how we teach

Ian Piper has taught a range of subjects – including Economics, Mathematics, Business Management, ICT, and PE – in both British and international schools. He has worked at schools in Austria, France, Switzerland, Turkey, Zambia, and the UK. 

He has studied at several different British universities for his undergraduate and post-graduate education, including BSc (Hons) from the University of Essex; PGCE from Exeter University; MSc from Southampton University; and most recently, a MEd from Bath University.

He is passionate about educating young people and he believes in engaging learners to think both critically and creatively, as well as developing as a whole person. Ian believes that success is most consistently achieved through developing effective teams and enhancing the individual qualities and talents of each team member.

Ian is British, originally from the rural southwest of England, and he maintains a strong connection to this area. His French wife and two children joined him in Washington. Outside of work, he enjoys sports – most recently completing the Vienna half-marathon – and he likes to explore his creative side by painting abstract art. He is also known to have a British sense of humour.

After graduating with a degree in history and politics from Keele University, Katie Benson decided to follow in the family business and train as a teacher. Following the completion of her PGCE at Leeds University, she subsequently taught in the city for the next two years. Her first overseas post from the UK was in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, followed by another position in North Carolina. Prior to joining BISW in August 2014, she worked at the British International School of Budapest – another member of the Nord Anglia family.

During her career, Katie has held numerous leadership positions with both academic and pastoral responsibilities. She has obtained a leadership qualification from the National College of Teaching and Leadership and has completed the Nord Anglia Senior Leadership programme. She also facilitates leadership training for teachers across the Americas who are looking at developing their own careers.

Developing strong relationships with the families that we serve is crucial to Katie, with the goals that children should be happy and successful. Therefore, Katie strives to work in close partnership to achieve this. She is so proud to be the Head of such a wonderful school and lead a team of exceptionally talented and committed teachers. Katie believes our students are so well-motivated, respectful, interesting, and genuinely a pleasure to work with. Having such a diverse student body makes our children understand, appreciate, and celebrate different cultures, which makes BISW a truly special place.

Outside of school, Katie loves to travel and explore new places, and she spends most holidays doing so. Having visited around 60 countries so far, she still has many more on her bucket list! Katie also enjoys all aspects of theatre: acting, directing, and being an audience member.