Staff

Senior Leadership

TAMARYN YARTU

Headteacher

Hello my name is Tammy. I'm originally from Cape Town, South Africa, where I completed a Bachelor of Education Foundation Stage before working within a specialist environment focusing on early intervention. Following my move from South Africa to London, I worked in a range of specialist provisions that focused on early intervention, something I am very passionate about. I started at Gesher in 2017 when the school first opened, and during my time, I have tried to ensure that all aspects of students' school experience are thoughtfully prepared and delivered with the student at the centre. I have also specifically advocated for developing unique school learning spaces, embedding a project-based learning approach and developing staff skills to provide students with a more holistic and meaningful way of learning and growing. I look forward to working with our remarkable team as we expand and to watching our first cohort of Year 11s finish their schooling at Gesher.

CHRIS GURNEY

Deputy-Head/Dramatherapist/Safeguarding & Wellbeing Lead

Hello! I am Mr Chris, the Deputy Head here at Gesher. My primary role is as the school’s Dramatherapist, and I trained at Roehampton University in London. I’m passionate about using this creative form of psychotherapy to support children with additional needs in their social-emotional development. Story, play and art are all key tools I utilise to creatively engage the children at Gesher, and explore wider themes that may otherwise be challenging to understand. As the Deputy Head, my main responsibilities are pastoral care and safeguarding, and supporting the well-being of both the children and the staff is at the core of my work throughout the school.

ROWAN EGGAR

Assistant Head Curriculum & Assessment /Class Teacher

Hi, my name is Miss Rowan and I am the Assistant Head for Curriculum and Assessment. I have an MSc in Psychology as well as a PGCE from UCL. I have been teaching at Gesher for the past six years, and being part of the school’s journey into an all-through school has been a pleasure. I love championing our students to reach their academic goals in a safe, nurturing space. I am also passionate about sharing the ‘Gesher Way’ of supporting children with SEND with other schools and early career teachers. I look forward to continuing to support the development of Project Based Learning across the school this year.

DANIELLE PETAR

Assistant Headteacher: Inclusion/SENDCo

Hi, I am Miss Danielle, the Assistant Headteacher for Inclusion and one of the SENDCOs at Gesher. I have an honours degree in Psychology and studied at the Institute of Education for my PGCE. I have been in education for over twenty years and alongside teaching, for the past sixteen years, I have been in the role of the Inclusion Lead/SENDCO with experience in various mainstream settings. This all lead to joining the amazing Gesher community, which I have been part of for the past six years. I love working collaboratively and creatively with parents, staff and students to secure the best support and provision to enable our students to flourish in their own individual journeys. I am passionate about promoting advocacy for our young people which has led to focusing on life skills and developing opportunities for our students to acquire the skills and tools to successfully navigate the world around them, and become confident advocates for themselves. I am looking forward to working with you all and I am excited to see what the students achieve this year as they head into the next stage of their journey!

IMOGEN BERNSTEIN

Assistant Head for Curriculum and Assessment

Hello! My name is Miss Imogen and I am the Assistant Head for Curriculum and Assessment in Key Stages 3 & 4. I am delighted to be joining Gesher at such an exciting time as our curriculum develops! I have worked in SEN in various roles for fourteen years, have an MA in Special Educational Needs from Roehampton and a PGCE in English with Media and Drama. I am excited to work with colleagues as we adopt accessible qualifications alongside Gesher’s established Project Based Learning. I’m passionate about helping students explore and recognise their identities as they approach adulthood: building their confidence, creativity and resourcefulness ready for the world beyond school.

VICTORIA RUTTER

Head of Therapies

Hello, I’m Miss Victoria and I am Head of Therapies at Gesher. I am a Speech and Language Therapist with over twenty-five years of experience, working in the NHS, as well as in the education and justice sectors. I currently work with our older secondary students and I love being able to see the students’ communication skills develop and flourish year by year, meaning they are able to make friends, engage with their learning and advocate for themselves. We are most fortunate here at Gesher to have such a well staffed Therapy Team, who are all highly skilled, creative and ambitious for the students; working side by side with Parents, Teachers and Teaching Assistants to deliver high-quality interventions that are as meaningful and functional as possible. I am also currently the Staff Member of the Parent Teacher Community (PTC), meaning I have the great pleasure of helping the PTC to raise money to enhance, enrich and improve learning experiences for all pupils, help to connect school and home life and provide opportunities for the staff, parents and students to come together as a community.

BRADLEY CONWAY

Head of Kodesh

Shalom (Hello), I’m Mr Bradley and I have been Head of Kodesh at Gesher since January 2023. With a Masters in Jewish Education and completing my NPQ in Senior Leadership, I am continuously developing my knowledge and skills, with a specific focus on Neurodiversity. I love teaching all of the Primary and Secondary phases at Gesher and believe it is very important for students to engage with their Jewish learning in a fun, interactive, personal and accessible manner. I can’t wait to introduce new initiatives and opportunities that will enable each student, and their families, to connect with Judaism in their own way and have a strong Jewish identity.

GRAHAM FREEMAN

School Business Manager

Hi, my name is Graham. I joined Gesher School in December 2022 as the School Business Manager with responsibility for finance, personnel, property and IT. I grew up in the Netherlands but have been living in the UK since 1986. I have a degree in Management Studies from the University of Cambridge and have worked in Financial Services, Social Care and most recently in Education – a career change that has been incredibly fulfilling. I am delighted to be able to play a key role in supporting the school’s continued growth and development.

Middle Leadership

OLIVIA SIMMONS

Occupational Therapist

Hello, I’m Miss Liv, and I’m thrilled to be going into my fifth year as an Occupational Therapist at Gesher. I began my OT journey in New Zealand, where I trained and worked in various mental health and school-based settings. My passion lies in helping children develop their skills through meaningful activities. I love witnessing their "lightbulb" moments when they overcome challenges and learn new strategies. I’m particularly passionate about supporting children in movement-based and sensory activities, encouraging them to get active, have fun, alongside understand and advocate for their own sensory needs. As a certified SOS Approach to Feeding Therapist, I am also dedicated to helping children explore new foods through playful methods. This year at Gesher, I’m excited to continue collaborating with parents, teachers, and teaching assistants to support children’s sensory processing needs in meaningful and functional ways, helping their OT skills flourish while ensuring they have a fun-filled experience!

TIANNA MACLVER

Keren Form Teacher (Science Teacher)

Hi, I’m Miss Tianna and I am the class teacher for Keren Class.This is my second year teaching in the Secondary Team at Gesher School. I bring a deep passion for fostering independence and self-advocacy in my pupils through hands-on, real-life applicable learning experiences. Originally from Canada, where I completed my education and the early part of my career, I moved to the UK nearly four years ago. This year, I am excited to join the leadership team in the new role of “Student Leadership,” where I will focus on ensuring that students have a voice and advocating for their needs. In addition to leading Keren Class, I will be teaching Science and Project-Based Learning (PBL) across secondary, dedicated to creating an engaging and supportive environment where every student can thrive. I am excited to see what this upcoming school year has in store!

EMILY BACON

Chitah Class Teacher / Behaviour and Culture Lead

Hi, my name is Miss Emily, I have worked at Gesher School for the past five years and I’m so excited to be working with Chitah class this year! I have been teaching in SEND for the past 10 years and have experience with lots of schools around both London and Melbourne. I have had a range of experience from EYFS all the way to Secondary. Alongside being a class teacher I'm so the 'Behaviour and Diversity Lead' which means I'm lucky enough to spend time with students across the school and to support them with their wellbeing. Alongside this I am also the DDSL and work alongside Mr Chris to support with Safeguarding. I look forward to seeing you all in September!

MATTHEW SUMMERS

SENDCO / Creative Arts & Design Teacher (Secondary)

Hi, I'm Mr Matt. I've been working at Gesher for 5 years now and for the last 3 as part of the Inclusion team with Miss Danielle, helping to make sure all our students continue to get all the provision and input they need. My career in special education began 21 years ago and has included many different wonderful experiences, from BSL communicator to teaching art. Throughout the years, I have loved seeing the students make progress and thriving in their learning environment, and I continue to enjoy every minute of going on that journey with them. Gesher is a special place, and I am very proud to be a part of its community.

Teachers

LEIGH KENNEDY

Zayit Class Teacher (Maternity Leave)

Hi, I’m Miss Leigh and I am the class teacher for Zayit class (EYFS and Year One). This is my fifth year teaching our youngest students at Gesher and I love being part of the Gesher community. I am from New Zealand and originally trained and worked as a Speech and Language Therapist in Early Years and Primary settings, before completing my teacher training in London. I have a passion for supporting children in achieving their full potential and having lots of fun while they get there!

LUCY ROBINSON

Zayit & Seorah Class Teacher

Hello, I am Miss Lucy and I am so excited to continue being the class teacher of Zayit and Seorah class. Previous to working at Gesher, I have worked in a range of educational settings and am going into my fifth year of teaching. In particular, I have a passion for the Early Years and supporting children within those crucial first few years of school. I can't wait to support the children as they learn and grow whilst bringing lots of energy and fun to a new year of learning together!

STEPHANIE SUNGTONG

Gefen Class Teacher

Hi, I'm Miss Stephanie and I am the Gefen class teacher. I have been at Gesher for 3 years now and have really enjoyed seeing the children grow and develop. I also enjoy working as a team and seeing the progress the children make with the support of the whole team working together for the development of each child. I started my teaching career working in a school for the deaf in Thailand. I then moved back to England and worked in a mainstream school teaching year 3 and 4 children. I then moved back to special education teaching in a special need school in Hounslow before coming to Gesher. I am excited to see what the next year will bring and to support the children on their learning journey!

KATIE MCENALLAY

Rimon Class Teacher

Hello, I’m Miss Katie, the teacher for Rimon class at Gesher School. I have been at Gesher for six years and have a range of experience across the school. I am very passionate about supporting children with special educational needs and customising lessons to make their learning experience enjoyable and engaging.

LEAH WRIGHT

Tamar Class Teacher

Hello, I am Miss Leah and have been a KS2 teacher for the past 3 years. I will be Tamar's class teacher 4 days a week, sharing with Miss Tash. I am so excited to work in Year 6 and create amazing PBL projects! I will continue to work with the secondary team once a week to teach performing arts across all classes. I have a huge passion for performing, and have a degree in Theatre Arts. Alongside working in the education sector for 10 years, I have also worked in various settings within television, and theatre, and mentored GCSE drama in mainstream secondary schools.

NATASHA HARRIS

Tamar Class Teacher

Hi, I'm Miss Tash and I am so excited to be sharing Tamar class this year with Miss Leah! This will be my first full academic year at Gesher and after working in Gefen last year as a Teaching Assistant I am so looking forward to starting my teacher training at Gesher. I moved to New York when I was 18 to get my bachelor's degree in Psychology and then my Masters in Special Education and I can't wait to bring all my own learnings and experience to life with this cohort of students.

AYMANE HAMIDI

Gevurah Form Teacher (English and PE Teacher)

Hi, I’m Mr. Aymane, and I’m absolutely delighted to be continuing my journey at Gesher as Gevurah’s class teacher! My time at Gesher has been an incredibly enriching experience, and I’m excited to see how our school and community continue to grow and thrive. My passion for teaching our secondary students has only deepened, and I’m eager to bring new energy and creativity into the classroom. I’m also dedicated to further developing our careers programme, empowering students to explore the wide range of exciting opportunities that await them beyond school. Most of all, I look forward to another fun-filled, dynamic, and inspiring year with the amazing Gesher community!

JODI SAMPSON

Gevurah Form Teacher

Hi, my name is Miss Jodi and I have worked at Gesher School for the past year. I have a passion for supporting pupils with SEND to help them unlock their full potential, which I have enjoyed doing for the past 5 years across a range of settings. Alongside my work at Gesher, I also work as a Training Consultant for Ambitious About Autism charity where I support schools in a range of boroughs with their autism provision. I can’t wait to welcome the new Year 8 class and watch the pupils learn, thrive and prosper this year... whilst having lots of fun at the same time!

HESHAM YASSER

Teferet Form Teacher (Maths & PE Teacher)

Hi, I’m Mr Hesham the secondary Maths teacher and Tifferet form tutor. I have the privilege of teaching the wonderful students at Gesher for the second year now. I’m originally from Egypt. I have had a passion for Maths since I can remember and would love to pass that passion on to the students or at the very least help the students not to fear maths.

BETHANY RENTALL

Hodaya Form Teacher (Humanities and English Teacher)

Hi, I’m Miss Bethany and I am the class teacher for Hodaya Class. I am so excited to be taking our very first KS4 class as well as teaching English across our secondary phase. This is my fourth year at Gesher and I am passionate about instilling a love for English and reading in our students!

REARNE BRAY

Life Skills Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Rearne and I am the Life Skills teacher for early years, primary and secondary classes. I am so excited to be continuing my journey at Gesher in this role. I am from Australia where I originally studied and have worked in both primary and secondary schools teaching creative arts and humanities. I love seeing students reaching their potential, applying their strengths to everyday tasks and having fun in the process!

Kodesh Department

BELLA AARON

Primary Jewish Studies Teacher

Hi, I'm Miss Bella and I am the Kodesh teacher for Primary. I have been at the school since 2019 and this is my second year teaching Kodesh after working as a TA with the younger years. I graduated from University of Leeds with a BA in Childhood Studies and have just become a qualified teacher! Teaching at Gesher is a dream - I love getting to spend each day building a passion for Kodesh within the students and watching them grow.

Therapists

ROSIE KAHL

Occupational Therapist

Hi, I'm Miss Rosie and I am so excited to be continuing my role as one of the Occupational Therapists here at Gesher. I have a strong passion for working with children and their families, and love being on their team to help them increase their independence and reach their goals. I am always looking for ways to make therapy fun, engaging and tailored to the child's interests! This year I will be supporting classes Tamar, Keren, Gevurah and Hodaya.

CIARA CARTY

Occupational Therapist (Maternity Leave)

Hi, I am Miss Ciara and I am one of the Occupational Therapists at Gesher. Prior to working at Gesher School I worked as an Occupational Therapist both in the NHS and Private section and in various settings including the community, children’s centres and SEN schools. I am very excited to be starting my second year at Gesher! This year, I will be supporting the children in Rimon, Chitah, Tamar and Keren classes, helping them to develop their skills through meaningful activities, while having lots of fun!

ASHLEIGH WOLINSKY

Speech and Language Therapist

Hi, I’m Miss Ashleigh and I am one of the Speech and Language Therapists. I now work part-time after returning from maternity leave in November 2023. I currently work with children in Zayit, Seorah, Gefen and Tamar class. I started at Gesher in September 2019 and it has been incredible to watch the children’s progress, and see the school grow and develop in so many ways including the building, staff/student numbers and the things we achieve each year. It is a truly fantastic school. I am originally from Leeds but I moved to London when I started working in 2016 across the NHS and private sectors. I absolutely love working with the children, staff and parents here as it is so rewarding and I don’t go a day without laughing. I will be leaving to have another baby towards the end of the Autumn term but look forward to working with the children, staff and parents until this time.

HANNAH FLETCHER

Speech and Language Therapist

Hi, I'm Miss Hannah! I am one of the Speech and Language Therapists here at Gesher. This will be my second year supporting our wonderful students across both our primary and secondary classes. Before Gesher, I was back home in New Zealand working across a range of early year and school settings, supporting all things to do with speech, language and communication. I absolutely love getting creative with my therapy sessions and try my hardest to link in with the variety of interests that our students have. Being able to communicate is one of the most important tools we have in life, so it's such a delight to see our students grow their understanding of language, develop clarity of speech and express themselves in order to have their voices heard. I'm looking forward to another year of fun and laughs with Rimon, Chitah, Keren and Gevurah.

HOLLIE SMEDLEY

Art Therapist

Hello, my name is Hollie and I am very excited to be returning to Gesher for my second year. It's been wonderful getting to know everyone and being part of the Gesher community. You will find me in the creative arts room for both 1-1 Art Therapy and whole class expressive Arts. I trained at Roehampton University for both my Master’s in Art Psychotherapy and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Prior to my work in schools I was a support worker for adults and children with learning disabilities. I love working with children and families, providing support, encouragement and a safe space to learn and grow.

BRADLEY COX

Therapy Assistant

Hi, my name is Mr Bradley and I'm the new therapy assistant this year! I've worked at Gesher as a teaching assistant for two years now and I'm looking forward to stepping into a new role and support students across the school in a range of different therapies. Alongside this, I also run and train secondary students for Gesher FC and really enjoy seeing their PE skills grow which I will be continuing this year.

PUPLINDA GURNEY

Therapy Dog

Hi! I’m Puplinda, and I am a Therapy Dog at Gesher. I am a toy cockapoo (a toy poodle crossed with a cocker spaniel), and I live with Mr Chris. I usually come to Gesher once or twice a week to assist with therapy sessions. I love playing games and having cuddles, and the students at Gesher are learning how to take care of me whilst also helping me to learn cool tricks!

Teaching Assistants

MONIQUE LAUDER

Creative Integration Lead & HTLA / Teaching Assistant (Zayit and Seorah)

Hello, I’m Miss Monique, and I am Higher-Level Teaching Assistant for Seorah and Zayit classes, in addition to being the Creative Integration Lead. Alongside my role as an HLTA, I plan weekly art sessions, run the art lunch club, and oversee the outdoor space for Zayit and Seorah. I bring extensive experience working with young children, with a focus on early years education. Over the course of my career, I have managed nursery school settings and worked in primary schools, where I was a high-level TA in the early years during the mornings and a playgroup manager in the afternoons. Personally, I have a strong connection to supporting children with additional needs. I am excited to teach your children, help them reach their full potential, and be an active part of this wonderful school community.

HARPER GRAY

Teaching Assistant (Zayit and Seorah)

Hello! I am Miss Harper and I am one of Zayit and Seorah’s teacher assistants. I started at Gesher in 2023 and have worked with Zayit and Seorah class since! I am from Adelaide, South Australia and since moving to London, I have found my passion for teaching and I will begin my studies to become a teacher when I return to Australia. I am fuelled by building positive relationships with all the students in the school and enjoy watching and helping the students flourish and grow into their incredible minds while having a laugh along the way!

AMY O’SULLIVAN

Teaching Assistant (Zayit and Seorah)

Hi, I’m Miss Amy and I am a teaching assistant in Zayit and Seorah. I joined Gesher in February (2023) working with Zayit/Seorah class, and I’m really excited to continue working with these children this year! I have previously worked as a teaching assistant within a school, as well as a nursery, and this has developed my passion for working with children. I have recently graduated with my masters degree in clinical psychology, and I am excited to use my knowledge to support children in reaching their full potential!

MELISSA WHITTLE

Teaching Assistant (Gefen)

Hi! I’m Miss Melissa and I am joining Gesher for the first time this year and I am very excited. I’ve worked in schools for 9 years and I love seeing students reach their full potential and helping them discover themselves and their journey. I’m really looking forward to my new chapter in the Gesher community!

ABIGAIL ARDEMAN

Teaching Assistant (Rimon)

Hi, I'm Miss Abigail and I am the teaching assistant for Rimon Class. This is my first year at Gesher. I have recently graduated from Leeds Beckett University studying Childhood Development and Playwork. I am so excited to work with the children and put my experience into practice supporting the children in their learning.

ALISSA WARNER

Teaching Assistant (Rimon)

Hi, I’m Miss Alissa and I am a Teacher Assistant in Rimon. This is my third year at Gesher and I honestly feel very blessed to be working at such an incredible school. This will be my second year with this class which excites me as I cannot wait to watch them grow even more and help take them to their highest potential! I am looking forward to another great year ahead!

IZZY ABRAHAMS

Teaching Assistant (Rimon)

Hi, I'm Miss Izzy and I am so excited to join the Gesher Family! I am passionate about working with children with SEN and have worked across different settings for the last 15 years. I also have many years of personal experience. I'm looking forward to helping the children reach their full potential, blossom and bloom.

SIMONE JAFFA

Teaching Assistant (Chitah)

I am Miss Simone and I am very excited to be working in Chitah class as a TA. This will be my second year at Gesher. I have an NVQ Level 3 and have worked with children for over 20 years. I have lots of experience working with children with special needs I absolutely love working at Gesher working alongside such incredible people who are so supportive of each other and of the kids and can't wait to see what this year will bring.

TALI FRASER

Teaching Assistant (Chitah)

Hi, I'm Miss Tali and I am the class teaching assistant for Chitah Class. This is my second year working as a teaching assistant at Gesher and I love being part of the Gesher community! I have previously graduated my degree in psychology and have a passion for supporting each child's individual needs and watching them reach their full potential. I am looking forward to the year ahead!

ALISA ISUFI

Teaching Assistant (Tamar)

Hi, my name is Alisa. I graduated last year with a bachelor's in psychology and have always wanted to work with children. I’ve been working in various schools for 6 months and have recently started here at Gesher with the amazing Tamar class. I look forward to seeing the students achieve all their goals this year.

AIMEE HARRIS

Teaching Assistant (Keren)

Hi, I’m Miss Aimee, and I'm excited to begin my second year at Gesher School as a Teaching Assistant. This year, I’ll be working with Keren class, and I’m looking forward to all the great experiences we’ll have together! I hold a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, which sparked my passion for both mental health and working with children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). My experience spans working with children aged 5 to 16 in various settings, including schools, camps, volunteering, and nannying. I’m looking forward to continue my journey at Gesher School and to support the growth and development of these amazing children!

BRIONY ROELANDTS

Teaching Assistant (Keren)

Hello! My name is Miss Briony and I am excited to continue at Gesher as a Teacher’s Assistant. I recently moved from Australia where I completed a Bachelor of Arts (English/History) at the Australian National University. I have previously worked with schools to teach students about gender-based violence and how we can all prevent it. I’m looking forward to spending this school year with Keren Class!

LINCOLN PAMMENT

Teaching Assistant (Gevurah)

Hi, I’m Mr Lincoln and I am the Teaching Assistant for Gevurah class. I am from New Zealand and this is my second year at Gesher! I am super excited to be continuing with the year 8 students with whom I supported last year. I am looking forward to another year of excitement, learning, healthy challenges and all round continuing to grow bonds with all the students in my class!

ELIANA CADOSH

Teaching Assistant (Gevurah)

Hi, I'm Miss Eliana and I am a new teaching assistant for Gevurah class. I have just received my BSc in Psychology from King's College London and I have lots of experience of working with children in various settings. I'm very excited to be joining the Gesher family and look forwards to supporting each child to meet their full potential!

NICKY SEERS

Teaching Assistant (Tiferet) / Family Support

My name is Miss Nicky and I am so excited to be going into my second year at Gesher. I have worked in SEND education on and off for over 30 years. I have worked as a nanny and as a supervisor in a day nursery. For the last 10 years, I’ve worked in a SEND setting as a Family Support Worker and a TA. I have my own connection with SEND and have done a lot of training over the last 12 years to widen my knowledge and it’s become a huge passion to learn more. I have absolutely fallen in love with Gesher school and have enjoyed getting to know all the wonderful families and have so much more to come in September and I’m so excited to broaden my family support role!

RICARDO DECASTRO

Teaching Assistant (Tiferet)

Hi, I’m Mr Ricky and I am a Teaching Assistant in Tiferet class. I have been part of the “Gesher family” since the first day and have seen first-hand how amazingly our school has grown! As a member of this great team, I look forward to another prosperous year -- engaging with our students and empowering them with the best learning tools, thus providing a wholesome and effective education.

TANYA WILLIAMSON

Teaching Assistant (Tiferet)

Hi, I’m Miss Tanya, I’m a Teaching Assistant at Gesher school. I have a BA (Hons) in English and Drama and an MA in Creative Writing and the Writing Industries from Loughborough University. Passionate about the humanities and arts, I enjoy sharing my enthusiasm for them with young children in a meaningful way. As someone who cares a lot about providing mental, emotional and spiritual support to those who need it, I’m very happy to be able to do this in a Jewish SEN school. Supporting neurodiversity is also a cause I am very passionate about and wish to continue to put into practice. I’ll be with the year 9s in Tiferet in the year 2024/2025 and I hope to help them develop their knowledge whilst finding a peaceful balance within themselves.

EMMA-LOUISE JATTAN

Teaching Assistant (Hodaya)

Hi, I'm Miss Emma and I am excited to join as a Teaching Assistant in Hodaya class! I have recently finished my masters degree in special education and have experience working with students aged 5-25 in SEND settings. I can't wait to be a part of the Gesher team, and look forward to supporting students reach their full potential whilst enjoying themselves!

SASCHA NATHAN

Teaching Assistant (Hodaya)

Hi, I’m Miss Sascha. This is my second year at Gesher and I’m excited to be working with Hodaya class. I have a BSc in Psychology from University of Nottingham and have a background working in SEND schools and summer camps. I’m really excited to continue my progression within the education sector and creating positive relationships with the students.

BRANDON KRASNY

Teaching Assistant (In Class Support)

Hi, I’m Mr Brandon and I’m a teaching assistant at Gesher School. This is my second year at the school and I love being part of the Gesher community. I have a strong passion for supporting children in achieving their full potential and looking forward to another year of excitement and learning.

CHANI GELLER

Teaching Assistant (In Class Support) & Shomeret

Hi, I’m Miss Chani and I am a Teaching Assistant supporting the whole school. This is my fifth year at Gesher and I look forward to seeing the children continue to flourish as the year goes on. Part of my role also includes being a Shomeret (kosher supervisor) for kitchen and food-related subjects. I am keen to see what this year will bring for both staff and children!

Media Team

DANNY CAZZATO

Senior Designer

Hi, I’m Mr Danny and I am the Senior Designer, I’m so excited to be going into my fourth year at Gesher. My previous roles and background have been in graphic design, art and project management working in top design agencies in London. I was a Project Manager at the LEGO group, where I managed LEGO’s stand at London’s annual toy fair, also worked on projects with schools on the learning through play scheme. I worked at Action for Children Charity where I managed and created a marketing team of 5, working on design projects for AFC’s services for vulnerable children, carers and nurseries.I have a strong personal connection with SEN being a carer myself for our son. I’m very honoured and proud to be part of Gesher’s Media Team and looking forward to the year ahead.

ZAHRA AXINN

Content Manager

Hi, I’m Miss Zahra and I am Content Manager on the Media Team. This is my first year at Gesher and I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone at the school. I am from California and I have a background in communications and media production in educational settings. This year, I’m excited to develop and produce engaging content that showcases the philosophy of the school and the range of projects that Gesher pupils produce.

Support Staff

IMOGEN ARCANGELI

Head of Fundraising (Maternity Leave)

Hi, I’m Imogen! I joined Gesher in the new Head of Fundraising role in May 2023, with experience in education and the cultural sector. I first became motivated to support people with SEND when working in an adult autism assessment centre. I can’t wait to make a difference at this inspiring school!

JUDY STRAKER

Office Manager

Hi, I’m Judy! Working at Gesher since September 2022 has opened my eyes to the closeness of the Gesher community. I’ve really enjoyed this past year being able to build relationships with students, parents and staff alike. It’s a joy to watch the staff supporting the children, not just with their studies but their life skills too. I look forward with anticipation to what next year has to hold.

ANTARA AMIN

Finance Administrative Assistant

Hi, I'm Miss Antara and I am the Finance Admin Assistant at the office. This is my fourth academic year working and greeting the students going by. I enjoy checking in with the students and making sure the office runs smoothly.

ALEXANDRA PHILLIPS

Administrator to the Senior Leadership Team

Hi, I’m Alexandra and I am the Administrator to the Senior Leadership Team. I have just started here at Gesher and I can’t wait to begin my amazing journey! It is an amazing school, with incredible people. I have a passion for supporting my team and helping them with all administrative tasks when necessary. I am excited to begin!

CAROLINE LEIFER

School Chef/Hospitality and Catering Teacher

Hi I’m Miss Caroline and I am the Chef at Gesher School. I have many years of experience in both commercial and educational catering management and am passionate about supporting children to make healthy, nutritious food choices. I involve the pupils in creating our menus and encourage them to spend time assisting me in the kitchen, which is very popular, especially on Sushi day! I am very excited to have recently taken on an additional role at Gesher teaching the Hospitality and Catering BTEC to older students.

RAIVATHI PULENDRAN

Kitchen Assistant

Hi, I’m Miss Rai and I really enjoy my role assisting in the Gesher kitchen. I’m originally from Sri Lanka and I have lots of experience working in school catering. I love seeing the children at lunchtime and helping them to make their food choices and I’m very happy to be part of the Gesher community.

BARON WILDE

Premises Manager / Caretaker

Hi I’m Mr Baron, I am the school’s Premises Manager/Caretaker/Minibus Driver. I have been with Gesher since it opened, supporting the school, parents and staff with their requirements and helping to keep everyone in the Gesher family safe. I look forward to seeing what this year will hold.

JAKUB KONOPKA

Security

Hi, I am Mr Jakub and I am one of the Security Guards. I have been working at Gesher since the school opened in 2017. My role at Gesher is to ensure that everyone stays safe but I’ve also got to know all the parents, staff, and students really well.