Our Team

After working in the education industry for several years, Giedre opened Royal Russell School, Vilnius. She sees her role as ensuring that prospective families have the very best experience of our School as possible understanding how importance of our family community. A mother of 3 herself, she works diligently to provide the kind of school she would want for her own children and the kind of service she would want to receive as a parent.

Giedre is a Vilnius local, with a Bachelors degree in Social Education (Socialine Pedagogas) and a Masters in Education. She also has completed Kimoji courses and is our school’s expert on emotional communication. She considers the holistic health and well being of every child, and uses her knowledge of Best Practices to create a safe and nurturing environment for the children in her care.

Hailing from the UK, Jacqueline, “Jackie”, uses her knowledge of British Education to create a warm and welcoming environment for her students. Jackie has an NVQ2 in Early Years and is a registered nurse with over 20 years of experience working with children in this capacity.

Originally from Turkey, I hold Bachelor’s degrees in Public Relations and Advertising and International Relations. My professional path began with working in organizations dedicated to women’s empowerment in the workplace, followed by a transformational move to Lithuania through a youth organization. ​Finding my true calling in youth development led me to pursue a Master’s degree in Social Services for Children and Youth in Lithuania. Alongside my formal education, I hold certifications in the Montessori methodology and Teaching Turkish as a Foreign Language.

​I speak Turkish and English fluently, with basic Lithuanian. I truly believe that how children grow directly shapes the future of our world. My goal is to cultivate a safe, inspiring, and supportive learning environment for every child. I have been a proud member of the Royal Russell School Vilnius family since 2021.

I am an Early Years Teacher from Spain, with a Higher Vocational Education qualification in Early Childhood Education. I have professional experience working with young children in Ireland and, more recently, in Vilnius. I am passionate about supporting children during their early years, encouraging their independence, confidence and wellbeing in a safe and welcoming environment.

I particularly enjoy planning creative activities and arts and crafts, using different materials to encourage children’s imagination, curiosity and self-expression. I love creating fun and meaningful experiences that allow children to explore, discover and actively participate in the classroom. Spanish is my native language and I am fluent in English. I also have some knowledge of French. I am delighted to be part of the Royal Russell School Vilnius community as a teacher in the Stars Classroom and look forward to getting to know the children, families and wider school team.

Hailing from Ireland, Kate has a QQI in Early Years Childcare and Education. She has several years of experience working in nurseries and creches in Ireland and brings her experience and knowledge of Best Practices to our youngest class. Kate has a gentle and calm demeanour and works diligently to create an engaging and safe environment for the children in her care.

Originally from Ecuador, Kenia holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations with a minor in Translation and has been a certified Spanish teacher since 2017. Her experience spans different countries, educational settings and age group. With a strong interest in languages, culture and multilingualism, Kenia has pursued studies in Sociolinguistics and Multilingualism and is preparing to further develop her teaching practice through UK teaching certification.

She believes in creating a safe, inclusive and joyful environment where children can be curious, confident and themselves. Outside the classroom, Kenia enjoys travelling, discovering new cultures and high-intensity sports.

Originally from Iran, Parisa holds a Master’s degree in English Language Teaching and a Bachelor’s degree in English Translation. She has been working as an English teacher since 2015 and has been teaching in Lithuania since 2022, after moving to Lithuania in 2021.

Parisa believes that young children learn best in an environment that offers a balance of diverse experiences, allowing them to develop both their mental and physical abilities, nurture their natural creativity, explore different activities, and develop practical skills and positive habits. She enjoys creating engaging and active lessons that encourage curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning, while supporting each child’s individual growth and development. Outside the classroom, Parisa enjoys cooking, socializing, travelling, discovering new places and embracing new experiences. She believes that learning is a lifelong journey and enjoys bringing her curiosity and enthusiasm into both her teaching and everyday life.

I am excited to join the Royal Russell team in the coming year. I have just completed a 3 year Primary Education degree at the University of Gloucestershire, so will embark to bring a fresh approach to the curriculum. I am passionate about creating a nurturing classroom environment where children meet their full potential through creative and inclusive learning. Outside of teaching, I enjoy singing and have been part of a range of choral choirs over the past 5 years.

I’m delighted to be joining Royal Russell School in Vilnius as the Year 1 teacher. I have over seven years of teaching experience across South Africa, Europe, and Asia, and I’m passionate about helping young learners build strong foundations in reading, writing, and maths in a happy, supportive environment. I enjoy creating engaging, interactive lessons that encourage curiosity and confidence, and I value working closely with parents to support each child’s growth. I enjoy reading, cooking and creative activities and my favourite thing in the world is to travel and experience different cultures. I’m very excited to be part of your community and look forward to a wonderful year together!

I am delighted to be joining Royal Russell School, Vilnius this year as a teacher in the primary school. I bring with me over 20 years of teaching experience, during which time I have had the privilege of working in a wide range of international settings across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. These experiences have enriched my teaching practice and deepened my appreciation for diverse cultures and educational approaches.

I greatly enjoy exploring how the past shapes the present, and I am especially looking forward to learning more about the rich history and culture of Lithuania as I become part of the school community. I am committed to fostering a positive and engaging learning environment where all students feel supported and encouraged to achieve their best. I look forward to an exciting year ahead, working collaboratively with students and colleagues, and continually challenging ourselves to grow, improve, and strive for excellence.

Since qualifying as a Primary teacher in Scotland in 2017, teaching has and continues to be my true passion. I hold a PGDE in Primary Education, alongside a Bachelor’s degree in Business and French (with distinction). Over the past eight years, I’ve had the pleasure of teaching in various settings—spending four years in Glasgow, one year in Asia, and the last three wonderful years here at Royal Russell in Vilnius.

I am deeply committed to fostering creativity, self belief and confidence in my students. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is watching children grow—not only becoming fluent English speakers but also developing self-assurance and skills that prepare them for future success.

I’ve been a teacher now for over 10 years and in that time I’ve had the pleasure of teaching in a variety of outstanding schools, primarily in London. After graduating with a degree in English from the University of Sussex in Brighton, I went on to complete my teacher training with Goldsmith’s College, University of London. In my career so far I have been a subject leader of English, Maths and Science and served on the leadership teams of Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ schools, helping to improve outcomes for students. In my spare time I have a passion for music and am a keen guitarist. I am fascinated by the culture and history of Eastern Europe and I feel very fortunate to live in a city as beautiful as Vilnius. It’s a privilege to get to know the children and families at Royal Russell.

Courtney is excited to join the team at Royal Russell School Vilnius. She is from the United States but has taught abroad in several countries such as South Korea, Colombia, Mexico and Hungary. She has taught pupils from a range age groups and they always have a great time learning in the classroom. She enjoys cooking, reading, watching movies and going for long walks in nature. She is looking forward to learning all about Lithuania and getting to know everyone at RRSV!

Originally from the UK, Oliver worked in the museum sector before completing his PGDE at the University of Glasgow. He has previously taught in Scotland and China, and is looking forward to joining Royal Russell School Vilnius. He aims to create a safe and welcoming classroom where children feel comfortable to express themselves and explore the world around them. Outside of work, Oliver enjoys history, reading, cooking and travel. He is looking forward to meeting the children, and is excited for the year ahead!

Joseph is excited to be joining Royal Russell School Vilnius and contributing to its growing international community. He holds a First-Class BA and a Master’s degree in History from the University of Hull.
After completing his Master’s, Joseph moved to Hangzhou, China, where he taught English as a Second Language. He continued teaching online after returning to the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic. Motivated to return to the classroom, he completed a PGCE at University College London (UCL), ranked as the world’s top institution for education.
Since qualifying, Joseph has taught in a UK primary school and spent two years teaching at an international school in Cairo, gaining valuable experience across diverse educational settings.

Matthew is excited to join Royal Russell School Vilnius in a dual role as Head of Secondary and as a Science and Mathematics specialist. Currently in his twenty-fifth year as an international teacher, Matt has spent time in Mexico, Germany, Brazil, Canada, Russia, Czechia, Ecuador, United Kingdom, Russia again, and now Lithuania. He has worked in large schools with departments of ten or more, in small schools as the only STEM teacher, in celebrated schools with hundreds of years of history, and in several developing schools in their first few years of operation. He is especially eager to bring his expertise to the new and growing Secondary School here at Royal Russell School Vilnius.

Matt has held many roles over his career, including Head of House, Head of Year 13, Lead Teacher or Deputy in within department, a member of school improvement committees, and coordinator and lead internal verifier of the BTEC Science program. While teaching predominantly Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry, Matt has experience teaching Mechanical and Electrical Engineering and Biology, and at smaller schools he has been called to teach Geography, Drama, and Physical Education.

Duncan Laing joins Royal Russell School Vilnius as a Mathematics and Computer Science teacher, bringing over ten years of international teaching experience across the UK, UAE, and France. He has taught across Key Stages 3 to 5, including IGCSE and A-Level in both Mathematics and Computer Science, and is particularly interested in developing students’ conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. Alongside his teaching career, Duncan has extensive industry experience as a software developer and IT manager. He integrates this real-world perspective into his teaching, helping students see the practical applications of their learning, particularly in computer science and STEM. He has also contributed to wider school life through curriculum development and by organising and leading international student trips. Outside the classroom, he enjoys travel and renovating old properties.

Originally from Armenia, Naira Gevorgyan is an educator with over seven years of international teaching experience across China, Lithuania, and Spain. She has taught Mathematics and Physics across the IGCSE, A Level, and IB Diploma Programme, working with students from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds.

Naira takes a student-centred approach to teaching, encouraging students to think critically, ask questions, and make meaningful connections between ideas. She aims to create an engaging classroom environment where students develop a strong understanding of their subjects, build confidence and problem-solving skills, and become independent learners who can apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Alongside her teaching experience, Naira has professional experience in the banking sector, giving her valuable practical insight into finance, business, and the financial world. She brings this real-world perspective to her teaching of Economics and Business, helping students understand how concepts studied in the classroom connect to the wider world.

Originally from Leeds in Northern England, I have taught in a range of schools across both the state-maintained and independent sectors in the United Kingdom.
I completed my undergraduate degree at University College London before undertaking further study at the University of Edinburgh, where I also tutored within the School of Geosciences. It was here that my passion for education began. I later gained my teaching qualification from the University of Oxford.
Since then, I have been committed to fostering curiosity and enthusiasm for the world through Geography. My teaching explores a range of engaging topics, including tectonic hazards, the diversity of the living world, the challenges of rapid urbanisation, and the value of fieldwork. I aim to create an inclusive environment in which all students feel valued and learning is both meaningful and rewarding.

Darcy O’Neill is a Humanities teacher from the UK with a particular specialism in Ancient History. Following the completion of her PGCE, she has gained valuable teaching experience in both the UK and Morocco and is delighted to be beginning this new chapter in Lithuania.Darcy is passionate about developing students’ higher-order thinking skills and fostering a strong growth mindset. She encourages students to become confident, independent learners who are curious, reflective, and willing to embrace challenges. Her approach to teaching combines academic rigour with creativity, ensuring that learning is engaging, purposeful, and enjoyable — with a touch of Manchester charm.Outside the classroom, Darcy enjoys dancing and aerial arts, where she can often be found performing, training, or literally soaring through the air.

Alan is a Drama and English teacher with a BA in Theatre and Drama Studies & French from Trinity College Dublin and a Professional Masters in Education from Maynooth University. He has taught in Ireland, the UK, and China, and is passionate about using drama to build confidence, creativity, and communication skills in the classroom. He brings a strong background in both performance and literature to his teaching, along with
valuable experience working with students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

I am an English teacher and researcher with more than ten years’ experience across US, UK and international education, teaching English Language, Literature, and Media across A Level, GCSE, IGCSE, IB and EAL programmes.

My background in comparative literature continues to shape how I teach: I am interested in what happens when students encounter ideas that unsettle what they think they know. My work draws on literary theory, discourse analysis and multilingual literacy research to explore how language shapes the ways we understand ourselves and the world around us. Above all, I want students to question, make connections, challenge interpretations and leave the classroom thinking differently than when they entered it.

Originally from Spain, I am passionate about languages and culture, with a particular interest in music, literature and cinema. I also have a keen interest in technology and enjoy exploring the ways it can enrich teaching and learning.

I have seven years of experience as a teacher, having taught within both the Spanish and international education systems, from Year 7 to Year 13, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. I hold a degree in Hispanic Philology, a Master’s degree in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language, and a Master’s degree in Teacher Education, equivalent to QTS. I am currently completing a Master’s degree in Cultural Management, and in the near future I hope to begin a PhD focused on research.

Nataliya Laing is an experienced Modern Foreign Languages teacher specialising in French and Russian, with over 20 years of experience across secondary and higher education in international settings. She is a UK-qualified teacher with QTS and holds a PhD in Philology, as well as an MA in Education from the University of Sheffield.

Nataliya has taught French and Russian from Key Stage 3 through to A- Level, combining strong subject knowledge with a focus on developing confident, independent learners. Her career includes roles in both international schools and higher education, where she has taught a wide range of students, including diplomats and professionals preparing for international roles. She brings authentic linguistic and cultural insight into her teaching and is committed to fostering curiosity, resilience, and a genuine enthusiasm for languages in her students. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, travelling, and creative upcycling projects.

Mr. Barbier is an enthusiastic music educator and performer from the United States with over 20 years of experience teaching woodwinds, brass, strings and percussion instruments to students of all ages. Holding a Master in International Education Administration (Endicott College), Master of Music Performance (University of Kentucky) and Bachelor of Music Education (Central Washington University) degrees, Mr. Barbier focuses on building strong musical foundations, fostering creativity and instilling a lifelong love of music. Through engaging lessons that combine technique, music theory and expressive performance, Mr. Barbier empowers students to discover their unique artistic voice. Mr. Barbier has two extraordinary children, Nora and Christopher, and has resided, visited or taught in over 37 countries since childhood.

I have always believed that creativity has no borders. Growing up in the artistic heart of Vilnius, I was surrounded by a community that valued innovation and visual storytelling. I moved to London 13 years ago to explore the word and find my passion. I am holding Level 2 training in supporting children with ASD. I worked 3 years in one of the Central London schools, with neurodivergent children in mainstream school setting. This inspiration guided my professional training at Goldsmiths University and has fueled my four years of teaching in South East London. I’ve been teaching A-level art, photography and graphical communication, alongside KS3/KS4 art and graphical communication.

In my classroom, I emphasize the joy of experimentation and the importance of an inclusive workspace. I am deeply committed to foster creativity and cultural enrichment in the classroom. Looking foreword joining Royal Russell school community in Vilnius.

Physical education, sports, and health are my passion. I come from a large sportsoriented family: my father, uncles, aunts, and even my wife have all been semiprofessional or professional athletes in basketball, volleyball, discus throwing, and tennis.
I have extensive knowledge across a wide range of sports. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and Sports Pedagogy, as well as a Master’s degree in Sports Educology, both from the Lithuanian Sports University. My goal is to help students become more physically active, healthier, and happier. I aim to create a fun and engaging environment where students can enjoy being active and potentially discover a sport they are passionate about and may wish to pursue further. I have teaching and coaching experience in Lithuania, Germany, and Hawaii. While I can guide students in many different sports, I specialize in basketball, supported by my 11 years of professional playing experience in various European countries.

Virginija Navickienė has 20 years of experience teaching Lithuanian language. She is a creator of digital Lithuanian language learning resources and a co-author of methodological recommendations aligned with the National Curriculum.
She teaches Lithuanian across proficiency levels A1–B2, focusing on developing students’ communicative skills through practical language use. Her lessons emphasize speaking, writing, text analysis, and cultural understanding, helping students build meaningful connections with Lithuania while exploring links with other cultures.
Virginija values a positive classroom atmosphere, respectful teacher–student relationships, and active student engagement.

Experienced Senior Primary School Teacher and graduate of Šiauliai K. Preikšas Pedagogical University, with extensive experience in both public and private schools in Lithuania.

I am committed to creating a supportive, engaging, and inclusive learning environment where every child can reach their potential. My teaching focuses particularly on language and literature, developing pupils’ reading comprehension, communication, creativity, and critical thinking through differentiated and project-based learning.

I am a patient, empathetic, and dedicated educator with a strong interest in child development and contemporary educational psychology. I value individualised learning, pupil wellbeing, and building positive relationships with children.

Raimonda holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Vilnius University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in English Philology, and an associate’s degree in Graphic Design from UCLA Extension. Having lived in Los Angeles for 14 years, she gained valuable teaching experience at St. Casimir Lithuanian Heritage School, working with children of various ages and language abilities. Her background in design and film has shaped her flexible and creative approach to teaching. She also volunteered for three years as an emotional support provider at Vaikų linija, speaking with children on diverse topics. Raimonda enjoys teaching Lithuanian in an international setting, where she can combine her knowledge of psychology, education, and languages. She is also a proud mother of two boys.

I am a primary school teacher. I chose teaching because I see it as a very meaningful path, an opportunity to help others learn and grow.
I have been working for a long time in the field of Lithuanian education in the diaspora. I founded a Lithuanian language school, where I still teach children remotely. I love to read, write, create and think in Lithuanian. I joined the Royal Russell School staff as a Lithuanian language teacher to help children hear, understand and love the sound, beauty and originality of the Lithuanian word. I am interested in traditional Lithuanian culture. In my spare time I am a member of a folklore ensemble – singing, dancing, learning about dialects and customs, and I am very keen to share my experiences, to help discover the diversity of traditional culture and to bring into every child’s world these things that fascinate me so.
I believe that only students who are interested and engaged are ready to learn, so I always try to make Lithuanian lessons as interesting as possible for them.

Laura is a Lithuanian language teacher passionate about helping non-native speakers gain the confidence and motivation to speak Lithuanian. She believes that language is much more than grammar and vocabulary – it is a way to connect with people, build relationships and open the door to new opportunities. Her lessons focus on creating a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to communicate and enjoy using Lithuanian.

With extensive professional experience in educational institutions and media – Laura brings a wealth of expertise to her teaching. She has a strong background in teaching Lithuanian individually and in groups to foreign-language speakers.

and Teaching Qualification (Vytautas Magnus University Education Academy)