Meet The Leadership Team

Karolina Plaszczyk

IPS Playschool Principal

My educational background

• Master Degree in Pedagogy
• Master Degree in Psychology
• Post-Graduation Studies in Early Education
• Post-Graduation Studies in Management of an Educational Institution

My professional background

Before IPS I had worked as an English teacher with young children as well as a babysitter for children aged 1-3. I also gained my experience in London, working as a manager of cleaning services during special events. In 2011 I began my journey with IPS as Teacher’s Assistant, to become a Homeroom Teacher in 2012. Since then I enjoyed working with students, who are beginning their journey with education.Since then I enjoyed working with students, who are beginning their journey with education. In 2016 I began to support IPS as Vice-Principal. In 2018 I took over the position of IPS Playschool Principal and I challenge myself to improve my skills and actions every year.

Im passionate about

I am passionate about psychology – especially the areas connected with development and communication. I love reading books – I can read everywhere and it doesn’t matter paper or reader. I read at least 5 books per month and I love stories that make me wonder what is going to happen on the next page. I also like music – listening to music is my way of relaxing and singing helps me feel joy! I am a family person and I enjoy spending time with my family very much (my husband, my two daughters, my sister and sometimes also our little dog and cat) – we love cooking (and eating!), travelling and rollercoasters!

Barbara Gajda

IPS Primary and Lower Secondary Principal

My Educational Background

• Certificate in School Management and Leadership – Harvard Graduate School of Education
• International Baccalaureate Professional Development: Making the PYP Happen
• Postgraduate studies, Management and Organization in Education – University of Lower Silesia
• M.A. Pedagogy, Faculty of Arts and Educational Science

My Professional Background before IPS

After graduating, I traveled abroad, organizing children’s festivals and leading cultural projects in Dublin, and taught pedagogy at the University of Lodz’s Dublin branch. Since 2013, I’ve been involved in establishing IPS Primary School and served as Principal from 2014. Continuous professional development and maternity leave have sharpened my organizational skills. My goal is to support children’s development, helping them enjoy learning and achieve future success.

I’m passionate about…

Painting and DIY Projects  because I enjoy adding a personal touch to my surroundings.

Photography – my creative way to capture family memories or explore artistic perspectives.

Gardening – therapeutic and rewarding experience

Dr Eric Kane Johnson

IPS Upper Secondary Principal

My Educational Background

• Doctorate in Educational Leadership: Transformational Leadership

The University of New England,

• Completed Dissertation: Avoiding Cultural Calamities: Exploring the Influence of Culture in Intercultural PLCs at an International School
• Masters in Education: Curriculum, Instruction, and Supervision-The University of North Carolina at Wilmington
• Completed Thesis: The International Baccalaureate Program and The Common Core State Standards :Identifying Learning Gaps
• Bachelor of Arts: Communication Studies -The University of North Carolina at Wilmington

My professional background

My experiences in education and living abroad have profoundly shaped my life, equipping me with the skills and global perspective needed to excel as IPS Upper Secondary Principal. As a teacher, I gained a deep understanding of student learning, the importance of a supportive environment, and the power of communication. My background in pedagogy and student development provides a strong foundation for school leadership. Living and working in different countries has broadened my perspective, and I find great fulfillment in the diverse cultures and international environments that define my career in education.

I’m passionate about…

I had a teacher tell me in high school that as long as you are learning, you are never wasting your time. That idea has stuck with me through adulthood and helped me develop a passion for learning. Whether I am taking a new class for certification, researching the latest educational trends, or travelling to a new country, I approach each experience as an opportunity to learn something new.

Izabela Romanik

IPS Playschool Vice Principal Curriculum Manager

My educational background

• M.A. Social Pedagogy, Faculty of Pedagogy and Fine Arts – University of Warmia and Mazury
• Postgraduate studies Pre-School and Early School Education – Education College of Management
• High/Scope Curriculum and High Scope COR Observation Educational Research Foundation, USA
• Developing Oral Fluency in the Primary English Language Classroom International Projects Center, Exeter UK
• Unclock the potential in your classroom – Cambridge Primary Center for Evaluation and Monitoring
• Educational conference How to develop students’ social skills – Children’s University Foundation
• National Congress of Methodologists and English Teachers “Bring teaching to life”
• Certificates in Reading Comprehension, Jolly Phonics, Improving Developmental Deficits
• Certified second-degree Sensoplastyka® Trainer leading workshops
• International Baccalaureate Professional Development – Making the PYP Happen

My professional background

I have gained extensive professional experience in the field of education in the United States, England, and Poland. I had an opportunity to teach and support children in learning using methods consistent with state program standards in both British and American curriculum Before IPS, I have been working at the British International School of Wrocław. I have developed an ability to use teaching approaches in the Early Years as an EYFS Teacher and EYFS Phase One Coordinator. I spent a couple of years in Michigan, United States when I taught as a Playschool Teacher at GH Child Development Center in Ann Arbor. I also have been able to develop my interest in communication disorders like autism at the University of Michigan AC Center. I specialize in leading workshops as a Certified Sensoplastyka® 2nd degree Trainer.

I am passionate about

I have a deep appreciation for art and culture, finding joy in exploring various forms of creative expression. I love listening to jazz music, and photography is my passion, allowing me to tell stories and capture the world through my lens.

Julia Ritschard

IPS Primary and lower Secondary Vice-Principal, International Curriculum Manager

My educational background

• B.A. Elementary Education – Bob Jones University
• Cambridge Assessment International Education: Getting Started with Mentoring
• Teaching Students to Ask Their Own Questions – Harvard
• International Baccalaureate Professional Development: Making the PYP Happen
• Harvard: Leading People
• M.S. in STEM education (in progress)

My Professional Background before IPS

I began my teaching career at IPS right after university, working with second, third, and fourth graders, which helped me build strong relationships and understand diverse educational needs. As a teacher’s mentor and PYP Coordinator, I enriched the Primary Years Programme with engaging activities. Now, as Vice-Principal and IPS International Curriculum Manager, I will use my experiences to support staff and enhance our educational initiatives, aiming to maintain IPS’s high standards.

I’m passionate about…

One of my greatest joys is spending time with my two-year-old daughter, whether we’re exploring the zoo, visiting the playground, or building sandcastles. I also enjoy cozying up for a good show. Additionally, baking is a passion of mine.

Agnieszka Janiczek

IPS Vice Principal, Polish Curriculum Manager IPS Polish Teacher

My educational background

• Polish Philology (MA) – University of Silesia
• Organization and management of education (postgraduate studies) – WSB University
• Pedagogy of people with intellectual disabilities – oligophrenopedagogy (postgraduate studies) – Milenium University School
• Early development support, revalidation and pedagogical therapy of a child with special educational needs (postgraduate studies) – College of Linguistics
• Education of foreigners – teaching Polish as a second/foreign language (certificate) –
• Warsaw Center for Educational and Social Innovation and Training

My Professional Background before IPS

I joined IPS in 2020 as a Polish language teacher and became the head of Polish language teaching for grades 0-8 in 2021. Currently, I serve as the vice-principal, coordinating the Polish core curriculum. Previously, I spent six years teaching Polish, leading integration classes, and working as a therapist for children with special needs. I also coordinated Polish language teachers, ran the school theater, and organized local cultural events. Additionally, I was a leader in the “Academy of the Future” program with the WIOSNA Association for three years.

I’m passionate about…

I am passionate about contemporary theater. I spend my free time reading books, I am particularly interested in occupation and epistolary literature. I eagerly collect memories from my travels, which are my life’s inspiration and motivation. I like to relax on mountain trails.Recently, I’ve been doing quite well in the kitchen, baking high-calorie sweets.

Katarzyna Coombe

IPS Upper Secondary Vice-Principal Dean of Students Maths Teacher

My Educational Background

• University of Brighton – Qualified Teacher Status, Qualified as a Secondary Mathematics Teacher
• Wroclaw University of Economics and Business Master’s degree in Computer Science & Econometrics
• Cambridge Assessment International Education: Lower Secondary Mathematics
• Challenging Behaviour in Young People Level 3, the CPD Certification Service
• Google Teacher Qualification
• Harvard Business School Online : Leading Learning
• TES Mathematics Subject Knowledge Enhancement Course – UK

My Professional Background before IPS

I’ve been in charge of preparation for the Cambridge Checkpoint Exam in Mathematics for Primary and Lower Secondary and Mathematics IGCSE students for the past few years. I also lead Extension and Support Classes. Prior to joining IPS, I taught Mathematics from grades 6 to 12 at secondary schools in England. I’ve worked in a Mainstream Secondary School where I taught students from disadvantaged areas, as well as a Grammar School for Boys where I was able to teach gifted students at the highest level and learn how to stretch and challenge them. My teaching methodology is built on each student’s development via the development of self-confidence and self-esteem. I believe in often teaching by strengthening students’ understanding of the topic and supporting it with Maths Mastery. I used to work in a busy finance sector before pursuing a career in teaching.

I’m passionate about…

Walking and spending time with my family, drinking good coffee, and being in nature.

Magdalena Blum

IPS Development Manager

My educational background

• B.A. English, British Literature Major, Specialization, translation – University of Wrocław
• M.A. English, British Literature – University of Wrocław
• Postgraduate Studies Work Management – University of Economics, Wrocław
• B.A. Early Childhood Education – University of Lower Silesia, Wrocław
• Postgraduate Studies Management in Education – University of Lower Silesia, Wrocław

My professional background

I was an English-Polish-English freelance translator and a consecutive translator. I translated mainly computer systems, banking systems, clothing companies and lots more.

I’m passionate about..

I’m passionate about my family, reading (non-fiction mostly), music of different genres and origins, working with kids, food and driving fast. My great passion is also Formula1. I follow every race and every news and have high hopes that Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc or Carlos Seinz become the next world champions but I know that it will probably be Max Verstappen.

Paulina Połacik-Godlewska

IPS Music School Manager, Polish teacher, Music teacher in Playschool

My educational background

• M.A. Classical singing and Acting -Academy of Music in Lodz
• Postgraduate studies classical Singing and Acting – Academy of Music in Wroclaw
• B.A. English  – College of Management “Edukacja” in Wroclaw
• Postgraduate studies Early Years Education – College of Management “Edukacja” in Wroclaw
• International Baccalaureate Professional Development: Making the PYP Happen

My professional background

I cooperated with Musical Theatre and Opera in Lodz. My concerts took place in Poland, Czech Republic, Austria and Russia. I took part in masterclasses held by T. Żylis- Gara or Udo Reinemann.  I used to teach English in the language schools, I was working also as a teaching assistant in international school.

I’m passionate about…

Listening to classical music is a great pleasure for me. Moreover, there is a wealth of legendary musicians who literally transport me to another world. One more worth spending my time is reading that helps  me to relax. I love literature based on Romantic Era, WWII and Tsars of Russia. Reading makes me feel better, sleep better and be better

Marta Stępniak-Cieśla

IPS Head of PSL Department, Polish as a Second Language Teacher, School Life & Competitions Manager

My educational background

• B.A. English Philology with teaching and translation specialisation – University of Wrocław
• M.A. English Philology with teaching specialisation – University of Wrocław
• Postgraduate studies – Teaching Polish as a second and foreign language -University of Wrocław
• Postgraduate studies – Clinical Speech Therapy – Wrocław Medical University

My professional background

With a decade of teaching experience, including five years as an English teacher and leader at a private language school, I have organized workshops and taught English to senior learners. As the School Life Coordinator at IPS, I enjoy coordinating competitions and events that inspire and challenge students. My experiences have bolstered my confidence in this role, and I am excited to continue fostering an engaging and supportive school environment.

I’m passionate about…

Each year, I actively participate in a variety of workshops and webinars focused on methodology, teaching, and psychology, which keeps me at the forefront of educational practices. In my leisure time, I relish taking long walks with my dog, Luna, and I am passionate about yoga and circuit training. I also have a keen interest in speedway racing, with a particular enthusiasm for the Polish league. During the speedway season, you can often find me at the Olympic Stadium, cheering for my Favorite team, Betard Sparta Wrocław. Additionally, I have a deep appreciation for both Polish and Scandinavian literature.