Summer School Staff
We are excited to introduce you to our expert team, who are all experienced Downe House school staff.
Marya Akhtar
DirectorI have worked at DH for close to 20 years, initially as Director of Higher Education and currently as Director of Global Business Development. I have thoroughly enjoyed curating a unique summer school experience for students from across the globe. We are very much looking forward to delivering a unique experience – the best of British to curious and adventurous students.
Dr Andrew Atherton
Director of StudiesI have worked at Downe House for 10 years. I have overall responsibility for Teaching and Learning, ensuring our teaching is as impactful, innovative and inspiring as possible. At the DH Summer School, I am most looking forward to the opportunity to help students grow in confidence in their speaking and written English, helping them to feel in command and successful with their English ability.
Josh Kersley
Teacher of STEMI have worked at Downe House for 3 years, delivering the Biology Specification to all ages, and delivering engaging workshops at local schools. At the DH Summer School, I am most looking forward to being able to deliver an exciting and engaging syllabus that allows for curiosity without the demand of an examination.
Michael Liggins MA (Oxon)
Global Perspective TeacherI have worked at Downe House for 2 years building and developing the Economics and Business provision, and also developing the community links for the school and support for local and national charities. I am most looking forward to providing students with a theoretical and practical foundation for the study of Global Perspectives and hearing from the experience of students from each country sharing and developing their perspectives and, of course, enabling students to experience Oxford and all that it offers.
Mireille Cook
Head of Sports & ActivitiesI have worked at Downe House for 7 years. I am responsible for delivering global internship work placements for Downe House students. I am a passionate sportswoman; I compete in triathlon and running. As well as playing hockey competitively, I also coach both local and county junior teams. I am most looking forward to meeting all the DH Summer School students and sharing a summer of fun and adventure through our programme of inclusive activities and sports. I am particularly excited to introduce some traditional English sports and games!
Abigail Burcher
House ParentI have worked at Downe House for two years, with my overall responsibility playing a key role in the running and management of an Upper School (ages 13-16) boarding house. I am highly passionate about delivering a high standard of pastoral care and I am most looking forward to making the students’ visit as fun, comfortable, and as enjoyable as possible for a fantastic, one-of-a-kind British summer experience!
Carol Joice
House ParentI have worked at Downe House for 8 years. I am responsible for the pastoral needs, safety and wellbeing of the pupils in my care. I am most looking forward to meeting a new group of young people and enabling them to make the most of this wonderful opportunity – helping them to enjoy their boarding experience and get the absolute most out of their stay with us.
Katherine Adams
Head of Excursions and transportI have worked at Downe House for 3 years and have overall responsibility for the Downe House global exchange programme. This amazing opportunity allows our students to apply to study abroad at one our 16-partner school across 5 continents. I am responsible for the planning and management of both the outgoing and incoming parts of the exchange. I am a tutor to our Incoming students, looking after all aspects of their wellbeing and taking them on cultural tours which have included trips to London, Oxford and Windsor. I am most looking forward to meeting and getting to know all the students and to showing them the wonderful city of London (and as a historian, sharing some insights into some of its fabulous landmarks!).
Helen Knight
Project Manager & AdmissionsI have worked at Downe House for over 8 years. I support both the Global Partnerships and the Business Development team, this varied role also includes supporting the Downe House Global online Academy. I am looking forward to welcoming our students from around the globe to the unique and beautiful campus that is Downe House. After months of hard work and meticulous planning, it will be very rewarding to see the students have fun and enjoy their time at Downe House.
Gemma Palmer
Director of the Health CentreI have worked at Downe House for several years, I am a seasoned healthcare professional with over two decades of experience, bringing a profound commitment to enhancing health and well-being services. I am passionate about my role and enjoy offering a holistic support system to all Downe House students. I will be available 24/7 during the two weeks of the DH Summer School to offer advice and assistance where needed and parents can rest assured that all pupils will be given the best care and support during their stay.
