The Fort Issue 06 June 2020 | Page 43

I am very excited about moving to Malta and becoming part of the Verdala family after having spent 11 years teaching in Asia, North and South America. As a Physics teacher, I am passionate about science and how it can help us understand the world and our role in it. I enjoy travelling and travel photography, but mostly I enjoy getting out of my comfort zone. I do sport whenever I can, such as freediving, whitewater kayaking or backcountry skiing. I am moving to Malta from Bangkok, Thailand, where I have spent 3 very interesting years.

Hello! My name is Claire Cuthbert and I am originally from Ireland but over the years have lived in Scotland, France, Dubai and Malaysia. I am currently teaching French at an international school in Kuala Lumpur and will also be teaching French at Verdala. I have a son who is four years old and we are both very excited to be moving to Malta and to meet all of you in the Verdala International School Community. My interests include travelling, swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving (basically being in the sea!), so Malta looks like heaven!

I hope you all have a great Summer break, and I look forward to meeting you in September.

Hi everyone! My name is Michael Banks and I'm from Liverpool in England. You might be familiar with the city because of the footbal team! I am very excited to move to Malta and join the VIS community for the upcoming academic year, where I will be an Elementary Teacher. Originally, I taught in the UK before moving to the UAE, where I lived and worked for 4 years! Moving to teach in a different environment was the best decision that I have ever made and it has helped me to develop as a teacher and as a person. Currently, I am teaching a Grade 2 class in Malaysia, where I have been based for the last 2 years. I hold a keen interest in a range of sports and am particularly passionate about playing rugby, football and running. I really enjoy travelling around the world to experience and embrace different cultures and I can't wait to meet everyone at Verdala!

David Simon

Claire Cuthbert

Michael Banks

New Staff 2020-2022 Introductions