Meet our talented Primary Years teachers.

We read over 250 applications each year before carefully selecting candidates for any new teaching positions. All teachers receive 2 weeks of rigorous training before they start and benefit from around 70 hours of ongoing professional development support throughout the school year.

Teachers must be qualified and experienced, but most of all they must be ready to be role models to our students. We know we ultimately teach through modelling and expect all teachers to fully embrace the values of the school and develop personal attributes in line with the school’s 12 Wise Habits.

At Panyaden, we value passion, personality, commitment.

Nadia Maria Pashkevich (Kru Nadia)

Year 1 (Dragonflies) Homeroom Teacher 

Kru Nadia’s upbringing is a blend of German and American heritage, yet most of her childhood was spent in the Middle East, particularly Yemen. She earned an Honours Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education and a Master of Education degree from the University of Brighton in the UK. For a span of six years, she resided, studied, and taught in the UK.For a span of six years, she resided, studied, and taught in the UK. Following this, she relocated to Germany for a three-year tenure at an international school. Kru Nadia finds immense joy in immersing herself in nature, relishing delicious cuisine, and venturing into unexplored territories. She is passionate about play-based education and fostering opportunities for exploratory learning.

Podchanart Manipuntee(Kru R)

Year 1 (Dragonflies) Homeroom Teacher 

Kru R holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Thai Language from Payap University and a Master’s Degree in Education Administration from Chiang Mai University. She became a part of the Panyaden community in 2019, assuming the role of Thai Head Teacher. With an extensive career spanning over ten years, she has excelled as a Middle & High School Thai Teacher and as the Thai Department Leader in one of Chiang Mai’s most prominent international schools.

Kamonwan Kamdee (Kru Mai)

Year 1 (Dragonflies) Teaching Assistant

Kru Mai graduated from Rajabhat Chiang Mai University with a first-class honours Bachelor’s Degree in Business English. She worked as an international translator at Chiang Mai Ram Hospital for over ten years and also spent eight years working at Susan’s House Kindergarten. She is a mother of two sons and has a passion for Thai desserts, cooking, children’s crafts, reading, and singing.

Ibone Verhey (Kru Ibi)

Year 1 (Ladybirds) Homeroom Teacher 

Kru Ibone was born in Germany, however, she spent her formative years in Colombia and Zimbabwe. Her educational journey took her to the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Alongside her teaching degree, she holds a Bachelor’s in International Studies and a Master’s in Global Mental Health. Over recent years, she has been dedicated to teaching Years 1 and 2 in London, UK, while also gaining experience in working with children who have additional needs.  specific area of fervour for her is primary science education, and she is equally passionate about facilitating outdoor learning experiences.

Jiranat Sriphet (Kru Dokmai)

Year 1 (Ladybirds) Homeroom Teacher and  Primary Thai Coordinator 

Kru Dokmai holds both a Bachelor’s Degree in Education (Early Childhood Education with Honours) and a Master’s Degree in Education (Developmental Psychology) from Chulalongkorn University. She was one of the founding teachers of Panyaden International School after 10 years of working as a primary level Thai teacher and coordinator at an international school in Bangkok. At Panyaden, she gained experience in different roles including Thai Headteacher and Thai Coordinator, teaching Thai to both Thai and foreign students. She currently serves as a Year 1 homeroom teacher. Kru Dokmai enjoys spending time with her two daughters and has a passion for cooking and gardening.

Mayuree Jaijaroensakundee (Kru Gai)

Year 1 (Ladybirds) Teaching Assistant

Kru Gai completed her studies at Huachiew Chalermprakiet University, majoring in Chinese. She has accumulated five years of experience working with kindergarten children at an international school in Bangkok, and this year marks her tenth year at Panyaden. Beyond her teaching role, Kru Gai finds joy in cooking, reading, and exploring new destinations through travel.

Emily Beck (Kru Emily)

Year 2 (Grasshoppers) Homeroom Teacher

ru Emily originates from Calgary, Canada, where she spent her formative years. She holds Bachelor’s degrees in Biology, Psychology, and Primary-Junior Education from Queen’s University. Following her graduation, she embarked on a teaching venture, spending a year instructing first grade in Venezuela. Subsequently, she relocated to Guadalajara, Mexico, where she has been residing and teaching pre-first grade for the past seven years.

Tamisa Wiboonkiat (Kru Jang)

Year 2 (Grasshoppers) Homeroom Teacher

ru Jang holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Khon Kaen University and a Master of Education from Sukhothai Thammathiraj University. With a teaching tenure spanning two decades, she has garnered extensive experience in instructing English and bilingual programmes in Chiang Mai. During this time, she ascended to the role of Head of the English programme at her former school. Kru Jang further enriched her understanding of English by undertaking EAL courses in Melbourne, Australia.

Weeranut Srion (Kru Om)

Year 2 (Grasshoppers) Teaching Assistant
Kru Om graduated with a degree in Mass Communication from Chiang Mai University. She brings twenty years of experience working in international schools. Initially, at Panyaden, Kru Om served as the Academic Secretary for four years. This year marks her fourth year working as a Support Teacher. Kru Om is passionate about the Panyaden philosophy and finds immense fascination in observing children’s growth and development. During her free time, she enjoys travelling, gardening, listening to music, and spending quality moments with her daughter, Pak, who will be in Year 8 at Panyaden this year.

Mackenzie Maetche (Kru Kenzie)

Year 2 (Cicadas) Homeroom Teacher 

Kru Kenzie originates from a quaint town nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Canada. She achieved her Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta, with a specialisation in Primary Education. Commencing her teaching vocation in Canada, she embarked on her journey at an outdoor kindergarten, an experience that ignited her passions for fostering connections between children and the natural world, and for crafting immersive, impactful learning encounters.

Aumporn Panthong (Kru Ta)

Year 2 (Cicadas) Homeroom Teacher and Sustainability Coordinator

Kru Ta boasts an extensive teaching career spanning over seventeen years, predominantly focused on kindergarten and primary students. He is equipped with a Bachelor of Science degree in Primary Education Management, specialising in sports, from Srinakharinwirot University. With an unwavering passion for educational exploration, Kru Ta explores diverse teaching methodologies while seamlessly integrating a Buddhist perspective. He firmly believes that this approach enhances both his personal growth and the learning experiences of his students. His ultimate objective is to instil a sense of enjoyment in learning among his students.

Duangporn Srisupha-o-larn (Kru Eedd)

Year 2 (Cicadas) Teaching Assistant

Kru Eedd attained her degree from Ramkhamhaeng University, where she majored in Advertising and Public Relations. She devoted five years to a noble cause, collaborating with the Chiang Mai Development Foundation to conserve local forests and bolster the handicraft industry among indigenous hill tribe communities. Kru Eedd cherishes the company of children and revels in the shared experience of creating art and engaging in needlework. Beyond her professional commitments, she finds solace in tending to her garden during her leisure hours.

Adam Lewis (Kru Adam)

Year 3 (Manta Rays) Homeroom Teacher

Kru Adam hails from Sheffield, England, and possesses an MSci in International Relations from the University of Nottingham. His journey into teaching took an unforeseen turn while interning for a children’s rights charity in Ghana. Kru Adam’s supervisor informed him about a local school in need of an English teacher and asked for his assistance. Despite his initial hesitations due to his lack of teaching experience, Kru Adam’s affection for teaching swiftly emerged. His foray into education prompted him, upon returning to the UK, to participate in the Teach First Leadership Development Programme, culminating in the completion of his PGCE at University College London.

Yokfa Saehan (Kru Yok)

Year 3 (Manta Rays) Homeroom Teacher

Kru Yok possesses a distinguished graduate degree in Elementary Education, with the distinction of first-class honours. She had the privilege of participating in a Thailand & Singapore Virtual Tour and the Carleton Thai Buddy Programme. Growing up in a diverse environment, Kru Yok firmly believes that while each individual is unique, all learners have the innate capacity to enhance their knowledge and skills in their own authentic way. The profound experience of interacting with students and witnessing their journey of growth and development holds a deeply meaningful place in her heart.

Tita Tepparak (Kru Aua)

Year 3 (Manta Rays) Teaching Assistant

Kru Aua graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism and Business English. Before joining Panyaden, she worked for more than eight years in a language school and at an international school. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling and doing fun activities with her daughter and son.

Brianne Paige Martin (Kru Bri)

Year 3 (Sea Turtles) Homeroom Teacher

Kru Bri hails from Toronto, Canada, and boasts an Honours Bachelor of Arts and Science degree from Lakehead University, coupled with a Bachelor of Education degree. Her love for teaching was kindled through her substantial work with children, spanning academic and athletic contexts. Beyond the school environment, she enjoys coaching youth soccer, participating in sports, exploring new destinations through travel, and basking in the wonders of nature. Kru Bri enjoys sharing her active learning approach in the beautiful setting of Panyaden.

Punrada Chueamahawan (Kru Tarn)

Year 3 (Sea Turtles) Homeroom Teacher

For Kru Tarn, witnessing children learn Thai language joyfully and applying it in real-life situations has been her steadfast goal throughout her impressive twenty-eight years as an educator. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Thai Language from Chiang Mai Teachers College, followed by a master’s degree in Teaching Thai Language from Chiang Mai University. Her love for education is matched by her passion for story writing, drawing, and engaging in song with children. Kru Tarn infuses her creative pursuits into her teaching, using what she loves to inspire children to embrace learning with enthusiasm every single day.

Varinthon Wadkeaw (Kru Pat)

Year 3  (Sea Turtles) Teaching Assistant

Kru Pat holds a Master’s degree in Arts and Cultural Management from Chulalongkorn University. Prior to joining Panyaden, she taught at Assumption University (ABAC) and later moved to Chiang Mai. Her oldest daughter, Ola, is thriving in the Secondary program at Panyaden, while her youngest, Funmi, is in Primary. Witnessing the developmental journey of her own children over the years has been truly remarkable.

 

Donald Johnson (Kru Don)

Year 4 (Jaguars) Homeroom Teacher

Kru Don hails from San Jose, California, and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from San Jose State University. Following his graduation, he embarked on a journey with the US Peace Corps, serving as a health volunteer in Niger, West Africa. This experience exposed Kru Don to a life of education across various cultures. He has resided in five West African countries, as well as South Korea, and now Thailand for the second time. With eight years of experience as a Year 4 and Year 5 homeroom teacher, Kru Don also holds a Master’s Degree in Education with a focus on English language development.

Natsasipha Manosoi (Kru Nin)

Year 4 (Jaguars) Homeroom Teacher

Kru Nin graduated from Chiang Mai University with a major in Thai. Following her graduation, she enthusiastically pursued a career in teaching. Initially, she taught Thai to foreigners for two years before transitioning to teaching within schools. She spent five years in a Thai curriculum school and then dedicated eleven years to teaching in an international school curriculum. This marks her third year with Panyaden. Kru Nin’s aspiration as a Thai homeroom teacher is to empower students to find joy in learning new concepts, navigate challenges independently, and learn from their mistakes. During her leisure time, she finds pleasure in gardening, reading, and cooking.

Yupapan Nikhom (Kru Murn)

Year 4 (Jaguars) Teaching Assistant

Kru Murn holds a Master’s Degree in International Studies, Human Resource Development from Burapha University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. She holds a deep fondness for our school environment and our Buddhist-oriented curriculum. Both her sons have been studying with us at Panyaden for years, and her family’s happiness reflects this. During her leisure time, she enjoys travelling with her family, practising meditation, and cooking, particularly Korean cuisine.

Timothy Mercer (Kru Timber)

Year 4 (Panthers) Homeroom Teacher

Kru Timber hails from New Waterford, Ohio, USA. His name is Timothy Mercer, but he prefers the nickname “Timber.” He holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Youngstown State University and has an extensive and diverse teaching career. Kru Timber began his journey at Nature’s Classroom, an outdoor education centre on the east coast of the USA, where he taught for three years. He then spent two years as a Peace Corps Volunteer, training fellow educators. Subsequently, he taught middle school for six years in Kiribati, gaining valuable international experience.Timber later taught English to high school students at DARA Academy in Thailand for seven years.

Sriwimon Wongchomphu (Kru Mon)

Year 4 (Panthers) Homeroom Teacher

Kru Mon holds a Bachelor of Education (Science – Chemistry) from Thaksin University and a Master of Education (Teaching English) from Chiang Mai University. Previously, she worked as a medical scientist in a Medical Science centre and was a visiting scholar at the University of Vermont, USA, teaching Thai culture to American students. With fifteen years of experience in teaching Science and Thai language at a private school, and another five years teaching at an international school in Chiang Mai, Kru Mon has also served as the Head of Primary in a Thai private school.

Litaphat Muangnen (Kru Mair)

Year 4 (Panthers) Teaching Assistant

Kru Mair is a fun-loving and dedicated educator with a passion for reading, watching movies, and travelling. She earned her Bachelor of Education from Chiang Mai University, majoring in French. Kru Mair became a part of the Panyaden family several years ago. After taking some time off to start a family of her own, she returned to join us. This marks her fourth year at Panyaden, where her primary objective is to nurture the children’s sense of humour, foster creativity, and encourage independence.

William Starner (Kru William)

Year 5 (Blue Herons ) Homeroom Teacher

Kru William was born in a small town in the Northeast of the USA called Corning, New York. He holds a BS in Biology and a Master of Education from Cambridge College in Massachusetts. He taught fourth grade outside Boston as well as fourth and fifth grades in Arizona before moving to Thailand in 2009. As a primary homeroom teacher, he taught at two international schools in Chiang Mai from 2009-2017, including Panyaden. For the past six years, Kru William and his family lived in Memphis, Tennessee where he taught fourth grade. During that time, he travelled to Chiang Mai every summer to manage the Panyaden Summer Camp. Now, he is happy to be back at Panyaden to teach Year 5.

Ratchadaporn Tala (Kru Frame)

Year 5 (Blue Herons) Homeroom Teacher

Kru Frame holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education in Thai language with First Class Honours. Currently, she is pursuing a master’s degree in Education with a major in Psychological Studies at Chiang Mai University. A notable milestone in her education was her experience as an exchange student in Japan. Kru Frame firmly believes in the phrase, “Inside every child is a rainbow waiting to shine.” She takes immense joy in witnessing our students develop their own unique ideas. This year marks her third year of valuable experience with Panyaden.

Yaara Docrat (Yaara)

Year 5 (Toucans)  Homeroom Teacher

Kru Yaara is what’s known as a “third culture kid.” She possesses Canadian and South African roots with Indian heritage. Interestingly, even though she was born in Bahrain, Kru Yaara’s upbringing spanned across Bahrain, Canada, and Dubai (UAE). She holds a Master of Education, a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Sociology, and a Bachelor of Education with a focus on At-Risk Youth – all earned from Queen’s University. Kru Yaara commenced her teaching journey with Year 7 students at Chiltern Way Academy, a special education school in the United Kingdom. Subsequently, she pursued her master’s degree with a specialised research focus on utilising the arts to aid emotional self-regulation in children with ADHD. 

Thanakrit Muangjun (Kru Krit)

Year 5 (Toucans) Homeroom Teacher

Kru Krit earned his bachelor’s degree in education, majoring in social studies, from Chiang Mai University. Following his graduation, he chose to embark on a journey as a social studies teacher in an English program school in Chiang Mai, a role he embraced for two years. During this period, he accumulated valuable experience teaching students hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds. Kru Krit firmly believes that the crux of effective teaching lies in fostering understanding, not solely imparting knowledge.

Janjira Stevenson (Kru Jan)

Year 5 Teaching Assistant

Kru Jan holds a Bachelor’s degree in microbiology from Khon Kaen University, Thailand. After graduating, she ventured into diverse professional roles, including hospitality, public relations, and marketing. Yet, it was her teacher friends who ignited her passion for education. This inspiration propelled her to pursue a Bachelor of Education from the University of Winnipeg, Canada, which she successfully completed in 2012.

Lindsey  Snellgrove (Kru Lindsey)

Year 6 (Unicorns) Homeroom Teacher and Literacy Coach

Kru Lindsey hails from northwest England, where she pursued a bachelor’s degree in Primary Education, specialising in Religious Education. She accumulated a decade of teaching experience in east London, at a sizable and culturally diverse primary school. During her tenure, she taught across multiple year groups and assumed leadership roles in subjects like Religious Education, Mindfulness, and Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education.

Amy Elizabeth Little (Amy)

Year 6 (Gryphons) Homeroom Teacher and Math Coach

Kru Amy hails from the North Island of New Zealand. She discovered her passion for teaching early, completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education at Massey University. With nearly twenty years of teaching experience across different age groups, Kru Amy returned to New Zealand after living in the USA. Here, she developed a strong interest in helping students with Math. She taught small-group interventions, coached teachers, and earned her Master’s Degree in Mathematics Education.

Piti-An Jamoosri (Kru Thoey)

Year 6 Homeroom Teacher and Thai Coach

Kru Toey holds a Bachelor of Arts with a focus on Thai Language and a Master’s degree in Education with a specialisation in teaching Thai language, both from Chiang Mai University. This marks her sixth year at Panyaden.She is passionate about teaching and values the learning experiences she gains from her students.Before joining Panyaden, she taught Thai at an international school for a decade and served as a Thai lecturer at Chiang Mai University for four years. During her leisure time, Kru Toey enjoys listening to music, reading books, savouring coffee moments with friends, and exploring new places through travel.

Apiwan Onnom (Kru Noon)

Year 6 Teaching Assistant

Kru Noon graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Education majoring in computer education in Thailand. Following this, she completed a two year diploma programme in Hong Kong majoring in cultural studies. After graduation, Kru Noon worked in a variety of roles, but it was Panyaden that inspired her to return to education. In her free time, she enjoys travelling, hiking, reading books and playing sports.