Reflecting the global character of our community, this year's new colleagues arrive from Canada, Wales, Ireland, Switzerland, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, Dubai, and Rome. Together, they represent a wide range of professional backgrounds spanning classroom teaching, boarding life, learning support, the arts, science, and student wellbeing.
Their experiences are as diverse as the students they will teach. Some have worked in international schools across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Caribbean. Others have served in boarding communities where they have helped students thrive both academically and personally. Collectively, they bring expertise in the International Baccalaureate, interdisciplinary learning, pastoral care, inclusive education, and the creative arts.
Strengthening Our Boarding Community
Joining the Boarding Program are Sabrina Bellissimo and Jessica Burr, both of whom bring extensive experience working with young people in residential school settings.
Originally from Toronto, Sabrina joins St. Stephen's after several years at Rothesay Netherwood School in Canada, where she combined her role as House Parent with teaching Dance, Musical Theatre, and Digital Design. Her passion for creativity and student engagement will be a wonderful addition to boarding life.
Jessica, originally from Wales, joins as Dorm Parent Coordinator after teaching English and Religious Studies at a boarding school in Sussex while also serving in boarding leadership roles. Having lived and worked internationally, she looks forward to helping students from around the world feel at home in Rome.
Inspiring Learning Across the Curriculum
Several outstanding educators are joining our academic departments this year.
Ru Lau joins the Visual Arts Department after teaching in London, Hong Kong, Abu Dhabi, and the Dominican Republic. With an impressive background in Fine Art and international education, Ru is passionate about helping students explore the connections between artistic expression and other disciplines.
The Science Department welcomes Alessandro Giagu, whose interdisciplinary background in physics, chemistry, and philosophy reflects the spirit of inquiry that defines a St. Stephen's education. Raised in both Rome and Chicago, Alessandro encourages students to think critically, ask thoughtful questions, and make meaningful connections across subjects.
Joining the English Department is Fayruz Mandil, whose international upbringing and extensive experience teaching within the IB Diploma Programme have shaped her student-centered approach to literature, language, and communication. A passionate reader and writer herself, Fayruz brings nearly a decade of IB experience to the classroom.
Supporting Every Student
Student wellbeing remains central to the St. Stephen's experience, and we are delighted to welcome Eddie Diver to our Learning Support team.
Originally from Ireland, Eddie brings extensive experience in school counselling, executive functioning, study skills, ELL provision, and pastoral care from international schools in Dubai. His work focuses on ensuring that every student receives the personalized support they need to flourish both academically and personally.
Looking Ahead
Each new member of our faculty and staff enriches the St. Stephen's community in meaningful ways. Beyond their academic credentials and professional experience, they share a genuine commitment to nurturing curiosity, building strong relationships, and creating learning environments where students feel challenged, supported, and inspired.
As we begin another exciting school year, we are delighted to welcome Sabrina, Jessica, Ru, Eddie, Alessandro, and Fayruz to St. Stephen's. We look forward to the knowledge, energy, and perspectives they will bring to our classrooms, boarding houses, and community, and we know they will play an important role in shaping the experiences of our students in the years ahead.
Welcome to St. Stephen's!
