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.

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 Headteacher (Primary Curriculum & Assessment) & Teacher Training Lead

Hi everyone, I’m Miss Rowan! I’m the Assistant Headteacher for Primary Curriculum and Assessment, and I also lead on Teacher Training & ECT development. Over my eight years at Gesher—teaching various KS2 classes—my focus has always been on creating fun, personalized learning where every child's unique strengths are celebrated. I’m also deeply passionate about mentoring the next generation of SEND teachers, especially supporting some of our amazing TAs as they progress into full teaching careers.

DANIELLE PETAR

Assistant Headteacher for 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 in Key Stages 3 & 4

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 16 years and hold an MA in Special Educational Needs from Roehampton. This is my third year in my role at Gesher. I am passionate about shaping a supportive secondary journey through to Post-16 transition that enables students to explore their identities, discover who they are, and build the confidence, creativity, and resourcefulness needed for adulthood. By translating our Project-Based Learning and accessible qualifications into practical readiness for work and further study, I aim to equip every student for the world beyond school while embracing a positive lifestyle and active role within their community.

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 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 seventh 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 bodies and 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.

EMILY BACON

Malchut Class Teacher/Behaviour Lead

Hi, my name is Miss Emily, I have worked at Gesher School for the past seven years! I have been teaching in SEND for the past 12 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 also 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. This year I will be going on maternity leave from December so will be taken over by the wonderful Miss Safa! We're so excited for the year ahead!

MATTHEW SUMMERS

SENDCo

Hi, I’m Mr Matt. I am 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 24 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. I continue to find seeing the students make progress and thriving in their learning environment very rewarding and always 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

Seorah & Gefen Class Teacher/EYFS Coordinator (including phonics and reading)

Hi, I’m Miss Leigh and I am the class teacher for Seorah & Gefen class (Years 1, 2 and 3) from Monday to Wednesdays. This will be my seventh year teaching at Gesher and working with our younger 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 primary 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!

ABIGAIL ARDEMAN

Seorah and Gefen Class Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Abigail, and I am so excited to be working alongside Miss Leigh this year as class teacher for Seorah and Gefen classes. This will be my third year at Gesher, and I am delighted to be continuing my journey here and watching our wonderful children grow, learn and develop. Alongside my role as class teacher, I am also looking forward to taking on Jewish Studies for Seorah, Gefen and Rimon classes this year. I am really looking forward to the year ahead and all the wonderful experiences, learning and memories we will create together. I cannot wait to see what excitement and adventure this year brings!

AIMEE HARRIS

Rimon Class Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Aimee and I am the class teacher for Rimon Class. This will be my fourth year at Gesher, and after spending the last three years with the secondary cohort, I’m so excited to be joining the primary team. I started my Gesher journey as a Teaching Assistant before completing my teacher training here. I recently completed my PGCE and gained QTS, specialising in Primary SEND. I have a real passion for supporting children to build their confidence, independence and skills, and love finding creative and engaging ways to bring learning to life. I’m looking forward to getting to know the children and families in Rimon and having a fantastic year together!

LUCY OFFER

Chitah Class Teacher

Hello, I’m Miss Lucy and I’m delighted to be the class teacher of Chitah this year. This is my third year at Gesher, and my seventh year of teaching, and I feel very lucky to be part of such a wonderful school community. After a fantastic year teaching the children in Rimon, I’m so excited to continue our journey together in Year 5! I’m passionate about creating a supportive and engaging classroom where every child can feel confident, develop their independence and achieve their full potential. I’m looking forward to another year filled with learning, laughter and fun together!

SASCHA NATHAN

Trainee Teacher Chitah Class

Hi, I’m Miss Sascha and I am really excited to be joining Chitah Class this year! Having spent the last three years at Gesher as a Teaching Assistant and completing the TA-to-Teacher route last year, it feels very special to be starting my fourth year as a teacher. I studied Psychology at university and have worked with children of all ages both in school and on summer camps. I can’t wait to work alongside Miss Lucy and see all that Chitah Class will achieve this year!

NATASHA HARRIS

Tamar Class Teacher

Hi, I'm Miss Tash and I am the class teacher for Tamar class. This is my third year working at Gesher in the primary division and I love the school community. Before Gesher I studied Psychology and Special Education in New York, starting working as a one to one and then a as a teacher. I cherish those magical “Aha!” moments and finding creative ways to ensure every child can access, understand, and engage with the world around them.

DANIELLE CONROY

Keren Co-Form Tutor

Hi! I’m Miss Danielle and I’m so excited to be the Form Teacher for Keren this year, together with Miss Katie. Alongside my tutor role, I will be teaching Maths and English across KS3. I have taught for over 25 years, working with SEND pupils for much of that time, in a variety of mainstream and specialist provisions. I hold a BSc degree in Psychology and I studied at the University of Hertfordshire for my PGCE. I spent time volunteering at Gesher last year: I instantly felt welcomed by the wonderful school community, and I’m delighted to now be a formal member of the team. I’m looking forward to supporting Keren to begin their Secondary journey.

KATIE MCENALLAY

Keren Form Teacher/Literacy & Dyslexia Coordinator

Hi, I’m Miss Katie, and I’m excited to be starting my eighth year at Gesher. During my time here, I have had the opportunity to teach across a range of primary classes, and I am now beginning an exciting new journey into secondary education. I have recently trained as a dyslexia specialist teacher and am passionate about supporting pupils who find literacy challenging. I love helping each pupil discover strategies that work for them and building their confidence in reading, writing and spelling.

HESHAM YASSER

Gevurah Co-Form Tutor (Maths & PE Teacher)

Hi, I’m Hesham Yasser and I am the Co-Form for Gevurah Class. I am one of the Secondary Maths and PE teachers at Gesher and I love being part of the school community. I have a passion for making Maths easier, more accessible and enjoyable for everyone, and I love seeing students build their confidence and discover what they are capable of. Outside of teaching, I enjoy football and chess, and I always encourage our students to explore new hobbies, discover their interests and develop their skills beyond the classroom. 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.

LEAH WRIGHT

Gevurah Co-Form Tutor/ Relational, Cultural Practice Coordinator (Performing Arts Teacher)

Hi, I'm Miss Leah, and I am co-sharing Gevruah with Mr Hesham as their form tutor. I have been at Gesher for nearly 9 years, coming back from maternity to a part time role. I am so excited to make the jump from primary to the secondary team, as well as teaching performing arts across the year groups. I am also excited to start my new role as Relational Culture and Practice co-ordinator, in which I will am to best support the pupils and staff with maintaining a positive and proactive approach during our day to day lives at school.

ANTHONY SALERNO

Tiferet Form Tutor/Science Coordinator (Science Teacher)

I am Mr Anthony, the Science Coordinator, and the form tutor for Tiferet. I taught Science (specialising in Biology and Chemistry), English, and Maths for 5 years in Australia, and am excited to be embarking on my third year of teaching at Gesher! In 2024 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.

BETHANY RENTALL

Hodaya Form Tutor/Secondary Curriculum Assessment Design Coordinator (English Teacher)

Hi, I’m Miss Bethany and I am the class teacher for Hodaya class. I am entering my sixth year at Gesher and can’t wait for another exciting and fulfilling year ahead. I trained as an English teacher which fuelled my passion to ensure a love of reading and supporting students to recognise and achieve their full potential! It has also been amazing diving into qualifications to help our students prepare for post-16.

AYMANE HAMIDI

Chesed Form Tutor/Access & Assistive Technology Coordinator (English & 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!

EMMA-LOUISE JATTAN

Chesed Form Tutor (Maths and PE Teacher)

Hi, I’m Miss Emma and I am the form tutor for Chesed class. This will be my third year at Gesher, and I’m delighted to be continuing my journey within the school community and work with this wonderful group of students again. Across Secondary, I teach Maths and will also be delivering a Qualification in Sport for KS4. I look forward to making learning fun and engaging, while supporting students as they prepare for their exciting next steps beyond Gesher.

ALISSA WARNER

Life Skills Primary Teacher

Hi, I’m Miss Alissa, and this is my fifth year at Gesher and my second year as a Life Skills Primary Teacher. Previously, I worked as a teaching assistant, where I developed valuable skills, gained meaningful insight, and discovered an even deeper passion for supporting young children. The past year has been an exciting step forward in my career, giving me the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by teaching, nurturing and empowering young children to grow, thrive and become more independent. I’m excited to continue this journey and support our pupils as they develop their confidence, skills and love of learning!

SAFA AHMED

Malchut Co-Class Teacher

Hi, I’m Safa and I am the Co-Class Teacher for Malchut Class. This is my first year at Gesher and I’m really looking forward to becoming part of the school community. I have experience teaching in primary and SEN settings and have a particular passion for supporting children with SEND. I enjoy creating a positive, engaging and supportive environment where every child feels confident, valued and able to reach their full potential.

JODI SAMPSON

Head of Partnerships/Secondary Bridges Teacher/Careers & Work Experience Coordinator

Hello, I’m Miss Jodi, Head of Partnerships and Secondary Bridges Teacher at Gesher School. I’m passionate about helping young people reach their full potential and have spent the past seven years supporting pupils across mainstream and specialist settings. As Head of Partnerships, I lead Gesher’s Consultancy Partnerships Programme, working with schools, community organisations and businesses to share our expertise in SEND, neurodivergence and inclusive practice. Alongside this, I teach our Secondary Bridges programme, including Careers Studies, supporting pupils to develop the skills, confidence and independence they need for life beyond school. Having previously worked as a consultant and trainer in the charity sector, I’m excited to continue growing meaningful partnerships that create more inclusive opportunities and career pathways for our young people, while also preparing them for life beyond Gesher. If you’d like to get involved, I’d love to hear from you!

Kodesh Department

BELLA GRAHAM

Primary Jewish Studies Teacher (Maternity Leave)

Hi, I’m Miss Bella and I am the Primary Kodesh Teacher. I have been at the school since 2019 and will be teaching and supporting until I go on Maternity leave in September. 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 will miss everyone so much this year but will come back to visit with baby!

Therapists

HOLLIE SMEDLEY

Art Psychotherapist/Student Voice & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator

Hello, I’m Miss Hollie, an Art Psychotherapist. This is my tenth year working therapeutically through the creative arts and my fourth year at Gesher. I support students across both the primary and secondary schools in understanding and nurturing their mental health and emotional wellbeing. My work is tailored to each student’s individual therapeutic needs and incorporates a range of creative approaches, alongside mindfulness practices, all informed by current research in attachment, neuroscience, and psychotherapy. This year, I will also be overseeing Student Voice and Community Engagement. I look forward to working with students, families, and colleagues throughout the year and seeing our school community continue to grow and thrive.

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 third 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, Hodaya and Malchut.

ALEXANDRA MURPHY

Speech and Language Therapist

Hi, I’m Miss Alex, and I’m excited to be joining the Gesher team as a Speech and Language Therapist! I recently moved from Australia to London and bring with me experience working with children, young people, and adults in both clinical and educational settings. I am passionate about helping young people discover their strengths and interests while working towards meaningful, functional goals that support their aspirations and independence. I truly love being a speech and language therapist and feel privileged to be a part of each student's journey. I am looking forward to getting to know the students, families, and staff, and becoming part of the wonderful Gesher community.

HANNAH CURTIS

Speech and Language Therapist

Hi, I’m Miss Hannah and I am a Speech and Language Therapist. This will be my first year at Gesher, and I am really excited to be joining the Gesher community and helping your children grow, develop and reach for the stars! I am truly passionate about creating an inclusive environment that supports children’s communication, while helping them develop their confidence and independence. I’m looking forward to working together with your children to help every child reach their full potential, whilst of course having lots of fun along the way!

BRADLEY COX

Child & Adolescent Counsellor (L3)

Entering my sixth school year at Gesher, I am taking on the role of Child and Adolescent Counsellor (L3) after being the Therapy Assistant for the past two years. Currently continuing my formal counsellor training, I bring a strong background in therapeutic support and a deep commitment to the emotional well-being of our students. Having supported the Gesher community across various capacities over the years, I look forward to continuing to build strong relationships with our pupils. I can't wait for another year!!!

TALI FRASER

Therapy Assistant

Hi, I'm Miss Tali and I am the Therapy Assistant at Gesher. This is my fourth year at Gesher and I love being part of the Gesher community! I am currently training in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy and have previously graduated my degree in psychology. 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!

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!

ECHO SMEDLEY

Therapy Dog

Hello, my name is Miss Echo and I am a retired racing greyhound. My favourite thing to do is sleep! I also love being stroked. I’m excited to be working with Miss Hollie in the creative arts room. Although I’m quite big, I am very calm and have had great success supporting students to overcome their fear of dogs. I’m quite shy myself, so I know it can be challenging to interact with others. Do stop by and say hello!

Teaching Assistants

MONIQUE LAUDER

Creative Integration Lead/Seorah & Gefen HLTA

Hello, I’m Miss Monique. I hold a BA (Hons) in Working in Integrated Services for Children and Young People and am delighted to be a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) supporting the Zayit, Seorah and Gefen classes, as well as the school’s Creative Integration Lead. Alongside my HLTA role, I plan and deliver weekly art sessions, bucket time and messy play. I run the art lunch club and oversee the outdoor space for Zayit and Seorah. I have extensive experience working with young children, particularly within early years education. Throughout my career, I have managed nursery settings and worked in a primary school, where I supported children as a HLTA in the early years during the mornings and managed a playgroup in the afternoons. I also have a strong personal connection to supporting children with additional needs, which has further strengthened my passion for creating an inclusive, nurturing, and stimulating environment where every child can thrive. I am incredibly excited to work with your children, support them in reaching their full potential, and play an active role in making their school experience happy, creative, and meaningful.

LAURA WIMHURST

Seorah & Gefen Teaching Assistant

Hi, I'm Miss Laura and I am one of the teaching assistants in Seorah and Gefen. This is my second school year working at Gesher and I love being part of this amazing team! I'm very passionate about supporting children to reach their full potential and excited to see what this year will bring!

SIMONE JAFFA

Rimon Teaching Assistant

Hi, I'm Miss Simone and I am one of the TA's in Rimon class. This is my fourth year working in Primary and I love being part of the Gesher family. I am a qualified Nursery nurse and I have worked with children for over 20 years. I love working with children and enjoy being part of their journey.

SHAMEQUIE AUSTIN

Rimon Teaching Assistant

Hi, my name is Miss Shamequie. I recently joined Gesher School this year as a Teaching Assistant and bring over 10 years of experience working with children and young people with special educational needs. I have a strong passion for supporting SEN pupils to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. I hold a Level 5 qualification in Health and Social Care and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment where every child feels valued and supported.

JULIA HANNA

Chitah Teaching Assistant

Hi, I’m Julia and I am looking forward to being apart of the Chitah class team. I graduated with a degree in Psychology, and I am so excited to join the Gesher school community! I am passionate about working with children and believe encouragement and playfulness goes a long way. I am looking forward to getting to know each child and supporting their needs.

IZZY ABRAHAMS

Chitah Teaching Assistant

Hi, I’m Miss Izzy and I am excited to be starting my 3rd Year at Gesher. I am passionate about working with children with SEN and have worked across different settings for nearly 20 years. I also have many years of personal experience. I’m looking forward to helping the children reach their full potential and watching them blossom and bloom.

FRANKIE SAFFER

Therapy Secondment/Tamar Teaching Assistant

Hi I’m Miss Frankie! I’m thrilled to continue my journey at Gesher this year. For the first term, I’ll be completing a secondment with our therapy team before returning full-time as a Teaching Assistant in Tamar Class for the remainder of the year. I love being part of this community and can’t wait to support each child as they grow, learn, and thrive!

ELLIE FRASER

Tamar Teaching Assistant

Hi, I’m Miss Ellie and I’m a Teaching Assistant in Tamar Class this year. This is my second year at Gesher and I’m really happy to be back! I studied Psychology with Counselling at university, which has given me an interest in working with children and supporting their development. I really enjoy getting to know each child and building strong relationships with them, and I love being part of their everyday school life. I’m looking forward to another fun year in Tamar Class!

DARIA ADIV

Tamar Teaching Assistant

Hi, I'm Miss Daria and I'm a teaching assistant in Tamar Class. I have 5 years experience as a fully qualified class teacher, and have also worked as a teaching assistant for one year. This is my first year at Gesher, and I'm so excited to be part of such an incredible team. I love working with children, and can't wait to see them all thrive this year!

NICOLA (NICKY) SEERS

Keren Teaching Assistant

Hey, I'm Miss Nicky and I can't believe I'm going into my 4th year at Gesher! I have worked in SEND education for over 35 years, along side gaining experience as both a nanny and nursery supervisor. I have dedicated many years to working in SEND settings as a Teaching Assistant and am also proud to be part of the safeguarding team. I have a personal connection with SEND, which inspired me to complete extensive training over the last few years, helping me to further support and advocate for children and young people with additional needs. Looking forward to welcoming the new year 7s.

OLIVIA KIRSCH

Keren Teaching Assistant

Hi, I'm Miss Livvy and I am a teaching assistant for Keren Class. This is my first year working at Gesher and I'm looking forward to becoming a part of the amazing community and to watch the children grow and thrive throughout their time at school. I have previously completed a psychology degree and have always been passionate about working with and supporting children.

TANYA WILLIAMSON

Gevurah Teaching Assistant

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 hope to help your children develop their communication, knowledge and confidence whilst finding a peaceful balance within themselves.

JOVAN TOMASEVIC

Gevurah Teaching Assistant (Creative Media Specialist)

Hi, I'm Mr Jovan, I'm entering my second year at Gesher with Gevurah class! I am studying a Master of Teaching Secondary, have a Master's in Animation and Visualisation from the University of Technology, Sydney, and have worked across the film and TV industry in Australia for several years. I've been in the UK for 2 years now, and believe in creating an engaging and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. I’m passionate about helping grow the creativity, confidence, curiosity, and independence of students, and am eager to bring that energy to Gesher this year!

AHMED MUSE

Chesed Teaching Assistant (Science Specialist)

Hi, I’m Ahmed, and I am a Teaching Assistant in Tiferet class. I joined Gesher at the start of the last 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.

JAYA AGRAWAL

Tiferet Teaching Assistant

Hi, I’m Miss Jaya, and I’m excited to be joining Gesher as a Teaching Assistant. I hold a Bachelor of Education degree from India and bring over two decades of experience across education and the corporate world. Supporting children in their learning, building their confidence, and helping them thrive has always been something I’m passionate about. I’m delighted to be part of the Gesher community and look forward to supporting every child to learn, grow and reach their full potential.

BEATRIZ GOMES

Hodoya Teaching Assistant (Creative Arts Specialist)

Hi, I’m Miss Beatriz, and I’m so excited to be part of the team at Gesher! 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!

DAISY HAINES

Chesed Teaching Assistant

My name is Miss Daisy, and I am so happy to be returning to the Gesher team for my second year. I’m passionate about working with SEN students and supporting them to build confidence, develop their independence and realise their full potential. I’m especially excited to be joining Chesed class this September and supporting our KS4 students. I’m looking forward to making lots of happy memories and celebrating all their achievements this year.

RENÉE SANDERS

Malchut Teaching Assistant

Hi, I’m Miss Renée, a Teaching Assistant at Gesher School. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, with a strong interest in developmental psychology, attachment theory and neurodiversity. I support pupils across mixed age groups, including those requiring intimate care, ensuring they feel safe, respected and understood. My background informs a calm and thoughtful approach to each child’s individual learning and emotional needs, and I am passionate about creating nurturing environments where every pupil can thrive academically and personally.

ELIAS-KANE BOSTON

Malchut Teaching Assistant

Hi, I’m Mr Elias and this is my first year at Gesher School. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, individualised support to students with diverse learning needs. My approach focuses on breaking down barriers to learning and implementing personalised strategies that help students thrive within the classroom. There is nothing more fulfilling than witnessing a student achieve a "lightbulb moment" or master a new skill. I am passionate about advocacy and dedicated to ensuring that every student I work with has the tools and confidence they need to succeed in their own unique way.

BUSHRA HASSAN

Malchut Teaching Assistant

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.

MIRANDA NICHOLSON

Communications & Marketing Lead/Teaching Assistant

I'm Miss Miranda and I'm the Communications & Marketing Lead. I'm so excited to bring my background in marketing and communications to such a special place. After five years working in the fast-paced world of dental events tech marketing, I can honestly say that joining a school community feels like the most meaningful thing I've done yet! If you see something on our social channels, read the Gesher Gazette, check our website or see a photo that makes you smile, there's a good chance I am behind it! I also get to spend time in the classrooms as a Teaching Assistant supporting our wonderful students, which is honestly the highlight of my week.

Fundraising Team

MICHAL BENARI

Director of Fundraising

Hi, I’m Miss Michal and I am the Director of Fundraising. This is my second year at Gesher and I am incredibly proud of the fundraising campaigns we have run and the impact that they have had on our children and young people and our school community. I look forward to all that we can achieve together this year, as we raise vital funds and celebrate more milestones!

Support Staff

DAYNA LUCAS

Office Manager

Hi, I’m Miss Dayna and I am the Office Manager at Gesher. I have worked in education for over 10 years, with experience across school operations, data, systems and administration. I really enjoy being part of a school community and helping to make sure everything behind the scenes runs smoothly for our pupils, families and staff. I’m passionate about creating efficient systems, supporting others and, most importantly, contributing to an environment where every young person can thrive. I’m really excited to be part of the Gesher community and look forward to getting to know everyone!

ANTARA AMIN

Finance Administrative Assistant

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

CAITLIN PANACIDES

Inclusion Support

Hi, I’m Miss Caitlin and I am Inclusion Support here at Gesher. I hold a masters degree in Developmental and Educational Psychology and previously was a Teaching Assistant at Gesher. I am passionate about inclusive learning and supporting all children to access education in a way that works best for them. I have a strong interest in creating a positive and supportive environment where every child feels valued and able to thrive. I’m really excited to be part of such a dedicated team and look forward to supporting each pupil’s individual journey, helping them to build confidence, independence, and achieve their full potential.

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.