Teaching Staff

Ashley Atkinson

Primary Class Teacher

Ashley Atkinson is an experienced primary educator with a strong background in early childhood and international education. She has over 10 years of teaching experience, including 2 years as Head of a Primary School.

Ashley holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s in Education (Leadership and Management). She has expertise in international curricula and primary school leadership, supporting high-quality learning for diverse learners.

Roderick Coull

Primary Class Teacher

Roderick Coull graduated from The Robert Gordon University with an Honours degree in Applied Social Science before completing his PGDE (Primary) at the University of Dundee.

He completed his probationary year at Dunbar Primary School, the largest primary school in Scotland, and became a Full Member of the General Teaching Council of Scotland.

Roderick is a Primary Teacher at Ardingly Astana, where he is dedicated to fostering confident, independent learners in a supportive and structured classroom environment.

Jenny Stone

Primary Class Teacher

David Rose

Primary Class Teacher

David holds a BA (Hons) from the University of London and an MSc from the University of Nottingham, as well as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). He has over eight years of experience teaching in international schools and is committed to delivering high-quality, pupil-centred education.

He is currently a Year 3 teacher at Ardingly Astana, where he focuses on building strong foundations in literacy and numeracy while creating engaging, pupil-centred learning experiences.

Sabrina Ratnam

Primary Class Teacher

Sabrina is an experienced Primary School teacher holding a Master’s degree in Education and currently pursuing a PhD in Education. She has taught in international schools across Malaysia, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan and is now a Year 4 teacher at Ardingly Astana.

In her role, Sabrina supports diverse learners and creates engaging, inclusive learning environments that help pupils develop confidence, curiosity, and achieve their full potential.

Graham McClymont

Primary Class Teacher

Graham McClymont is an experienced primary educator with over 38 years of teaching experience across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

He holds a BSc (Hons) in Zoology from the University of Glasgow, a PGCE in Primary Education from the University of Dundee, and a Diploma in Education.

Throughout his career, he has worked in a wide range of international educational settings, bringing deep classroom expertise and a strong understanding of primary education.

At Ardingly Astana, he teaches Year 5, focusing on building strong foundations in learning and supporting pupils to develop confidence, independence, and curiosity.

Andrew Stokes

Primary Class Teacher

Andrew Stokes has over 15 years of teaching experience across Reception to Year 7, including work as a peripatetic music teacher. He holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and has taught in a range of primary, junior, and secondary school settings.

Andrew brings versatility and creativity to his teaching, supporting pupils’ academic and personal development across different stages of their learning journey.

Samantha Rawlings

Primary Class Teacher

Samantha Rawlings is an experienced primary teacher with over 18 years of teaching experience in the UK and international schools. She holds a BA (Hons) in Primary Education with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from the University of Northampton and has taught across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, alongside leadership roles including Year Team Leader and Assessment Coordinator.

Before joining Ardingly Astana, Samantha taught at Modern English School Cairo, an Outstanding British international school, where she led year teams, supported colleagues through professional development, and helped ensure high-quality learning across the primary years. She believes in creating a caring and inclusive classroom where children develop confidence, curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

Christine MacLean

Primary Class Teacher

Christine MacLean is a primary teacher with experience in both the UK and international schools. She holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) and an MA (Hons) in Psychology from the University of Aberdeen, combining a strong academic background with a deep understanding of children's learning and development.

Christine has taught across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 and has also served as a Primary Learning Support Coordinator. She enjoys creating engaging, enquiry-based classrooms where pupils feel confident to share their ideas, develop independence and grow as curious, resilient learners.

Daniel Saberton

Primary Class Teacher

Daniel Saberton is a qualified primary teacher with nearly seven years of international teaching experience. He holds a Primary PGCE with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from the University of Gloucestershire and an MA in Ancient History and Classical Culture from Swansea University.

Before joining Ardingly Astana, Daniel taught across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 at Modern English School Cairo, where he also served as Primary After School Activities Coordinator. Alongside classroom teaching, he led a wide range of enrichment programmes that supported pupils' academic, creative and personal development. Daniel is committed to creating engaging lessons that inspire curiosity, independence and a positive attitude towards learning.

Rachel Moorhouse

Primary Class Teacher

Rachel Moorhouse is a qualified primary teacher with a science specialism. She holds a PGCE in Primary Education from Bath Spa University and a BSc in Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology from the University of Plymouth. She is also completing the National Professional Qualification for SEND Coordinators (NPQ SENDCO).

Rachel has taught in both the UK and international schools, working across upper primary and lower secondary. Her experience includes science teaching, learning support and wellbeing leadership, with a strong focus on inclusive education and helping every child reach their full potential through personalised learning and pastoral care.

Phillip Robinson

Mathematics Teacher

Phillip Robinson is a Mathematics teacher with over 20 years of experience in international schools. He is dedicated to helping pupils develop confidence, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of mathematical concepts.

Phillip holds an Honours degree in Civil and Structural Engineering and later completed his teacher training at the University of Bath, bringing real-world analytical expertise into the classroom.

David McColgan

Mathematics Teacher

David McColgan is an experienced mathematics teacher with over 20 years of teaching experience in the UK and international schools. He holds a Bachelor of Science and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Strathclyde and has taught in Scotland, Guatemala, Romania and China.

Throughout his career, David has taught a wide range of curricula, including the Scottish curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE and A Level Mathematics, and the US Common Core programme. He has also served as an examiner for the Scottish Qualifications Authority and has led mathematics competitions and enrichment programmes. David is committed to helping pupils develop confidence, logical thinking and a deep understanding of mathematics.

Sharon Makepeace

Head of English

Sharon Makepeace is a UK-qualified English teacher with a PGCE and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from the University of Cumbria. She also holds a BA in Media & Communications from Glasgow Caledonian University and brings teaching experience from both the UK and international schools.

Prior to joining Ardingly Astana, Sharon taught English Language and Literature within the Cambridge curriculum, preparing pupils for IGCSE examinations and supporting learners across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. Before moving into education, she spent more than 20 years working in communications and public relations, bringing valuable real-world experience that helps pupils develop strong communication, analytical and writing skills.

David Cox

English Teacher

David Cox is an experienced international English teacher with over 15 years of teaching experience in the UK and international schools. He holds a BA (Hons) in English Literature from Kingston University and a PGCE in Secondary English from the University of Worcester. He is currently completing an MA in Education with Leadership at Wrexham University.

David has taught English across Key Stages 3–5, with extensive experience in Cambridge IGCSE English Language and Literature. His international experience includes teaching at Harrow Beijing, the New English School in Kuwait and the British School Warsaw, alongside teaching roles in other schools in Kuwait and the UK. He has also developed schemes of work, led Year 11 academic provision, supported EAL learners and received an outstanding rating in a recent departmental lesson observation.

Assiya Balymova

EAL Teacher

Assiya Balymova teaches English as an Additional Language (EAL) at Ardingly Astana. She has experience working in international schools, including Haileybury Astana.

She holds a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Sunderland and a Bachelor’s degree in English Philology from Aktobe Regional State University.

As a qualified EAL specialist, Assiya supports multilingual learners through targeted interventions, helping them develop academic English proficiency and confidence across the curriculum. She is trained in second language acquisition, inclusive pedagogy, and language assessment.

Baidavlet Kassimbekov

EAL Teacher

Baidavlet Kassimbekov is an experienced EAL specialist with over 16 years of experience in international education. Throughout his career, he has worked with leading international organisations and schools, including Haileybury Almaty, QSI, and the British Council.

He holds a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Nazarbayev University and is a CELTA-qualified teacher.

At Ardingly Astana, Baidavlet teaches English as an Additional Language (EAL), helping students develop the language skills and confidence needed to succeed across the curriculum. He also contributes to curriculum development, drawing on his extensive experience in international education.

Mariyam Kamedenova

EAL Teacher

Mariyam Kamedenova is an EAL teacher at Ardingly Astana, supporting Secondary School pupils in developing the academic English skills needed to thrive across the curriculum.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages from Abai National Pedagogical University and a Master’s degree in Multilingual Education from the Graduate School of Education at Nazarbayev University.

Drawing on her expertise in multilingual education, Mariyam helps pupils build confidence in their language abilities and succeed in an international learning environment.

Olga Rudanova

EAL Teacher

Olga Rudanova is an experienced English language educator with over 10 years of experience working with children and adults. She holds a Master’s degree in Pedagogical Sciences from Astana International University and a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages and Translation from the Eurasian Humanitarian Institute.

Olga has extensive experience supporting primary pupils and teaching English in both school and early-years settings. At Ardingly Astana, she supports pupils across the primary years and teaches Phonics using the Little Wandle programme. She also holds an accredited 120-hour TESOL/TEFL qualification and has experience teaching English to learners from beginner to advanced levels.

Aizhan Dauletali

EAL Teacher

Aizhan Dauletali is an English language educator with over eight years of experience teaching learners of different ages and proficiency levels. She has a strong background in EFL and EAP, IELTS preparation, curriculum development and teacher training.

Aizhan has taught English in schools and language centres and has worked with individual learners and small groups. She also has experience developing teaching materials and supporting other teachers through training and methodological guidance. Her professional development includes EAL assessment courses from The Bell Foundation and a TESOL Certificate Programme through Arizona State University, which she is currently completing.

Shagufta Khan

Science Teacher & Head of Key Stage 3

Shagufta Khan is an experienced science educator and school leader with over 11 years of teaching experience in international schools in Kazakhstan. She is a UK-qualified teacher with a degree in Biochemistry and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of Roehampton.

At Ardingly Astana, Shagufta serves as Head of Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9), where she leads academic and pastoral provision while continuing to teach Science. She is responsible for supporting pupils’ academic progress and overall development throughout lower secondary.

She is passionate about fostering curiosity, analytical thinking, and a deep understanding of science, and is committed to creating a supportive, inclusive learning environment in which every pupil can thrive and reach their potential.

Zoe Grainger

Humanities Teacher

Zoe Grainger is an experienced secondary Humanities teacher with expertise across Religion, Philosophy and Ethics, Sociology, History and Politics. She holds a BA (Hons) in Theology, Religion and Philosophy of Religion from the University of Cambridge, graduating with First Class Honours, as well as a PGCE in Secondary Religious Studies and a Master’s in Education: Transforming Practice, both from the University of Cambridge.

Zoe has taught across Key Stages 3–5 and has held a number of leadership roles, most recently as Head of Humanities and Head of Department at Parliament Hill School in London. Her experience includes curriculum development, supporting multilingual and SEN learners, mentoring teachers and PGCE trainees, and establishing an Oxbridge preparation programme. She has also researched inclusive approaches to teaching religion and has published her work in the Journal of Trainee Teacher Educational Research.

Matthew Roberts

History & Business Teacher

Matthew Roberts is an experienced secondary teacher of History, Business and Economics. He holds an MA in Advanced Educational Practice from University College London (UCL), a PGCE, and Qualified Teacher Status. He has taught in leading schools across the UK, Oman and Peru, delivering Cambridge IGCSE, IB and A Level programmes.

Throughout his career, Matthew has held several leadership roles, including Humanities Coordinator, IGCSE Coordinator, Head of House, and University and Careers Guidance Counsellor. He is passionate about developing critical thinking, encouraging academic curiosity and preparing pupils for success at university and beyond.

Maira Berlibayeva

Kazakh History Teacher

Nurlan Iskaliyev

Head of STEM

Nurlan Iskaliyev is an experienced educational leader and STEM educator with over 10 years of experience at Haileybury Almaty. He holds an MEng in Mathematical and Computer Modelling from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, a BEd in Social Pedagogy from the University of Sunderland, and an IPGCE Diploma of Education.

Nurlan has led educational projects in STEAM, robotics, artificial intelligence and computer science, including designing and building a robotics laboratory and makerspace and integrating AI and robotics into the school curriculum. He has also led international robotics competitions, developed programmes in robotics, drones and aeromodelling, and established partnerships with leading universities and educational organisations.

Alison Pollard

ICT and CT Teacher

Alison Pollard is an experienced educator with over 10 years of international teaching experience in the UK, Russia, Sweden, and Kazakhstan.

At Ardingly Astana, she teaches ICT and Computing from Years 1 to 9, helping pupils develop digital literacy, creativity, and confidence in using technology.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Primary English Education with Qualified Teacher Status from Edge Hill University. Alison is also currently completing the National Professional Qualification (NPQ) in Leading Teaching to further develop her pedagogical and leadership practice.

Helayna Witham

Art & Design Teacher

Helayna Witham is an Art and Design teacher at Ardingly Astana. She holds a degree in Fine Art from Arts University Bournemouth, with a strong foundation in contemporary art practice, critical thinking, and visual experimentation.

Helayna delivers engaging, pupil-centred lessons that foster creativity, technical skills, and reflective practice. She is passionate about nurturing young artists and creating a supportive environment where pupils feel confident to explore and develop their individual artistic voice.

Diana Jalmukhambetova

Art & Design Teacher

Diana Jalmukhambetova is an art educator with a background in Fine Arts and Art History. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Painting from the Kazakh National University of Arts and an MLitt in Art History from the University of Glasgow.

Diana has experience supporting students in Art, preparing coursework and portfolios, and assisting with school exhibitions. She also has professional experience as a painting tutor, book illustrator and 2D animator, alongside participation in exhibitions and creative projects in Kazakhstan.

Ross Clarke

Music Teacher

Ross Clarke is an accomplished music educator, conductor and performer with extensive international experience across the UK, Kazakhstan, Poland and Cambodia. He holds a Bachelor of Music from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (International) with Merit from the University of Nottingham.

Throughout his career, Ross has led music departments, orchestras and choirs in leading international schools and has organised performances at prestigious venues and international festivals. He is also an examiner for the London College of Music and has helped pupils achieve excellent results in internationally recognised music examinations. Ross is committed to inspiring young musicians through outstanding music education, performance opportunities and creative expression.

Aigerim Makibayeva

Music teacher

Aigerim Makibayeva is a music teacher with over ten years of experience as a choirmaster, piano teacher, and vocal instructor.

She graduated from the Kazakh National University of Arts in 2016, specialising in Choral Conducting. Throughout her career, she has worked with leading cultural institutions in Kazakhstan, including Astana Opera, the National Military-Patriotic Centre, and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.

At Ardingly Astana, Aigerim inspires pupils to develop confidence, discipline, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation of music.

Gulzhan Domayeva

Kazakh Language Teacher

Gulzhan Domayeva is a Kazakh language teacher with experience in international education. She has worked with IB PYP and MYP programmes, as well as project-based learning, supporting pupils in developing critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

Since 2024, she has been teaching Kazakh at Ardingly Astana, bringing an engaging and interactive approach to language learning. Her lessons help pupils build confidence in speaking Kazakh and develop a deeper understanding of language and culture.

She is committed to creating a supportive classroom environment where pupils enjoy learning and actively engage with Kazakh language and culture.

Aigerim Kaiyrgaliyeva

Kazakh Language Teacher

Aigerim Kaiyrgaliyeva is a Kazakh language teacher for secondary pupils at Ardingly Astana. She holds a Master’s degree in Kazakh Language and Literature from M. Otemisov University and is currently pursuing a PhD in Literary Studies at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.

She has experience working in both state and private schools and has taken part in international academic internships. In her teaching, she helps pupils develop a strong command of the Kazakh language, as well as an appreciation for literature and critical thinking.

She is passionate about guiding older pupils to engage more deeply with language, meaning, and interpretation.

Nurbi Orynbassarova

Kazakh Language Teacher

Nurbi Orynbassarova is a language educator specialising in Kazakh Language and Literature, with a strong academic background in linguistics and language pedagogy. She holds a Bachelor of Education in Kazakh and English Languages and Linguistics from Maqsut Narikbayev University, with a teaching qualification in Kazakh Language and Literature and English, alongside TESOL training.

Nurbi has experience teaching Kazakh Language and Literature in a multilingual international school environment, including working with students for whom Kazakh is not their first language. She is experienced in adapting lessons to different proficiency levels and developing engaging learning materials, with a particular interest in language acquisition, applied linguistics and educational technology.

Olga Zagorodnyaya

Russian Language Teacher

Olga Zagorodnyaya is an experienced educator with over 13 years of teaching experience in international schools, including Haileybury.

She holds a degree in English and German and has completed professional retraining at Lomonosov Moscow State University in teaching Russian to bilingual children.

Olga regularly develops her expertise in Russian language teaching methodology and has also completed studies at the University of Cambridge. In addition, she holds a TEYL qualification (Teaching English to Young Learners) from World TESOL Academy.

She brings extensive experience from international education into her work at Ardingly Astana.

Rustam Kubzhanov

Russian Language Teacher

Rustam Kubzhanov is an experienced language teacher with 10 years of experience in international schools. He holds degrees in Foreign Language Teaching from Kostanay State Pedagogical Institute, Educational Process Management from Omsk State Pedagogical University, International Relations from Abai Kazakh Pedagogical University, and International Relations from Sorbonne-Kazakhstan.

Rustam has taught Russian and French at QSI International School in Astana and French at Miras International School, working with students across the IB PYP, MYP and DP programmes. He has experience teaching students of different ages and proficiency levels, adapting lessons to individual needs and supporting students in their academic and language development.

Assema Talipova

Mandarin Language Teacher

Assema Talipova teaches Mandarin at Ardingly Astana across the primary and secondary school. She has over five years of experience in education and specialises in English and Chinese as foreign languages.

She holds a Master’s degree in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages from Xi’an International Studies University, as well as a Bachelor’s degree from L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University.

Alongside teaching, Assema has experience in curriculum development and the use of modern educational technologies. She helps pupils develop strong language skills and succeed in a multilingual learning environment.

Orazkul Tungabayeva

Mandarin Language Teacher

Francisco Oliveira

Physical Education Teacher

Francisco Oliveira is a Physical Education teacher with international school experience across Europe, including British curriculum schools. He holds a Bachelor’s degree with Honours in Sport and Exercise Science from the University of Bath and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through the international iQTS pathway.

Francisco has taught PE in British international schools in Latvia and Italy and worked in a Special Educational Needs (SEN) environment, with strong skills in inclusive teaching, student engagement, and pastoral support. He is also a qualified BWF Level 1 Badminton Coach and former international badminton player, with experience coaching badminton, basketball, futsal, swimming and other sports.

Azamat Suynshaliyev

Physical Education Teacher

Azamat Suynshaliyev is a Physical Education teacher with a background in sport and fitness.

He holds a Bachelor's degree from Sh. Yessenov Caspian State University of Technology and Engineering, is a Master of Sport in Karate, and has a qualification in American football, as well as being a certified Personal Fitness Instructor.

At Ardingly Astana, Azamat encourages pupils to enjoy physical activity and develop healthy habits, confidence, resilience, and teamwork through sport.

He has also completed training in Adaptive Physical Education and Sensory Integration, helping to ensure that all pupils can participate fully and confidently in PE lessons.

Lyubov Makosko

Physical Education Teacher

Lyubov Makosko is an experienced Physical Education teacher and sports coach with over 10 years of experience in education and sport. She holds a degree in Physical Education and Sport from L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University and is a top-category sports coach.

Lyubov has experience teaching Physical Education in an international school, working with students in Years 5–11 and completing training in the IB MYP programme. She also has extensive experience as a sports-orienteering coach, preparing students for competitions and developing athletes who have become Kazakhstan champions, members of the national team and Candidates for Master of Sport.

Teaching Staff

Primary School

Ashley Atkinson

Roderick Coull

Jenny Stone

David Rose

Sabrina Ratnam

Graham McClymont

Andrew Stokes

Samantha Rawlings

Christine MacLean

Daniel Saberton

Rachel Moorhouse

Secondary School & Subject Teams

Phillip Robinson

David McColgan

Sharon Makepeace

David Cox

Assiya Balymova

Baidavlet Kassimbekov

Mariyam Kamedenova

Olga Rudanova

Aizhan Dauletali

Shagufta Khan

Zoe Grainger

Matthew Roberts

Maira Berlibayeva

Nurlan Iskaliyev

Alison Pollard

Helayna Witham

Diana Jalmukhambetova

Ross Clarke

Aigerim Makibayeva

Gulzhan Domayeva

Aigerim Kaiyrgaliyeva

Nurbi Orynbassarova

Olga Zagorodnyaya

Rustam Kubzhanov

Assema Talipova

Orazkul Tungabayeva

Francisco Oliveira

Azamat Suynshaliyev

Lyubov Makosko

Ashley Atkinson

Roderick Coull

Jenny Stone

David Rose

Sabrina Ratnam

Graham McClymont

Andrew Stokes

Samantha Rawlings

Christine MacLean

Daniel Saberton

Rachel Moorhouse

Phillip Robinson

David McColgan

Sharon Makepeace

David Cox

Assiya Balymova

Baidavlet Kassimbekov

Mariyam Kamedenova

Olga Rudanova

Aizhan Dauletali

Shagufta Khan

Zoe Grainger

Matthew Roberts

Maira Berlibayeva

Nurlan Iskaliyev

Alison Pollard

Helayna Witham

Diana Jalmukhambetova

Ross Clarke

Aigerim Makibayeva

Gulzhan Domayeva

Aigerim Kaiyrgaliyeva

Nurbi Orynbassarova

Olga Zagorodnyaya

Rustam Kubzhanov

Assema Talipova

Orazkul Tungabayeva