Meet Our Team

Emily Hopkinson

School Principal

Mrs Emily Hopkinson brings almost 20 years of experience in education to her new role as Principal of The English College. Originally from Yorkshire in the UK, she graduated from the University of Lincoln with a BSc in Psychology before gaining a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management from the University of Warwick. In 2021, she completed the National Professional Qualification for Headship. Mrs Hopkinson’s career has seen her teaching and leading schools in the UK, Malaysia and the UAE. Prior to her role as Principal, she held the position of Head of Secondary here at The English College for 4 years.

Carmella Jodrell

HEAD OF PRIMARY SCHOOL

FOUNDATION STAGE 1 TO YEAR 6

Carmella Jodrell holds a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Education. She’s served as a head teacher for a decade, in a career spanning three decades of international education. Prior to moving to Dubai in 2016, she worked in the UK, Taiwan, Malaysia and Egypt. Marking a lifelong love of learning, Carmella is currently completing a sociolinguistics Doctorate with the University of Bath. She has coached teachers, parents and students in both personal and professional development.

Nicola Hamer

HEAD OF SECONDARY SCHOOL

YEAR 7 to YEAR 13

Ms Nicola Hamer is from Manchester in the UK but has been living in the UAE since 1997. She studied at the University of Sheffield and all her 17 years of teaching Business and Maths have been in the UAE. Ms Hamer’s teaching philosophy focuses on the holistic development of students and she is passionate about empowering others to achieve their full potential. Education is not just about academics; it’s about nurturing well-rounded individuals. It matters to her that the school supports students to become confident, capable, responsible and compassionate members of society. Prior to her role as Head of Secondary, Ms Hamer held the position of Deputy Head of Secondary (Academics) here at The English College for 3 years.

OUR TEAM

The English College is governed by a Board of Governors who represent the best interests of the students, teachers, staff and overall school community. They also provide governance to the school on policies, compliance and financial matters.