Isabella Tonnesen

2D Class Teacher

I joined DBS in 2020 as a Class Teacher for 2D. Having worked for six years at the UK's most experienced children's day camp provider, I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher. After completing a Classics degree at the University of Exeter, I began my PGCE at University College London, ranked number 1 in the world for Education.

I worked across Key Stage 1 and 2 in Outer London schools, gaining knowledge from my work in both phases. I was also lucky enough to experience teaching for a period of time at a Kindergarten in Brooklyn, New York. Prior to moving to DBS, I spent two years teaching Year 3 at an ‘Outstanding’ preparatory school in Surrey. There, I was also Head of Latin, responsible for creating captivating lessons for Year 5 and 6. Additionally, I prepared Year 6 children for their senior school exams, teaching them the skills required for verbal and non-verbal reasoning. I enjoyed seeing the children make the exciting transition to their senior school and it was such transition that compelled me to make my own transition to the UAE.

During my free time, I enjoy performing arts. I play the bassoon to grade 8 and I have grade 8 singing. I would love to join a choir or orchestra in Dubai (if coronavirus allows!), having previously performed in impressive venues across the UK, including the Royal Albert Hall, Birmingham Symphony Hall, Brighton Dome and The West End. 

Best moment in teaching

This has to be making contact with the International Space Station via an ARISS call. After a tense moment of no connection, one of my past students managed to speak to an astronaut in space about life in low earth orbit. It was a moment I will never forget.