Our Teachers
Rachael Ammari
BA (Hons), PGCE, MA
Founder
I am a qualified teacher with a PGCE in primary education and a Master’s in education, both from the University of Sussex. I have taught in private and state schools in the UK and the US, so understand different curriculums within the primary school age group. I have a specialism in English as I graduated with a BA (Hons) in English Literature but have experience teaching every subject at primary school level.
Due to my experience and resources, I can teach a wide range of subjects, allowing your child to access a rich curriculum. I am also a Grade 7 pianist, so I offer piano lessons and encourage a passion for music in the children I teach.
I have a full DBS check from the UK and US and have references from local schools in Hove including Hove Junior School (Portland and Holland Road) and Benfield Primary School (Portslade).
The very limited number of pupils (maximum of 5 per class), allows for children to interact with their peers in a safe but consistent environment. It also allows for extra care and attention that would not be provided in a larger class.
One of the most exciting parts of Hove Micro-school for me is the ability to design and adapt the curriculum around the needs and interests of the children. It’s a collaborative project and environment, where children benefit from expert teacher education and parents can input directly into their children’s learning. It offers a premier educational experience, customised to the needs of the child, whilst maintaining the invaluable social interaction of a small group of peers. It is a more comfortable learning environment; a blend of professional/family style education.
Emma Corbin-Mckenzie
BA (Hons), PGCE
KS2 teacher and DSL
I am a qualified PGCE primary school teacher with an early years QTS, and a specialism in SEND. I am also a youth yoga and children’s mindfulness tutor.
I have taught in schools, early years settings and most recently in a home setting, offering private home education. One of my passions in education is providing a learning experience for children that is stimulating and engaging. I whole-heartedly believe children have an inquisitive thirst for knowledge; they simply need the environment and freedom to explore and quench that thirst.
As an early years specialist with over 8 years experience working in education, a child-led and collaborative way of learning is at the heart of my practice. I believe having a flexible, play-based approach to education and teaching gives children the opportunity to take control of their learning process.
As a teacher I am here to guide, facilitate and support that process. I do not believe that learning should be a top-down approach, with a heavy focusing on testing. Learning is about taking risks, developing critical thinking skills, and supporting one’s emotional and social wellbeing.
As a qualified yoga instructor and wellbeing coach, I enjoy incorporating mindfulness practices into the daily routine. This enables children to learn how to confidently express their feelings and learn how to manage tricky situations.
Hove Micro School offers the opportunity for children to have fun and learn at a pace that is suitable for them. Parents can have more control of what their children are learning, and the small group sizes ensure children are getting focused, quality time with their teacher. Through adapting the national curriculum, I am able to meet the different needs of the children which large class sizes do not always cater for.
Jessica Kelly
BA (Hons), PGCE, Post Graduate Diploma
KS1 teacher and SENCO
I have over 10 years experience of working in Primary Education. I have worked in a multitude of schools, most recently the Dharma School. I have worked as a class teacher in key stage 1, a supply teacher across all the age groups and an individual needs assistant in both KS1 and KS2. I have also supported looked after children as a sessional worker prior to my teacher training.
I have completed my British Sign Language level 1 and many years of Makaton training. I regularly use sign to support the class with their learning. Through my experience of being in numerous different schools I have had the opportunity to discover what works best for children both in terms of how they learn but also how they interact with their peers. I am very keen on the growth mindset approach; building on children's resilience from a young age. I love having fun with the class. I believe children learn best in a calm and relaxed atmosphere. I incorporate yoga and mindfulness into my teaching and give each child a chance to grow fully which is where I think the Micro School really supports this with the small class sizes and homely feel.
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Aimee Butcher
Teaching Assistant
Aimee’s role is to provide extra support to the children during teaching time as well as delivering interventions based on individual needs of the children at our school.
"I am a very creative person with a positive attitude, and I love how rewarding it can be working with children. With 6 years worth of experience taking care of children from 2 - 16, I have learnt how to adapt and overcome a multitude of situations. I am highly motivated and my work within the performing arts allows me to be confident and communicative. I am skilled in the balance of being fun and entertaining when the time is right, and mature and professional when it's necessary. I have developed a love for inspiring, nurturing and helping others achieve their goals."
Ella Turner
BSocSci (Hons), PGCE, MSc
KS1 Teacher
I am an experienced teacher, former Assistant Headteacher and school improvement consultant. I taught in schools across Brighton & Hove and have been on the governing body of Tarnerland nursery school for 15 years. I specialise in emotional health and wellbeing and Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE). I love getting to know the children and learning about their interests and passions. I am warm, friendly and calm and create a positive learning environment where children can be themselves and thrive.
I love the ethos of Hove Micro School and am happy to be part of the team!
Tahlia Ansbro
BA (Hons), PGCE, Primary Education
Individual Needs Assistant and Supply Teacher
We are lucky to have Tahlia on our team supporting one of our learners and acting as a familiar supply teacher.
Frank
Head of security and wellbeing
It's no secret who the favourite member of staff is at our school...