Our academic team and senior leadership team are comprised of some of the best talent both locally and internationally. Our approach allows us to provide a quality of education that exceeds international standards, while maintaining contextual relevance. We are proudly Rugby and proudly Nigerian, which reflects in our staffing ratio. We also firmly believe it is important for all students to feel visually represented in our staff body, as these are their authority figures. We will always maintain a fair mix of international and Nigerian staff to ensure this for our international student community.
Senior Leadership
Dr. Adam England
Principal
Dr. Adam England
Principal
Driven to establish ground-breaking teaching and learning systems in both traditional and challenging learning environments using a blend of existing resources and forward-thinking ideology, Adam has been involved in education as a senior leader for over twenty years.
He started as a head in the UK and served as a director at
WISC and then as chair before working as a founding head for CIS Moscow and then taking up the Principal’s role in CIS
Lagos. Aware of the need to keep building his commercial acumen, he took over the role of Director at Noble and Eaton, a global educational design agency with an enviable reputation for human centric and neuroinclusive design.
He then returned to West Africa as Director General of ERV in Libreville, Gabon where he continued to research the impact of light, biophilia, air flow and acoustics on learning outcomes and wellbeing while enhancing the school’s international reputation. Clearly, the embedded systems had an impact as IB Dip grades improved by over 10% in six months as did pupil numbers.
He is currently the Founding Principal of Rugby School where he is blending his experience of school design with organisational management to establish Rugby as the learning British International School in Africa.
Mrs Udo Ofonagoro
COO
Mrs. Udo Ofonagoro is an accomplished education professional with nearly 15 years of experience in the education sector, bringing a unique blend of corporate expertise and educational leadership to her role. Prior to transitioning into education, she built a successful career across the technology, telecommunications, and professional services industries, working with leading organisations including Helios Towers and KPMG.
Her corporate career took her across major international cities, from London to New York and back to Lagos, where she developed extensive experience in information risk management, governance, process re-engineering, and operational transformation. These experiences have shaped her approach to educational leadership, enabling her to drive innovation, strengthen organisational effectiveness, and foster environments where both students and staff can thrive.
Mrs. Ofonagoro is particularly recognised for her strengths in governance, transformational leadership, operational excellence, and the design and implementation of efficient systems and processes. She is passionate about applying best practices from the corporate world to education, ensuring that schools are well-positioned to deliver outstanding outcomes while maintaining strong standards of accountability and continuous improvement.
She holds a degree from King’s College London and a Master’s degree from Pace University. Her academic background, combined with her diverse professional experience, provides a strong foundation for her commitment to educational excellence and lifelong learning.
Dr. Joy Isa
Director of Admissions and Marketing
Dr. Joy Isa
Director of Admissions and Marketing
Dr. Joy Isa is an experienced educator, a certified international school head, a management consultant, a certified counsellor and speaker who passionately supports women and young people through varied challenges. She holds a Master of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies from Buffalo State University and a Doctorate in Education, from Walden University. She also has CPD certificates from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Dr. Isa is a life member and mentor with WIMBIZ (Women in Management, Business, and Public Service) an author, and a fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management Consultants. For over three decades, she has contributed to developing education in Africa by facilitating professional development sessions on multiple platforms locally and internationally, and she has been involved in developing curricula for different learning organisations. She has also facilitated leadership training in the Banking, FinTech, and NGO sectors.
Dr. Isa served briefly as President of a women’s university in East Africa and as the President and Lead Consultant at ISED, the Isa School of Education–a school of education and consultancy set up to up-skill leaders in education across Africa. Amongst other voluntary board membership positions, she serves as Vice-Chairman of the Board of Osnon Academy, Chair of the Management Board of the Pistis Leadership and Life Institute, and non-executive Director at Lumilearn, a digital marketplace for educators.
Mr. Segun S.O
Deputy Principal, Pastoral
Mr. Segun S.O
Deputy Principal, Pastoral
Mr Segun brings over 18 years of leadership experience in day and boarding international schools and large educational systems to Rugby School Nigeria. As Deputy Principal Administration and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), he oversees boarding, safeguarding, and pastoral frameworks that uphold RSN’s commitment to holistic, world-class education.
Before joining Rugby School Nigeria, Mr. Segun served as Director of Schools at NewGlobe, where he led school management, professional development, and support for over 1,500 schools in Kwara State. He has also held senior leadership roles in independent Nigerian schools, including Quality Assurance Manager, Head of Boarding, and Assistant Head of School at Children’s International School (CIS), Lagos, as well as Senior Vice Principal and Head of Sixth Form at Thomas Adewumi International College.
At Rugby School Nigeria, Mr. Segun is dedicated to enhancing safeguarding and pastoral standards and fostering a safe, enriching boarding community where every student can thrive, in line with the school’s historic ethos and high expectations.
Ms Veronica Mordi
Deputy Principal, Academic
Ms Veronica Mordi
Deputy Principal, Academic
Ms Veronica Mordi is a goal oriented and passionate professional with extensive experience in educational roles. She has a first degree in Botany from the University of Ibadan, and MSc in Pharmacognosy from the University of Lagos as well as an M.A. in Innovation in Learning and Teaching from the University of South Wales . In addition, Ms Mordi is a qualified school leader after having completed the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) from Best Practice Network, United Kingdom.
Ms Mordi has worked with a range of international schools across the Lagos Metropolis over the past 25 years, implementing the English National Curriculum across sections of school. She has functioned in various capacities as a teacher, curriculum and assessment coordinator, designated safeguarding lead, director of studies and head teacher.
She is also the Chairperson of Masterpiece Educational consults, where she provides solutions to schools in the area of staff recruitment, training, curriculum development as well as implementation and assessments.
Mrs Cara Fisher
HR Manager
Mrs Cara Fisher
HR Manager
Mrs Cara Fisher is an accomplished Human Resources professional with extensive experience in HR leadership, talent management, employee engagement, and international recruitment. She holds a B.A (Hons) degree in International Business Studies and further studied International Business Management in the Netherlands. She is a Level 5 member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
With over fifteen years of experience spanning the United Kingdom and Nigeria, Mrs Fisher has built a successful career across a variety of sectors, including education, professional services, and technology.
As Head of Human Resources at Rugby School Nigeria, Mrs Fisher provides strategic leadership for all aspects of human capital management, ensuring that the school attracts, develops, and retains exceptional talent. Her passion for people, commitment to best practice, and collaborative approach continue to contribute significantly to the school’s vision of excellence and its thriving professional community.
Academic Staff
Caroline Njilu
Head of English
Caroline Njilu
Head of English
I bring over a decade of teaching experience from leading international schools across East, North, and Central Africa. My journey in education has taken me through a range of diverse cultures and classrooms, shaping both my approach to teaching and my understanding of the global learner.
I hold a Master’s Degree in Literature, a PGCE, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Education with a focus on English Language and Literature. These academic foundations, combined with my practical experience, have deepened my belief in the transformative power of education.
It is a privilege to contribute to Rugby School Nigeria’s mission of nurturing well-rounded individuals through its ‘Whole Person, Whole Point’ philosophy. I look forward to engaging with the school’s dynamic community, embracing Nigeria’s vibrant culture, and playing an active role in supporting students’ personal and academic growth in this exciting new chapter.
Benedict Tucker
Head of Maths
Benedict Tucker
Head of Maths
I am a British educator with over 30 years of international teaching experience, most recently at the International School of Gabon. Throughout my career, I have been driven by a simple but powerful goal: to make mathematics relevant, engaging, and meaningful for every student. I believe the best learning happens when students see how mathematics connects to their own lives and interests, and I work hard to create a classroom environment where curiosity and confidence can grow.
Living and working across Africa has been deeply enriching, both professionally and personally. I have a real love for the continent and the rich cultural experiences it offers, and I am excited to continue that journey here in Nigeria. Outside the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family and am looking forward to welcoming my wife and teenage son to join me soon. It is a joy to be part of a vibrant learning community once again.
Danielle McGuinness
Head of Modern Foreign Languages
Danielle McGuinness
Head of Modern Foreign Languages
Adata Johnson
Head of Art & Design
Adata Johnson
Head of Art & Design
I am a passionate art educator with over 20 years’ experience, specialising in IGCSE and A Level Fine Art. My students consistently achieve 100% outstanding exam results, a testament to my commitment to high standards and inclusive teaching. Guided by the principle “Leave no child behind,” I foster a supportive environment where students build technical skills, develop conceptual thinking, and find their unique artistic voice.
I blend fine art techniques with philosophical inquiry, encouraging young artists to see art as a way of understanding the world. Through student exhibitions and cross-curricular projects, I show that art is not just a subject—it’s a transformative, accessible form of engagement. Outside the classroom, I pursue my own artistic practice, often working with recycled materials. This continual exploration brings fresh ideas into my teaching and keeps my approach dynamic, relevant, and inspiring for the next generation of artists.
Anindya Chakraborti
Head of Music
Anindya Chakraborti
Head of Music
Cynthia Mbogu
Economics & Business Studies Teacher
Cynthia Mbogu
Economics & Business Studies Teacher
I am a Cambridge-certified Economics and Business teacher with over 10 years of experience teaching across various exam boards and levels in various international schools. I hold a degree in Economics and a Post Graduate Diploma in Education, and I also serve as a Cambridge Assistant Examiner.
My teaching is rooted in progressivism, emphasizing experiential learning, critical thinking, and holistic development. I use case studies, to explore real-world scenarios and foster active engagement. This student-centred approach has consistently produced excellent outcomes, with my students achieving top-in-country grades in international examinations.
Heli Laiho-Murdoch
SEND Coordination and Inclusion Lead
Heli Laiho-Murdoch
SEND Coordination and Inclusion Lead
Originally from Finland, I moved to the United Kingdom, where I studied speech sciences in the University College of London and found my true passion for neuropsychology, child development, Special Educational Needs and Disability. With passion for inclusion I have continued to specialise in Special Education Leadership and hold a Headteacher qualification, MBA and MA in Educational Leadership.
My focus is on person centered education; safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people and the implementation of educational equality in accordance with inclusive principles, which include the equal rights for all children, equality, parity, non-discrimination, respect for diversity, social inclusion, belonging and community, which align well with Rugby School Nigeria’s The Whole Person- Whole Point approach.
I have over twenty years of international experience in teaching, training, leading and consulting transformational changes in mainstream and private sector schools and working with excellent school teams, parents, children and young people – in the United Kingdom, Finland, in the United Arab Emirates; where I wrote my MA thesis in Organisational Learning in a Finnish-Emirati Fusion School, in Gabon and in Nigeria. I am very much looking forward to working in Rugby School Nigeria and living in the beautiful, friendly and vibrant city of Lagos.
Outside of work, I am a mother to three adult sons and a dog, and I am an avid yoga and gym practitioner
Ayodele Adebayo
Physics Teacher
Ayodele Adebayo
Physics Teacher
As an educator, I believe a safe and supportive learning environment is essential for students to thrive. I’m passionate about empowering students to reach their full potential.
I am a certified QTS teacher with over 11 years of experience teaching Physics and Science. I believe teaching and learning should be an all-inclusive approach, where every student can grow to their maximum potential.
With experience teaching KS3, KS4, and KS5 students across CIE, Edexcel, AQA, OCR, and Canadian OSSD syllabi, I’ve developed adaptable lesson strategies to cater to diverse learning needs.
As a Group Leader with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, I’ve led teams of young individuals through confidence-building and professional skills activities, delivering impactful charity projects and coordinating STEM programs to enrich curriculum and spark student interest.
I’m committed to continuous improvement, ensuring every student receives the best possible education. I’m excited to leverage my skills and expertise to drive positive change and inspire every student.
Charles Anumokwu
Maths Teacher
Charles Anumokwu
Maths Teacher
I am an experienced educator with a strong track record spanning over two decades, having served in various senior leadership roles including Head of School, School Principal, and Quality Assurance Manager. A graduate of the University of Benin, I began my teaching career in 2000 as a Mathematics teacher in a full-boarding school delivering a blended British-Nigerian curriculum. Since then, I have taught Mathematics and Chemistry in several leading schools across Nigeria and internationally.
I am IGCSE-certified by Cambridge Assessment International Education and have delivered excellent results in IGCSE, AS-Level, AP, and TSI assessments. My leadership experience includes roles such as Assistant Head of Secondary in Tanzania, where I used data to drive student performance and led academic interventions.
I have coordinated Mathematics Olympiads, student fellowships, and public speaking events, and hold certification as a Duke of Edinburgh Award Leader. I am passionate about curriculum development, student wellbeing, and educational innovation in global contexts.
Kennedy Ombuni
Maths Teacher
Kennedy Ombuni
Maths Teacher
I am an experienced international Mathematics educator with over a decade of teaching Cambridge Checkpoints, IGCSE, A-Level, and Further Mathematics in top international schools. My approach is rooted in student-centred teaching, with a strong focus on academic excellence, critical thinking, and personal development. I hold a Bachelor of Education in Mathematics and Business Studies from the University of Nairobi.
Beyond the classroom, I have served as a CPD Coordinator, Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, and examiner for both CAIE and Pearson Edexcel. I was honoured to be ranked among the top 50 in the Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards and served as a judge for the 2024 edition of the competition.
Known for my curriculum leadership and commitment to holistic education, I consistently support students to reach their full potential. Outside of school, I enjoy hiking, touch rugby, and volleyball—and have summited Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya, and Mount Meru.
Emmanuel Disu
Chemistry Teacher
Emmanuel Disu
Chemistry Teacher
With over 15 years of distinguished experience in science education, I am a passionate and results-driven Science teacher dedicated to inspiring curiosity and academic excellence. As a Chartered Chemist and award-winning STEM educator, I bring a deep commitment to practical, inquiry-based learning that nurtures both intellect and character. My leadership in STEAM initiatives and pastoral roles reflects Rugby School Nigeria’s values of integrity, service, and holistic development. Having taught across leading international schools across Nigeria, I aim to cultivate a lifelong love of learning, empowering students to think critically, act compassionately, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Ebunoluwa Johnson
Drama & English Teacher
Ebunoluwa Johnson
Drama & English Teacher
Ebunoluwa Johnson is a seasoned English, Literature and Drama teacher with over 15 years of experience inspiring minds across different curricula.
Not just a classroom leader, Ebunoluwa is also a research-driven educational psychologist, with interests in learner motivation, policy impact, social support networks and cross-cultural psychology. Her background in academia strengthens her teaching methodology and practice.
With a pen in one hand, and a passion for student improvement in the other, she is shaping education both in theory and in practice with precision, heart, and flair.
Elijah Odewunmi
Music Coach
Elijah Odewunmi
Music Coach
I grew up in Lagos as the fourth child in the Odewunmi family, where my love for music began during my secondary school years in Ijanikin. Though I originally hoped to study music at university, I pursued a degree in Food Science and Technology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, after earning a diploma from May Music School under the mentorship of renowned music educator Mr. Ambrose Ayeyan.
Over the years, I have earned multiple qualifications, including diplomas in Computer Engineering and Keyboard Harmony, a Postgraduate Diploma in Music Conducting, and a Master’s Degree in Music Theory and Composition. With over 25 years of professional experience, I have worked as a music tutor, director, performer, conductor, composer, arranger, writer, trainer, consultant, and producer.
Most recently, I served as Music Director and Coordinator at City Church, Lagos, for nearly seven years before focusing fully on my ventures, Earljazz Consults and È-Fit. I believe music externalises our mental strength—it should be studied, expressed, and harnessed.
Oluwatobi Oke
Design & Technology Teacher
Oluwatobi Oke
Design & Technology Teacher
As a seasoned Design & Technology teacher with over 12 years of experience, I excel in teaching IGCSE, GCSE, and A-level curricula. I utilize diverse teaching methods, including project-based learning and student-centred approaches, to cultivate design thinking, agility, and creativity in my students. By combining coding skills in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other programming languages with practical application, I empower students to tackle real-world challenges.
My aim is to develop innovative problem-solvers, thinkers, and makers who can shape the future. With a passion for Design & Technology, and education, I foster engaging environments that promote creativity, collaboration, and growth, unlocking students’ potential to make a meaningful impact.
Alice Verrier
Physical Education Coach
Alice Verrier
Physical Education Coach
I have several years of experience in high-performance sport, including internships with the Welsh Rugby Union and Swansea City FC, where I’ve designed and delivered training programmes that promote physical development and long-term athletic success.
With a strong passion for championing female sport, I have led the development of female athletic pathways—an area I aim to continue expanding. I am also a qualified sports massage therapist, having worked with Swansea City’s first team and Swansea University’s rugby squad, which has given me valuable insight into athlete care and performance.
My commitment to evidence-based practice is reflected in my published paper in the Journal of Sports Science, and I remain focused on continuous learning and development. Beyond work, I enjoy horse riding, hiking, cold water swimming, and travelling—always keen to embrace new challenges and experiences.
Olajumoke Ejaife
Librarian
Olajumoke Ejaife
Librarian
I am a graduate of the University of Ibadan with a Master’s degree in Information Science and over a decade of experience as a librarian in educational settings. My career began as a teaching assistant at a British school in The Hague, Netherlands, where I developed a strong foundation in supporting student learning across a range of age groups.
I have since worked with students from Early Years through to Sixth Form, and most recently served as Head of Senior School Library Services at a leading private school in Lagos. In that role, I developed and implemented a reading programme designed to foster and sustain a lifelong love of reading among students.
My work is driven by a passion for literacy, research, and student development. I believe a well-resourced and engaging library is central to any learning community, and I am committed to making the library a vibrant hub for curiosity, creativity, and academic growth.
Betty Melvin
School Counsellor
Betty Melvin
School Counsellor
Betty Melvin is a Professional School Counsellor and Safeguarding Lead committed to promoting students’ holistic development, safety, and well-being. With expertise in counselling, safeguarding, and pastoral care, she supports young people in navigating emotional, social, and academic challenges within a safe, nurturing environment.
Her trauma-informed, student-centred approach combines counselling, preventive interventions, and wellbeing programmes to build resilience and confidence. As the school’s Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, Betty ensures the highest standards of child protection and care across the school community.
She is passionate about mental health and inclusive education, she continues to champion self-worth, emotional literacy, and positive learning experiences for all students.
Omotayo Oluwaseyi
Economics & Business Studies Teacher
Omotayo Oluwaseyi
Economics & Business Studies Teacher
Williams Okwara
History & Religious Education Teacher
Williams Okwara
History & Religious Education Teacher
Sandra Onoja
Careers Counsellor
Sandra Onoja
Careers Counsellor
Boarding
Mr Gareth Nelson
House Master - Boys' Boarding House
Mr Gareth Nelson
House Master - Boys' Boarding House
Mr Gareth Nelson joins Rugby School Nigeria with twelve years of experience in education across the United Kingdom, China, South Korea, Peru and South Africa. Throughout his career he has held a range of leadership positions including Head of Humanities, Head of Economics and Pre-A Level Coordinator, developing a strong interest in supporting students through key academic transitions and helping them realise their potential.
Holding an MA, iPGCE and NPQSL, Mr Nelson is passionate about combining academic ambition with the development of character, independence and resilience. As Housemaster, he is committed to creating a boarding environment where pupils feel a strong sense of community and belonging whilst being encouraged to grow in confidence and self-reliance.
Outside school, Mr Nelson is a keen follower of rugby, football and cricket and enjoys sharing the values of teamwork, commitment and sportsmanship that lie at the heart of boarding life.
Mrs Jenny Nelson
House Mistress - Girls' Boarding House
Mrs Jenny Nelson
House Mistress - Girls' Boarding House
Mrs Jenny Nelson brings fourteen years of educational experience gained in the United Kingdom, China, South Korea, Peru and South Africa. During her career she has held a number of leadership roles including Head of Arts, Head of English, SENCO and PSHE Coordinator, giving her extensive experience in both academic and pastoral care.
Holding a BSc (Hons), MA, iPGCE and iSENCO qualification, Mrs Nelson is passionate about ensuring that every pupil feels known, valued and supported. As Housemistress, she aims to create a warm family atmosphere within the boarding community, providing strong pastoral support while helping pupils develop confidence, independence and a sense of belonging.
Beyond school, Mrs Nelson enjoys creative writing and discovering new authors, and believes that curiosity, kindness and a love of learning are central to a thriving school community.

