ireland

Aoife has 4 years of teaching experience, working in Ireland as a Primary Teacher. She achieved a 2:1 Bachelor of Education degree from Dublin City University in 2018.

Aoife has a passion for music and plays a variety of instruments, including, piano, guitar, ukulele, tin whistle and recorder as well as experience of running a choir and providing music for school events. She likes to busk in her free time and plays music at gigs and weddings on a regular basis. Aoife is passionate about developing creativity and confidence in children through the medium of music. Aoife loves Music, travel, playing sport, running, walking on the beach and spending time with family and friends.

Charlotte Stephanie Hill

Primary Music Teacher

• Master of Music in Music Education

Nationality: American

For the past 18 years, Charlotte has taught music in schools in the United States, Japan, Hong Kong and Qatar. Charlotte has inspired students from primary school through secondary school in a variety of music subjects including general music, instrumental music, choral music, and musical theatre. She started learning the violin at age four and music continues to be a passion in her life. She enjoys helping her students to develop a greater appreciation of music, to expand their creative and critical thinking skills in musical activities and to experience the joy of creating music individually and with others.
Outside of the classroom, Charlotte enjoys learning about music from around the world, exploring new places, running, and trying new vegetarian foods.

Peter Joseph O’rance

Primary Teacher

• Bachelor of Education

Peter is a primary trained teacher with over 25 years of experience teaching students (aged from 7 to 11 years) from diverse cultural backgrounds in Sydney, Australia. He has a passion for focusing on student needs and learning outcomes. Peter enjoys living and working in Vietnam. He is fond of singing and playing the acoustic guitar as well as being a regular player in the local table tennis scene. Peter supports the West Tigers NRL team.

Lê Thúy Vy

VNS Teacher -Primary

• BA - Science (Biotechnology)

I have been working at AIS for more than 10 years. I have worked in a variety of year levels from year 1 to year 6. For the first four years, I taught Vietnamese Language and Culture for Year 1 and Year 2 students based on the PYP Curriculum. I have commenced teaching Vietnamese Language and Culture for Primary students from Kindergarten to Year 6 at Thu Thiem Campus since the academic year 2016-2017. My hobbies are reading, art and travelling.

Lê Thị Hoài Phương

VNS Teacher - Primary

• BA - Arts (English Linguistics and Literature)
• BA - Primary Education

Đặng Trần Ngọc Mỹ

Art Teacher - Primary

• BA - Teaching English

My is qualified in teaching Vietnamese language. She is passionate in teaching children how to use the language fluently. She is also fascinated in holistic education in which students learn to reflect on their actions and how they impact the global and local community, as well as how to learn from the community around them. My enjoys gardening, painting, travelling and playing piano in her free time.

Huỳnh Mỹ Linh

VNS Teacher - Primary

• BA - English

Linh is a passionate teacher with nearly 18 years’ experience. Linh has been a VNC teacher at ACG -AIS since 2007. During this time, she worked very closely with foreign teachers and administrators to find out the best methods in teaching language. Prior to joining AIS academic team, Linh had four years teaching in many international schools around Ho Chi Minh. As a language teacher, Linh believes how much the important role that the mother tongue plays in learning another language. Linh will be continued to focus on building a nurturing and supportive learning environment for students. At AIS, Linh has organised several highly successful events such as Moon Festival and Tet Fair in which the values have brought to students are huge. This year Linh challenges herself as the Coordinator of Vietnamese National Curriculum in Primary school.

John Alexander Rogers

Secondary Teacher - HUMS

• Bachelor of Commerce, Diploma in Teaching (Secondary)

Prior to his arrival at AIS in 2020, John had 20 years’ experience teaching Economics and Business in New Zealand. He has most recently come from Sancta Maria College in Auckland, where he also had the roles of Senior Leader of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing and Head of Commerce. John has travelled extensively, and Vietnam will be the fourth country where he has lived and worked. John has moved to Vietnam with his family; his wife who is an English teacher at AIS (Sally Thompson), and two primaryaged children. He enjoys keeping active and healthy through playing sport, spending time with his family and loves to travel and explore new places, countries and cultures.

James Arthur Mckenna

Secondary Teacher - LANG

• Master of Arts in Education (International Education
• Bachelor of Arts in English

Nationality: British

With almost 12 years teaching experience, including 8 years in international schools in Vietnam and China, James is passionate about developing the essential literacy and oracy skills of today's youth. Aside from facilitating academic success, he is also dedicated to inspiring his students to be curious, caring and committed global citizens. James has had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of cultural backgrounds, both in the classroom and workplace, and understands the importance of intercultural understanding. As the only Secondary EAL teacher in a newly opened school, he played an
integral role in the development of school policy, learning programmes and the English department as a whole. James believes that every child can learn when the learning is adapted to their needs, and that schools and teachers play a vital role in promoting the individual talent in children.
I don't like reading ... I LOVE it! I'm passionate about books and literature in general. I'm also into sports, travelling, education, bilingual development, languages, performance arts, coffee and trying out new cuisines.

Jeffrey Lindsay Capuano

Secondary Teacher - MATHS

• Master of Educational Leadership
• Bachelor of Education (Science-Mathematics majors)

Nationality: Australian

Jeff has a wealth of experience teaching mathematics at the secondary level within Australian Government, Catholic and Independent systems. He has held several senior leadership positions within mathematics and more broadly in teaching and learning. Jeff is known for his passion for problem
solving and focussing on students individual needs and developing their strategies and dispositions to enhance their capacity as learners.
When not involved in teaching Jeff enjoys playing golf, travelling, reading, hiking, following his football team and spending time with family and friends. He is looking forward to his time at AIS getting involved in the breadth of activities on offer plus the adventure and opportunities living in Vietnam brings.

James Henry Bourke

Secondary Teacher - HUMS

• Professional Masters in Education in Mathematics, Business Studies and Economics;
• Bachelor of Commerce Degree Economics Major

James began his teaching career in Ireland where he thought economics and mathematics for two years before moving to Vietnam in 2019. In his spare time, he enjoys travelling, playing and watching sport along with leading a healthy lifestyle. James is our Model United Nations Coordinator and enjoys coaching basketball at AIS. James is currently studying for his Maters in Educational Leadership and is looking forward to his future here in Vietnam.

Ian Horsewood

Secondary Teacher - HUMS

• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Education

Ian has 12 years of international teaching experience, four of which have been right here in Ho Chi Minh City. Before working in living in Vietnam, Ian has lived and taught in Korea, Kuwait, Mexico and Myanmar. Ian enjoys organising hands-on projects such as Model United Nations and having students assess their own “peace prize” awards on campus. Ian loves solving clever crossword clues without having to use the internet for help and reading books in his spare time.

Sean Bruce Stitz

Secondary Teacher - LANG

• Bachelor of Arts
• Graduate Diploma in Education

Sean started teaching ESL and Business studies in China in 2003. After returning to Australia in 2005 he completed his teaching qualification and began teaching on the Sunshine Coast of Australia. Sean returned to China in 2012 to take up a position with The Yew Chung International School of Beijing where he taught Lower Secondary Humanities and English, IGCSE History, English and Global Perspectives as well as IB TOK and Language B English. Sean will commence his first year teaching at AIS in 2017 teaching English and Humanities. Sean finds great enjoyment in travelling and embracing new cultures. He is a keen student of History, particularly Asian history and is looking forward to learning more about Vietnam. Sean is a keen surfer who usually spends his summers chasing waves in the Mentawai Islands and trying not to hurt himself.

Peter Cox

Secondary ICT Teacher

• Master in Computing
• Network Administration and Security Diploma

Nationality: British

Peter is a highly motivated and skilled Computer teacher with more than 20 years experience teaching all levels at international schools, colleges and universities.
Peter has a Masters in IT from University College London and postgraduate certification in Network Engineering and Security from British Columbia Institute of Technology.
He will be teaching year 9 and year 10 IGCSE Computer Science, implementing Computer Science in the Middle School as a pathway to IGCSE Computer Science in the 2024/25 academic year and developing the International Baccalaureate Program in Computer Science for the following year.
Peter's passions and interests are Computing with Raspberry Pi, scuba diving, Spanish, Russian, football, tennis, table tennis and swimming.

Joseph Edward Brown

Secondary Teacher - LANG

• Bachelor of Arts
• Graduate Diploma in Education (Secondary)

Joseph is a new teacher at AIS. He has been living in Ho Chi Minh City since June 2017 and has enjoyed experiencing the local lifestyle and culture. Joe studied English and teaching at Murdoch University in Western Australia. He studied a Bachelor of Arts in English with minors in Creative Writing, Literature and Modern Social History. He completed this degree with First Class Honours in English and Creative Arts. Finally, he completed a Diploma of Education (Secondary), majoring in English and minoring in Society and Environment. Prior to AIS, Joe taught English as a secondary English teacher for four years at a private school in Western Australia. During this time, he taught English across all secondary grades and to a wide variety of students from diverse backgrounds and levels of ability. Recently, Joe completed a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certificate and has six months experience teaching English as a Foreign Language at a variety of public schools in Ha Noi. Over the last month he has been working casually at a language center, with university students, in Ho Chi Minh City. Joe enjoys playing guitar and creative writing. He is really looking forward to joining the team at AIS and meeting the students and broader community involved with the school.

Sally Jane Thompson

Secondary Teacher - LANG

• Bachelor of Arts
• Diploma of Teaching (Secondary School Teaching)

As a former international student who spent some of her childhood in the Pacific Islands, Sally looks forward to more adventure teaching at AIS with its dynamic and diverse community. She has travelled extensively, Vietnam will be the sixth country in which she has lived, and she has taught in both the UK and New Zealand. In coming to AIS, Sally brings her family; her husband who is a teacher (John Rogers), and her two primary-aged children. She loves teaching English language and literature, is an avid reader, and enjoys sport and fitness.

Justin Charles Daniel

Secondary Teacher - LANG

• Bachelor of Arts
• Diploma of Teaching (Secondary School Teaching)

Justin received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from the University of Montana, USA in 1999. He graduated with a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Montana, USA in 2008 on the Dean’s list. He has been teaching English and ESL for the past 20 years. He has taught in six countries. Most recently, Justin has taught in America, United Arab Emirates and China. His wife Chantale is teaching primary at the Thu Thiem campus at AIS, and his two children are joining him at the school.

Justin is passionate about literature and literacy in all forms. He believes that modern literacy must include digital and media literacy. Justin enjoys reading, playing the ukulele, exercise and sports. He is looking forward to learning more about Vietnam and Vietnamese culture. He is also excited to join AIS in helping students achieve their potential.

Nicholas James Daniels

Secondary Teacher

• Bachelor of Business Commerce (Marketing & Business Management)
• Postgraduate certificate in Education

Seong Hun Jang

Secondary Teacher - LANG

• Bachelor of Arts

I am Korean and I graduated from Korea University majoring in Korean Language and Literature and came from UISZ in Guangzhou, China. I ever lived in China 17years. I have taught IB DP Korean A Literature for 13 years, L&L for 5 years, and MYP for 5 years. I also worked in UISZ as a home room teacher and an dance after-school activity instructor.

Passion and Interests
Paul(I) love dancing passionately like Zumba and singing, even I am not skilled in that. I am not afraid exploring new areas like coding. And I like to make simple Korean food and enjoy them with my friends.

Juliet Deborah Coome

Secondary Teacher - LANG

• Master of Arts
• Bachelor of Arts
• PGCE

Juliet has taught in the Caribbean, Hanoi and Saigon, working with students from many different backgrounds. She has taught the French national curriculum and the American common core programme, as well as IGCSE and IB. Juliet has a passion for Russian and Eastern European literature, has recently developed an expensive diving habit and is an avowed fan of marzipan.

Jack Vincent Moreci

Secondary Teacher - LANG

• Bachelor of Arts
• Diploma of Teaching (Secondary School Teaching)

Jack arrived at AIS from Hong Kong (after a brief stopover in Thailand for the birth of his son) where he taught pre-IBDP English at a prestigious secondary school. In addition to teaching English, Jack also coached the debate team, where they took 2nd place in the Hong Kong International School Invitational Debate Tournament. Jack will be entering his 10th year as an English teacher in various countries around Asia. Jack is an avid world traveler. He prefers to explore new countries from the back of a motorcycle. Jack also enjoys good food, playing chess, weightlifting, and baseball

David John Gakowski

Secondary Teacher - MATHS

• Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Education
• Master of Education

Bachelor of Science (Hons), James Cook University, Australia
Bachelor of Education, James Cook University, Australia
Master of Education, University of Canberra, Australia.

David completed his training in Queensland and then moved to Canberra to start his teaching career. He taught science and mathematics in two high schools and chemistry and physics in a secondary college. While in Canberra, he won an exchange to teach English for a year in Nara, Canberra’s sister city, in Japan.

After living overseas for a year, he was keen to continue living and working abroad so moved to Guangzhou in China for 12 years where he taught IB DP and MYP Mathematics. After visiting Vietnam, several times while working in China he decided to move to Vietnam to a position at AIS Saigon in 2014./p>

Joseph Benjamin Kirkey

Secondary Teacher - MATHS

• Master of Education
• Bachelor of Science in General Engineering
• Educator Certificate (Math Grade 6-12)

Joe is originally from Chicago, USA where he worked as a mechanical engineer in the plastic industry for 5 years before discovering his passion for teaching. He took a Masters Degree in Instructional Leadership while he taught middle school mathematics in the Chicago Public Schools. Joe then moved to Florida, USA where he taught in a program for gifted middle school students and he coached the Math Counts team. He next moved to Santa Cruz, Bolivia, where he became fl uent in Spanish and taught high school mathematics using an American curriculum for 7 years. From there, Joe taught IGCSE and DP mathematics in Guangzhou, China for 5 years, where he also took on the role of the mathematics department subject leader.

Joseph George Phillips

Secondary Teacher - MATHS

• Master of Education
• Bachelor of Science in General Engineering
• Educator Certificate (Math Grade 6-12)

Joe is originally from Chicago, USA where he worked as a mechanical engineer in the plastic industry for 5 years before discovering his passion for teaching. He took a Masters Degree in Instructional Leadership while he taught middle school mathematics in the Chicago Public Schools. Joe then moved to Florida, USA where he taught in a program for gifted middle school students and he coached the Math Counts team. He next moved to Santa Cruz, Bolivia, where he became fluent in Spanish and taught high school mathematics using an American curriculum for 7 years. From there, Joe taught IGCSE and DP mathematics in Guangzhou, China for 5 years, where he also took on the role of the mathematics department subject leader

Eli Harvest Kepner

Secondary Teacher - HUMS

• Bachelor of Science in Education

Russell Matthew Duncombe

Secondary Teacher - HUMS

• Bachelor of Arts (Psychology and English)
• Post-Graduate of Education
• Masters of Counselling (Therapy)

Victor Lee

Secondary Teacher - MATHS & HUMS

• Master of Arts
• ACCA
• CIE A Level Economics
• IB Business Management

Victor comes from Malaysia where he taught in different places. He started his digital publishing business after graduating as an accountant. After 3 years, he pursued his dream of being an educator. He arrived in Vietnam in 2019, having a strong belief that Vietnam has great economic potential. Victor loves to read, travel and do yoga. His passion is in economic development and believes that to help a country develop, education plays the most important role.

Trent Steven Richardson

Secondary Teacher - SCI

• Bachelor of Human Movement and Exercise Science
• Post Graduate Diploma in Education (Senior Years)

Trent began his teaching career in Brisbane, Australia, and has since spent time teaching science in London. His passion for science was fuelled by his love for sports. In his spare time, Trent is an avid traveller and loves spending time indulging in local cuisines. He enjoys participating in sports and leading a healthy lifestyle. Trent is excited to be apart of the AIS community and the future prospects of living in HCMC.

Sheryl Louise Gelsthorpe

Secondary Teacher - SCI

• Bachelor of Science
• Postgraduate certificate in Education

Alexander Geoffrey Knight

Secondary Teacher - SCI

• Graduate Diploma of Education

Alex has taught secondary science including Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Science since 2015. Prior to this Alex worked as an Environmental Scientist with a focus on measuring and controlling air, soil, water and noise pollution from industrial facilities across Australia. He has a young family and is very much looking forward to living, teaching and experiencing life in Vietnam

Ian Peter Darbelly Fraser

Secondary Teacher - SCI/PHY

• B.Sc. (Physics and Mathematics)
• University of Auckland, New Zealand
• PGCE International (Distinction) - University of Nottingham, U.K

Ian has been teaching internationally since 2002, in both Thailand and Indonesia. This includes almost 18 years’ experience with the IGCSE and IB Diploma Programmes, in the subjects of Physics and Mathematics.

Ian has also been a DP and EE Coordinator, as well as Head of Department, and he is passionate about engaging all students in rich learning activities and discussion that will make their lab and classroom experiences both well-remembered and highly relevant to their lives after secondary school.

Michael Joseph Clark

Design & Technology Teacher

• Bachelor of Education (Technological and Applied Studies)

Michael is an experienced educator who started his teaching career in Sydney, Australia. He has spent more than 15 years working in a range of educational settings worldwide. He is excited to be returning to AIS after two years as Head of Design in an international school in Shanghai, China. He is passionate about Design education and enjoys seeing his students share that passion as they design and create using a range of materials, processes and technology. Michael enjoys touch rugby and also exploring, by motorbike, all that is amazing in Vietnam.

James Andrew John Eyre

Secondary Teacher

• Master of Education
• Bachelor of Arts In History and Geography
• PGCE in Education

Zion Mitchell

Design & Technology Teacher

• Bachelor of Education
• CELTA

Zion was adopted by the age of 6 months by English parents after the Vietnam war in 1974 and arrived to Australia in cardboard box. Good school grades and became School Captain and Tennis Captain of Wesley College Melbourne. He is happy and very grateful. It has been a personal dream for him to return to Vietnam and teach again at an International School, but more importantly to give back to Vietnam having a love and passion for teaching. Zion comes from Melbourne Australia previously taught at St Monica’s Epping and MacKillop College Werribee. With over 13 years of teaching experience he has taught Visual Art, Design, Product Design and Wood Technology within numerous curriculum frameworks IB, IGCSE, and VCE. Zion previously had lived in Vietnam for over 7 years from 2003 to 2011 teaching IB Visual Art at ISHCMC, CELTA qualified, Cambridge Oral Examiner, teaching English ESL / EFL / EAL, experienced role as a Vice head Principal and as a qualified professional tennis coach (Talent Development Coach) from Tennis Australia. Previously coached Do Minh Quan the past number one tennis player in Vietnam and nationally ranked juniors throughout Melbourne Australia. Zion believes “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.”

Nicholas Glenn Mason

Secondary Music Teacher

• Bachelor of Science
• Professional Educator’s License

Nick joins AIS from The American School in Ho Chi Minh City, where as musical director he oversaw the first fully live performance of a staged musical production in the school’s history. He was musical director over four successive shows, including well-known, award-winning shows Loserville and High School Musical. He also started many of the first performance-based classes at TAS including guitar and songwriting classes and the first elective performance class. He has over 12 years’ teaching experience in the United States and Vietnam

Nigel Stuart Harman Hall

Arts Teacher

• Bachelor of Arts (Three Dimensional Design)
• Graduate Certificate in Education

Nigel joined AIS in 2016 having spent the previous two years teaching Art & DT at British International School, Ho Chi Minh City. Prior to that he held the position of Head of Art for 18 years at schools in Cyprus and the UK, lectured at the Cyprus Academy of Art and worked in an advisory capacity for AQA. Prior to teaching Nigel worked as a Structural Engineer and Architectural Photographer. Nigel enjoys travelling, enjoying life and building custom motorcycles.

Kohji Kazama

Japanese Teacher

• Bachelor of Arts (English)

Kohji Kazama was a high school teacher in Japan over 25 years after he had graduated from the university. He has a top teacher’s license for junior high school and high school in Japan. He was also a Japanese Language teacher for some universities in Vietnam including University of Social Science & Humanities Ho Chi Minh.

David Hector Molloy

Arts Teacher (Drama)

• Bachelor of Arts

Hector joins AIS having spent 10 years providing Drama workshops to students and adults in the UK, Vietnam and beyond. Hector has been involved in Theatre since he was 11 years old and is excited to provide AIS students with a broad range of performance opportunities and developing skills for the stage and for their academic and professional lives. Hector moved to Vietnam in 2015 and immediately fell in love with this incredible country, he enjoys spending time with his young family, traveling around South East Asia, getting involved in local theatre and staying up very late to watch football

Anton Dirk Luiten

Secondary Music Teacher

• Master of Education (Leading Education) 
• Doctor of Philosophy (Musicology)
• Master’s in Applied Linguistics (TESOL) 
• Certificate of English -Language Teaching to Adults
• Post-Graduate Certificate in Education 
• Licentiate in Music (Piano Performance) Royal Schools of Music 1999
• Licentiate in Music (Piano Performance) Australian Music Examinations Board 1997
• Licentiate in Music (Piano Performance)
• Bachelor of Music (Performance)

With over 25 years of experience in education, Dr. Luiten brings a wealth of experience to the role and hopes to inspire the current and next generation of learners. With posts in countries as diverse as Hong Kong, Japan, and Australia, he has been involved in leadership of IB, pastoral care, music and English. With a meticulous approach to lesson planning and delivery, he hopes to bring motivational strategies to all aspects of learning and to develop a curriculum that caters for diversity. Dr Luiten enjoys exploring new places on foot, interacting with local communities, reading, watching films and dining with friends. He especially loves guiding students through a musical experience after all the hard work is done. Bachelor of Music University of Western Australia PGCE University of Hong Kong MA Linguistics Macquarie University, Australia Ph.D Musicology University of Sydney Message “Change is the end result of all true learning”.

Shih Hsien Yang

Secondary Chinese Teacher

• International Baccalaureate Teaching and Learning
• Bethel University, USA | 2021
• Master of Arts Degree in Comparative Literature
• oochow University, Taiwan | 2005
• Bachelor of Arts Degree in Chinese Literature
• National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan | 2001

Shih Hsien has a long track record teaching Chinese: 6 years in Taiwan plus 10 years in another international school in Ho Chi Minh City. He has become an expert on Comparative Literature after getting his Master’s Degree, and is passionate about sharing his knowledge on Chinese Literature with his pupils. He is an innovative teacher with a growth mindset, promoting student agency and integrating creative learning strategies in the classroom. Shih Hsien is a scuba diving enthusiast, got his dive master certificate in 2016, always looking for a new spot to dive in Vietnam and worldwide. He is also a cello and double-bass player, routinely playing together with other string players in Vietnam and Taiwan.

Sophie Hoang

Secondary French Teacher

• Master's Degree in French As A Second Language
• Professional Development Program Teaching Certification
• Master's Degree in Multimedia Educative Engineering
• Master's Degree in English Language, Literature And Civilisation

Sophie is Vietnamese, born and raised in the City of Light, namely Paris in France. After graduating from university, she went to Sydney, Australia and fell in love with this mesmerizing city. Sophie worked there as a French teacher for a number of years before packing her bag again. She arrived in Vietnam in 2014 and has taught IBDP French in an international school since then. She has also coordinated the GIN programme which has been a fantastic experience and one of the most rewarding. Sophie enjoys people watching while sipping a cup of coffee at one of the Vietnamese coffee shops. She also likes a good day at the beach but most of all, she loves spending time with her rescued dog, Cap.

Todd Patrick Brennan

Secondary PE Teacher

• Bachelor of Education (Secondary), Second Class Honours - Queensland University of Technology
• Diploma of Justice Administration
• Sunshine Coast Institute of Tafe
• Level 1 AFL Coaching accreditation
• Bronze and Silver Medallions in Surf Lifesaving
• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE 40116)
• Certificate III in Active Volunteering (CHC34015)
• Certificate III in Hospitality (SIT30616)
• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
• First Aid and CPR Certificate (Current)

Todd will be joining AIS from Australia, where he has forged a career in education over 9 years. He has a teaching degree in health and physical education and is also a fully-qualified chef. Todd has enjoyed teaching health & PE, as well as acting in coordinator roles and coaching several sports teams. He places great emphasis on fostering resilience and a growth mindset. He understands that positive working relationships promote his students’ investment in each learning opportunity and that if a student feels understood and at ease, their curiosity, drive and resilience in the face of challenges will be enhanced. Todd is looking forward to new friendships and experiences. He has a background in swimming and is an avid sports fan. Todd is eager to share his love of sports and a physically active lifestyle. He is also excited about Vietnamese cuisine and learning new techniques.

Nathan John Heidenreich

Secondary PE Teacher

• Bachelor of Human Movement

Nathan has 15 years experience in education across the areas of Physical Education and Outdoor Education. During his time at previous schools he was privileged to be able to plan and travel extensively around the world with his students and share in many wonderful experiences. His passions and interests can be found in the outdoors. Nathan enjoys mountain bike riding, adventure motorcycle riding, wakeboarding and snowboarding

Karla Villarosa Francisco

Swimming Teacher

• Bachelor of Science in Biology
• Aquatic Lifesaver Certification
• FINA Certificate

Karla has been with AIS for 3 years teaching swimming from Kindergarten to Primary students in all campuses. Before joining AIS, Karla has been teaching swimming and coaching competitive swimmers in the Philippines. She was a competitive swimmer since 9-years old. She had represented some national competitions in the Philippines. Since then, she wants to share her knowledge, experiences and teach younger kids to learn how to swim and try to become a competitive swimmer some day because for her swimming is a life skill.

Marita Jayne Seaton

Art Teacher

• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of teaching (Primary and Secondary)

Heather Lee-Ann Julien

Psychology Teacher

• Bachelor of Education
• Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology and Psychology

Andrew Bruce Masterton

Secondary Teacher - HUMS

• Graduate Diploma in Education / Master of Arts

Andrew taught Humanities and Science at Scotch College, Melbourne then went on to teach English in a refugee camp on the Thai Burmese border for 18 months. After, he spent a year of study at Oxford University. Andrew has experience working at World Vision Australia as a Programme Officer in the Emergency Relief Unit. He also taught Science at Presbyterian Ladies College, Melbourne and spent 9 years at Caulfield Grammar School, Melbourne. At CGS, he taught Humanities, Science and Senior International Studies. He was also coordinator of the Peer Support Programme and the Community Service Programme. Andrew joined AIS in August 2009. He enjoys jogging, swimming, travel and spending time with his wife and two young boys.

Nguyễn Thùy Nhiên

VNS Teacher - Secondary

• BA - English Language

Nhien has over 12 years of experience in working as a teacher and a support teacher at International School. Prior to AIS, she worked at International Primary School and at ACG school Vietnam. During this period, her main job is assisting homeroom teachers in teaching English and helping special students who need more help in terms of language, behaviors and functioning skills. She also has experience in teaching host country studies to foreign students and teaching Vietnamese in secondary. She is an enthusiastic teacher who creates a supportive atmosphere within the classroom.

Nguyễn Phạm Huyền Trang

VNS Teacher - Secondary

• BA - Business Administration

After working as a book translator and secretary for 6 years, Trang joined ACG since 2007 as a support teacher then AIS since 2013. From 2016, she started teaching IBDP Language A, Vietnramese Literature and Vietnamese National Curriculum in Middle & Senior School. Her goals in teaching and also her favorite quote is “Teaching minds, touching hearts, transforming lives”.

Trịnh Thị Mai Phượng

VNS Teacher - Secondary

• BA - English Language

Phuong has taught Vietnamese Language and Literature at ACG and then at AIS since 2008. She is the Coordinator of Vietnamese National Curriculum in Secondary school. She also teaches IBDP Language A: Vietnamese Literature since 2012. She enjoys working with Year 12-13 students as a Homeroom teacher/ Tutor. Before 2008, she had 5 years of experience teaching in a Vietnamese public school. As a language teacher and a mother of a trilingual son, she is keen on first language acquisition and raising multilingual children. She speaks English and French as her second languages. Her hobbies are reading, cooking, photography and gardening.

Lê Ngọc Loan

Music Teacher / Music ST

• BA - Music Education

Huỳnh Lâm Xuân Thảo

Support Teacher

• BA - English

Cao Bảo Khanh

Support Teacher

• BA - English Language

Lê Thị An

Support Teacher

• BA - Engineer (Mechatronics)

Ngô Thị Kim Oanh

Support Teacher

• BA - English Linguistics and Literature

Nguyễn Thị Thúy An

Support Teacher

• BA - English Linguistics and Literature

Trần Thị Trúc Phương

Support Teacher

• BA - Arts (English Linguistics and Literature)

Nguyễn Kim Hài

Special Support Teacher

• BA - English Language

Nguyễn Thị Phương Thảo

Support Teacher

• BA - English

Hồ Thu Thủy

EAL Teacher

• BA - English

Lê Nguyễn Anh Thư

Special Support Teacher

• BA - English Language