Megan-Lee Pretorius Transitions into a New Role

I have been part of the ISL community since 2020 and have had the privilege of teaching a range of age groups during my time at the school. Working across different year levels has strengthened my passion for supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. After transitioning back into Year 1, my passion for Learning Support was reignited, particularly in supporting students who experience challenges in early literacy and numeracy. I find great fulfilment in working with students in small groups and one-on-one settings, providing targeted support and watching their confidence and understanding grow.

With ten years of teaching experience, I bring a flexible and reflective approach to education. I hold a B.Ed Honours degree in Learning Support and a Master’s degree in Curriculum Studies. I value creating inclusive learning environments where every child feels seen, supported, and capable of success. I am excited to begin this new chapter as a Learning Support Teacher and look forward to working alongside students, families, and colleagues in this role.

Sune Opperman Transitions into a New Role

Originally from South Africa, I have been working in education for the past 10 years and have proudly been part of the ISL community for the last two years. During my time at ISL, I have taught across a range of Secondary English year groups, supported students through IGCSE preparation, and become actively involved in the wider life of the school through sports coaching and student leadership opportunities.

I hold a Bachelor of Education degree, along with a background in Sport Psychology, which has strongly influenced both my teaching philosophy and my passion for student well-being. I believe in creating engaging learning environments where students feel challenged, supported, and encouraged to grow in confidence both academically and personally.

I am especially excited to be joining the Student Support Services (SSS) Department, as it closely aligns with my passion for student well-being and personal development. My background in Sport Psychology has given me a deeper understanding of the importance of emotional resilience, motivation, and holistic student support, and I look forward to contributing to an environment where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Regina Mwango Daka Expands Her Teaching Role

I am excited to be a part-time Social Studies teacher in addition to my part-time English role in August. With over a decade of experience teaching Cambridge IGCSE English, Literature, and History, I have previously taught at Simba School in Ndola and Chengelo School in Mkushi. I am passionate about creating engaging and inclusive learning environments that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and confident communication.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts with Education degree from the University of Zambia and a Master’s degree in Education Administration and Management. I am deeply committed to student-centred learning and enjoy helping students develop both academically and personally.

Outside the classroom, I am passionate about cultivating cultural awareness and global citizenship through education, with vast experience participating in Model United Nations conferences both locally and internationally (In the United States and Greece). In my spare time, I enjoy travelling and exploring new places and people, both locally and internationally, as well as reading and spending time with family and friends.

I look forward to reconnecting with the ISL community, the students, families, and colleagues in the year ahead.

Welcome Back, Dennis Simbaya - Part-Time - Spanish Teacher

My name is Dennis Simbaya, and I am a Zambian teacher of Spanish with over 15 years of teaching experience in both primary and secondary education. 

I recently completed a Master of Science in Monitoring and Evaluation (Educational Systems) in 2026 from ZCAS University. I also hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching Methodology and Leadership from Copperbelt University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language from Madrid, Spain, and a Bachelor of Agronomic Engineering from the Universidad de Ciego de Ávila, Cuba. My studies and experiences in Cuba and Spain greatly shaped my passion for the Spanish language and culture, as well as my belief in the power of language learning to promote global understanding and meaningful cultural connections.

Over the past 15 years, I have taught in diverse international and multicultural environments. I have worked at International School of Lusaka, French International School of Lusaka, and Livingstone International School, serving as a Specialist Teacher, Secondary Teacher, Primary Teacher, and Child Protection Lead.

Now Joining Full-Time: Juliana Mpundu Simutowe - Primary Teacher, August 2026

My name is Juliana Mpundu Simutowe, and I am delighted to be joining ISL on a full-time basis. I am excited to meet my students and their families and look forward to building a positive and supportive learning community together.

I lived and worked in the Netherlands from 2016 to 2023. Before transitioning into education, I worked in social services and social welfare, experiences that shaped my passion for supporting the well-being and development of children. My teaching journey began in 2019 at HSV Special Education (De Haagsche Schoolvereeniging), where I worked for two years. I then joined the International School of The Hague, where I worked for one and a half years before returning to Zambia.

I hold a certification in Supporting Teaching and Learning from the Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education (CACHE) UK, a qualification in Social Work and Social Welfare from the University of Zambia, and a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Psychology from the Cyprus Institute of Marketing.

Meet Francesca Cooke - Primary Teacher, August 2026

Francesca originally comes from the UK, but Zambia stole her heart; she's been here for 11 years. Her love of Zambia started with a passion for the natural world, and her first career was spent working in wildlife conservation and environmental education across rural Zambia, helping communities, and especially young people, connect with Zambia's landscapes and biodiversity.

Over the years, that passion for making a difference gradually drew her towards education more broadly, and she eventually took the leap to train formally as a teacher. It felt like a natural next step for someone who has always believed in the power of learning to change lives.

When she's not in the classroom, you'll likely find Francesca exploring Zambia's wild places, experimenting with cooking new dishes, or taking on different outdoor challenges. She is so excited to be joining the school and can't wait to meet students, families, and other members of staff.

Meet Edwin Mayoyo - Mathematics Teacher, August 2026

I am from Kenya and have been teaching for the past 18 years. My teaching career began in Kenya, where I worked for seven years before embarking on an international journey that has taken me to three different countries: Bahrain, Ethiopia, and, most recently, Russia. In these roles, I have taught mathematics at various levels in middle and high school, and also served as a head of department.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education (Mathematics) and a Bachelor of Philosophy in International Teacher Education. I am currently in my final year of pursuing a Master’s degree in Education. I chose this profession because every day becomes a learning day, rich with new experiences. It has also enabled me to travel and interact with people from different cultures across the world, making me a global citizen.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy playing volleyball and table tennis, as well as watching basketball and football. I also enjoy taking long drives in nature, riding motorbikes, and camping. I am excited about joining the Mathematics Department in the ISL community.

Meet David Kuloba - Chemistry Teacher, August 2026

My name is David Kuloba, and I was born and raised in Kenya on the beautiful slopes of Mount Elgon. Growing up in a strong Christian family shaped my values of respect, community, and lifelong learning. I later pursued my university education at the prestigious Egerton University, where I earned a Bachelor of Education Science, specialising in Biology and Chemistry.

My teaching journey has been both exciting and rewarding, taking me across Kenya, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Germany. Each country and school community has provided unforgettable experiences, broadened my perspective, and strengthened my belief in the power of education to connect people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Throughout these experiences, one thing has remained constant: the importance of learning how to live, work, and grow together as a global community.

I am truly excited about the opportunity to join the International School of Lusaka (ISL). I look forward to sharing my experiences, learning from others, and growing alongside this vibrant and welcoming community.

Beyond the classroom, I have a deep appreciation for nature, enjoy football and running, and value a good sense of humour as an important part of human connection and personal development. I am enthusiastic about contributing both academically and socially to life at ISL as a Chemistry teacher.

Meet Andrea Ohlms - Drama Teacher, August 2026

My name is Andrea Ohlms, and I’m a South African theatre teacher. I have been teaching theatre in Myanmar for the past three years, and bring with me over a decade of experience in theatre as a performer and creative practitioner, with a lifelong love for performance that started when I was very young.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Drama and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. My experience includes acting, as well as directing, writing, arts management and filmmaking. 

I’m particularly interested in helping students use theatre to express themselves, build confidence, and explore ideas about the world around them. I believe theatre is a powerful space for creativity, self-discovery, and connection.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time in nature—especially hiking and camping—as well as attending arts showcases. I also enjoy exploring different cultures, which continues to inspire both my teaching and creative work.

I’m really looking forward to becoming a part of the ISL community.

Meet Oliver Sakanyi - Music & Art Teacher, August 2026

My name is Oliver Sakanyi, and I am delighted to be joining the ISL teaching team. I began my teaching career at Munali Boys High School in Lusaka and have since gained valuable experience teaching in Botswana as well as in some international schools across Zambia. Most recently, I have been based in Monterrey, Mexico, where I have been teaching Art and Music, an experience that has greatly enriched my professional practice and cultural experience.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy visiting museums and learning about different cultures, both past and present. I also have a love for gardening and take great pleasure in planting and nurturing things as I watch them grow. I believe these interests complement my teaching by encouraging curiosity, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

I am very happy to be returning home and becoming part of the ISL community. I look forward to meeting the students and being part of their growth and learning journey.

Meet Marina Case - English Language Teacher, August 2026

My name is Marina Case, and I’m originally from England. I have 19 years of experience teaching English language and literature in both England and Austria, working with students across middle and high school.

I enjoy working with young people from diverse backgrounds, inspiring them to take ownership of their learning while building confidence in their ability to achieve their full potential, both academically and socially. I am especially passionate about reading and encouraging students to explore ideas, question what they read, and develop their own expressive voice.

Outside of school, I enjoy travelling, experiencing new cultures, learning new skills, and meeting new people along the way.

I am very excited to be joining the international school community as a Secondary English teacher and look forward to getting to know the students, families, and staff.

Adjusted Administration Operational Office Hours During June and July 2024

We wish to remind you of the adjusted administration operations office hours during the June and July school holidays. During the holidays, the administration office will be open from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Please note that the school will be closed on public holidays.

We recommend using the administration car park if you need to visit the school. Below are some helpful school contacts for your reference:

Introducing Craig Patterson - Service Learning Coordinator

Craig is delighted to be appointed to the position of Service Learning Coordinator (SLC) at ISL. The SLC will design and manage a programme which integrates community service with academic learning, fostering student engagement and civic responsibility. This is done through collaboration with teachers to incorporate service projects into the curriculum, build partnerships with local and global organisations, and support students throughout their service experiences. 

Over his career in international education as a teacher, Coordinator, Athletic Director and Principal, Craig has accumulated a wealth of experience and a passion for fostering community engagement, making him the perfect fit for this pivotal role, connecting the curriculum to experiences outside of the classroom. Having spent the past 9 years here at ISL, Craig looks forward to inspiring students to become compassionate, active citizens dedicated to making a positive impact within our Zambian communities and beyond.

Apart from life at school, Craig enjoys being outdoors, gardening, camping and hiking, playing sports and the blues harp…not at the same time.

Re-introducing Grace Kambeu - Primary Teacher

Mrs Grace Kambeu is excited to join the ISL community once again as a Year 5 Teacher and looks forward to collaborating with the Upper Primary team and other members of the learning community.  

She holds a Bachelor of Education Degree from the University of Wales, United Kingdom. She brings a wealth of experience emanating from teaching different year levels as well as having held positions of Upper Primary HOD and  IBPYP Coordinator at ISL. 

Grace embraces the programme's philosophy of promoting intercultural understanding and global citizenship. She recognizes the importance of equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world, and she actively incorporates international-mindedness into her classroom practices.

In her spare time, Grace enjoys travelling the world, reading and engaging in creative pursuits. She believes in the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle and seeks to inspire her students to pursue their interests and passions both inside and outside the classroom.

Hello from Jeanne - New IT teacher

Hi Team,

I hope you're all doing great! My name is Jeanne van Heerden, and I'm thrilled to be joining ISL as your new IT teacher. I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and share a bit about my background.

Before coming to ISL, I worked at an international school in the Middle East, teaching IT and IB Design Technology. Besides teaching, I'm passionate about clever design and conceptual photography. I hold a degree in Fashion Design, and I have also specialized in sustainability, which is a personal passion of mine. I'm currently working towards an Honours degree in Inclusive Education, which has really shaped my approach to teaching.

I'm from beautiful Cape Town and have the most adorable two-year-old daughter who keeps me on my toes. I love animals and nature, which inspire a lot of my creative work. Additionally, my husband works here at ISL too, so we're both excited to be part of this wonderful community. I’m especially grateful for this opportunity after taking a maternity break, and I am excited to get back into the classroom.

Introducing Larissa Banda - Personal Assistant to the Head of School

Thrilled to join ISL as the personal assistant to the Head of School, Larissa is the latest addition to the ISL family.

Larissa's career began with her pursuit of higher education, laying a strong foundation. She graduated from the University of Zambia, earning a Bachelor's degree in Education with a focus on literacy and languages. This educational experience granted her a deep understanding and knowledge in the field of education. Consequently, she gained a passion for continual learning.

Expanding her horizons beyond academia, Larissa has amassed 5 years of professional experience in a variety of positions. These include teaching, conducting research, and providing administrative support. This diverse background has sharpened her skills, making her a vital asset to the ISL community. Notably, her ability to adapt and thrive in various environments showcases her versatility and resourcefulness.

Outside of work, Larissa leads a fruitful and satisfying life. An enthusiastic reader, she finds solace and inspiration in exploring a wide range of books. Moreover, she indulges in baking and creating new recipes, expressing her creativity through culinary pursuits. Beyond her personal interests, Larissa is deeply dedicated to promoting child literacy, spending her spare time teaching children in her community to read.

Introducing Mwambi Lubozhya - IT Manager

Mwambi Lubozhya has transitioned from IT Technician to IT Manager within ISL, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise. Mwambi holds a bachelor's degree in computing and mathematical sciences from the University of Greenwich and is pursuing an MSc in information security and digital forensics at the University of East London. With nine years of diverse experience in the IT field, Mwambi has demonstrated an exceptional ability to support and lead technical teams, ensuring seamless and secure operations.

Mwambi's journey with ISL has been marked by a consistent drive for excellence and professional growth. In his previous role as an IT Technician, he showcased his technical acumen, problem-solving skills, and dedication to maintaining high standards. As he steps into the IT Manager position, Mwambi is eager to leverage his extensive knowledge and passion for technology to further enhance ISL's IT infrastructure and security.

Outside of work, Mwambi is a dedicated chess player and coach, tennis enthusiast, basketball player, and swimmer, reflecting his strategic thinking and teamwork skills. His involvement in coaching highlights his passion for mentoring and developing talent in the community.

Thokozile Wonani - Human Resource Officer

Thokozile is a familiar face in the ISL community; she has been a member for five years. In her dual role as Personal Assistant to the Head of School and Board Secretary, she has administratively supported school leadership and governance. Now, she's embarking on a new chapter in the school as a human resource officer while continuing her role as Board Secretary for the 2024-25 school year.

Thokozile's educational journey is marked by a diploma in Management Studies from the University of Zambia and a bachelor's degree in Development Studies from the University of Lusaka. Her deep-rooted interests in environmental sustainability have led her to pursue postgraduate studies in environmental law and a bachelor's degree in law. These academic endeavours aim to strengthen her advocacy for the planet's well-being, a cause she supports.

Thokozile's career path has been diverse. Before joining the ISL community, she spent ten years in operational support roles across private sector firms, multilateral aid programmes, and the banking sector. These experiences have exposed her to different experiences and cultures and equipped her with a versatile skill set that she anticipates will be valuable for the probable challenges and learning opportunities as a human resource officer at ISL.

Kindness Week

We are excited to announce the upcoming Random Acts of Kindness Week, taking place from February 19th to 23rd. This special week is dedicated to promoting kindness and backing a meaningful initiative.

This year's main aim is to raise funds for the UTH Children's Hospital, focusing on providing clean water and sanitisers in line with the UN's Sustainable Development Goal 6.

There will be bake sales at big break on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday held by specific secondary year groups, as was sent out in the communication earlier this week. The donation bottles will also be available at lunchtime by the old tuckshop. Please encourage your child to bring baked goods on their assigned days and give them any spare notes/coins for donations throughout the week. Please read the attached letter.

Please encourage your child to support this valuable cause by giving them some money to participate in the activities organized by the Student Council.

Draft Updated Guiding Statements & Five-Year Strategic Plan

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Community,

We are excited to share the latest developments in our strategic planning process. We have slightly revised our school’s guiding statements as part of this ongoing effort. These revisions have been carefully crafted in alignment with the Council of International Schools (CIS) expectations. 

Your input is invaluable to us as we strive to ensure that our guiding statements accurately reflect the values and aspirations of our school community. We welcome your comments, suggestions, and feedback on these revised statements and our draft Strategic Plan.