Teacher Profiles

Mónica Prieto, PhD      

Principal                                                                                                                                       

I graduated with a BA in English Philology from the University of Deusto in Bilbao, where I also received my teaching certificate. I was awarded an MA and PhD in Languages and Linguistics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the United States.

I have more than 20 years of international experience in program development, organisation and coordination at the Universities of Illinois, Mississippi and Florida International University.

For four years I was the Diploma Program Coordinator at SEK-International School-El Castillo. Working at a continuum school gave me the opportunity to gain deeper insight into the four IB programmes. I also work with the IB directly in a range of different capacities, I am a workshop leader, examiner and visit team member for IB verification and evaluation visits.

Gareth Finn    Academic Coordinator                                                                              

English Language and Literature teacher

I graduated in English Language and Literature from the University of Liverpool, after which I worked in local journalism, publishing and social enterprise projects. This led me to work closely with young people and allowed me to see how exposure to literature and the sharing of stories could be transformative to young lives. Because of this, I moved into teaching, completing my postgraduate teacher training and later an M.A. in education.

I have worked in schools across the United Kingdom, Argentina, Spain and the Republic of Ireland.

I am a passionate advocate the importance of reading for pleasure in schools.

Mary McKey

English Acquisition teacher

After completing my BA degree in English and Geography at NUI Maynooth, Ireland, I lived and worked in Spain for three years, and understand, first-hand the importance of immersion in the target language and of a holistic approach to learning. I have a TEFL Diploma and have done an MA in Education. I have worked in SEK-Dublin for many years. It is a great source of satisfaction to see the personal, social and academic progression of our students.

Ciara O´Donoghue   Student Wellbeing/Guidance counsellor

English Language and Literature teacher

I graduated from the University of Limerick with an honours degree in Applied Languages and spent time working in business development and marketing in Paris before moving into teaching. I´ve worked in schools in the U.A.E, France, Malawi and Timor-Leste and throughout this time have developed a keen interest in student wellbeing. I am currently completing an M.Sc. in Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Psychological Practice with the University of Edinburgh. 

As well as literature, I enjoy music and yoga and I use these with the students to aid wellbeing.

Gavin Cox                                                                                                                                                            

English Language Acquisition and Individuals and Societies (Geography) teacher

I graduated from University College Dublin with a Joint Honours degree in English and Geography and Environmental and Social Science.

The experience that inspired me to become a teacher was during my travels to Zambia where I had the opportunity to work with young people in an educational capacity. Afterwards I returned to UCD and graduated with an MA in Education 2019.

I have worked in secondary schools in the Republic of Ireland, and spent summers teaching international students in TEFL courses.

Miryam Avis

Spanish Language and Literature and German Language Acquisition teacher

I graduated with honours in Spanish Language and Literature with a minor in German from the University Rovira i Virgili in Catalunya Spain and I later completed my MA in Linguistics and Cognitive Science before teaching in university. I Followed this with an MA in Education.

I have a passion for languages and the capacity they give us to experience the world in different ways. I believe in the holistic development of students and in providing opportunities for lifelong learning.

Mariángeles Martínez                                                                                                       

Spanish Language and Literature/ Acquisition teacher

Following my passion for languages, I graduated in Philology from the University of Valladolid. After several years teaching in Spain I moved to Ireland and worked as a professional translator for some large multinational corporations but I missed the warmth and vibrancy of the classroom and so returned to education. Teaching as vocation is hugely rewarding due to the bonds you make with colleagues and students. 

Jennifer D’Eathe        CAS Coordinator                                                                                      

Individuals and Societies (History) and Music teacher

I graduated from Maynooth University with B.A Honours in History, Music and Classical Studies, and from there I completed my postgraduate teacher training at the University of Limerick. My interest in music further led me to complete an Associate Diploma in Instrumental Performance with the Victoria College of Music, London.

As an educator, I believe in the education of the whole person and the many benefits of a balanced and well-rounded educational experience. My teaching interests lie in twentieth-century European history and Romantic and contemporary classical music.

Nicole Gubbins                                                                                                                   

Mathematics and Biology teacher

I completed my undergraduate degree in Middle Level Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the United States.  After teaching for a year, I completed my Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction.

I have taught extensively in the United States, Argentina, Morocco, Turkey and Switzerland. Living, working and studying in an international environment broadens every aspect of our horizons.

Emilio J Garcia

Physics and Chemistry teacher

I studied the IB when I was a pupil myself, indeed I am an alumnus of one of our sister schools, SEK-Alborán. It was my experience of studying the IB that gave be a passion for Physics, and I graduated in Physics from University College London and followed this with an MA in Bio Medicine.

I served in the Spanish Navy as a pilot for 6 years and have travelled the world for humanitarian missions. I have also worked for the United Nations. It was during my time working in London for the Israeli embassy, training adults, that I discovered teaching.

I love to introduce and inspire students in Physics. 

Ultan Slevin

Mathematics and Design teacher

I graduated with an honours degree in Polymer Technology from Athlone Institute of Technology and following this, I worked in the engineering industry.

I followed this with an MA in International Teaching from Framingham State University, Massachusetts, USA, achieving a perfect GPA.

I have worked for several years in Bangkok Thailand and the Republic of Ireland.  

Mathematics is a universal language and a language that drives and motivates me to stimulate the minds of my students.

Edward Lacey             TOK Coordinator                                                                                      

Visual Arts and Design teacher

I graduated with a BA in Visual Arts Practice from the Institute of Art and Technology. After which I became and art practitioner and teacher. Professionally and voluntarily, I have taught art to all ages, developing students´ artistic skills as well as their understanding of art to help them express themselves in a variety of artistic mediums.

John McShane                                                                                                   

Physical and Health Education teacher

I studied Physical Education and German in the University of Wales, Bangor, U.K. and returned to Ireland in 2004.  I have worked in education and sport for over 15 years.  FIFA qualified in football up to UEFA 'A' elite, I am the current F.A.I. Irish schools u18s international manager.  I have a broad interest in many sports and have also qualified up to UEFA B in Futsal.  I have a strong passion for learning and development.  My aim is to provide students with the knowledge and understanding of the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and lifelong participation in sports and activity.  I also have experience of working in the new Junior Cycle for Physical Education in the Republic of Ireland.  I have qualifications in Sport Psychology, Sports Law, and Sports Management and I am currently studying for a masters in the Science of Coaching in Sport in the University College of Dublin, U.C.D.