Leadership of Horizon
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Multilingual leader with extensive experience in international education across Asia, Europe, and Africa, Mehmet has taught mathematics, consulted on Science and Project Olympiads, and guided school founding initiatives. As Head of School at HJIS, he oversees strategic planning as a board‑member under its Gakko Hojin status, ensuring an inclusive, mission‑driven environment focused on inquiry‑based learning
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Mehmet Deniz - Head of School
Mr. Mehmet Deniz is the Head of School at HJIS. Prior to this role, he served as the Head of School at Shinagawa International School in Tokyo. With extensive experience in international education across Asia, Europe, and Africa, Mehmet is well-versed in various educational systems, including IB, Cambridge, and bilingual programs, as well as both boarding and day schools. Additionally, he is multilingual, speaking five languages.
Professionally, Mehmet has taught mathematics to secondary and high school students and has worked as a consultant for schools preparing for International Science Olympiads and International Project Olympiads.
In addition to his role as Head of School, Mehmet has experience in founding schools from the ground up. Under the ‘Gakko Hojin’ status in Kanagawa Prefecture, he serves as a full voting member of the Board of Directors. His responsibilities include collaborating with and supporting the Board in their ongoing planning to ensure the school's long-term viability and sustainability. Mehmet is dedicated to maintaining HJIS as a mission-driven, inclusive school that delivers impactful, inquiry-based learning while remaining innovative and responsive to the rapid changes of the 21st century.
Philip Richardson - Deputy Head of School
Mr. Philip Richardson hails from Northern Ireland and brings a robust academic foundation to his role, holding a Bachelor's degree in Criminology and a Master’s degree in Development Management. His passion for education led him to earn a PGCE in Primary Education and a PGDE in Early Years. Philip has also completed the Harvard Certificate in School Management and Leadership and is currently pursuing an IB Certificate in Leadership Practice. With nearly 20 years of teaching experience across Indonesia, Sudan, Hong Kong, and now Japan, Philip is a seasoned educator with a deep understanding of international education. His career includes significant management roles in Kindergarten, Primary, and Secondary education, giving him a unique perspective on the transitions between different schooling levels. He has served as Head Teacher at an international kindergarten, Principal at three different primary schools, and Principal at a secondary school. In his previous roles, Philip has made substantial contributions, such as revamping the primary science curriculum, expanding subject choices for senior secondary students, introducing a focus on developing 21st-century cross-disciplinary skills, and initiating a comprehensive teacher training system. Philip’s educational philosophy centers on understanding students and making content relatable and engaging, promoting critical thinking, holistic development, and ethical character. He believes in an open-door policy, actively engaging with and listening to parents, students, staff, and the community. Philip's key skills include curriculum development, educational leadership, and fostering a collaborative school culture, ensuring smooth transitions and continuous development for students. He is deeply committed to engaging with the wider community, collaborating closely with parents, staff, and local organizations to enrich the educational experience and ensure a supportive environment for all students.
Jordan Marsh - Dean of Academics
Mr. Jordan Marsh brings over 24 years of experience as an educator, school leader, and consultant working with International Baccalaureate (IB) schools around the world, helping schools build the kind of learning environments where students and educators can truly thrive.
Jordan's work centers on student-centered, inquiry-based teaching — from concept- and context-based curriculum design to differentiation, assessment, and social-emotional learning. Through facilitation, coaching, and professional development, Jordan strives to put wellbeing and meaningful learning at the heart of every classroom.
Jordan brings a truly global perspective to HJIS. Born and educated in Canada, Jordan has lived and worked in Ecuador, Egypt, China, Cambodia, Jordan, and the United States, and holds a deep belief in patience, openness, and active listening as the foundation of great teaching. For Jordan, an international framework isn't just a philosophy — it's a way of thinking that shapes every part of the learning experience.
Jordan holds a BA in English Literature, a B.Ed, and a M.Ed.
Sindy Leveel - IB DP Coordinator
Ms. Sindy Level holds a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and a Master's degree (Master-1) in Mathematics from the University of Paris (Jussieu, FR), along with a Professional Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Sunderland (UK). With a robust career in education, she has assumed multiple roles, including Head of House, CAS Coordinator, IBDP Coordinator, and IGCSE Coordinator, among others. These positions have provided her with a wealth of experience and insight into the multifaceted nature of educational administration and student development. Sindy's expertise lies in addressing the individual needs of all students through meticulous attention to detail and robust organizational abilities. She employs diverse pedagogical approaches, including Visual, Auditory, and Kinesthetic (VAK) learning styles, to ensure that every student can thrive. She believes in fostering the holistic development of each student, nurturing their intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth. Education should transcend academic achievement to cultivate well-rounded individuals who are equipped to navigate the complexities of the world. Her vision for the school is to prepare students for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions they need to adapt, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape as responsible and engaged citizens. Outside of work, Sindy is passionate about sports, both as a participant and a spectator. Rugby tops her list, followed closely by football. She is an ardent supporter of local teams, the Yokohama Canon Eagles and Yokohama F. Marinos. Additionally, she has had the exhilarating experience of racing three times on the Great Wall of China.
Bronson Chau - IB MYP Coordinator
Mr. Bronson Chau holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology, a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education, and a Master of Education in Teaching English. He has over 12 years of experience in the Middle Years Programme (MYP), including leading the planning and completion of MYP evaluations. He has extensive experience as a Head of Science, teaching MYP Science and DP Environmental Systems and Societies.
Bronson believes in striving for one’s personal best and encourages students to set meaningful goals, recognize their individual strengths, and continually grow through their own efforts and experiences. He sees 21st-century skills as an essential part of developing as a learner and is committed to fostering these skills throughout the MYP. Outside of work, he enjoys studying Japanese, going to the gym, catching the latest movies, and cheering on his favourite ice hockey team, the Vancouver Canucks.
Sandeep Kaur - IB PYP Coordinator
Ms. Sandeep Kaur is an experienced international educator and IB PYP leader whose journey in education has been shaped by a strong belief in lifelong learning and reflection. Her academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Arts from Panjab University, a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Kurukshetra University, and a Master’s degree in Advanced Elementary Education from the University of the People.
Over the years, Sandeep has held leadership roles as Head of Junior School, School Accreditation Manager and PYP Coordinator. Her experience extends beyond individual school communities through her work with international accreditation bodies such as the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), contributing to school evaluation, accreditation and continuous improvement. She has also served as an IB workshop leader, programme leader and consultant, supporting educators across diverse international contexts.
Sandeep believes in creating age-appropriate learning experiences that allow children to explore, question and make meaningful choices. She sees thoughtful risk-taking as an opportunity to learn, grow and develop resilience. Reflection is at the heart of her philosophy as an educator and leader, shaping how she approaches learning, relationships and professional growth.
Outside of education, Sandeep enjoys travelling, exploring new cultures and spending time with family and friends.
Avalon Hermans - Primary Dean of Students
Ms. Avalon Hermans holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The University of Otago, a Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Teaching from Auckland University, and is a certified SENIA Educator. She has 12 years of experience in education and has worked with students across a range of age groups in New Zealand and Japan. She has been part of the HJIS community for six years, and has experience in both homeroom and Learning Support roles. As Primary Dean of Students, Ms. Avalon is passionate about creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environment where every student feels valued and able to thrive. She believes that strong relationships are at the heart of successful learning and enjoys helping students develop the confidence, communication, self-management, and problem-solving skills they need to navigate school life. Outside of school, Ms. Avalon enjoys surfing, reading, and spending time with her family.
Brett Smith - Secondary Dean of Students
Mr. Brett Pentland-Smith holds a Master of Education, an Honours degree in Psychology, and is a Registered Counselor. With over 14 years of experience in education, he has taught a wide range of age groups—from Kindergarten to adult learners—with a particular focus on the primary and middle years. Brett is passionate about fostering international-mindedness, holistic development, and inquiry-based learning, and his teaching philosophy is deeply aligned with the IB ethos. He is committed to nurturing the whole student and guiding them to become knowledgeable, principled, and reflective individuals who can contribute to a more peaceful and sustainable world. Outside the school environment, Brett enjoys watching and playing rugby, and staying active through various sports such as running, cycling, swimming, and snowboarding. He loves to travel, explore new cultures and cuisines, and meet people from different walks of life. He also regularly participates in events supporting cancer research and awareness.
Elif Caglar - School Service Coordinator
Ms. Elif Caglar holds a Bachelor’s degree in Western Languages and Literature with a minor in Education. She has served at Horizon Japan International School for ten years, working as a school librarian across the PYP, MYP, and DP. During her time at HJIS, she has also coordinated the Alumni Internship Program, Extended Essay, and Personal Project. She currently serves as the School Service Coordinator. Elif believes that students learn best through authentic engagement with their communities and the world around them. Her vision for the school is to create meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom that nurture caring, lifelong learners. Through authentic experiences and community engagement, she hopes to empower students to develop empathy, a strong sense of responsibility and the confidence to make a positive social impact as principled global citizens. Outside of work, Elif enjoys playing tennis and pickleball, reading, walking and spending time with her family.
TEACHERS ARE
OUR HEROES
Our teachers are not only educators; they are mentors, guides, and role models. They foster curiosity, model compassion, and build bridges between cultures in our vibrant international community.
