The team. | -the-obrien-academy-

John O'Brien Director.

First Scholarship Graduate Taylor Hirst.

Our teachers are central to your and our success. Our teachers are university graduates of Spain, the United Kingdom and Ireland. They are encouraged to develop their special areas of interest, making the teaching lively and stimulating. All are selected for their enthusiasm as well as

their ability. Friendly and accessible, they appreciate the needs of students and take an active role in planning courses. Teacher testimonial. As I have completed my first six months with you, I just wanted to thank you all for making feel so welcome and truly part of the team in school. I have my love of teaching restored which I had lost in the UK and this is down to you all as you are all a lovely bunch of people. O Brien’s is a lovely place to work and of course this is mainly due to John O Brien himself. The culture in the school is down to him and that consists of a trusting and appreciative environment which is unique in today’s educational sphere. John is trusting of us as professionals who know our job and get on with it and is appreciative of everything we do for the school and children in our care and for that I am sure I speak for everyone when I say thank you John. And of course, he is ably assisted in his endeavours by the lovely Sabrina and Victoria, who tirelessly work both in front and behind the scenes to make our school what it is.

Sabrina Patiño. Deputy Director. (From 2014 to date). Degree in Educational Psychology. B.A. in Education and Higher Diploma in Education. I graduated in 2008 from the University of Murcia. I spent two years in the Educational Science Institute in Murcia. Here I was the coordinator of the program, for the Masters in Education for secondary teachers of Medicine, Engineering and English. I also edited the text books for the professors of this course.

I have been teaching in the school since 2014 delivering Spanish to primary, GCSE and A Level students. One of my major roles at the Academy includes providing academic assistance to students studying in the Spanish education system, then presenting these students for examination at the various levels including the PAU or selectividad, entry examinations for Spanish university. My work also includes preparing and implementing educational plans for students with diagnosis, such as Down Syndrome, ADHD, TDH and all those who have special needs and require tailor made therapies. We have been successful in acquiring financial assistance from the Spanish government towards the support of certain special needs students, within the Spanish education system.

Sabrina has been appointed as a Spanish examiner with the AQA examination board.

Derek Raishbrook (BA Hons). (From 2014 to date). Over 40 years experience in the UK in 'challenging' schools and FE. Main subjects: English, History, Geography, Religion, Maths, E2L, PSHE and Social Studies. Also Head of Special Needs and Year Head. Consultant to Worcester University re: SEN teacher training. I taught in English Secondary Schools and Further Education from 1974 until 2012, when I came to Spain for family reasons. I always intended to continue teaching whilst I, and any employer, felt I had something to offer.

In England I worked in three different Secondary Comprehensives, the first two being extremely challenging in their cohort and reputation. The third was in need of great improvement, which it successfully achieved. In School 1 I taught English, Maths, Geography and History and became Deputy to the Special Needs Co-ordination (SENCo). I was promoted to SENCo when advancing to School 2 and we had the extremely stressful Special Measures to negotiate. My special needs department needed to be invigorated at my third school and I was brought in, on recommendation, to do that. I am pleased and proud to have been the leader of a team that achieved excellent results. I was also joint House Head, sharing the pastoral care responsibilities for around a hundred students.

On (slightly early) retirement from school life I happily took up a part-time role in Further Education, teaching Functional Skills to college students. Again, Ofsted seemed to be following me around but we jumped that hurdle with ease.

On leaving the school environment I was asked to be a consultant for new SENCos at the University of Worcester. In this role I was, of course, able to offer years of experience and to give guidance to newer colleagues beginning to find their way through a labyrinthine system of administration and procedural difficulties. My Spanish sojourn was never intended to be permanent but, here I am, happily teaching at The O’Brien International School since 2014, having previously taught in a small tuition centre run by a current colleague.

Lara Houston (BTechEd) (From 2017 to date). I’m Lara, I am 29 years old and I am from Scotland. I qualified from Glasgow University in 2012 with a Bachelors Degree in Technological Education.
I spent five years teaching Graphics, Woodwork, Engineering, Electronics and Design in Glasgow before moving to Spain. As well I have experience with children with learning and behavioural needs. I have been working at the academy since 2017 with the Key Stage 2 and 3 students and also with GCSE students. During my time at The O’Brien International School I have taught Art, Maths, Statistics and Biology as well as KS 2/3. I am a dedicated teacher and enjoy creating a positive learning environment for students to achieve their goals.

Victoria Ferrandez Gomez. (From 2019 to date). Degree in English Studies. . Hi! I am Victoria. I am the Administration Officer. I am Spanish but I am an enthusiast of the English language. I graduated in 2018 in English Studies including linguistics, culture and literature, from the University of Murcia. I took an Erasmus+ programme attended the University of Essex, England. There, I joined the women’s university rugby team and represented the University in various matches. When I came back to Spain, I looked for another team and I am currently playing in CUDER (Club Universitario Deportivo de Rugby – Murcia). After university I took on my first employment in Starbucks as a supervisor whilst I was waiting for the right opportunity. I started working full time at The O’Brien International School in 2019 with the financial support of the Spanish government. I have taken a three-year course in business administration, with John as my employer and tutor. I am now the Examinations officer at our school.

Gabriel Ruiz Vicente, (From 2019 to date). I graduated in "Educación Primaria" with the speciality in speech, hearing and language difficulties at the University of Murcia in 2015. I am an enthusiast of sports and music. I have been the Music and PE teacher at The O'Brien International School and College since 2020. Apart from my university degree, I graduated with a professional degree in Music with the speciality in trumpet. I am a trumpet, piano and Musical Language teacher at the Music School of San Miguel de Salinas. I am also the director of the music school since 2020. As far as sports is concerned, I have been a football player since I was a child, in different clubs. Since 2012, I have been part of the First Team of Racing San Miguel as their captain. In 2016 I got chosen to represent the Spanish mini football team in the Football Eurocup of mini football held in Hungary. Besides being a football player, I have been a football trainer for 8 years now, and I have the Title of National Trainer level C. Besides, in 2014 I also accomplished the Title of Paddle Tennis Monitor of the Real Federación Española de Pádel at the University of Murcia, I have been practising Paddle Tennis for more than 15 years now. Finally, I would like to highlight my interest in golf, I love it as a sport, but I have only discovered it a few years ago and I like practising it more and more every time.

Declan Wynne BEng (Hons), PGCE, MA (From January 2024 to date) I am a career changer, originally a mechanical engineer, who made the transition into teaching in 2014. I worked in Ireland as an engineer for over 30 years across a variety of manufacturing industries such as agricultural, pharmaceutical, medical device, and semi-conductor. After moving to the UK in 2010, I wanted to do something different, and having always wanted to teach, I completed a Post Graduate Certificate in Education with Qualified Teacher Status with Edge Hill University in Liverpool. I believe passionately in lifelong learning and with this in mind, I further enhanced my qualifications by completing a Masters degree in the teaching and learning of primary mathematics. Previously, I have taught mathematics at secondary level and all subjects at Primary level in Key Stage 1 and 2. I have also held the positions of Subject Leader in Mathematics, PE and Computing and have been an external examiner for KS2 mathematics with Pearsons and Capita on behalf of the DfE. In addition, I have privately tutored mathematics at GCSE and A Level. I am delighted to be part of the team here at The O’Brien International School, whose mission and values of creating a stimulating and inclusive learning environment where every student is valued, align perfectly with my own personal and professional goals.

Rachel Whelehan BSc. (From 2017 to date). I graduated form the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Fine Chemicals and Pharmaceutical Sciences (Honours). After university I worked for Rice Steele in Dublin as a Quality Control Analyst. In 2009 I moved to Spain and then spent two years working in local academies. I then worked for an international school for four years in total. Rachel is currently on a sabatical.

I have been working at The O’Brien Language Centre since 2017. My main subject areas include:Key Stage 3 Mathematics and and the three Sciences, GCSE Higher Mathematics and A level Mathematicss. GCSE Biology and Chemistry and Btec in Pe theory. Head of department Mathematics at KS3 and KS4.

Hi, my name is Angela Williams. Master in Business Administration, BA in Industrial and Labour Relations. (From 2023 to date)

I am originally from Venezuela, where I started working as a language teacher (English and Spanish). I combined my University studies with teaching, first in a private academy and then as Department support at the School of Industrial Relations at the University of Carabobo. I worked with the departments of Statistics and Labour Legislation. I graduated from the University of Carabobo in Venezuela as the top of my cohort, receiving a scholarship for further education as a reward. It was then when I moved to Spain, where I completed and MBA at the University of Oviedo and subsequently, a Master in Personnel Management and Human Resources Direction at the Escuela de Negocios Region de Murcia, University of Murcia. I have experience from working in the private sector and from owning my own businesses. I have lived in many countries, including the US, UK Spain and Cyprus. I have been a Business and Economics teacher since 2016. I returned to Spain in 2019 and taught English and Spanish as a second language in various academies, until I joined The O’Brien International School during the 2022-2023 School year.

Gwen Hall BA (Hons) Business Studies. (From 2023 to date). I started a career in banking with the Woolwich Building Society. After 20 years in management there I decided to run my own mortgage business after graduating in Business at the ripe old age of 40. I accidentally fell into teaching 7 years later after being asked to teach Personal Finance in a local school. One day in the classroom and I was hooked - teaching was definitely for me! I completed the Graduate Teacher Programme to obtain Qualified Teacher Status in 2011. Five years later I decided to take a Teacher of Business job in Valencia for a year - I'm still in Spain! I've taught Business, Travel and Tourism and General Studies as well as being an examiner for Edexcel at iGCSE and A Level.
I am an enthusiastic teacher and hope to bring a joy of learning to all I teach at The O'Brien International School.

Stefano Perossa MA degree in History, MA degree in Foreign Languages and Literature (From April 2024 to date).

Hello! As my name suggests, I am Italian, but I have lived and studied for many years of my life in London where I completed the MA in Medieval and Renaissance studies in the history and Italian departments at UCL (University College London). This is actually my second degree, as I received my first degree in foreign languages and literatures from the University of Trieste (Italy).

I have been working at The O’Brien International School since April 2024. My main subject areas include: Key Stage 1-2-3 History, Geography, Religious Studies, Drama and PSHE Education. External GCSE Examiner in Italian.

My mission as a teacher is to inspire children to understand the importance and joy of learning. I believe that education is not just about imparting knowledge but about igniting curiosity and fostering a lifelong love of discovery.

Mireia Varela Garcia, Master's in Leadership and Management (From February 2025 to date). I hold a double degree in Early Childhood and Primary Education with a specialization in children with special educational needs. I also have a Master's degree in Leadership and Management of Educational Institutions, as I believe in continuous professional development, a key aspect of our profession. This is a message I want to convey to my students: to always strive to be the best version of themselves.

I have two passions that greatly shape my life. The first is travelling. I have been fortunate enough to explore nearly all continents, and the experience that most profoundly impacted me was living in Denmark, a leading country in education. There, I had the opportunity to further my training and acquire valuable knowledge and efficient teaching methodologies. My second great passion is karate. I have practiced since I was seven years old, which has enabled me to achieve remarkable accomplishments. Last year, I was honoured to become the Sub-European champion. This martial art has not only allowed me to grow as an individual but also taught me important values, which I aim to share with others.

I am thrilled to join the team and become part of this educational community. My goal is to contribute to the academic and personal development of my students, guiding them to excel both in their studies and in life.

Cristina Viera Doctor of Philosophy, (From January 2025 to date) I am thrilled to join The O'Brien International School, bringing a wealth of academic and professional experience. With my Ph.D. University of South Florida in Curriculum and Instruction, complemented by graduate degrees in History and Social Science Education, I have cultivated expertise across multiple disciplines. My career spans higher education roles at Western Carolina University and Florida International University, where I served as Assistant Professor, and as Director of Diversity Education at UNC Asheville. In secondary education, I have taught an array of Advanced Placement courses including World History, Psychology, and European History. I am passionate about integrating global and multicultural perspectives into education to prepare students for success in their academic and professional journeys.

Misbah Butt , BA(Hons), MA, PGCE (From September 2024 to date). I’m a passionate teacher from London with over a decade of experience living, working, and teaching abroad. After spending seven years in Murcia, Spain, I developed a deep appreciation for the transformative power of education. My teaching journey began with a strong belief in how education shapes lives, a belief that continues to drive my passion, especially in language instruction. From a young age, I was drawn to teaching, starting a Spanish club at school and later coaching lacrosse in summer. I earned a BA (Hons) in French & Spanish from the University of Westminster, which led to teaching English language and literature in Colombia and Ecuador, as well as English as a Foreign Language in academies and businesses. I am committed to providing high-quality education, supported by my academic credentials, including the international TEFL award, specialized grammar courses, the CELTA at International House in Madrid, and a Master’s in Bilingual Education from UCAM. My dedication to teaching was reinforced when I completed my PGCE and obtained QTS from King’s College London. Teaching is not just my profession; it’s my vocation. I am dedicated to nurturing each student’s unique potential and am honored to be part of their journey as they grow and develop into confident individuals through the power of language.

Olga Gaeva, Bs Child Psychology. (From September 2024 to date). I attended the Novosibirsk Regional College of Culture and Arts 2000 – 2004. There I studied music education and led students' creative groups, and organized student concerts. and I am a dedicated teacher who combines modern teaching methods with an individual approach to each student. I strive not only to provide knowledge but also to develop student social intelligence, self-confidence, and respect for different cultures.

My diverse professional background allows me to connect with students of all ages. Over the years, I have worked in various fields, each contributing to my ability to communicate effectively and create an engaging learning environment. I founded and managed the Russian School Killarney, Ireland 2013 – 2020 for bilingual children, teaching them the Russian language culture. I am excited to be working in a school environment, where I can apply my skills and passion for education to help students grow and succeed.

John O'Brien. BA. Sociology & Geography TSM, Joint Honours Degree, Trinity College Dublin. Certificate in Social Studies NCIR. I left secondary school at 15 and took up an apprenticeship as an electrician. I spent most of my apprenticeship working in TCD Dublin University and most of the following twenty years working in industrial installation. My career took another path when I became a lighting electrician within the television and the film industry. I worked for various companies including The BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and RTE. I was a member of the first production crew of Fair City and part of the TV crew for other productions including, Nighthawks, Today Tonight, Headto to Toe and RTE newsroom. During that period I was lucky enough to meet such notable individuals as the Prime Minister of Ireland, Charlie Haughey, Dr. Ian Paisley, David Attenborough, Phil Collins, David Bowie and David Bowie. After a major family loss the passing of my wife Caroline, and also to be able to care for my children, I decided to return to education and attended the National College of Industrial Relations. From there I was accepted as an undergraduate at Trinity College Dublin. I spent 7 years at TCD the first four as an undergraduate and later I was accepted as a Masters student investigating social housing. I was a tutor in the Geography Dept of TCD for 3 years. I graduated in 2000. I spent five years working as a supply teacher in Colaiste Iosagain Secondary School Portarlington and Mountmellick Secondary. I also acted as an examinations officer for the Department of Education Dublin.

Personal reasons initiated another major change and brought me to Spain. I worked in a number of academies and then for 6 years in an International school as a teacher and then as Director. I have over 30 years experience working in education. I have worked for the Conselleria de Educacion, Cultura y Deporte, Generalitat Valenciana in a program for CEFIRE (Centro de Formacion, Innovacion y Recursos Educativos) delivering Research Methods through English since 2016. The main subjects I deliver include, Sociology, Geography, History, Social and Political Science. I am currently the owner and the Head of Centre of our school, The O'Brien International School and we are registered with Pearson Edexcel centre, number 95345 and we are an Oxford AQA Centre, number 74264.