As the new school year begins, Wahaha International School (WIS) warmly welcomes a group of passionate new educators to our team. They bring fresh perspectives from global classrooms and share a common mission: to ignite a lifelong love of learning in every child.

Each teacher brings unique stories, rich experiences, and innovative ideas to energize their classrooms. They are dedicated to sparking curiosity, encouraging exploration, and creating a safe, joyful space where every student’s voice is heard, valued, and respected.

Benjamin Weeks

PYP

Homeroom Teacher

B.A. Joint Hons Philosophy & Politics

(Durham University, UK)

US teaching license

QTS Assessment Only Route

(in progress, University of Sunderland, UK)

20+ Years of International Primary Teaching Experience

Mr. Benjamin is a highly experienced international educator with a teaching career spanning more than two decades. After graduating from Durham University, he embarked on his educational journey by completing a TEFL course in Greece, followed by teaching roles in Taiwan and Turkey, where he spent 17 years—15 of which were dedicated to primary education. His passion for working across subject areas led him to transition into a full-time homeroom teaching role, which eventually brought him to China to continue his professional journey.

Outside the classroom, he enjoys spending time with his family and pursues a variety of personal interests including Reading, Art, Piano, Cooking, and Football.

Mr. Benjamin’s philosophy of education centers on the profound belief that learning should be a dynamic and engaging experience for every student. He is passionate about integrating his personal interests and enthusiasms into the classroom to spark student curiosity and enthusiasm. His teaching approach combines innovative, interactive activities with plenty of student involvement in the learning process. He utilizes various creative mediums—such as games, stories, drama, and art—that allow them to explore the subject matter in a way that resonates with their own interests and passions.

Thembisa Cima

PYP

Homeroom Teacher

B.A. in Social Science & Postgraduate Certificate in Education

Rhodes University, South Africa

10+ Years’ International Teaching Experience

Ms. Thembisa is an experienced educator whose career in Lower Primary Education spans over a decade. She has taught both Kindergarten and Primary levels in Jiangsu and Guangdong provinces, China, and continually invests in her professional growth, completing courses such as Cambridge International Education training.

Outside of the classroom, she enjoys staying active through regular workouts, watching historical documentaries, traveling, exploring different cuisines and connecting with friends.

Ms. Thembisa’s philosophy rests on her belief that every child has the potential to thrive given the right support, environment and encouragement. She strives to create an inclusive, nurturing classroom where all students feel valued, respected and motivated to do their best. She believes in student centered and active learning.

Robin McEwan

PYP

Homeroom Teacher

M.A. in Education with Distinction (Wrexham University)

Currently completing PGCE

(University of Sunderland, UK)

10+ Years’ International Teaching Experience

With over ten years of teaching experience in Beijing, Mr. Robin has taught Years One to Four across various subjects, including English Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematics. He is passionate about fostering a supportive learning environment. In his free time, Mr. Robin enjoys travelling, going on motorcycle trips, and exploring different cuisines.

Mr. Robin emphasises academics alongside the development of personal values, social awareness, and personal growth. He incorporates values like community participation into his lessons and is committed to global citizenship through inquiry-led, experiential learning. Focused on continual growth and reflection in his practice, Robin encourages critical thinking about important issues while creating a supportive classroom environment.

Ryan Chambers

yan hambers

PYP

Homeroom Teacher
B.S.c (Hons) Exercise & Health Science

(University of Chichester, UK)

M.Ed. Specializing in Teaching Multilingual Learners (Moreland University, USA)

15+ Years’ International Teaching Experience

(China, Thailand)

Mr. Ryan is from Portsmouth, UK, and holds a Master’s in Education from Moreland University with a focus on teaching multilingual learners. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Health Science from the University of Chichester in 2006. Since 2010, he has taught in China and spent two years teaching in Thailand. He is excited to return to China and begin a new chapter with Wahaha. Outside the classroom, Mr. Ryan enjoys scuba diving, writing and recording music, and playing a range of instruments, including the guitar, harmonica, and didgeridoo.

He believes learning should be fun, hands-on, and meaningful. When students are actively engaged and involved in their learning, they develop deeper understanding and critical thinking skills. He sees hie role as more than teaching academics and he strives to nurture well-rounded individuals who are kind, respectful, and resilient. He aims to create a safe, inclusive environment where students feel empowered to take risks, learn from mistakes, ask questions, and reflect on their work. Most of all, he enjoys making sure his students have fun at school and develop a genuine love for learning.

Ashley Zhang

School Counselor

M.A. in Social Work

(Qualifying, Monash University, Australia)

Diploma of Interpreting (Chinese/English)

Professional Expertise: Counselling & Case Management (Youth Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, Crisis Support); PSHE Teaching; Student Wellbeing Coordination

10+ Years’ International Teaching Experience

Ms. Ashley is a highly skilled professional with extensive background in social work, counselling, and education. Her roles include Student Wellbeing Counsellor & PSHE Teacher (ISA Wuhan), Student Wellbeing Officer (Spring Parks Primary, Australia), Student Wellbeing Coordinator (La Trobe University, Australia), and Suicide Prevention Counsellor (On The Line). Outside school, she enjoys pilates, yoga, mindfulness, reading, nature walks, karaoke, travel, zen retreats, and learning Spanish.

Ms. Ashley believes every child is unique and capable of amazing things. A happy, healthy mind is foundational for a fulfilling life and academic success. Her philosophy centers on holistic student development, emphasizing well-being, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity. She employs a student-centered approach addressing emotional, social, and mental health needs to create a supportive, valued environment. She advocates for mental health awareness and integrates mindfulness to build resilience and concentration, valuing collaboration with parents, educators, and the community to create a cohesive support system.

Jayd Soliar

PYP

EAL Teacher

B.A. (Hons) Music Production

(University of Chichester, UK)

Post Graduate Certificate in Education

(University of Nottingham, UK)

University lecturing experience

(Music Production, South Africa)

Experience with IB, Cambridge, and Common Core frameworks

6 Years’ Primary English Teaching Experience (Shanghai, China)

Mr. Jayd began his career in music production before transitioning to education. He spent six years teaching primary English in Shanghai within various international curricula, always placing student voice at the heart of learning. Outside teaching, he is immersed in music creation and discovery, loves travel and food, and is a fitness enthusiast, looking forward to sharing music, ideas, and restaurant tips with new colleagues.

Mr. Jayd’s educational philosophy is deeply rooted in a student-centered approach, where each child’s unique needs and learning styles are acknowledged and accommodated. He believes in fostering a nurturing and empathetic environment, where patience and compassion guide interactions with students. This approach helps build strong relationships and supports the individual growth of every learner. Jayd also emphasizes the importance of learning through hands-on experiences and creative expression, encouraging students to explore their interests and develop critical thinking skills. Ultimately, Jayd strives to create a classroom where students can learn, improve, and have fun, cultivating a sense of wonder and a lifelong passion for learning.

Suki Ye

PYP

EAL Teacher

M.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

(TESOL, University of Sheffield, UK)

B.A. in English (Hangzhou Normal University, China)

Chinese Teaching Certificate for Primary English

Ms. Suki holds a Master’s degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from the University of Sheffield, UK, and a Bachelor’s degree in English from Hangzhou Normal University (HZNU). Ms. Suki has taught personalized one-on-one and small group online English lessons to learners from various countries. She completed a successful one-year internship at WIS. Ms. Suki enjoys traveling and photography in her free time.

Ms. Suki’s teaching philosophy is student-centered. She aims to create a fun and engaging learning environment where students can learn through play. Furthermore, she values giving students ample opportunities to express themselves and actively participate in class discussions. In addition, Ms. Suki believes in personalized instruction, designing lessons around students’ interests and strengths to make learning more meaningful and enjoyable.

Cassie Yang

PYP

CAL Teacher

M.A. in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages

(TCSOL, Beijing Normal University, China)

Chinese High School Language Teacher Certification

International Chinese Language Teacher Certificate (CTCSOL)

Taught Chinese at an Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ school (London, UK)

Ms. Cassie holds a Master’s in TCSOL and relevant teaching certifications. She brings international teaching experience from a top-rated UK school and completed a CAL internship at WIS. Outside school, she enjoys baking, swimming, outdoor activities, and spending time with pets.

As an international Chinese teacher, Ms. Cassie believes in student-centered acquisition through joyful engagement. She sees sparking genuine interest as key to language mastery, moving beyond rote memorization. Her classroom integrates games, cultural immersion, and real-world interactions to inspire students to actively discover the beauty of Chinese. Embracing individual differences through differentiated instruction, she empowers each learner to build confidence at their own pace, transforming language into a lifelong tool for communication and cultural connection.

Sibel Weeks

MYP

Homeroom / English

Teacher

B.A. in Education – Foreign Languages Teaching, Boğaziçi University, Turkey

CELTA & DELTA -Module 1 Certified English Teacher

IB MYP English & DP TOK Teacher

ICF Certified Functional Medicine Health & Wellness Coach

18+ Years’ International Teaching Experience

With more than 18 years of international teaching experience, Ms. Sibel is a seasoned English and IB educator specializing in inquiry-based learning, curriculum development, and academic leadership. Bilingual in English and Turkish, she has worked extensively with MYP, DP, and TOK programs. She is currently focused on integrating student wellbeing into school-wide curriculum. Outside the classroom, she enjoys healthy living, positive psychology, family travels, and wildlife.

Ms. Sibel believes every student is unique — with their own background, abilities and evolving emotions. She strives to support the whole child, not just the learner. Her goal is to design fun, purposeful lessons where students feel seen, supported, and excited to learn at their own pace.

Sakkie Janse Van Rensburg

MYP

Homeroom / English Teacher

B.A. in Education, University of South Africa

Qualified Teacher Status (South African Council for Educators)

TEFL UK Certification & IRB-Certified Sports Coach

18+ Years’ International Teaching Experience Across Multiple Age Groups

Mr. Sakkie is a passionate and dedicated educator with over eight years of teaching experience across various phases of education. His professional background spans both education and sports coaching, allowing him to blend academic rigor with character development. Known for his positivity, inclusiveness, and strong classroom management skills, he builds lasting connections with students and supports their holistic development. In his free time, he enjoys sports, keeping active, and spending time with his young family.

Mr. Sakkie believes that education should be a transformative journey that nurtures personal growth, self-discipline, and emotional well-being. He promotes an inclusive, student-centered environment where learners are encouraged to continuously improve, think critically, collaborate effectively, and build lasting confidence. Drawing from his coaching background, he integrates values such as resilience, respect, and teamwork into his teaching. He is committed to creating an engaging and supportive learning space that fosters individual progress and prepares students to become active, responsible global citizens.

Shuyang Sun

MYP

Math Teacher

M.A. in Mathematics Education, Columbia University

New York State Initial Teaching Certificate & Chinese Teaching Certificate

8+ Years’ International Teaching Experience

Ms. Sun completed her undergraduate studies in Mathematical Sciences at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in the United States. She then earned her Master’s degree in Mathematics Education from Columbia University. Ms. Sun is an experienced mathematics educator with international background, having taught in both the United States and China across the US charter school,private schools and Chinese private school. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and going rock climbing, which bring balance and energy to her daily life.

Ms. Sun believes that students should play an active role in their own learning. She encourages them to explore problems, think independently, and work together to find solutions. She sees struggling and mistakes as valuable learning opportunities. To support students’ growth, she offers strategies such as group discussions, flipped teaching, differentiated hw, and hands-on projects, etc. These methods help students build a deeper and more confident understanding of mathematics.

Bright Amenya

yan hmbers

MYP

Science Teacher
Postgraduate Certificate in Education, University of Derby, UK

M.A. in Engineering Degree, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, China

B.A. in Engineering Degree, All Nations University College, Ghana

5+ Years’ International Teaching Experience

Mr. Bright is a committed and enthusiastic educator with a strong background in Science. With over five years of teaching experience, he has worked with learners across diverse academic and cultural contexts in Zhejiang and Guangdong provinces, teaching Middle School Science and High School Physics. He holds a Master of Engineering, a Bachelor of Engineering and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. Mr. Bright is passionate about creating engaging and inquiry-driven learning environments that foster curiosity, critical thinking and personal growth.

Outside the classroom, he enjoys reading, football and hiking on weekends. He also values quality time with family and friends.

Mr. Bright believes Science should be experienced, not just studied. His teaching philosophy is shaped by the idea that students learn best when they are curious, involved and trusted to take ownership of their learning. In the classroom, he uses real-world scenarios, experiments and discussion to encourage critical thinking and exploration.

He aims to create a learning environment where students feel respected, challenged and supported. For Bright, success in science isn’t about memorizing answers; it’s about asking better questions, thinking clearly and developing the skills to make sense of the world.

Peter McAleer

MYP

Music Teacher

B.Sc. (Hons) in Music Technology, University of Kent

PGCE, Liverpool John Moores University
ABRSM Grade 8 (Guitar & Music Theory)

10+ Years’ International Teaching Experience

Mr. Peter is an experienced educator and events manager with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Technology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGCE). Over the past decade, he has taught music at international schools, fostering students’ musical growth and creativity in the classroom. He brings extensive musical experience from both within and beyond the classroom, including leading various musical projects and touring across Asia with several bands. In his spare time, Peter enjoys cooking, learning new instruments, travelling, and socialising with friends.

Mr. Peter believes music allows students to express themselves, connect with others, and grow through discovery. He uses a student-centered approach, helping learners build critical and creative skills through performance, composition, improvisation, and listening. To him, music should be fun, meaningful, and an adventure without end — one he is excited to share with all students.

Izzy Zhang

yan hambers

MYP

Art & Design Teacher
M.S.Ed. in Learning Sciences and Technologies, University of Pennsylvania

M.F.A. in Digital + Media, Rhode Island School of Design

B.F.A. in Art Design, China Central Academy Of Fine Art

8+ Years’ International Teaching Experience

Ms. Izzy brings an interdisciplinary background in art, design, digital media, and education. After working in the U.S., she returned to China to focus on international art education, supporting students from middle school to undergraduate level with art learning, exam preparation, and portfolio development. She has experience in both portfolio institutions and international schools. For the past three years, she has served as Head of Art, Design & Media Studies at Wycombe Abbey Hangzhou, leading Middle School Art, IGCSE, and A-Level Art&Design and Media Studies programs. Ms. Izzy blends academic rigor with creativity and is passionate about fostering meaningful, student-centered learning experiences.

Ms. Izzy blends academic rigor with creativity, crafting student-centered learning experiences that build artistic expression, critical thinking, and confidence. She is passionate about developing innovative, engaging lessons that leave a lasting impact on students.

Daniel Di

MYP

EAL Teacher

M.A. in English Literature, Zhejiang Gongshang University

Chinese Senior High School English Teaching Certificate

Mr. Daniel holds a master’s degree in English Literature and has experience teaching small-group English courses to both adults and K–12 learners, online and offline. He completed a one-year teaching internship at WIS and holds a Chinese Senior High School Teaching Certificate. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, cooking, reading, and writing.

Mr. Daniel believes in a student-centered approach to education, placing each learner’s needs, interests, and abilities at the core of lesson planning. He carefully tailors instructional tasks to suit students’ developmental levels, using differentiated strategies to ensure that every student makes meaningful progress. In his classroom, Mr. Daniel strives to create an engaging and supportive environment that fosters curiosity, motivation, and active participation. He is committed to making education both enjoyable and purposeful, encouraging students to grow in confidence, think critically, and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

New faces and new stories bring fresh energy and possibilities to the WIS community.We are confident that these passionate and creative educators will collaborate closely with WIS students, families, and colleagues to embark on an inspiring journey of exploration and growth—making learning vibrant and meaningful every single day. We look forward to partnering with you for a fantastic school year!