Patrik is an established entrepreneur and strategic leader with a deep-rooted commitment to the Basel community. With extensive experience in organisational scaling, financial planning, and operational implementation, he provides the high-level oversight necessary to ensure ELABasel’s long-term sustainability. Patrik’s focus is on bridging commercial stability with the school’s core values, ensuring the new AG structure delivers on its promise of growth and excellence for the next generation.

With over 30 years of leadership experience, José Antonio specialises in the strategic turnaround and growth of international educational institutions. Formerly a senior corporate executive overseeing large-scale international expansions (including Carrefour China), he transitioned into education a decade ago. He has a proven track record of revitalising schools in Spain and Switzerland—most notably leading ISCS Zug from 29 to over 210 students. At ELABasel, he leads the operational transformation and the expansion of the Middle School pathway.

Nadine serves as a Global Head of People, Culture & Organisation, bringing world-class expertise in building high-performing teams within complex, changing environments. Her focus on the Board is to ensure that ELABasel remains an employer of choice, fostering a professional work culture that attracts and retains top-tier international educators. She is dedicated to aligning organisational development with the school’s nurturing pedagogical mission.

Caroline is a specialist in systemic organisational development and the founder of a successful consultancy. With 30 years of professional experience, she advises the Board on leadership structures and team effectiveness. Her expertise ensures that as ELABasel grows, its internal processes remain agile, professional, and focused on the well-being of the entire community.

Rachel holds a PhD in Molecular Biology and brings a wealth of experience from the pharmaceutical industry, specialising in the synthesis of complex global narratives. Her background in high-level science and corporate governance gives her the cognitive agility to translate intricate strategic data into clear, transparent communication for our community. Rachel focuses on building a strategic narrative that fosters long-term stakeholder trust—a vital currency in a rapidly evolving digital age. She is dedicated to ensuring ELABasel students develop the critical thinking and human-centric skills needed to thrive in a technology-driven future.

Maria is a lawyer and senior executive with a distinguished background in public governance and international education. Having served as a State Financial Controller (Interventor del Estado) for the Spanish Government and held an international post at the Spanish Consulate in Shanghai, she brings a high level of expertise in financial auditing and ethical oversight. Maria has successfully led admissions strategies for international schools in Switzerland and Spain, delivering sustained growth through a focus on community-aligned enrollment. On the Board, she ensures that ELABasel’s admissions and safeguarding protocols meet the highest standards of integrity and student well-being.

My name is Ollie Paget. I am originally from Bishop’s Stortford in the UK. I studied a Science based degree at the University of Exeter and then started my first role in a secondary school as a Teaching Assistant and Cover Supervisor – working mostly in the behavioural and special needs department. After a year in this role, I undertook my PGCE at the University of Winchester and then taught in Portsmouth for 2 years. Afterwards, I moved to ELA Basel and have taught the Primary 7 and 8 age groups since 2015. In 2017 I was made the Phase Leader of Primary 7 and 8 as well as subject coordinator for Maths and Science; additionally, I am currently in the process of learning German. In 2018 I was appointed Deputy Head of the Primary School.

I am Katherine Robinson and in March 2012 I was appointed Head of Early Years at ELA Basel. I am from South Shields, a small town in the north-east of England. From 1990 until 2003 I worked in a special needs school teaching children from 3 years old through to 16 years old. I have also worked as a lecturer, teaching students the principles and philosophies behind working in Early Years. In 2008, I gained the NPQICL certification and was appointed the Head of a Children Centre which achieved ‘excellence status’ from Ofsted in 2009. I thoroughly enjoy working at ELA Basel and am committed to providing a happy, safe environment where children can learn, develop and become confident individuals.

My name is Noemi. Born in Switzerland of Hungarian parents, I grew up in Paris, Vienna, Seoul and Basel, before moving to Barbados in the year 2000. I completed my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology and, for a couple of years, worked in support of women and children affected by gender-based violence. In 2009, I began working at an early intervention centre catering to children with neurodevelopmental differences aged 6 months to 11 years, along with their families. That is where I discovered my passion for a deeper understanding of child development. I just love to celebrate with a child when they feel accomplished about something –no matter how big or how small a step it may seem to be! I continued my professional training in early childhood development while also teaching and tutoring other clinicians online. Now – after a brief but adventurous diversion working on cruise ships – I have returned to my country of birth and to my passion at heart: Our children, our future.

My name is Erin Colwell Serena and I am Canadian. I finished my university education in 2005 and moved to Switzerland shortly after. I speak German, English and Romansch. I have been with the organization since 2010 and have been a Room Leader on the toddler floor since 2014. I am pleased to support the ELA Basel community as a member of the Early Years Leadership Team.

My name is Marta Szyszka. I am French and I have completed my degrees in Early Years Education and English History and Literature at the University of Mulhouse. I have worked in diverse childcare settings and have been an Early Years Consultant for a local authority. I started at ELA Basel in 2002. I am a Preschool room leader and Deputy head of Early Years. I believe working with young children has to be a calling. My priority is the well-being of children and a positive relationship with parents. A good understanding of child psychology, empathy, and patience are essential and I aim to implement that every day. I am pleased to support the ELA Basel community as a member of the Early Years Leadership Team.

I am Aurélia Anselin-Martinez. I was born in France and have been working for ELA Basel since 2007. I started working here as an Assistant in a toddler room. I was then promoted to a Room Leader position in one of the baby groups in 2011. I spent eighteen months in England, where I studied English and looked after children. Then, I passed my BA degree in English at Mulhouse University. Later, I passed the DEEJE which is the Bachelor of Arts in Early Years’ Education, the highest level in France for Early Years Education. I believe in providing a warm, patient, respectful and consistent environment for the children in order to see them develop into independent and secure grown-ups.

My name is Ana, I grew up in Alicante, a medium size city on the Eastern coast of Spain. I moved to the beautiful city of Córdoba to carry out my degree in preschool teaching. Then, I came back to Alicante where I have been working for five years in different areas of education. I have taught in public schools, a kindergarten, and I have coordinated school libraries and canteens. I started working at ELA in August 2022 as an Assistant in Brown Group where I realised that this school is a big family and I learnt a lot from my colleagues. I am currently working as a Room Leader in Purple Group developing all that I have learnt over the years and implementing new methodologies to get the best out of my students.

My name is Olya and I’ve been working in ELA Basel since 2014. As well as co-teaching pre-school German class I work as an Early Years Assistant in Preschool Violet class. I’ve worked (on and off) in child care since 2008. I speak German, English and Russian fluently. Alongside working I am also studying for a Swiss Federal Diploma in Child Education.

I am Heba Abou El Magd and I am originally from Egypt. I studied for my Bachelor degree in Education at Ain-shams university, Cairo. I speak Arabic, English, and German. I moved to Basel with my family in 2002 and joined ELA Basel the following year. I have been working in the Toddler’s Orange Room since 2009. I completed my Early Years Level 3 Diploma in 2011 and took over the Room Leader position the same year. I achieved a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management in Early Years in 2019. I believe that each child deserves a safe, and inviting environment that meets their individual needs, respects and represents his/her culture. I feel so proud being a part of the ELA Basel team.

My name is Anabela and I am originally from Portugal. I studied for my Bachelor degree in "Educação de Infância" (the highest Early Years qualification in Portugal, that enables me to work with children from 3 months to 6 years old) at School of Education-Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo. I have worked in an Early Years setting, as a Room Leader, for over 8 years in Portugal, before moving to Basel in September 2013. I have been working at ELA Basel since January 2014 and have been a Room Leader on the Pre-school floor since August 2018. As a professional, I do believe caregivers are "dream builders" and hold in their hands the future of the new generation – we have to promote and encourage the social, emotional, physical and cognitive development, needs and interests of children, to make sure they will feel valued and integrated in the society.

My name is Amanda Garcia. I was born in Cuba and graduated as a language teacher. After completing my studies and gaining practical experience, I moved to Switzerland to start a new chapter in my life. I completed my studies in Switzerland in July, which strengthened my professional skills in early childhood education. I enjoy working with families from different cultural backgrounds and value open and respectful collaboration with parents. As a mother of a young child, I understand the needs, concerns and expectations of families very well. I am truly excited to work in a field I am passionate about and to be part of the ELA Basel community, supporting children in a safe, caring and stimulating environment.

I am Aïssata Thiam and I joined ELA Basel in 2005. I became a Group Leader on the pre-school floor in 2009. I am a native of Senegal but I was born and raised in France where I obtained French nationality. I speak French and English fluently and also speak some Spanish, German and Portuguese. I trained for my diploma as an Educator of Young Children in 2004 whilst also studying for my Bachelor degree. In my career, I have worked with children with hearing impairment to integrate them into a mainstream school setting. I have been hired as an after school facilitator in a vocational school. I also worked as an au pair in Oxford, England. In 2015, I achieved the CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Preschool Practice. I have attended many trainings at ELA Basel via the SGIS. In future, I wish to continue my professional development in Psychomotor Therapy and Special Educational Needs. My educational philosophy is to promote and value equality and diversity in our setting.

I am Gosia von Stockalper. Originally from Poland, I hold dual Swiss and Polish citizenship. I speak Polish, English and German. I am a qualified Early Years Educator. I started my childcare and education career in London in 2004. I have been working at ELA Basel since 2012. Through all these years I have gained the necessary experience and knowledge in understanding children’s development and behaviour as well as working in collaboration with parents. I am very passionate about my job and love working with children. I strive to provide a safe and stimulating environment where children can learn and challenge themselves. After 8 years working at ELA Basel I was appointed as a permanent room leader in Red Group. I believe that my experience in child care and leadership will add more value to the quality of care, the team and the organisation.

My name is Katharina Franke and I have been the German Subject Teacher for Primary 5 to Primary 8 at ELA Basel since 2015. Additionally, as a German native speaker, I have undertaken the role as Outings Coordinator since 2018. Originally I come from Stuttgart in Germany and have studied German, English and Geography for Primary and Secondary school level at the Pädagogische Hochschule in Weingarten Baden-Württemberg. After University, I went straight into teaching in a primary school in my subjects in the Grundschule Murg-Niederhof. My wish to work in an international school finally brought me to ELA Basel.

My name is Sam Humphries and I have been teaching at ELA Basel since August 2018. Originally from Kent, England, I graduated with a degree in Geography from the University of Portsmouth before training for my PGCE in 2013. My teaching career started in Portsmouth and Brighton, where I taught classes in Year 5 and 6. After a successful year as a Primary 8 Class Teacher, I took on my new role as Phase Leader of Primary 6-8 at ELA Basel in 2020. That year the school sponsored me to study for my National Professional Qualification in Middle Leadership. Ensuring our eldest Primary School pupils are happy, engaged and challenged in their learning will be a focus of mine, with particular attention on developing English. I will be reviewing the English curriculum and will look to advance the teaching and progress for spelling and reading. I passionately believe in championing and challenging every child in all areas of academic and wider learning which allows their confidence and self-esteem to thrive, so they become well equipped to be effective and collaborative life-long learners.

My name is Catie Davis and I come from Yorkshire, England. I have taught Lower Key Stage 2 since I joined ELA Basel in August 2015. I qualified as a teacher in 2000, after completing a combined B.Sc. in Maths and Primary Education. I then worked in schools in England, teaching across the primary age range. During this time, I applied to participate in the Teachers International Professional Development program and spent a week observing teaching and learning in the education system of St Vincent and the Grenadines in the Caribbean. This experience was extremely rewarding, as it allowed me to reflect on my own teaching practice and the development of my career, inspiring me to make the move to working in international schools. In 2013, I moved to Norway to teach at a British international school. In my opinion, one of the best things about working in an international school is the opportunity to take the best practice from different cultures and combine them. Having worked throughout the Primary school age range, I took on the role of Phase Leader for Lower Key Stage 2 in 2020. In 2022 I achieved the National Professional Qualification in Middle Leadership.

My name is Kirstie Anetzberger and I am one of the Primary 1 teachers and Art Co-ordinator at ELA Basel, where I have worked since 2014. In 2019 I was appointed EYFS Transition Coordinator helping pre-school children as they transition to the primary school. Originally I am from north-east England and speak English and French fluently. I went to university at Leeds Metropolitan where I studied for a BA (Hons) in Early Years and Primary Education. During this time, I was also lucky enough to work with children in New Jersey for 6 months. Before coming to Basel, I taught at several schools in the UK and was the Key Stage 1 leader at my last school. I believe that every child is unique with their own learning style and pace and with the right care, support and guidance is able to succeed, grow and develop in a happy environment.

My name is Catie Davis and I come from Yorkshire, England. I have taught Lower Key Stage 2 since I joined ELA Basel in August 2015. I qualified as a teacher in 2000, after completing a combined B.Sc. in Maths and Primary Education. I then worked in schools in England, teaching across the primary age range. During this time, I applied to participate in the Teachers International Professional Development program and spent a week observing teaching and learning in the education system of St Vincent and the Grenadines in the Caribbean. This experience was extremely rewarding, as it allowed me to reflect on my own teaching practice and the development of my career, inspiring me to make the move to working in international schools. In 2013, I moved to Norway to teach at a British international school. In my opinion, one of the best things about working in an international school is the opportunity to take the best practice from different cultures and combine them. Having worked throughout the Primary school age range, I took on the role of Phase Leader for Lower Key Stage 2 in 2020. In 2022 I achieved the National Professional Qualification in Middle Leadership.

My name is Emma Carragher and I am a class teacher at ELA Basel. I have been working at ELA Basel since August 2016, moving from the UK, where I taught in Devon for 3 years. Originally, I am from near London and I studied at the University of Exeter for both my undergraduate degree and my PGCE. Since moving to Basel, I am in the process of learning German, attending weekly lessons. My education philosophy is centred around teaching the child as a whole, helping them develop academically, emotionally and socially. I feel that it is vital that children develop a passion for learning and expanding their knowledge and that they enjoy all elements of their education.

My name is Emma Bedford. After training as a teacher and beginning my career in my native UK, I relocated with my family to New Zealand where I worked part time. Following relocation to Australia I worked as a Special Education Teacher in a mainstream primary school, supporting children with diverse learning needs and styles. Until my family relocated to Basel I worked as a class teacher at an international school in Hong Kong that follows the UK curriculum. I believe my experience of working within such a diverse range of schools and across a range of curriculums gives me a great insight into how children learn. I am a passionate believer that all children learn in their own unique way and children will thrive in a warm, caring environment. Getting to know the children in my care and ensuring they reach their potential underpins my entire pedagogy as a teacher. I am delighted to be part of the team at ELA Basel.

My name is Sam Humphries and I have been teaching at ELA Basel since August 2018. Originally from Kent, England, I graduated with a degree in Geography from the University of Portsmouth before training for my PGCE in 2013. My teaching career started in Portsmouth and Brighton, where I taught classes in Year 5 and 6. After a successful year as a Primary 8 Class Teacher, I took on my new role as Phase Leader of Primary 6-8 at ELA Basel in 2020. That year the school sponsored me to study for my National Professional Qualification in Middle Leadership. Ensuring our eldest Primary School pupils are happy, engaged and challenged in their learning will be a focus of mine, with particular attention on developing English. I will be reviewing the English curriculum and will look to advance the teaching and progress for spelling and reading. I passionately believe in championing and challenging every child in all areas of academic and wider learning which allows their confidence and self-esteem to thrive, so they become well equipped to be effective and collaborative life-long learners.

I am Emily Gardinal and I work in one of the P1 classes at ELA Basel. Originally from Oxford, I studied English at Royal Holloway College London and completed my PGCE at Westminster College, Oxford. I taught at a primary school in Old Windsor for many years before moving to Alsace with my family. I speak French. I began working at ELA Basel in the Pre-school in 2007 and moved to the Primary school in 2010. I feel it is very important to give young children a positive and welcoming start to school.

I am Evelyn de Kock and I was delighted to start teaching at ELA Basel in August 2018. I trained in South Africa and qualified as an Educational Psychologist and Teacher. My professional qualifications include a Higher Education Diploma and a Master of Arts Degree, specializing in Educational Psychology. I have lived and worked in South Africa, Belgium, the UK and Switzerland. Before teaching at ELA Basel, I taught at an international primary school in Switzerland for six years. My educational belief is based on the importance of getting to know the children’s learning styles and building positive teacher-student relationships that facilitate a readiness to learn. Learning is relational. Meaningful relationships help students to develop growth mindsets, learning from their mistakes, remaining curious and open to discovering new meanings or connections. I believe that building a classroom community starts on the first day of the academic year and that this active engagement should be fostered throughout the year.

My name is Elizabeth Hatton and I am a teacher at ELA Basel. I am originally from the UK but I have lived in Switzerland with my family for almost seven years. I have a degree in Psychology and completed my training whilst based at the International School Basel, gaining my PGCE in 2014. I have experience with children who have learning difficulties and working with children across the Primary Age range. Since moving to ELA Basel, I have worked as a teacher in P1 and P2 and have particularly enjoyed the sense of community and family here at this school.

My name is Kirstie Anetzberger and I am one of the Primary 1 teachers and Art Co-ordinator at ELA Basel, where I have worked since 2014. In 2019 I was appointed EYFS Transition Coordinator helping pre-school children as they transition to the primary school. Originally I am from north-east England and speak English and French fluently. I went to university at Leeds Metropolitan where I studied for a BA (Hons) in Early Years and Primary Education. During this time, I was also lucky enough to work with children in New Jersey for 6 months. Before coming to Basel, I taught at several schools in the UK and was the Key Stage 1 leader at my last school. I believe that every child is unique with their own learning style and pace and with the right care, support and guidance is able to succeed, grow and develop in a happy environment.

My name is Imogen Davies and in August 2018 I started my position at ELA Basel as a Teaching Assistant. I graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA (Hons) Acting degree in 2017. After taking lead and supporting roles in many productions, from pantomime to Shakespeare, I would like to use this experience in my new role supporting children, in both the classroom and their extra-curricular activities. Since graduating I have been working with children at a day care nursery and school holiday club, planning and delivering a range of activities for ages 1-12. My aim is to support young people as they explore their creativity and increase their confidence through learning. I am very excited to have joined the team at ELA Basel.

Originally from Scotland, I relocated to Basel along with my family in 2016. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences from the University of Strathclyde, Scotland, and am currently completing a Post Graduate Certificate of Education at University of East London, England. I have been working as a Teaching Assistant at an international school in Basel from 2018 to 2020. Previously, I gained more than 10 years’ experience of supporting children and young adults in education settings, most recently as a Teaching Assistant at three primary schools in Glasgow, Scotland. As well as supporting the delivery of the Scottish curriculum, I also specialised in providing targeted support to children and young adults with complex additional support needs so that they could integrate well within the wider school community. I have been joining ELA Basel in the role of Teaching Assistant, supporting the Primary School.

My name is Karina. I am from Ukraine and hold Ukrainian citizenship. After graduating from university in 2017, I began my career working at a private school with children aged 6 to 14. A few months later, I moved to China, where I worked in a Montessori-based kindergarten in Wuhan. This opportunity gave me valuable experience in early childhood education and international teaching. Later, I joined the international Nutifood Football Academy, where I worked as a teacher alongside colleagues from all over the world. These experiences deepened my passion for multicultural communities and international environments, which I find inspiring and enriching. After my time in Vietnam, I continued my career online with Skyeng, where I was involved in developing and presenting the school’s programs. I conducted trial classes, organised speaking clubs, and worked actively with students. In addition, I became part of the Allright school, where lessons were delivered in a playful and creative way, making the learning process engaging and fun for children. I truly enjoy working with children and seeing them grow in every sense of the word. Being part of their development is not only rewarding but also a great responsibility, as children are our future. I feel privileged to contribute to this important work and to help shape the world in which we will all live.

My name is Ella, and I am from the United States. I became a Registered Nurse in 2020 and worked in several hospitals on adult medical-surgical units. During that time, I also taught dance at a local studio, working with students ages 2–17 in styles including lyrical, jazz, contemporary, and ballet. In 2023, I decided to pursue my passion for education and returned to school to become a teacher. I earned my Master’s Degree in Health Education and became a New York State Certified Teacher in 2025. I am passionate about supporting students’ learning and development and helping them build confidence both inside and outside the classroom. I am very excited to have joined the ELABasel team and to get to know the school community.

My name is Emma Fox and I am thrilled to be joining the ELA Basel team. After completing a BSc of Pharmacology & Toxicology in Australia, I worked in a hospital before moving to Switzerland in 2020. Having taught piano and horse-riding from an early age, I decided to also become qualified in teaching English as a foreign language. Since acquiring a CELTA certificate, I have worked as a language teacher in and around Basel, as well as becoming a regular teacher at the Academia Summer Camp in Zuoz, Engadine, working with children of all ages. In 2024, I successfully completed a Qualified Teacher Status and iPGCE via a UK University and have since been working with ELA Basel as a substitute teacher. I am very passionate about teaching and bring forth many skills and knowledge from my previous studies. I love to engage the children in their own learning, encouraging an independent and creative environment.

My name is Annella, and I am originally from Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean. I completed my studies in Psychology in the Caribbean before spending a gap year in Lyon, France, where I worked as an English foreign language assistant in primary schools. This experience sparked a lasting interest in education and language learning. Upon returning to the Caribbean, I gained valuable experience working in the mental health field before relocating to Switzerland. There, I began my teaching career as an English as an Additional Language (EAL) teacher in Basel and the surrounding region. Over the past three years, I have transitioned into primary education, further developing my teaching practice and specialising in primary-level instruction. I am delighted to join the ELA Basel community and look forward to contributing over ten years of professional experience. I look forward to working closely with pupils, parents, and colleagues in support of a positive and inclusive learning environment.

My name is Ana Maria, and I am delighted to be joining the ELA Basel team as a Learning Support Assistant. I bring a rich international background in education, with experience teaching both primary and secondary school students. Supporting children in their learning journey is truly a privilege for me. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from England. Previously, I worked at a Cambridge International School in the Middle East as a Primary School Teacher, at a public school in Switzerland as a substitute French Teacher, and as a private Primary School Teacher. These experiences have strengthened my passion for inclusive education and individualized student support. I am very excited to share my knowledge and experience with the children at ELA Basel and to support each child in reaching their full potential, working closely with you to support your children.

My name is Lia Stavoravdi-Stoll. I am a native English and Greek speaker and a qualified English language teacher. I have been working in education since 2005, teaching both children and adults in a wide range of international settings. My experience includes teaching young children, as well as working with blind and low-vision learners in Switzerland and Greece, where I supported them in developing life skills and orientation and mobility skills. I also co-founded a guide dog school for the blind in Athens, where I worked for many years in educational management and training. Over the years, I have developed a strong interest in creating supportive, inclusive and motivating learning environments where children feel confident and encouraged to grow. I am very happy to be joining ELA Basel and to be part of such a caring, international school community.

My name is Katharina Franke and I have been the German Subject Teacher for Primary 5 to Primary 8 at ELA Basel since 2015. Additionally, as a German native speaker, I have undertaken the role as Outings Coordinator since 2018. Originally I come from Stuttgart in Germany and have studied German, English and Geography for Primary and Secondary school level at the Pädagogische Hochschule in Weingarten Baden-Württemberg. After University, I went straight into teaching in a primary school in my subjects in the Grundschule Murg-Niederhof. My wish to work in an international school finally brought me to ELA Basel.

My name is Anya and I have been a TA at ELA Basel since 2021. I grew up in the south west of England with a German mother, before completing my MA in Geography and German at the University of Glasgow. In 2020 I moved to Germany where I spent a year as an English teaching assistant in a state secondary school in the Black Forest. For the first two years at ELA Basel I worked mainly with Reception and Year 1, but now work with all ages to support German teaching. I very much enjoy working with young people and sharing my passion for languages and knowledge of British culture and can't wait to continue to share my enthusiasm with the next generation and help each and every pupil have an enjoyable and successful experience!

My name is Nela. I've lived and worked in Switzerland for 11 years. Since graduating with a Master's degree in English in 2006, I have constantly been teaching. Whether in private lessons, small groups or large classes, the essential things are: passion, humour and warmth. Before relocating to Switzerland from Lublin, my hometown in Poland, I taught English, Polish and Maths in an upper secondary and a primary school and at a language centre. After moving to Basel, I've worked as a teacher in international schools and a supply teacher in state schools. I added art and design, physical education and science (primary school) into my repertoire. Finally, last year, I also included DaZ. Strongly inspired by the books of Jesper Juul and Dan Siegel, I have three professional passions: languages, teaching children and working with children with special or specific needs. I am the happiest when I can combine all three. I thrive in a diversified and lively environment, so being a part of ELA Basel's team is very rewarding.

My name is Tosca Lentz and I am a Teacher for the German Advanced children in Reception, Year 1, 2, 3, and 6, and German Intermediate in Year 7. Likewise, I am the German Maths Teacher in Year 6 and 7. Originally from Germany, I am a highly qualified Class Teacher for Primary and Secondary School. I studied for my two state examinations at the University of Education Freiburg im Breisgau in Germany. After finishing my studies and my traineeship in a Primary and a Secondary School, I worked in several schools in Germany as a class and specialist teacher. At the beginning of the academic school year 2010/11, I started teaching at ELA Basel. As I am fluent in High German, English, French and Spanish, I really enjoy working with children from all over the world and bringing them closer to my mother tongue language German. Education is the foundation for a child’s future. I wish my pupils to feel that they matter, that their opinions and ideas are valuable. Therefore, I believe it is essential that teachers, parents, and the school community work closely together to create a collaborative learning environment for our pupils. As a teacher, I take pride in my profession and it is my great pleasure being someone who shepherds the future generation.

Growing up in and around Brussels with Dutch as my native language, I also acquired French from a young age through school, family and friends. As I have always had a strong interest in languages, I completed the classical languages (Latin and Greek) course in secondary school. After completing my primary school teacher’s degree in Brussels, I taught in a primary school in Sint-Jans-Molenbeek where nearly all children came from bilingual or trilingual backgrounds. I moved to France in 2005 and held an administrative position in a multinational in Basel for 8 years, before taking a break from work to raise my young children. I resumed my career working for ELA Basel in November 2018. I am currently a French teacher, working with advanced children from Year 3 to Year 7, as well as some beginners.

I am Jonas. I was born in Bad Säckingen, Germany, close to Basel, but my family moved to Thailand when I was six years old. As a student, I spent all my primary school years at the RIS Swiss Section (Deutschsprachige Schule Bangkok) and returned to Germany when I was a teenager. After finishing my studies at the University of Education in Freiburg and my traineeship in a primary school close to Lörrach, I worked at the German School in Guatemala for 7 years. There, I worked as a primary school teacher mainly teaching German as a foreign language, but I also taught physical education and was able to contribute my other subject, art, to the other disciplines. I enjoy working in an international environment, where multiple cultures can meet and exchange and am delighted to have joined the ELA Basel team as a new member. I see working with and teaching children as a wonderful challenge and I always dedicate myself to this grateful task with all my "head, heart and hand".

My name is Luke, and I originally come from Cornwall in the far South West of the UK. I have been playing music since I was 7 years old and started touring in a professional capacity at the age of 19. Alongside performing, I have studied for my undergraduate degree, teacher training and also an MA in Music and Sonic Media. I worked as a teacher in the South East of the UK in all areas of education, from Primary through to College level education and have previously ran my own department in a large secondary and sixth form school. I love teaching Primary as it gives me a chance to really explore the natural and inherent nature of music in a fun and holistic way.

I am Tina Corrigan and have been working at ELA Basel since August 2017. Originally from Yorkshire in the UK, I studied Mathematics at The University of Edinburgh and later trained for my PGCE at The University of Manchester. I speak a little French (which I hope to improve on!) and am excited to begin learning German. Previously I have worked across the primary school age range in schools in the UK and at the British International School of Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam where I enjoyed the additional roles of Mathematics Leader and Primary Production Director. As well as my interest in all things Maths I also have a passion for performing arts which I have enjoyed sharing with the children I have worked with in the past through dance clubs, drama clubs and school productions.

My name is Katharina Franke and I have been the German Subject Teacher for Primary 5 to Primary 8 at ELA Basel since 2015. Additionally, as a German native speaker, I have undertaken the role as Outings Coordinator since 2018. Originally I come from Stuttgart in Germany and have studied German, English and Geography for Primary and Secondary school level at the Pädagogische Hochschule in Weingarten Baden-Württemberg. After University, I went straight into teaching in a primary school in my subjects in the Grundschule Murg-Niederhof. My wish to work in an international school finally brought me to ELA Basel.

My name is Nicky Hawley and I returned to ELA Basel in August 2019 after taking extended maternity leave. Originally from London, I obtained a BA Degree in Primary Teaching at the University of Greenwich and I went on to teach in London over a period of six years before moving to Switzerland. Since moving to Basel, I enjoy learning German and now as a new parent to bilingual boys, I enjoy studying how children develop their languages while growing up in a bi-cultural environment. During my six years at ELA Basel, I have taught P2 and P3, enjoyed my time as Phase Leader and coordinated PE and English across the school. I am proud to know the majority of the children at our school. I am now very excited to be taking on the new, significant role as Inclusion Coordinator. As Inclusion Coordinator, my role involves developing effective ways to overcome any barriers to children’s learning. While working with staff and parents, my driving principle is to make all students feel valued, appropriately challenged and supported in their efforts so that they can achieve success across the curriculum.

My name is Jerry Santa Ana, and I am a dedicated educator and language specialist originally from Mexico. After relocating to the United States for school, I embraced new challenges and opportunities, ultimately becoming fluent in both Spanish and English. With over 20 years of experience in education, I specialise in teaching English as an additional language. I have a proven track record of working one-on-one with children with high-level needs, providing personalised support and fostering a genuine love for learning. My career has taken me to diverse international settings, including China, Spain, Mexico, and Switzerland. While teaching in Mexico, I began pursuing a Master's degree in International Education to further enhance my ability to create inclusive learning environments. Since joining ELA Basel in 2019, I have been an integral part of the inclusion team, committed to supporting all students in their educational journeys.

Originally from Italy, I have a Master’s Degree in “Deutsch –Italienische Studien” from the University of Florence and I spent one year at the University of Münster to focus on German literature and language. After years working as a nanny and tutoring kids in Italy, I moved to Basel in 2018 to work as a TA in an international school. There, I was in charge of overseeing and tutoring students, organizing after school activities and supporting teachers in managing class behaviour. In my free time I enjoy baking, sewing and hiking. I am a caring and motivated teacher assistant with 2 years classroom and after school care experience. I feel very privileged to be part of ELA Basel supporting P3 in their daily activities and taking care of the children.

I am Marta Magiera and I am a trained psychologist and a dedicated pre-school teacher specialising in child development. I have got experience working with children with developmental challenges as well as various learning disabilities. I obtained my MA in psychology from Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Poland where I was born and raised. During my studies, I spent one semester at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. My MA thesis focused on psycho-linguistics and language development in bilingual children. I am also very passionate about the concept of inclusion and building an environment in which all types of learners are nurtured and supported. At the moment, I am working on completing my iPGCE and aiming for becoming a qualified teacher. I am very excited about working at ELA Basel!

My name is Lauren, an Australian primary school teacher currently living in Basel, Switzerland. My academic journey began with a focus on Fine Art, and I went on to complete a Bachelor of Education at the University of Sydney in 2013. I also hold a Master’s degree in International Education, which has deepened my understanding of global teaching practices. I started my career specialising in autism education and have since worked in a variety of settings, including remote and coastal areas of New South Wales. After moving to Switzerland, I joined the Inclusion Department at ELA Basel, where I support students in achieving their full potential. In addition to my teaching role, I’m a mum to two bilingual children, which has given me a personal insight into the challenges and rewards of raising multilingual families. Outside of family and work, I also sing in a band, continuing to express my passion for music and creativity.

My name is Keith Smith and I come from Drogheda on the east coast of Ireland where I worked as a Primary School Teacher for seven years before relocating to Basel in 2017. Before returning to study in St. Patrick’s DCU (Dublin City University), I worked as a journalist, graphic designer and later as a news editor in a large regional Irish newspaper for almost eight years. I joined the ELA Basel team in November 2017. As well as conversational level German, I also speak Irish and I’m a published musician, songwriter and music producer. I enjoy photography and videography, skills that I use almost every day as Multimedia and Marketing Coordinator here at ELA Basel. Throughout my personal and professional life, I have always looked for opportunities to put my own creative spin on things so I am happy to use my talents to engage, motivate and inspire young minds at ELA Basel to be the best that they can be.

My name is Amy and I am an American living in Switzerland since 2015. I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from an American University and began work as a Teacher’s Assistant and later a Lead Pre-K Teacher in a preschool setting. I spent a year as an Au Pair in Switzerland where I taught English for a private family and found my passion in teaching English in the international setting. Moving to Switzerland permanently and earning my Post Graduate Certificate of Education International from University of Nottingham, I worked for several years as an English teacher in international Kitas. I worked for six years as an English Teacher and Assistant Director for a private English Centre in Baselland, designing curricula, hiring teachers, teaching all levels of English learners, and leading holiday camps. I am excited to leverage my experience and education to the Head of Programmes position at ELA where I can continue to advance myself professionally. I am particularly looking forward to cultivating my passion for working within the international setting, where I am able to meet children and families from various cultures and walks of life.

Hello, my name is Wouter Rausch and I started at ELA in May 2019. As a Dutch National, I moved to England to complete my secondary and further education. I studied German and Politics (BA Hons) at Bath University, before moving onto completing a Post Graduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) at Bath Spa University. My first year of teaching was in a large primary school in Kent, before moving back to Bristol for the subsequent 4 years. Afterwards, I became a Special Needs Coordinator in Lancaster where I worked for 4 years in a challenging school, as well as for the local council training other SENDCOs. This was a very rewarding experience. In 2017, my wife was offered a post at Novartis so we came to Basel. I have been very lucky to have a variety of different responsibilities whilst at ELA, the latest being Head of Programmes.

My name is Mark. I have got Dutch and Irish citizenship. After finishing my studies in the Netherlands, I worked as a Primary School Teacher for almost ten years before moving to the Tri-Border Area. In and around Basel I worked as a private Dutch and English Language Teacher, and later in Berne as the Personal Assistant to the Dutch Ambassador. Since 2018 I have been part of the ELA Basel HR and Administration Team where I can combine my experience and education, while learning many new things. ELA Basel is a very motivating place to work and I am happy to have so many fantastic colleagues. I enjoy working in an environment with young children. It brings special responsibilities – and thanks to their directness and honesty, it is also very rewarding.

My name is Merle. I have lived in Switzerland since 2007. I was born and raised in Germany. In July 2023 I moved from Zurich to Ettingen. After my A-levels, I took the opportunity to spend a year working and travelling in Australia and New Zealand. Back in Germany, I decided to do an apprenticeship in the hotel industry in my hometown of Hanover. After my training, I gained work experience in various areas, including Front Office Management, Reservations & Revenue Management, and HR Management at various hotels in Zurich. In 2018, I arrived at my heart's role in HR and continued my education in the field of HR. I completed my training as an HR assistant and started further training as an HR specialist in October 2021, both at NBW in Zurich. Having started at ELA Basel in August I look forward to using the experience I have gained and what I have learnt.

My name is Liz. Originally from the United States, I completed a BA in Spanish Philology in Madrid where I also worked for several years at the Saint Louis University’s Madrid Campus, supporting international students as Scholarship Coordinator. I then moved to Basel and worked in the field of digital communications where I managed websites, newsletters, and online content. I am now delighted to join the ELA Basel team as Receptionist and Administrative Assistant where I can interact with the community on a more personal level. As a parent myself, I truly value being part of a warm, family-oriented school community, and I look forward to contributing to the welcoming atmosphere that makes ELA Basel so special.

My name is Maria. I come from Portugal, more specifically from the Azores Islands, although I was raised in the beautiful and sunny city of Lisbon. Despite being a licensed psychologist, I have always worked in Customer Service in Communication and Marketing. I have worked in Consumer Research, trying to understand the consumer's mind, in Corporate Events, planning and carrying out all the necessary operations to make it happen, and last, but not least in Advertising, managing communication campaigns. Now I am very excited to embrace this new challenge as Office Administrator at ELA Basel, where I can continue providing an excellent customer service. I am a sensitive and caring person, especially when it comes to children, so I feel delighted to be working in a school environment. We teach them, but learn from them too, every day.

My name is Wiktor, and I am a caretaker at ELA Basel. I am Polish and have lived in France for 25 years. I am married and have two wonderful daughters. I have worked in the construction industry for the past 20 years, first as a site manager for a French company. I then started my own business. I am passionate about historic buildings, so I am delighted to be looking after the magnificent ELA Basel premises.

My name is Christoph. I live in Switzerland and also grew up here. I have always been a creative person. After high school I started my way as a cook in Solothurn. After my apprenticeship I worked in the kitchen of the Swiss military and the hospital. Photography has always interested me, I was a self-employed photographer in 2015. I worked all around Europe, from Paris to London and many other cities. As a result, I am familiar with international work and different cultures. In 2019, I temporarily worked at ELA Basel and was thrilled about the concept, the team and the work with the kids. I am very happy to be a permanent employee now and to enrich the team with my creativity and cooking skills. In Swiss German I would say "en guete!" (Bon appetit!)