We have concluded our first half term of this academic year. Congratulations to all EP students who have engaged, learned, created, discussed, explored and problem solved over the last 7 weeks, whether you did so through our distance learning programme or on campus. Congratulations also to the newest members of our teaching team at EP who have survived and thrived through their first half term with us. This week, it is my pleasure to introduce three more of our recently-arrived teachers to you: Richard Stockings (Vice Principal for Our Students), Hollie Lewis (Teacher of Mathematics) and Christopher Waight (Teacher of Mathematics).
Richard Stockings (Vice Principal for Our Students)
8 years ago I arrived in Phuket, Thailand, as Head of PE at BISP. This was my first international teaching post. Within a few short months, I knew that I was not going to return to the UK very quickly! It is with real pleasure that we continue our international journey at Alice Smith and we very much look forward to exploring Malaysia during our time here.
My previous roles in both the UK and as Director of Wellbeing at BISP have afforded me experiences in working with young people to encourage them in developing their own wellbeing in order to flourish. This has been through a number of facets such as the wellbeing curriculum, in driving student leadership and student agency, coaching and in developing a culture and language around positive psychology. I am really excited to join a thriving school and to share with new learners my own passion in this area. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to have met our Head Students, an increasing number of learners and the warm and welcoming staff at Alice Smith.
As a keen sportsman and artist, I welcome the opportunities that KL will bring to challenge myself on the golf course, visit places of cultural interest and find artistic inspiration in all the positives on offer - once restrictions are lifted! I am looking forward to meeting and working with you all.
Hollie Lewis (Teacher of Mathematics)
This is my third year living in Kuala Lumpur and I am delighted to call the beautiful country of Malaysia my home. Venturing out is an assault on the senses which I will never tire of: the vivid green vegetation, the sound of birds and monkeys, and the smell of glorious food from a whole host of different cuisines. I love diving and feel very thankful that I managed to explore some of the fantastic islands on the east coast prior to the pandemic. Until travel opens back up, hikes in the jungle and strolls through the botanical gardens have kept me wholly content.
It had always been an aspiration of mine to teach abroad so after just two years teaching in the UK I moved to Dubai and worked at Jumeirah College for 5 years. During this time I progressed through the roles of Key Stage 3 and KS4 coordinators to become Deputy Head of Mathematics in a team of 14 people. Although I sometimes miss living 5 minutes away from the beach, the sandpit made me crave greenery, nature and true Asian culture. Malaysia was top of the list! I am delighted to be joining the Alice Smith School this year.
A wealth of smiles, best wishes and good humour have welcomed me into the Alice Smith team. All of the staff and students I have met so far have been so supportive and possess such positive energy that my cheeks hurt from smiling and laughing so much! Already I am enjoying sharing my love of mathematics with such motivated and enthusiastic students, and I look forward to the years ahead.
Christopher Waight (Teacher of Mathematics)
I have really enjoyed the first few weeks at Alice Smith School and have felt supported and welcomed by the staff and students alike. Meeting classes online is certainly a different way to start the year but it has all gone well. I am looking forward to exploring KL more and starting to see some of the sights! Alice Smith is my first international school and I am very excited and honoured to be working here. Previously I had been working at a comprehensive school in Kent as a Head of Mathematics as well as holding other positions of responsibility over my time there, including Head of Year, Duke of Edinburgh Manger and ski trip leader.
I enjoy keeping fit, playing sports, hiking, camping, exploring and I love skiing! I will need to investigate the best places to go skiing from Malaysia! I hear Japan is not too far away… and excellent for skiing powder. I hope to travel around Asia when the situation permits. I look forward to taking part in the activities and opportunities at Alice Smith and look forward to meeting all my classes in person in due course.
Wishing you all a wonderful half term break,
Maria Osowiecki
Secondary Principal
