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Meet The Leadership Team
Mehmet Deniz - Head of School
Mehmet 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.
Ugur Yaldiz - Dean of Academics
Ugur Yaldiz holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Master of Education in Advanced Teaching Methods. With extensive experience in education, Ugur has held numerous positions, including Grade 2 and Grade 4 Homeroom Teacher, Middle School Math Teacher, High School Math Teacher, PYP Coordinator, MYP Coordinator, Planning and Accreditation Coordinator, and Dean of Students. His areas of expertise include learning theories and the implementation of effective teaching strategies. Ugur's educational philosophy revolves around establishing a holistic learning environment that nurtures emotional well-being and fosters critical thinking and creativity, helping students achieve self-actualization. He envisions the school as a community of good humans, dedicated to staying true to its values and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Outside of work, Ugur enjoys football (the real one, not American football) and playing computer games, and although he doesn't consider reading a hobby, he engages in it extensively.
Philip Richardson - Primary Dean of Students
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.
Chris Hepburn - Secondary Dean of Students
Mr. Chris Hepburn, the Secondary Dean of Students, holds a Master's of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Toronto, a Bachelor of Education in Primary/Junior Social Sciences from Brock University, and a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice and Public Policy from the University of Guelph. With extensive experience in educational roles such as Secondary Principal, Vice Principal, and various coordinator positions, Mr. Hepburn has a robust background in educational leadership and policy, as well as social sciences teaching. He believes in fostering effective international school communities through respect, understanding, reflection, and global-mindedness, ensuring all stakeholders have a voice in school improvement. His vision for HJIS involves continuous school improvement by leveraging strengths in service and care, promoting community interaction, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. Outside of work, Mr. Hepburn is a passionate sports fan, particularly of Yokohama F. Marinos and the Toronto Raptors, and enjoys live music festivals and art museums.
Jennifer Hodge - IB MYP Coordinator
Jennifer Hodge holds a Master's in Middle Grades Curriculum and a Bachelor's in Sociology with a minor in Theatre, both from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. With 14 years of teaching experience since 2010, Jennifer has taught Grade 8 Science, coordinated the AVID Curriculum in a US public school, served as Head of the Department in Language and Literature at HJIS, and currently serves as MYP Coordinator at HJIS. She has also been a model teacher and evaluator at multiple schools. Jennifer's expertise lies in middle grades curriculum and instruction, particularly in Language and Literature and Sciences, and she has acted in and directed several school performances. She believes that students learn best when they feel safe and connected to their school and classroom community, advocating for strong relationships to co-construct knowledge and understanding. Her vision for the school includes pursuing high-quality teaching and learning, supporting students with a rigorous and relevant curriculum that connects to global issues, and aligning skill-building from EYP to DP to prepare students for post-secondary challenges. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys hiking in the mountains, swimming in the ocean, traveling, drawing, and making pottery.
Shailja Datt - IB PYP Coordinator
Shailja Datt, the PYP Coordinator, holds a Bachelor's degree in Math and Economics from Delhi University, along with a Bachelor's of Education. With over 24 years of experience in education, including 12 years as a PYP Coordinator, Shailja is a seasoned educator and a member of the IB Educator Network (IBEN) as a Programme leader. She has also served as the PYP Network co-chair in both previous and current networks. Her areas of expertise include curriculum development, organizational and management skills, communication, and collaboration, with a strong emphasis on being reflective in all her endeavors. Shailja's educational philosophy centers on nurturing curiosity through play and fostering student agency, believing that education should be relevant, significant, engaging, and challenging. She aims to create a learning environment where curiosity thrives and students take ownership of their education, becoming lifelong learners and critical thinkers. Outside of work, Shailja enjoys gardening, cooking, participating in book clubs, and writing poetry.
Sindy Leveel - IB DP Coordinator
Sindy 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.
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