GES's greatest asset is its teaching staff! We have close to 172 teachers on staff, representing 14 different nationalities and tremendous collective breadth and depth of experience in international education.
We are very privileged to have highly qualified teachers, specialists of subjects, and support staff at GES. Our teachers are native English speakers with international experience and experience in the National Curriculum of England and Wales.
We seek to inspire students and to provide them with the academic and social skills that will enable them to fulfil their human potential as responsible global citizens.
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Leadership Team
Mona El-Helbawi - General Manager of the Culture, Education, Leisure and Sports Cluster - Al Faisal Holding
I was born in Saudi Arabia but spent much of my childhood travelling, I lived in Islamabad in Pakistan and then settled in North West London in the U.K. in the early 90’s, where I went to secondary school and developed a particular enjoyment of history and reading.
After school, I gained a degree in Islamic Law and then went on to study for a Post Graduate Certificate in Islamic Law at Birkbeck University. Following that, I also studied public service interpretation at the College of North West London.
Since then, I have worked in a variety of primary schools, either assisting in classes or working in administration. I moved to Dubai in 2004 where I spent two years, and then to Doha in 2006. I moved to Doha to work as a Business Manager in an independent school and moved on a year later to work here at The Gulf English School. I have been in my current role since May 2007.
Over the years I have gained the following qualifications:
- Islamic Law Degree
- Post Graduate Certificate in Islamic Law - Birkbeck University
- Diploma in Public Service Interpretation - College of North West London
- Certificate in TESOL
- Level 2 Educational Psychology - Stonebridge College
- Level 4 Psychology - Stonebridge College
- Level 5 Diploma in Special Educational Needs - Leeds Beckett University
- Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Leadership and Management - Arden University
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education: Leadership and Management - University of Derby
- MBA - Anglia Ruskin University
This breadth of experience has led me to develop a strong belief that children learn best when they are having fun and are engaged in practical, real-life activities. I also believe that strong relationships with parents and the wider community are vital in ensuring that children are supported as they move through their school life. As such, I am delighted to be working together with students, staff, parents, Board of Trustees, and the wider GES community to support all of our children's success, achievement and welfare.
I look forward to seeing you in school and working with your children here at The Gulf English School.
Daniel Langfield - Head of Secondary
Hi, my name is Daniel Langfield, I’m from Huddersfield in England and I am the Head of Secondary School here at GES., I obtained my Sports Science degree in 2004 from Edge Hill University and completed my qualified teacher status in 2006. I taught in the UK for 10 years in 3 different schools before deciding to move to Doha in 2014. Since then I have started my Principal Training courses and am a qualified IB Administrator.
I believe Education is challenging but engaging and is something that I am very passionate about. Learning should be inclusive, positive, and supportive and allow all pupils to reach high but realistic expectations. The classroom is where prior knowledge is built upon, nurtured and potential is developed.
Away from school, I enjoy playing golf and travelling to experience different countries and cultures.
Pamela Abbas - Head of Infants
I am thrilled to introduce myself as the Head of the Infant School at The Gulf English School. My name is Pamela Abbas, and I bring a wealth of experience and passion for education to our school. Originally for the vibrant city of Newcastle upon Tyne in the North East of England, my journey in education has taken me through the diverse landscape of two challenging East London schools and those within my homeland.
Now, with more than 20 years of teaching and learning experience and a decade of successful leadership, during which I earned the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH), I look forward to continuing to contribute to The Gulf English School. As the Head of School, I am committed to fostering an environment of excellence, collaboration, and academic growth.
I firmly believe that the success of a school is a collective effort involving dedicated teachers, engaged students and supportive parents. Together, with the strong leadership, a passionate teaching team and the unwavering support of our parents, we will continue to create a school where students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally so that they are ready for the modern world.
I look forward to the rewarding journey ahead, working together to shape the future of our students at The Gulf English School.
Mohammed Sidat - Head of Bin Omran Branch
My name is Mohammed Sidat and I was born and bred in the UK. I studied at the University of Bradford after going through the education system and obtained a degree in Pharmaceutical Management. I went on to do my teaching degree, also in my home town of Bradford, majoring in Physics and Chemistry. After qualifying as a teacher, I taught Science in the UK for 3 years before joining The Gulf English School in 2009. I have found that being a Muslim myself has helped me to settle in as I am already aware of the traditions of the Islamic heritage. In 2010, I took on the role of second in department in Science and Head of Pastoral for KS4 boys. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the school and this year brings new challenges for me as I take on the role of Head of Bin Omran.
Away from the classroom, I enjoy playing football and other sports and was involved in coaching the school football team last year. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.
Afshah Deen - Director of Studies
My name is Afshah Deen and I am the Director of Studies at GES. I studied at De Montfort University in Leicester, where I gained a BSc in Psychology and then further gained a PGCE qualification from Northampton University. I am passionate about teaching and learning and have a particular interest in teaching Maths. I have had 11 successful years in teaching in the UK, my experience ranging from teaching KS1 – KS2, and various leadership roles. Before joining The Gulf English School in 2022, I was a Maths Advisor for a trust and a Mastery Specialist for the NCETM, leading on school improvement and supporting Mastery Maths teaching across schools. Students are at the centre of everything that we do in education, there is nothing more rewarding than to witness students develop confidence, knowledge and skills that enable them to grow as independent learners. Our students across GES are brilliant learners and we strive as a leadership team to reflect, adapt, and lead on purposeful initiatives to continue our journey on providing the best education for our students.
Gary Shaw - Head of Juniors
My name is Gary Shaw and I am thrilled to be the Head of Juniors at GES. With a commitment to fostering a nurturing and enriching educational environment, I bring a wealth of experience and passion to this role. My educational philosophy is grounded in the belief that every child is a unique individual with boundless potential waiting to be unlocked. As Head of Juniors, I am dedicated to creating an atmosphere where curiosity is ignited, creativity is celebrated, and a love for learning flourishes. Together with our dedicated team of teachers, I am committed to providing a foundation that not only prepares our young learners academically but also instills in them the values of responsibility, resilience, respectfulness and a lifelong enthusiasm for knowledge. I am honored to be part of this vibrant community and look forward to a year of growth, discovery, and success for our Junior School students.
