Our Team

Roles: Vice Principal

Education:
Bachelors. in Elementary Education and a Bachelors. in Special Education from Northern Arizona University, US. Masters in Lifelong Learning: Policy and Management from Aarhus University, Denmark.

Languages: English, Danish and some Spanish.

Professional Biography:
Jenny has lived in the US, Sweden, England, Spain, & Denmark. She has been a primary classroom teacher, special needs teacher and director, a PYP Coordinator, and Pedagogical leader in her 20 plus years in education. Her knowledge of both the Danish and multiple other national school systems is put to good use in an integrated international community.

What excites you about VIS:
We believe so much in building the whole person that I think we have created a unique community of adults and children that feel valued and special. I love seeing children across age groups greet each other, hug our school dog, and high five staff as part of their natural transitions throughout the day.

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle because it is so wildly imaginative that it sweeps its reader away into a world of impossible odds, family ties, and learning to accept and embrace yourself.

Roles: Business Development Coordinator

Education:
Bachelors. in Politics from the UK and a Masters in American Studies from Denmark.

Languages: Danish, English, as well as, some French and Arabic.

Professional Biography:
Tanja has lived in Denmark, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bangladesh, Syria, Lebanon, United Kingdom, Ireland, & Australia. As an expat Dane, I have spent more years outside of Denmark than in Denmark, but returned to Denmark with my Irish husband when we had our two children. I have worked in American embassies processing visas and immigration rules. I then moved to the UK and worked for the British Red Cross in administration, project management and social work. My previous roles equipped me to navigate most government legislation, set processes and workflows, look for opportunities for funding, and manage administrative requirements of organizations.

What excites you about VIS:
I am at heart an activist, and love to see a good idea developing and growing. Schools that are just starting out have such great opportunities for developing in accordance with the latest research on how kids learn and grow holistically and creating social and learning environments not just based on ‘this is how we’ve always done things’ but on what we now know about children’s optimal learning and development. It’s exciting to watch these ideas incorporated into the school culture.

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
Mathilda by Ronald Dahl. It so full of humor and wonderful characters. I think lots of children can relate to the Mathilda character. The whole book is great for conversational topics about starting school as a young child.

Roles: Principal

Education:
B.Sc in Psychology from Guildford University, PGCE from Roehampton University.

Languages: English, Polish, German, and some Danish.

Professional Biography:
I have lived in Poland, Germany, England, and Denmark. I started the journey in teaching with the role of a class assistant, before applying to the PGCE master’s programme. This was an important role in my professional development because it shone a light on the importance and impact of all the adults involved in children’s learning. In my later years as a qualified teacher, I led the Early Years programme in an outstanding school in South London. This was an important role because it progressed my skills beyond the classroom and meant I was able to coordinate the curriculum, children’s progress and support my fellow colleagues across the 4 Early Years classes. We chose to move to Denmark in 2019 because we were attracted by the open and safe culture for our two, growing children.

What excites you about VIS:
VIS is a school with the community and wellness of its children and staff at its heart. The ideology of the school is reflected in the teaching and day-to-day running. It is incredibly exciting to be a part of this unique opportunity and contribute to its growth. Seeing young children thrive in the secure and immersive environment we provide makes me very proud to be a teacher here.

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. It’s a wonderful book about the wonder of the natural world and our belief and faith in one another.

Roles: Musik

Education:
Teacher’s education from University College of Northern Denmark (UCN) Ami Children’s House Assistant – Association Montessori Internationale.

Languages: Estonian, English, Danish.

Professional Biography:
She has lived in Estonia, Czech Republic, France, and Denmark. My journey in Denmark started in 2013 when I attended Musik and Teater Højskole where I studied singing and music, experienced more about Danish culture and traditions. From there I went to study at Aalborg University College in an international department to become a Music, PE and English teacher. My studies lasted for 4 years of which 2 were thought in English and 2 in Danish. Before I found myself in VIS, I also worked for one year as a sports kindergarten teacher.

What excites you about VIS:
Being a teacher at VIS environment gives me the opportunity to make a difference in the early life of our students because every child needs to be seen and deserves many smiles and hugs throughout the day.

VIS provides a safe multicultural environment with kind teachers from various backgrounds to grow as individuals and develop life skills.

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lidgren. There’s so much to learn from Pippi’s character – a strong and brave girl who enjoys every moment with pure enthusiasm and always sees solutions when problems appear.

Roles: IPC 3 Teacher and Intern Coordinator

Education:
Bachelors in Primary Education from Universitá degli studi di Torino (Unito).

Currently, studying in a post-graduate course, Master in Tutela dei minori, Erickson, Italy.

Languages: Italian, English, French, a bit of Spanish and is learning Danish.

Professional Biography:
Francesco has lived in Italy, England, and Denmark. He came to VIS originally as  part of the Erasmus Traineeship programme. His goal was to see and understand more about the Danish education system and values. “Lluckily, I ended up at VIS. After two intensive months as intern, I decided to stay and my transition started in IPC 3, accompanied by Miss Vismark.”

What excites you about VIS:
I love the family climate that I can experience every day I come to school. I love saying good morning to everyone, and listening to the kids. The thing that I like the most is that they know and trust all the adults and they seem all enjoy to come to school! In this way, teaching and learning is way more easy and effective.

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
Pinocchio, because I like how he completely changes himself even if he makes a lot of (funny) mistakes. I also recommend The Little Prince because I like to discuss with the kids about the different characters that he meets. I love the friendship part with the fox and the character of the lonely king!

Roles: IPC 5 and 6 Teacher, Curriculum Coordinator Upper Primary

Education:
BSc In Applied Marine Biology from Heriot-Watt University, UK and PGCE in Science from University of Nottingham, UK.

Languages: English and a little Swedish.

Professional Biography:
Lauren has lived in Ireland, Scotland, England, Sweden, & Denmark. She started teaching in 2010 and has since taught in three countries focusing primarily in STEM subjects (Math, Sciences, and Technology) in both secondary and primary schools. She brings a wealth of knowledge from her multiple experiences.

What excites you about VIS:
“As an expat reasonably new to Denmark, the caring, community vibe here at VIS is very important to me. My daughter also attends the school so it is an important place for my family! Staff care a lot about the children and their wellbeing and this shows in the relationships. We look after each other and work hard to help our students grow academically, emotionally and socially. Seeing how our students grow and develop throughout the year is a real pleasure and privilege!”

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
Brambly Hedge by Jill Barklem. The beautiful, intricate illustrations and sweet stories make for the perfect bedtime story.

Roles: SEN Coordinator & Idræt

Education:
BA (Hons) Dance Theatre and Performance from the UK.

Languages: English, heritage Welsh and learning Danish.

Professional Biography:
She has lived in Wales, England, and Denmark. In Wales I worked as a higher learning support teacher in an austism provision based of in city high school. I worked here for over seven years. I spent time gaining experience in multiple Primary, High and SEN schools in South Wales before focusing my role on special educational needs (SEN). I have also been a dance teacher for over ten years with a strong passion for learning through movement and performance. My dance experience has been able to enhance my teaching role with children who have specific learning needs. I came to Denmark with a desire to live abroad and experience an international culture.

What excites you about VIS:
VIS embraces, nurtures, and celebrates all who walk through its’ doors. It is incredible to be part of a team that always promotes a safe and caring learning environment that I feel enables its pupils and staff to thrive.

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
I would recommend anything by Hans Christian Anderson but a noted title from another author is Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll. The fairy tale world is able to evoke and inspire in the most magical way. These types of stories help children understand their world with a sense of wonder and promote the beauty of the imagination.

Roles: Learning Support & English as an Additional Language

Education:
Master of Arts (African Studies), University if Copenhagen, Denmark, Master of Arts (Literature in English), University of Cape Coast, Ghana, Bachelor of Arts (English and Sociology) University of Cape Coast, Ghana.

Languages: Twi, English, and Danish.

Professional Biography:
Dorothy has lived in Ghana and Denmark. She has been a Teacher for several years at a school in Ghana as well as university teaching and graduate assistant opportunities in the Departments of English and African studies.

What excites you about VIS:
I am very excited about the fact that VIS provides an all-inclusive, fun and conducive environment for learning and a wholistic development of our students, while keeping up with modern trends. Our students are the loveliest, and so I always look forward to going work: to be an instrumental part of their social and intellectual development.

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
I love all the Disney Classics. But my favorite is the Lion King by Justine Korman.

Roles: Student Wellbeing Coordinator and School Counselor

Education:
B.S. Psychology, M.S. Psychology both from Palm Beach Atlantic University, United States, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA).

Languages: English, Spanish, and Danish.

Professional Biography:
Kristin has lived in the US, England, Switzerland, and Denmark. While in the US she has been the Director of an After School Program and a School Counselor. In Europe she has been the counselor for several sports teams.

What excites you about VIS:
With all of my professional and personal experiences around the world VIS is a unique place where cultures and people from around the world become one unique community. It provides us all a place to be ourselves, seeing all of our students learn and blossom in front of my very eyes is something I never thought I would take so much joy and pride in. In the future as our students go on to different places and become different things I really hope my role here will have somehow impacted them in a positive way and that they may pay it forward.

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
Oh The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Suess This book was given to me by my parents at my high school graduation and it is inspirational and relevant at any age. As I see our students at VIS grow, I often think to myself… ”Oh, the places you’ll go.”

Roles: Student Welfare Team

Education:
coming soon

Languages: dog and some English

Professional Biography:
coming soon

What excites you about VIS:
coming soon

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
coming soon

Roles: Student Support Services

Contact: –

Education:
Good Citizen Dog- Naples Florida Kennel Club, Emotional Support Dog – USA Service Dogs.

Languages: Dog, Love, and Food.

Professional Biography:
Saga has lived in the US and Denmark. I was a support therapy Dog at a special needs school. They said I did a good job. Sometimes you need hugs from a doggy before you can leave your mommy or daddy for the school day. I am in Denmark because my mommy brought me here and now that I have tried it, I really like it.

What excites you about VIS:
I’m excited to help my kids at school feel more comfortable and help them show their feelings. Also that its ok to feel sad or scared but I am here for them. I also get excited when kids drop food on the floor.

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
School Dog, Cool Dog by Deborah Heiligman. This book shows that sometimes our first thoughts about dogs are not always correct, and that sometimes we can be scared too. However if we work together, we can help each other.

Roles: SFO Leader

Education:
coming soon

Languages: Spanish and English.

Professional Biography:
coming soon

What excites you about VIS:
coming soon

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
coming soon

Roles: IPC 1 Teacher

Education:
Bachelor in Economics at La Sorbonne – Paris 1 University
Master in Teaching in primary school – specialty in teaching abroad – at Toulouse – Jean Jaurès University

Languages: French, English, Italian, Spanish and learning Danish

Professional Biography:
I have lived in France and Denmark. I have always been working with children since I was 16 years old (baby-sitting, activity leader, teaching French etc.). I first came to Denmark for an Erasmus program during my bachelor in Economics. I literally fell in love with Copenhagen! Thus, when I had to choose an internship abroad for my master degree, I decided to look for a school in Copenhagen. I found VIS and the school accepted me as an intern, then a a vikar, then as maternity cover, and finally as a teacher.

What excites you about VIS:
I love the school and the fact that it is small and cozy. Everybody knows perfectly all the kids, their needs etc. and the other way around. VIS is a charming school where there is always something going on, as it is building up!

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
My top book pick is The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. I like the illustrations and the way the little mouse manages to trick all the animals that would be its predators

Roles: IPC 4 Teacher, Additional Languages Lead

Education:
Masters in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language from the University of Barcelona,

Bachelors in English language and literature, University of Córdoba, Argentina.

Bachelors in English Literature

Languages: Spanish, English, Italian, and Danish.

Professional Biography:
Melisa has lived in Argentina, the US, and Denmark. She has taught English, Spanish, and Danish in many different settings. These include international language institutions, primary and secondary international schools and as a English teaching independent coach. All of her experiences in the multiple languages have focused on language acquisition teaching coupled with international learning.

What excites you about VIS:
The energy and dedication of all the teachers, how we support each other and the VIS community, which feels like a big family. I have grown professionally and learnt a lot from teachers from all over the world with different backgrounds who made me feel that I belonged from Day 1. The school is always open to new ideas so that have inspired me to be creative and made me feel that my opinion matters. Finally, the kids have that special energy that is contagious, and their smiles are the best reward of this profession.

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry because it is a book that you can read at any age and always learn something from it.

Roles: IPC 2, Curriculum Coordinator Lower Primary, and Vikar Coordinator

Education:
Master’s in Education with Leadership- Wrexham Glyndwr University
Post Graduate Diploma in TESOL- Teacher Training College- London
Diploma in TESOL- PROFILE- Athens, Greece

Languages: English, Greek, a bit of Danish-working on it!

Professional Biography:
I have lived in England, Greece, and Denmark. I worked as an English teacher and also as head of department/programme designer in Athens for 20 years in several private Kindergartens and schools. I then moved here to Denmark for family reasons, and worked as an EAL teacher/ classroom co-teacher for almost 10 years in a large international school in Copenhagen. Along with my duties as EAL teacher, I was also the EAL coordinator for 5 years. In addition to this,during COVID I was the home learning coordinator where I collaborated with class teachers and created the on-line curriculum for the students who were learning from home.

What excites you about VIS:
I love the inclusive, family vibe the school has, and also of playing a part of the holistic learning and development of the children, who are always excited to learn

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis. I love the idea of disappearing into another world and having amazing adventures. I love using it as a read aloud in class as it gives the children the opportunity to let their imagination run wild.

Roles: Danish Lead

Education:
coming soon

Languages: Danish and English.

Professional Biography:
coming soon

What excites you about VIS:
coming soon

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
coming soon

Roles: Danish and Learning Support

Education:
Bachelor in Primary Education, University of Crete
Master in Anthropology of Education and Globalisation, Aarhus University

Languages: Greek, English, Danish and a little bit of Spanish

Professional Biography:
Maria has lived in Greece and Denmark. An internship in another international school brought her to Copenhagen. “It was an amazing journey, which iniciated my passion to work in international schools. Two years ago, Danish language got finally established in my work life and now I really enjoy teaching Danish. In parallel, I completed a course in Special Education and I got the chance to apply my knowledge in a bilingual special needs class in a Danish school last year. All these were combined to start a new journey in VIS as both support and Danish teacher.”

What excites you about VIS:
“The feeling that we, children and teachers, are all part of a big family is what excites me more about VIS. I know all the students and all the students know me. already, I also like the fact that the kids learn with each other and from each other working in flexible groups. Personally, my dual role in the school excites me, since I can work both with small groups and with whole classrooms.”

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
I am a big fun of the Harry Potter books and his universe since I was 11 years old. The characters themselves, their relationships, the mysterious creatures and adventures that jump out of the books captured my heart once and forever.

Roles: After School Club

Education:
coming soon

Languages: Hindi and English.

Professional Biography:
coming soon

What excites you about VIS:
coming soon

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
coming soon

Roles: SFO team

Education:
coming soon

Languages: Spanish and English.

Professional Biography:
coming soon

What excites you about VIS:
coming soon

Your Top Book Recommendation for kids:
coming soon