MEET OUR STAFF

ST GABRIELS SCHOOL

The Principal's Welcome

Kindori

Mrs. Alexina Chandler

School Principal

Dear Parents and Guardians,
It is a privilege to be acting as principal of St. Gabriel’s School after being a class teacher for twenty – two years here, as well as a past student, past parent, past Brownie Brown Owl and past Head of the Junior Department.

My deep connection to the school started when I was enrolled in J1 after moving from the U.K. and I spent four happy years at the school as a student. My happiest memories are of the sticker collecting craze, playing Chinese jump rope, marbling paper in Art class and the canteens held by the Cub Scouts. Looking back at my own experience and that of my two children, it is the wide variety of experiences, along with the sound education, that make this school unique. Most of our students usually have many happy memories of a variety of activities – Sports Day, field trips, Christmas and other special occasions that accompany the many friendships made. Many maintain these connections throughout their lifetime.

Since my background has been mainly working with students who learn differently, the challenge has always been how can my own teaching be improved to meet the changing needs of the student within a changing country and indeed world. That is why a good teacher never stops learning and it is my commitment to the school that I will continue to model that pursuit of excellence in my own life with God’s help.

This love of learning is another trait evident in our students and we have a long list of outstanding alumni in many fields such as Education, Medicine, Law, Sports, Art and Business to name a few. That is why in this 75th year of the school’s establishment, we are pleased to celebrate these many achievements of the school and alumni. Along with the committed teaching, office and ancillary staff, the Board of Management and the Parent Teacher Association, we aim to continue this legacy.

TRUSTED EDUCATORS

Our Teachers

We have an excellent teacher to child ratio at our school to ensure that each child receives the attention he or she needs.

Kindori

Mr. Omar Brathwaite

I.T. Coordinator

Omar Brathwaite is our IT Coordinator. Prior to joining the staff he completed his Associate Degree in Computer Studies at the Barbados Community College. Omar has had experience teaching from Nursery through Class 4 and currently has responsibility for I.T. from Tops to J4. In addition, he is also responsible for maintenance of the computer hardware and network infrastructure at the School.

Mr. Kevin King

Music / Learning Support (J1/J2)

Mr. Kevin King is a vocalist, pianist, organist and church choral director who enjoys sharing his passion for music with children and adults through teaching. He has taught music both privately and within Primary and Secondary schools in Barbados for over eight years. Kevin King holds an Associate Degree in Music with distinction from the Barbados Community College. He has also graduated from the Acadia University (Nova Scotia, Canada) with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education Mr. King will also be teaching the lower Junior Learning Support Curriculum

Mr. Vincent Smith

Science and PE

Vincent Smith’s career as a Physical Education teacher has spanned over 22 years. He furthered his education in several fields of study gaining an Associate Degrees In Applied Science of Physical Education and para medical field of Rehabilitation Therapy. He has a range of additional qualifications in the area of sports: Level 3 FINA World Swimming, Level 3 in Taekwondo, Level one in Wrestling, Athletics & Hockey; Canadian; Caribbean coaching Levels 2; Caribbean Coaching Development Program Level2 and Sports Management Levels 2. He is also a certified Paralympic Classifier (Athletics and Swimming). In addition to teaching and coaching many sporting disciplines, Vincent has served in a variety of administrative capacities in several sports organizations. He brings to St. Gabriel’s a wide and varied experience in Physical Education.

Ms. Lorin Warren

Mid S

Lorin Warren received her primary, secondary and tertiary education in Barbados at St.Angela’s School, The St. Michael’s School and the Barbados Community College respectively. She then went on to acquire her qualification in early childhood education at Erdiston Teachers’ Training College. She started working at St. Gabriel’s School as a teaching aide in 2016 and then became a permanent member of staff in 2020. She has also been teaching swimming since she was 15 years old. Lorin enjoys fitness, dancing, art and spending time with family and friends.

Mrs. Cherie Waterman

J3W

Cherie Waterman was educated at Charles F. Broome Primary School and Combermere Secondary School. She then studied for a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and Psychology at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill campus, graduating with Honours in 2001. After teaching as a graduate teacher at Erdiston Nursery school and Wesley Hall Infants, she relocated to the United Kingdom in 2004. She then completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Education at the University of Greenwich going on to teach at a primary school in London before taking up a position in senior leadership in 2011. As head of Early years within a federation, Cherie then completed her National Professional Qualification for Senior Leaders at University College London in 2018. Cherie relocated to Barbados in 2019 and joined the staff at St. Gabriel’s in 2020. Cherie recently completed her MSc. in Educational Leadership and Management at the University of Portsmouth. Cherie is married with three daughters and enjoys travelling.

Ms. Debra Trotman

Mid T

Debra Trotman was born in Barbados where she completed her Primary and Secondary education at St Angela’s and St. Ursula’s Schools respectively. She studied at The Academy of Commerce and Technical College in Barbados where she earned a diploma in Business and Secretarial studies. Later, she decided on a career in education. Debra trained to be a teacher at St. Nicholas College in London, England and at Erdiston Teachers Training College in Barbados. Debra has taught children from ages 3 to 7 years old and joined the staff at St. Gabriel’s in 1994. Debra enjoys travelling and is an avid reader. Debra was Head of the Infant Department from 2004 -2019.

Mrs. Justine Wood

JW – Learning Support and Head of Junior Department

Justine Wood was born and educated in Montreal, Canada and is bi-lingual. She started living in Barbados and teaching at St. Gabriel’s School in 2001 as a Top Infant teacher. Her training and Bachelor degree in Special Education from the University of Montreal led her to the role of Learning Support teacher in the Infant Department for a number of years, followed by her present work as a Learning Support teacher in the Junior Department. She is the mother of two past students and enjoys the beach and dancing.

Mrs. Abna Arthur-Browne

J1P 

Mrs Arthur-Browne was born in the UK and moved to Barbados at an early age. She was educated at the St. Michael School and Harrison College. She returned to London to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Medicinal Chemistry and a Masters degree in Forensic Science at University College London and King’s College London respectively. Mrs Arthur-Browne established a career as a Forensic Scientist specialising in Training and Quality Management for over twelve years. In 2018, she returned to Barbados and later joined the teaching staff as a Teaching Assistant in Reception, moving on to the Learning Support classes. Recently, she gained a Postgraduate Diploma in Special Education and is now appointed as Acting Class Teacher in the Junior Department. Mrs Arthur-Browne enjoys cooking, volleyball and playing steelpan.

Mrs. Tamara Baptiste

Top B

Tamara’s love for children propelled her to pursue a career in teaching. She holds a B.Sc. (with Honours) in Management with Psychology and an Associate Degree in Mass Communications. Tamara also trained at The Erdiston Teachers Training College and received a certificate in Early Childhood part I (with distinction). She taught the students of the J3 and J4 Learning Support class for about 6 years. She greatly enjoys working with children who need learning support and holds a certificate in Special Education. Tamara is married and is a mother of two children. One of her daughters is a former student and the younger one currently attends the school. She is the teacher of one of the Infant classes.

Ms. Evelyn Gragirena

Spanish

Ms. Evelyn Gragirena is an educator with more than 15 years of experience teaching the subject areas of Spanish and Latin Culture in private school settings. Her other passions include
cooking and art.

Mrs. Armaron Swan-Morris

JT – Learning Support and Science (J1-J3)

Mrs. Armaron Swan- Morris…dedicated, passionate and FUN! My passion for teaching began as a toddler, with pretend classrooms consisting of dolls and cardboard boxes. This passion has not waned even after over years of teaching both children and adults. I am committed to the success of my “babies” and guided by the principle of “No student left behind”. I am constantly thinking of methods of teaching a topic so that each student can understand.

I am extremely family oriented and enjoy quality time with my son, the beach and listening to audio books .

Mrs. Hazel Guthrie

J1G

Hazel Rose-Guthrie received her primary, secondary and tertiary education in Barbados. She has been working with children for over 7 years. Hazel is also a trained Radio Broadcaster with ten years experience in public speaking and news reading and enjoys coaching children in public speaking. She enjoys dance and is not only a past student of the Barbados Dance Theatre but also a NIFCA bronze medal awardee. She volunteers as an Assistant Instructor for church groups, producing short plays or skits that incorporate mime and basic sign language. Hazel presently works in the Junior Department.

Mrs. Cynthia Luke

Reception L

Cynthia Luke received her primary and secondary education in Barbados and her qualification in Early Childhood Education from Erdiston Teachers’ Training College where she also completed courses in Special Needs and Classroom Management. Cynthia joined the St. Gabriel’s staff as a Teaching Assistant in 1999 and has worked across the entire Infants’ age range. She enjoys working with children to help them achieve their full potential. Cynthia enjoys drawing and painting.

Mrs. Samantha Cooper

Infant Learning Support

Samantha became interested in assisting children, when her own children were in Infants at St Gabriel’s School. Frequently, she came into school and listened to children reading. Later, she realized she had a passion to work and support children in their learning. In order to do this, Manty went back to school and completed an Open University Certificate of Higher Education, focused on Learning and Teaching in the Primary Years. To further these skills, she studied for a Level 2 Certificate at Erdiston Teacher Training College on The Early Years concentrating on Education Care and Development of Primary School Children. During this time, Manty worked as a volunteer and substitute teacher at St. Winifred’s School and a volunteer support teacher at Hillaby Turners Hall Primary School. As a Learning Support teacher, her aim is to aid teachers, parents and children and ultimately, to help children develop knowledge, social skills and confidence through learning activities and play.

Ms. Catrina Thompson

JT – Learning Support

Catrina Thompson is the teaching assistant for class JW. She has a Bsc in Accounting and a Msc in Human Resources Management degree from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill. She has worked with children for the past four years. Catrina always loved teaching children and from a little girl her dream was always to become a teacher. She has a twelve year old daughter and enjoys going to the beach, playing netball, ballroom dancing and travelling. Catrina is currently looking to pursue a Diploma in Education-Special Education.

Mrs. Gloria Hollingsworth

Top S

Gloria Hollingsworth received her primary and secondary education in Barbados and her qualification in Early Childhood Education from Erdiston Teachers’ Training College. She also completed the Youth and Counselling Course from the U.W.I Open Campus. She joined the staff as a teaching assistant in 1982 and has worked in each of the different age groups within the Infant department. She continues to enjoy working with her young charges. Gloria is also an active leader for the youth and is in charge of the Sunday School programme at her church. She has recently completed a Youth and Leadership course, the purpose of which was to better equip her to relate to and cater to the needs of our youth.

Mrs. Emily Kellman

Reception K

Emily Kellman was born in Barbados and joined the staff at St.Gabriel’s in September 2014 as a teaching assistant. After receiving her primary and secondary education at St. Winifred’s School, Emily worked as a teaching assistant at two local primary schools for one year each. She then travelled to England in 2009 to further her studies. In 2011, she achieved her CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education from Chelmsford College, and subsequently worked at a primary school in the UK for two years. She is a teacher in the Infants Department.

Mrs. Natalie Linton

Reception L

Natalie Linton was born in Barbados and has a long connection with St. Gabriel’s School. Her mother was one of St. Gabriel’s first pupils and not only did Natalie complete her primary education there, but so did both of daughters. After completing her secondary education at St. Winifred’s School, Natalie studied in London, England, for a Montessori teaching diploma. While in London she worked at a Montessori school and continued her studies for a diploma in the teaching of dyslexic children. After her return to Barbados in 1996, Natalie took up a temporary position at St. Gabriel’s teaching children with learning difficulties. She worked at the Dyslexia Centre for four years and in a Montessori school before returning to St. Gabriel’s in 2001 as a Reception teacher. She currently teaches in the Infant Department.

Mrs. Karen McGuire

Nursery

Barbadian Karen McGuire gained her B.Ed from Froebel College, London, before working in Nursery Schools in East London, including the launch of a Nursery unit at Odessa Infant School, and teaching in Reception / Middle classes. On her return to Barbados in 1988, Karen began working at St. Gabriel’s School, and taught Middle and Top Infants for over two decades. In 2009, she was selected to develop the new Nursery Department at St. Gabriel’s School, which she has led since its opening in 2011. In 2012, Karen received the Barbados National Distinguished Teacher Award. She is a strong advocate for the school, with all four of her children having attended St. Gabriel’s. Beyond her passion for education, Karen is an avid Tennis player.

Mrs. Sally Steel

Mid S – Head of infants department
Sally Steel was born in Barbados and started her schooling here at St. Gabriel’s. She completed her education in England, gaining a Bachelor of Education degree because of her love for children. After qualifying as a teacher she completed a Diploma in Management and Administration. On returning to Barbados in 1983, Sally began her teaching career at St. Gabriel’s. During her many years at the school she has taught in the Reception, Middle and Top Infant classes. Sally has two grown up children who both attended St. Gabriel’s before moving on to Government Secondary Schools. She enjoys travelling, reading, going to the beach, snorkeling and learning of the exploits of the many children who have passed through her classrooms. Sally is currently the Head of the Infant department.

Mrs. Annabelle Thornton

J4T 

Annabelle Thornton received her primary and secondary schooling in her native Trinidad. Her tertiary education was obtained at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, and Mount St. Vincent (Canada) via Erdiston Teachers. Training College. Annabelle holds a Masters degree in Special Education and has a special interest in child psychology and teaching mathematics. She has been teaching for over fifteen years and still remarks on how much she is enjoying it. Her children are former students of St Gabriel’s School. She enjoys travelling, dancing and “working-out” at the gym.

Mrs. Cherise Atwell

Nursery

Cherise Atwell was born and raised in Trinidad where she received her Primary and Secondary school education. While assisting / teaching at Dunross Preparatory School, she attended the London Montessori Centre where she received her Diploma. In 1996, she furthered her studies at the Barbados Community College. Always having a love for children she went on to work at Noah’s Ark where she taught for seven years. In 2016, she started a temporary position as an assistant at St. Gabriel’s School where she is now presently employed as a teaching assistant in the Nursery. She is married with two daughters and enjoys beach days, photographing sunsets and creating artwork leisurely.

Ms. Tennille Bovell

Mid T

Tennille Bovell received her primary and secondary education in Barbados. She attended the Erdiston Teachers’ Training College where she completed both Level one and two in Early Childhood Education. She joined the St. Gabriel’s staff as a Teaching Assistant in 2009 and has been working in the Infants Department.

Ms. Charisse Forde

J3F

Ms. Forde has always enjoyed working with children. Having worked closely teaching with her grandmother, who operated her own nursery, she obtained the knowledge and the experience.She later tried to divert from that path by pursuing an accounting career but that fell short, for her love for teaching was much dearer to her. Ms. Forde has acquired an Associate Degree in Accounting and Politics at the Barbados Community College, Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and Finance at the University of the West Indies (Barbados) as well as a Diploma in Education (Primary) at Erdiston Training College. Her goal is to further her studies to achieve a Masters degree in the Educational field and by extension a Doctorate. She believes her passion for teaching will take her further than she imagines.

Ms. Camille Jules

J2J

Camille Jules has been in the teaching profession for more than 15 years, mainly within the private sector. She is currently a final year student and the University of the West Indies, where she is pursuing a BSc in Sociology and Psychology. She intends to further her education at the Erdiston Teacher’s Training College. Camille enjoys reading, the beach and is a mother of one.

Mrs. Kirsty Lashley

J4L

Kirsty Lashley joined the teaching staff at St. Gabriel’s in 1999 when she relocated from England to Barbados. She gained her teaching qualification, a B. Ed.(hons), from Birmingham University, specialising in Art. She also has undertaken some specialised training in Special Needs Education. Kirsty taught the lower Junior (J1 & J2) Learning Support class for ten years, J1 mainstream for 4 years and is currently teaching one of the J4 classes. She has two school aged sons both past scholars of the school.

Ms. Edith Moise

Top B and Music (Top Infants and J4)

Edith Moise joined the St. Gabriel’s staff in 2002. Edith is responsible for the Music in both Top classes and the J4s classes. She is the director of the school’s choir, the Recorder and the Boomwhackers groups. Edith received her primary and secondary education in Barbados and her training through Erdiston Teachers’ Training College where she completed the Pre-Erdiston In-Training Programme, the Associated Board of the Royal School of Music, (theory and aural), the Barbados Union of Teachers and Canadian Teachers’ Federation Summer Institute in Special Education and Differentiation of Instruction. Edith is a member of the Belle Voci Cantanti Choir, the St. Cecilia Choral and Choir Mistress at St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church.

Mrs. Kelah Straker

Top S

Kelah Straker was born, educated and trained in Barbados. She has completed a degree in Psychology and Education at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, worked as a volunteer at the Learning Centre and has been trained by two psychologists to work with students with special needs. Kelah has always wanted to work with children and found working with the very young children at St Gabriel’s particularly fulfilling. Kelah currently works in the Infants’ department.

Reverend Beverly Sealy-Knight

Scripture and Learning Support (J3 and J4)

Blessed with a warm, friendly personality, a passion for life, discovery and getting things done’ would aptly describe the Rev. Beverley Sealy – Knight. Rev. Bev (as she is affectionately called) has been an ordained minister in the Anglican Church for 27 years and is the rector of the St. James Parish Church. She has a degree in Theology (M.A) and is a lecturer at Codrington College. She is zealous about teaching and her love for children and youth is her driving force hence her hyper – focus on their all – around development. Apart from teaching and preaching, Rev. Bev can be found in a classroom learning how to play the guitar or being exposed to some other discipline such as sign language. She enjoys reading, the arts , outdoors, is hooked on science fiction and chocolate. Rev. Bev is married with two sons and three pets.

Ms. Carmichael

JW – Learning Support

Maresa Carmichael is passionate about children and has always dreamed of being a teacher. With 12 years’ experience and a Bachelor of Education and Linguistics, she aims to continue to impart knowledge and continue to guide her charges to be the best they can be.

Maresa is also an advocate for reading and loves to see children embrace a wide variety of books. She taps into students’ creativity in all areas of learning and encourages expression through the arts to get ideas across.

Maresa has two children and in her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, watching athletic meets, and catching up on some Netflix show.

Ms. Kayshel Chan

Nursery

I’m Kayshel Chan, one of the teaching assistants in Nursery. I am Guyanese by birth but I am also Barbadian. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. Outside of work and school my favorited hobby is watching mystery movies and indulging in snacks. I enjoy interacting with children and I am excited to be a part of the St. Gabriel’s family

Ms. Abiola James

Reception K

My names is Abiola James, one of the assistant teachers in Reception. I have been working as an assistant teacher for the past 3 years. I enjoy interacting with children . Outside of work I love to watch Turkish dramas and also I love to bake . Also I’m very happy to be a part of the St Gabriel’s school.

Mrs. Denise Gilkes

J2G

Denise Gilkes graduated with a B. Ed. from the University of Winnipeg in Manitoba Canada. For the next eight years she worked in grade levels from Nursery to Grade Twelve (ages 4 to 18). While teaching, she was also involved with the City of Winnipeg At Risk Youth Drop-In-In Centres which were located in many areas of the city. In 2004, she moved to Barbados and worked for another private school for a year. In 2005, Denise joined the staff at St. Gabriel’s School.

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Ms. Morgan

P.E.

Ms. Ayanna Morgan is a national athlete that has represented Barbados in track and field at both the junior and senior level. She represented her alma mater, The St. Michael School, in track and field, swimming, and lawn tennis. She successfully earned her undergraduate degree in Business Management with a minor in Entrepreneurship at Indiana State University, where she captained the women’s track and field team and briefly volunteered as a coach. She is currently furthering her studies at the University of the West Indies, in the pursuit of the Masters of Science degree in Tourism and Sport Management. Ms. Morgan is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach, and thoroughly enjoys anything sport, health or movement related.

More Coming Soon

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St Gabriels School is one of the leading primary schools located in Barbados. We have proven right on all groups of children, from children with developmental delays, physical disabilities or special abilities children around the world. We pride ourselves with graduates who will have the ability to think logically, creativity, independence, good communication, confidence, high concentration, sharing and community.

St. Gabriel’s School Family: Do you know a️ hard-working and enthusiastic team-player? Someone who has a ️ passion for childcare and education? With ️excellent communication skills and someone who would fit right in a ️fun and dynamic environment? If this person you’re thinking of has previous experience, it’s definitely a plus, but not a requirement!

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