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

Hi, I’m Miss Rowan and I am Assistant Head Teacher for curriculum and assessment in the primary. I’ve been at Gesher for 7 years having taught across a number of classes in KS2. Previously I taught in mainstream. I am passionate about giving our students opportunities to reach their best potential through personalised and fun learning experiences while also finding ways to celebrate all their skills and successes through meaningful assessment.

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 seventeen 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 in 2018. 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 a further focus 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 have worked in SEN for fourteen years, have an MA in Special Educational Needs from Roehampton and my PGCE is in English with Media and Drama. I have am excited to work with colleagues as we adopt accessible qualifications alongside Gesher’s established Project Based Learning curriculum. I’m passionate about helping students explore and recognise their identities and roles in life 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! I’m excited to be starting my sixth year as an Occupational Therapist at Gesher. I began my OT journey in New Zealand, working across mental health and school settings, where I discovered my passion for helping children thrive through meaningful, hands-on activities. I love using movement and sensory-based activities to get children active, having fun, and building confidence in understanding their own sensory needs. I’m especially passionate about making PE and physical activity enjoyable and inclusive, so every child feels motivated and able to take part. As a certified SOS Approach to Feeding Therapist, I also support children in exploring new foods by creating playful, positive experiences with food that lead to success and confidence. This year at Gesher, I’m looking forward to creating and delivering interventions that spark students’ interests and working closely with parents, teachers, and teaching assistants to help our students flourish and grow in their OT skills.

TIANNA MACIVER

Malchut Form Teacher/Life Skills Secondary

Hello! I’m Miss Tianna, and I’m thrilled to be the class teacher for Malchut Class this academic year at Gesher School. I have a strong passion for fostering independence and self-advocacy in my pupils through hands-on, real-life learning experiences. I believe in creating a supportive and engaging environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. In addition to leading Malchut, I will also be overseeing Life Skills across the school and teaching it within the Secondary phase. This will be my third year at Gesher, and I’m really looking forward to deepening the relationships I’ve already built with these fantastic students. I’m confident that the year ahead will be filled with growth, learning, and memorable moments – and I can’t wait to begin this exciting journey together.

EMILY BACON

Tamar Class Teacher / Behaviour and Culture Lead

Hi, my name is Miss Emily, I have worked at Gesher School for the past six years and I’m so excited to be working with Tamar class again this year! I have been teaching in SEND for the past 11 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 well-being. 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

Hi, I’m Mr Matt. I’m going into my 6th year working at Gesher as part of the Inclusion team, helping to make sure all our students continue to get all the provision and input they need. My career in special education began 22 years ago and has included many different wonderful experiences, from working as a BSL communicator to coaching rugby, teaching art and now working as a SENDCo. 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. As it continues to be, Gesher is a very special place, and I am very proud to be a part of its community.

Teachers

LEIGH KENNEDY

Zayit & Seorah Class Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Leigh and I am the class teacher for Zayit and Seorah class (EYFS, Year 1 and Year 2) from Monday to Wednesdays. This will be my sixth year teaching at Gesher and working with our youngest students. I am originally from New Zealand, where I 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 a lot of fun while they get there!

LUCY OFFER

Gefen & Simon Class Teacher

Hello, I’m Miss Lucy and I’m thrilled to be the class teacher of Gefen and Rimon this year. After a wonderful time teaching in the Early Years at Gesher, I’m excited to continue my journey with the school into Early Key Stage 2. Prior to working at Gesher, I taught in a range of educational settings and am now entering my sixth year of teaching. I can’t wait to support the children as they learn and grow, bringing lots of energy and fun to another exciting year of learning together!

KATIE MCENALLAY

Rimon Class Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Katie and I am the co-teacher for Tamar Class. I’m excited to be starting my 7th year here at Gesher! Over the years I’ve loved being part of such a warm and supportive school community. I am passionate about supporting pupils with their literacy and spelling skills. I enjoy helping children build confidence in their reading and writing and watching their independence grow as they develop these skills. I especially enjoy finding fun and engaging ways to make learning feel accessible for everyone.

LEAH WRIGHT

(Maternity Leave)

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

Chitah Class Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Tash and this will be my third year working at Gesher. On my Gesher journey I started as a TA, then completed a year of co-teaching and now I am thrilled to have my very own class. I could not be more excited to be teaching Chitah class this year along with an amazing team.

AYMANE HAMIDI

Keren Form Teacher (English and Media Teacher)

Hi, I’m Mr Aymane, and I’m really excited to be Keren’s form tutor this year, supporting them as they settle into secondary life. This will be my fourth year at Gesher, and I feel very lucky to continue being part of such a warm and inspiring community. Alongside my role as form tutor, I will be continuing to teach English and am also delighted to begin teaching Media to our KS4 students. I’m looking forward to bringing energy, creativity, and enthusiasm into the classroom, and to another year of learning, growth, and fun 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

Gevurah Form Teacher (Maths & PE Teacher)

Hi, I’m really excited to be the form tutor for Gevurah Class for the upcoming academic year. I’ve been part of the Gesher School community for the past two years, where I lead Maths across the Secondary School. I’m deeply passionate about both Maths and Physical Education—two subjects I believe are key in helping students build confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and grow as individuals.

I love bringing energy and creativity into the classroom and onto the sports field, and I look forward to sharing that enthusiasm with the students. I’m truly looking forward to getting to know each student in Gevurah Class and working in partnership with you throughout the year.

BETHANY RENTALL

Hodaya Form Teacher (Humanities and English Teacher)

Hi, I’m Miss Bethany and I am the class teacher for Hodaya, as well as teaching English across Secondary. This is my fourth year teaching and I am excited for another fun year ahead! I am passionate about promoting a love for reading and exposing students to a wide range of literacy skills in lessons.

ANTHONY SALERNO

Chesed Form Teacher (Science Teacher)

I am Mr Anthony, the secondary Science teacher, and the form tutor for Chesed. I taught Science (specialising in Biology and Chemistry), English, and Maths for 5 years in Australia, and am excited to be embarking on my second year of teaching at Gesher! Last year I moved to the UK from Australia, and Gesher made me feel right at home. I would describe myself as a passionate and relational educator, and am looking forward to continuing to grow myself as an educator at Gesher school.

EMMA-LOUISE JATTAN

Secondary Maths Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Emma and I’m really excited to be training as a Secondary Maths Teacher this year at Gesher! I’ll be based in Chesed class and I’m delighted to spend another year with this wonderful group of students. I look forward to making learning fun and engaging while also supporting them as they prepare for their exciting next steps beyond Gesher. I hold a master’s degree in Special and Inclusive Education and have experience working with students aged 5–25 in SEND settings. I’m passionate about making maths accessible and meaningful for all students, and I hope to help students build their confidence and achieve their full potential.

ABIGAIL ARDEMAN

Gefen & Rimon Class Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Abigail and alongside Miss Lucy I am class teacher for Gefen and Rimon class. This is my second year at the school. I am so excited to undertake my teacher training this year. I cannot wait to see what excitement and adventure this year brings!!

ALISSA WARNER

Life Skills Primary Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Alissa and I’m so excited to be taking on a new role this year as a Life Skills Primary Teacher. This is my fourth year at Gesher, as previously I have been a teaching assistant, where I gained valuable skills, insight and passion. This new position marks an exciting step forward in my career, allowing me to make a meaningful impact, teaching and empowering young children to grow and thrive!

AIMEE HARRIS

Tiferet Class Teacher/Maths and Performing Arts Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Aimee, and I’m delighted to be the class teacher for Tiferet this year. I have been part of the Gesher community for the past two years as a Teaching Assistant, and I feel very fortunate to now be stepping into my first teaching role here. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Psychology from the University of Birmingham, which sparked my passion for mental health and supporting children with SEND. This year, I will also be completing my teacher training while teaching Maths and Performing Arts across the secondary phase. I have a real love for Performing Arts and enjoy finding creative ways to bring learning to life. I’m looking forward to continuing my journey at Gesher, building strong connections with our students, and supporting them to grow, achieve, and thrive during this next stage of their school life.

Kodesh Department

BELLA GRAHAM

Primary Jewish Studies Teacher/Zayit & Seorah Class Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Bella and I am the Primary Kodesh teacher on Mondays to Wednesdays and the class teacher for Zayit/Seorah on Thursdays and Fridays. I have been at the school since 2019 and this will be my third year teaching after working as a TA. I graduated from University of Leeds with a BA in Childhood Studies and completed my teaching qualification at LSJS. Teaching at Gesher is a dream - I love getting to spend each day building a passion for Kodesh within the students and helping them grow. I’m very excited to further support the children this year in a class teacher role too!

Therapists

ROSIE KAHL

Occupational Therapist

Hi, I’m Miss Rosie, and I’m delighted to be continuing my journey as one of the Occupational Therapists here at Gesher as I begin my second year with the school. I’m passionate about supporting children and their families and love being part of their journey as they build independence and work towards their goals. I’m always looking for creative ways to make therapy fun, engaging, and tailored to each child’s unique interests. This year, I’ll be supporting classes Keren, Gevurah, Tiferet, Chesed and Malchut.

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 (Maternity Leave)

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 third 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 supporting Zayit/Seorah, Chitah, Tamar, Gevurah & Malchut.

HOLLIE SMEDLEY

Art Therapist

Hello, my name is Miss Hollie and this will be my third year working at Gesher School. You can find me in the creative arts room downstairs or in our outdoor classroom, often with my furry friend Miss Echo the greyhound. This year I will be continuing to support student wellbeing across the school in creative ways, including 1-1 Art Therapy, group work and class expressive arts. I am looking forward to starting new creative projects and continuing wellbeing journeys with you all.

NATALIE SHOFER

Speech and Language Therapist

Hello, I’m Miss Nat and I am one of the Speech and Language Therapists at Gesher. I moved to London from Australia earlier this year, and am so excited to be part of the wonderful Gesher team! In Australia, I worked across both clinic and school settings, supporting children from early years through to adolescence with a range of communication needs, including speech, language, literacy, and social communication. I’m passionate about building strong relationships with children and their families and I believe in delivering functional, engaging therapy in a fun and creative way. This year, I’m looking forward to working with Gefen/Rimon, Keren and Tiferet.

BRADLEY COX

Therapy Assistant

Hi, I’m Bradley, and I’m the Therapy Assistant at Gesher. I support students across Occupational Therapy (OT), Speech and Language Therapy (SALT), and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) areas. I also run Gesher FC. This is my fourth year at Gesher, and I really enjoy being a part of each student’s journey. Seeing their progress and growth is incredibly rewarding.

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 (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.

ANNABELLE HOGAN

Teaching Assistant (Zayit and Seorah)

Hello! I’m Miss Annabelle, a Teaching Assistant in the Zayit/Seorah class. I joined Gesher in January and have really enjoyed becoming part of such a wonderful community. I hold a BSc in Psychology and am passionate about supporting children’s learning and development. This year, I’m also looking forward to gaining experience with the therapy team and continuing to build meaningful relationships with the children.

JEMIMA MOWLEM

Teaching Assistant (Zayit and Seorah)

Hello, my name is Miss Jemima, and I am thrilled to be joining the Gesher team this year! I’ll be working in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) with Miss Leigh, Bella, and Monique as Additional Teaching Assistant for students in Year 1 and 2. I studied English Literature and Spanish at the University of Edinburgh, as well as a Postgraduate Certificate in Psychotherapy and Counselling at Regent’s University. Outside of school and voluntary work, I enjoy creative writing, playing tennis, and singing. I am excited to be part of Gesher’s unique mission to nurture the self-esteem, security and growth of each child.

AMY O’SULLIVAN

Teaching Assistant (Gefen and Rimon)

Hi, I’m Miss Amy and I am a Teaching Assistant in Gefen & Rimon class. I am excited to start my second year working at Gesher. I have a masters degree in clinical psychology and I love being able to use my knowledge to support children in reaching their full potential. I am also excited to have the opportunity of gaining experience within the therapy team this year as part of a secondment.

IZZY ABRAHAMS

Teaching Assistant (Gefen & Rimon)

Hi, I’m Miss Izzy and I am so excited to start my 2nd Year at Gesher. 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)

Hi, I’m Miss Simone and I am a teaching assistant for Chitah Class. This is my third year working at Gesher and I love being part of the Gesher community. I have worked with children for over 20 years. I have a passion for supporting children in achieving their full potential and having lots of fun while they get there!

ELLIE FRASER

Teaching Assistant (Chitah)

Hi, I’m Miss Ellie and I am a teaching assistant in Chitah Class this year. This is my first year working at Gesher and I am excited to get to know all the children and watch them grow. I have just graduated from my degree in Psychology with Counselling and am excited for the year ahead!

TALI FRASER

Teaching Assistant (Tamar)

Hi, I’m Miss Tali and I am the class teaching assistant for Tamar Class. This is my third 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 am now qualifying as a psychotherapist. I 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!

FRANKIE SAFFER

Teaching Assistant (Tamar)

Hi, I’m Miss Frankie and I am a teaching assistant in Tamar class. This will be my first year at Gesher after graduating from the University of Bristol where I studied Psychology in Education. I have always wanted to work with children and I’m excited to be part of such a dedicated team. I look forward to supporting each child’s journey and watching them grow and thrive throughout the year!

BEATRIZ GOMES

Teaching Assistant (Tiferet)

Hi, I’m Miss Beatriz, and I’m so excited to be part of the team at Gesher this year as a Creative Arts Teaching Assistant! I’ve just finished my Master’s in Culture, Curation and Criticism at the University of the Arts London, and joining Gesher felt like the perfect next step. I’ve always been passionate about arts and love helping others explore their own creativity. When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll probably find me watching stand-up comedy, or trying (and often failing) to learn a new language for fun. I’m really looking forward to a year full of creativity, laughter, and learning together!

AHMED MUSE

Teaching Assistant (Hodaya)

Hi, I’m Mr Ahmed, and I am a Teaching Assistant in Hodaya class. I joined Gesher at the start of the academic year, and it has been such a rewarding experience being part of this welcoming community. I really enjoy supporting the children in their learning and helping them to grow in confidence both inside and outside the classroom. I’m also looking forward to building strong relationships with the students and gaining more experience.

ALISA ISUFI

Teaching Assistant (Chesed)

Hi, I’m Miss Lisa and I’m with Chesed this year. This is my second year at Gesher and first year working with a secondary class. I’ve been working in schools for two and a half years now and I’m so excited to be part of the first Year 11 at Gesher. I can’t wait to make this a year to remember for our first official Year 11 graduates.

NICKY SEERS

Teaching Assistant (Keren) / Family Support

My name is Miss Nicky, and I’m thrilled to be starting my third year at Gesher. I have worked in SEND education on and off for over 30 years, as well as gaining experience as both a nanny and a nursery supervisor. For the past 10 years, I’ve been dedicated to working in SEND settings as a Family Support Worker and a Teaching Assistant. I also have my own personal connection with SEND, which has inspired me to complete extensive training over the last few years. I have absolutely fallen in love with Gesher and have so enjoyed getting to know all the wonderful families. I’m really looking forward to September, where I’ll have the chance to further grow in my role and continue supporting families in even more ways including The Small steps course and much more. I am also a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.

DAISY HAINES

Teaching Assistant (Keren)

My name is Miss Daisy and I am thrilled to be joining the team at Gesher this year. Before Gesher, I worked at a mainstream secondary school for 3 years as a Learning Support Assistant. I’m passionate about working with SEN students and supporting them in realising their full potential. I already feel welcomed into the community and am so excited to be working with Keren class this year!

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.

ELIANA CADOSH

Teaching Assistant (Malchut & Life Skills)

Hi, I’m Miss Eliana and I’m so excited to be returning to Gesher for a second year. I’m a teaching assistant for Malchut class and I also support with delivering the Life Skills programme. I have lots of experience working in SEN, as well as a BSc in Psychology from King’s College London. I am passionate about helping children to achieve independence and build their confidence!

RICARDO DECASTRO

Teaching Assistant (Malchut)

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 (Malchut)

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 linguistic, 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 in Malchut in the year 2025/2026 and I hope to help them develop their communication, knowledge and confidence whilst finding a peaceful balance within themselves.

Media Team

DANNY CAZZATO

Senior Designer

Hi, I’m Mr Danny and I am the Senior Designer here at Gesher, I’m so excited to be going into my fifth 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 the LEGO’s stand at London’s annual toy fair, also worked on projects with schools on the learning through play scheme. I also worked at Action for Children Charity where I managed and created a design and 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 who has special needs, I’m very honoured and proud to be part of Gesher’s Media Team and looking forward to capturing all the work our wonderful students will produce throughout the year ahead.

ZAHRA AXINN

Content Manager

Hi, I’m Miss Zahra and I am Content Manager on the Media Team. This is my second year at Gesher and I’ve enjoyed working here and becoming a part of the Gesher community! I am from California and I have a background in communications and media production in educational settings. This year, I’m excited to continue to develop and produce engaging content that showcases the philosophy of the school and the range of projects that Gesher pupils produce.

Fundraising Team

MICHAL BENARI

Director of Fundraising

Hi, I’m Michal and I am the Director of Fundraising at Gesher. Before joining Gesher, I worked in a variety of fundraising and communications roles, including as Senior Philanthropy Manager at Teenage Cancer Trust and Director of Communications at Innovation: Africa. These experiences gave me the opportunity to build strong relationships with supporters and lead teams to achieve ambitious goals. I also completed the Teach First leadership programme and obtained my PGCE at UCL. I was drawn to Gesher because of its innovative approach to supporting children with SEND, and I feel really inspired by ‘The Gesher Way.’ I’m excited to be part of such a passionate team and to help the school continue making a real difference in the lives of young people.

Support Staff

SHAZIA KAZMI

Office Manager

Hello, my name is Miss Shazia, the School Office Manager at Gesher School. I have several years’ experience working as an Office Manager/HR Advisor within the Financial Technology sector in the city of London. More recently, I have worked in a mainstream School for two years where my passion to work within the Education sector developed. I am very pleased to have started my journey at Gesher school and excited to get to know the children and all in the Gesher community.

ANTARA AMIN

Finance Administrative Assistant

Hi, I’m Miss Antara and I am the Finance Admin Assistant at the office. This is my fifth 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 Miss Alex, and I am the Administrator to the Senior Leadership Team. I have been at Gesher for a year and have loved every moment. The children and my colleagues make this such a special place, and I feel fortunate to be part of such a supportive community. I’m excited to begin my second year at Gesher and look forward to what’s ahead.

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! In addition, I also teach Hospitality & Catering as a subject to Key Stages 3 and 4.

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.