Years of Teaching Experience 5+ years
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor in Early Years Education; IB(PYP); Dyslexia Awareness; Certificate of Practice Distinction; Differentiation for Catch-up; EAL for Classroom Teachers; Early Years SEN: Early Identification of Need; Certificate of Teaching Vietnamese Language as a Foreign Language; Certificate of Information Technology Application in Kindergarten; Courses: “Bringing Music into the Classroom” and “Sex Education for Preschool Children”

For Vy, a school cannot be without the laughter of children, each classroom is like a house, each child is a member of that house. The teacher is like the “pillar” in the family, and they must know how to create laughter, love, warmth and solidarity. 

Working as a preschool teacher at HAIS since 2018, Vy has participated in useful summer courses and organized many interesting activities for Early Years and Primary students. This year is her 3rd year working as the Bilingual Early Years Learning Lead. Working at HAIS is a blessing to Vy – she loves her current job more because she is able to work in the right field in a good educational environment, and has the opportunity to learn many different languages ​​and cultures from her colleagues and all students.

Fun facts: Vy loves the beach and listening to the sound of waves. She also loves a good challenge – the more difficult a task is, the more she wants to overcome it.

Years of Teaching Experience: 15+
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of Commerce in Sport Management; Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCSE)

This is Elton’s 4th year teaching in Vietnam. It is also his 16th year teaching as a whole, and he absolutely adores the profession. Elton’s career objective is to be an educator who will create opportunities for students to pursue and achieve their true potential as lifelong learners. He strives to create the best possible environment for children to succeed and develop as individuals through encouraging curiosity, character development and fashioning a safe space for them to explore and enjoy their world. His belief is that learning should never stop and that children should learn from all the experiences and from others. He is truly excited to form part of the the HAIS family, and looks forward to spending his time here.

Fun Fact: As a young man, Elton spent his summer breaks working for a Circus.

Years of Teaching Experience: 9+
Degrees & Certificates: Bachelor of Education UNISA (University of South Africa) | Jolly Phonics Certificate

I’m Lizette, and I’ve been teaching since I was 25 years old. I made a drastic career change from a financial background, but I’ve always had a passion for education and helping kids reach their full potential.

I completed my teaching degree as an Intermediate Senior Phase educator, but my passion has always been to teach younger kids. I started out teaching secondary school in South Africa, and it was much more rewarding than I ever thought it would be. It made me humble and most definitely made me the teacher I am today.

After a few years in South Africa, my husband and I moved to Zambia, where I taught at a boarding school for over 4 years. I loved living in Zambia and being surrounded by sugarcane fields and the majestic African sunset. I also had the opportunity to coach many sports teams, and we even won a few championships.

I’m an active person and I love to learn new things. I’ve been living in Hoi An, Vietnam for the past year, and I’ve been able to do a lot of hiking, biking, and swimming in the beautiful outdoors. I’m also an avid triathlete, and I’m hoping to compete in another race soon.

As a teacher and a parent, I believe that each child is different and has their own unique potential. It’s my job to help each child find their passion in life and to encourage them to reach their full potential. I’m a strong believer that every child has the ability to achieve anything they set their minds to, and it’s my job to help them find that inner belief.

I’m also a team player, and I believe that we’re only as strong as our weakest link. When it comes to kids, I rely on myself to create a positive environment where they can thrive. I believe that the small things done consistently can make a huge difference in a child’s life.

I’m excited to continue my journey as a teacher, and I’m looking forward to helping even more kids reach their full potential.

Lyès has dedicated the past six years to teaching in Vietnam. He began his teaching career in public schools and, for the last four years, has worked with various international programs, gaining valuable experience in diverse educational settings.

After living in Hanoi for six years, Lyès is excited to embark on a new journey by joining the team at HAIS. He is enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to the HAIS community and looks forward to fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment for his students.

Passionate about sports and languages, Lyès regularly takes Vietnamese lessons to immerse himself further in the local culture and improve his language skills. Lyès aspires to create a classroom environment where students feel comfortable sharing their own cultural backgrounds and believes that by fostering an atmosphere of respect and curiosity, students can learn from one another and develop a broader understanding of the world around them.

Mr Craig has been teaching for a total of 12 years, with the past 6 years at the British Vietnamese International School, Hanoi. Prior to his teaching career, he worked as a youth community support worker in the UK. Mr Craig hold a BA hons, PGCE and a Masters in Education.

Experience: He has lived in Vietnam for 10 years, immersing myself in the culture and community. His teaching journey has been driven by his passion for working with children, helping them to discover their potential, and supporting them in achieving their goals.

Interests and Hobbies: In his free time, he enjoys cycling, arts and crafts, and cooking. Mr Craig loves spending weekends with his wife, baby daughter and dog.

Years of Teaching Experience: 3+
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management; Certificate of Pedagogy

Before becoming a Teaching Assistant at HAIS, Tinh taught for one year as an EAL (English as an Additional Language) teacher in Da Nang. That time of learning and playing with children made her feel incredibly peaceful and happy. Tinh was captivated by their innocence and carefree personalities. She discovered what she wanted most was to accompany children on their path to finding their passions and dreams. This is her second year at HAIS and she feels that at HAIS, she and her colleagues are always supported and encouraged to develop personally and professionally.

Fun Fact: Tinh loves running – it helps her balance her emotions and find peace.

Years of Teaching Experience: 10+
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of Foriegn Language – English; Bachelor of Economics – Business Administration; Certificate of Pedagogical Training; Master in Primary Education

Linh taught English for Vietnamese students aged 4-18 for seven years before commencing work at HAIS. She feels very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with students of all ages. Each age group has its own characteristics and interesting highlights. Working with Secondary students is challenging, however, Linh enjoys this age group the most.

Linh has been working at HAIS since 2019. She is delighted to be a member of the HAIS community. This is a school where the education, well-being and happiness of the students are always the primary focus. At HAIS, there are regular professional development sessions for teachers. Linh feels these are great opportunities for her professional growth as well as being immediately applicable to her work.

Fun fact: Linh is afraid of extreme rides so she has never even dared to try things such as roller coasters. However, she accepted her cousin’s invitation to go paragliding during summer three years ago. It was fortunate that she agreed as she was able to experience fifteen minutes of panoramic views of the beach from above. It was a life changing moment for her.

Mr Thomas comes from USA and he is a US Navy veteran. He will begin his 17th year in education, in which he has served as an educator and administration.

HAIS Teaching Role: Drama

Years of Teaching Experience: 23

Degrees & Certifications: Master of Arts in Education specialising in Drama Education and Theatre Arts | Bachelor of Secondary Education (Major in English)

Jennifer is a dedicated educator and theatre-maker with over 20 years of experience. She is passionate about the performing arts and loves introducing students to the magic of theatre!

She has extensive experience in directing plays for various age groups including students in primary school, middle school, high school, and university.

As the Head of Drama at HAIS she is thrilled to collaborate with students and faculty and showcase their talents in spectacular shows. Before moving to Da Nang, Jennifer taught English and Drama for 11 years at various international schools in Ho Chi Minh City and was active with the Saigon Players, a community theatre group.

She has spearheaded, produced, and participated in visual and performing arts festivals, dinner-theatres, British-style pantos, sketch shows, and murder-mystery nights. Her school shows include Clara and the Nutcracker, Beauty and the Beast, The Snow Queen, Moana, Paddington’s Winter Adventure, The Sound of Music, Hairspray, Little Shop of Horrors, The Lion King Jr., Alice in Wonderland, and Encanto. She has given workshops on acting, directing, playwriting, stage management, Commedia dell’ arte, mime and improv and has also trained students for public speaking and monologue competitions. She has also been invited to judge short film competitions and talent shows in Saigon. She is into all the performing arts and has also done performance art, and performance poetry. She loves dancing and has done choreography of various recitals and concerts.

An avid drummer/percussionist, she has also organised faculty and student rock bands and marching bands at her previous schools.

Fun fact: She would love to join a dragon boat rowing crew as she used to participate in dragon boat races in Manila.

Years of Teaching Experience: 6+
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of English

By supporting students to progress in their studies, An feels that she can share the joy and jubilation when they achieve their potential. She has influenced by several important teachers in her life who have guided and inspired her in many ways.

Her teaching philosofpy is to “Learn, Love, Laugh>”.

Fun Fact: When she was a little girl, An dreamed of becoming an English teacher.

Years of Teaching Experience: 10+

Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of TESOL; Washington D.C. Teaching License

When in university, Luke had a passion for new languages and cultures. Studying a degree in how to teach English seemed a natural pathway to experience those things. However, his first experiences as a student teacher is what really cemented his love for education. Watching students explore a topic, helping them to find their own voices and seeing the impacts of learning grow and shape them is a truly rewarding experience that he has enjoyed since his first day.

As a former international school student myself, I have unique insight into what students are going through. I try to use that insight to meet my students’ needs and make learning an enjoyable experience for them.

With more than ten years of teaching experience and as a father now, Luke feels he has the skills, insight and understanding to create a fulfilling educational experience for our students.

Luke believe that a classroom should first and foremost be a safe place for students to express themselves and take risks. He finds the best learning takes place when students are confident to make mistakes and learn from them.

Following this, having high standards for both himself and his students is very important. In his experience, students rise to meet expectations and even exceed them when encouraged and motivated to do so. For this reason, he believes in pushing his students to stretch themselves beyond what they are comfortable with.

Fun Fact: Luke’s passions involve stories in any shape or form, whether they be in books, movies, games or various other types of media. He enjoys hobby writing, and hopes to one day publish his own novel.

Years of Teaching Experience: 6+
Degree & Certifications: Certificate of Education TESOL

Van has been a private teacher for both English and Vietnamese languages for many years while living in Da Nang. This is her second year at HAIS and she feels that it has been a great year so far. She is looking forward to continuing to work with this wonderful school.

Fun fact: Van loves traveling, reading books, cooking and yoga. Thailand is the 40th country that she has visited so far and she cannot wait to see more of this beautiful world.

Years of Teaching Experience: 5+

Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of Business in Tourism Management and Hospitality, Certificate Degree in Sustainable Tourism Management, Diploma in Pre and Primary Teaching, Diploma in French Literature, Master Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language

Marie has spent almost 20 years of her career in the Tourism & Hospitality industry with a specialty in Branding, Marketing and Sustainability. But she always found ways to also be involved in greater education and to perfect her teaching skills. Because teaching others brought her so much joy. Whether it was through teaching Tourism Management to college students, building training programs in the workplace or teaching English and French (her first language) around the world, she always felt most happy in a classroom. Marie is passionate about helping children navigate learning in an inclusive and fun environment. She loves sharing her experience and the lessons she’s learned in the Travel & Tourism business and helping kids and adults learn new languages or advance their literacy skills.

Fun Fact: Marie loves adventure and wildlife travel. She has trekked on many mountain chains (including to Everest Base Camp) and visited plenty of jungles, oceans and grasslands in search of endangered species. That’s her idea of a perfect vacation!

Mr Thomas comes from USA and he is a US Navy veteran. He will begin his 17th year in education, in which he has served as an educator and administration.

Years of Teaching Experience: 11+
Degree & Certifications: B.A. (Fine Arts), PGCE, Developmental Lesson Observation.

Frances has taught Art and Design across a range of age groups in both the UK and Hong Kong. She is a skilled painter and drawer and also enjoys printmaking, mixed media, conceptual art and ceramics. She brings a wide range of experience and expertise to the classroom, including the ability to instruct students across a broad range of techniques and processes.

Under the HAIS Continuing Professional Development programme, Frances completed professional development training in Dyslexia Awareness, EAL for Classroom Teachers, Tackling Low-Level Disruption and Developmental Lesson Observation.

Frances believes in the importance of providing outlets for creative expression at all ages. She feels that the HAIS programmes allow students to learn the fundamental elements of art and explore, experiment, and build on that knowledge, refining their skills as they progress from EYFS into primary, secondary and beyond.

Fun Fact: Frances loves to travel and has visited 37 countries in the last nine years. She is also an accomplished musician and plays piano and violin.

Van is a certified Art and ESL teacher from the United States. Van holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from the University of Houston, USA, with over 10 years of extensive teaching experience in both Art Education and English as a Foreign Language in public and international schools in several countries.

Her passion for teaching and traveling led her to embark on her first overseas teaching journey to Taiwan in 2012, where she taught English for over 5 years. Since then, she has been inspired to travel the world even more and to develop her teaching career abroad. In 2022, Van and her husband Thomas decided to move to Vietnam in search of new adventures, cultural and professional experience.

In the past years, Van has expanded her expertise to include teaching English Language Development, elementary homeroom, secondary and primary school fine arts. She has also successfully established an AP Art & Design Program, and led her team as Department Head of Fine Arts at her previous school. She hopes to continue inspiring young minds, fostering creativity, and propelling her students to reach their fullest potential at HAIS.

In her free time, Van enjoys making art, traveling, photography, trying all types of food, and spending time with her two dogs.

Fun Fact: Van can speak 4 different languages including English, Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese Chinese, and Vietnamese

Years of Teaching Experience: 5+

Degree & Certifications: ABRSM Piano Grade 5

Inspired by his own teachers and passion for learning, Josh began teaching in 2015. He has an array of teaching and musical experience to contribute to the Early Years and Primary Music sectors this coming year. Having taught a range of different subjects, Josh now specialises in music and prides himself on teaching informative, direct, fun and engaging lessons. Josh believes that positive reinforcement creates a joyful and expressive atmosphere in the classroom to allow the students to thrive. To add to his teaching experience, he has played, and continues to play, live music in a variety of styles across Vietnam. This contributes to his passion for music and enthusiasm with encouraging the students to perform with confidence and self assurance.

Years of Teaching Experience: 25+
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of Music

Becoming a teacher and educator has blessed Tass with the opportunity to not only teach the facts, but also have some form of impact as a mentor to a student’s development and inspire them to learn to think. In the process, it has also provided him with great real-life communication skills.

Fun Fact: Tass’ family is from Greece! He also enjoys fitness and composing in his home studio.

With over a decade of vibrant experience in Vietnam, Mr Richard is excited to join HAIS as the Early Years Specialist. Having carved a unique path through the creative fields of music, marketing, and education, he aims to inspire students with an innovative, outside-the-box approach. Helping young learners discover the magic of rhythm, movement, and creativity. His approach to sports in early years education goes beyond physical skills. He sees it as a powerful tool for enhancing overall child development, boosting confidence, and fostering social interaction. Whether we’re practising our throws, learning to balance, or playing cooperative games, each activity is designed to contribute to children’s holistic growth.

At the heart of his teaching philosophy lies a deep commitment to play-based learning and creative arts integration. This dynamic approach fosters an environment where imagination flourishes, and every child’s potential is nurtured.

His goal at HAIS is to cultivate a love for learning that resonates with the rhythm of each child’s individual growth, where every day promises to be an adventure in learning and discovery

Years of Teaching Experience: 12+
Degree & Certifications: M.S. in Sports and Physical Education, M.A. in American Studies, Teaching Training and Certification Program (Physical Education), AustSwim Accreditation – Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety.

After completing his Master’s in Sports Education, Yoann spent one year in America as a teaching assistant. He then obtained a Master’s degree in American Studies. Yoann has a wide-range of experience with children in varying posts such as lifeguard, camp counsellor, coach, and most recently, as a PE teacher in Hanoi for six years. In early 2021, Yoann completed a Cambridge Assessment International Education course in Primary Physical Education.

Under the HAIS Continuing Professional Development programme, Yoann completed professional development training in Dyslexia Awareness, EAL for Classroom Teachers, the Teacher Development Program and Middle Leadership Essentials.

Yoann decided to become a PE teacher because he wanted to share his love of sports with children and encourage healthy, active lifestyles. His teaching philosophy centres around teaching students how to be physically active, not just as youth, but to provide them with the tools and knowledge to remain healthy and active throughout their lives.

Fun Fact: Yoann participated in the World Championship of Ping Pong in London in 2013; it was shown live on SkySports TV

Years of Teaching Experience: 2+
Degree & Certifications: Certificate of Training in Library and Information Competence; Bachelor of Tourism & Hospitality Management

After earning a Bachelors in Tourism & Hospitality Management, Thuy An realized that her passion is in education, so she has been pursuing this career and constantly improving herself. Thuy An has been working as an Assistant Librarian at HAIS for 2 years now. She loves working with students, in education and with books, which led her to this job.

Fun Fact: Thuy An loves dancing although she feels she is not really good at it. She enjoys reading and running in her spare time.

HAIS Teaching Role: Drama

Years of Teaching Experience: 23

Degrees & Certifications: Master of Arts in Education specialising in Drama Education and Theatre Arts | Bachelor of Secondary Education (Major in English)

Jennifer is a dedicated educator and theatre-maker with over 20 years of experience. She is passionate about the performing arts and loves introducing students to the magic of theatre!

She has extensive experience in directing plays for various age groups including students in primary school, middle school, high school, and university.

As the Head of Drama at HAIS she is thrilled to collaborate with students and faculty and showcase their talents in spectacular shows. Before moving to Da Nang, Jennifer taught English and Drama for 11 years at various international schools in Ho Chi Minh City and was active with the Saigon Players, a community theatre group.

She has spearheaded, produced, and participated in visual and performing arts festivals, dinner-theatres, British-style pantos, sketch shows, and murder-mystery nights. Her school shows include Clara and the Nutcracker, Beauty and the Beast, The Snow Queen, Moana, Paddington’s Winter Adventure, The Sound of Music, Hairspray, Little Shop of Horrors, The Lion King Jr., Alice in Wonderland, and Encanto. She has given workshops on acting, directing, playwriting, stage management, Commedia dell’ arte, mime and improv and has also trained students for public speaking and monologue competitions. She has also been invited to judge short film competitions and talent shows in Saigon. She is into all the performing arts and has also done performance art, and performance poetry. She loves dancing and has done choreography of various recitals and concerts.

An avid drummer/percussionist, she has also organised faculty and student rock bands and marching bands at her previous schools.

Fun fact: She would love to join a dragon boat rowing crew as she used to participate in dragon boat races in Manila.