Our staff

Magda Gąsior

Head of school

I am a passionate and dedicated early childhood educator with over eleven years of experience teaching children in Poland and Greece. Additionally, I have four years of experience as a preschool manager in Poland. My work is driven by a deep enthusiasm for supporting children’s development and exploration of the world.

I hold a master’s degree in General Education and Lower Primary Education from the University of Warsaw, as well as a degree in Intercultural Education from the Warsaw University of Life Sciences. Furthermore, I have completed a preschool education course at the Polish Montessori Institute and a program in Education Management Studies.

I am particularly interested in Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and actively incorporate its principles into my daily interactions with children, parents, and colleagues. To enhance my professional development, I have attended numerous workshops and courses, including training on ethnic and national minority education, project management in education, Nonviolent Communication, and Positive Discipline.

My experience includes working as a teacher and team leader at the Academy of Special Education in Warsaw, where I implemented the “I Can Problem Solve” program to support children’s social skills. Most recently, I completed training in Sensory Integration Therapy at Maria Grzegorzewska University.

I strongly believe in creating a positive and respectful learning environment that nurtures children’s emotional and cognitive development. I advocate for learning through play, as I find it to be the most effective way for young children to acquire knowledge and essential life skills.

Beyond my professional pursuits, I have a deep love for travel and frequently return to Greece. I am also passionate about music and am currently learning to play the bass guitar.

Ashleigh Anderson

Year 2 educator

I’m Ashleigh Anderson, a passionate educator, originally from the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa. With over nine years of experience teaching primary school learners, my journey into education began in 2015, after balancing service industry work and study to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Language and Life Orientation from the University of the Western Cape. This combination of practical experience and academic dedication laid the foundation for my passion for teaching and my ongoing commitment to shaping the future of my students.

Always striving to enhance the learning experience for my students, I later pursued further studies and earned an Advanced Certificate in Teaching Foundation Phase from the University of Cape Town. This reflects my deep commitment to lifelong learning, both personally and professionally, and is at the heart of my teaching philosophy.

One of my guiding principles is a quote from the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius:
“I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.”
This resonates with me as I believe true understanding comes through exploration, hands-on experience, and encouraging students to ask questions and solve problems. My goal is to ignite curiosity in my learners, introduce them to new ideas, and inspire self-motivation and a love for learning that will last a lifetime.

I’ve recently relocated to the beautiful city of Warsaw, Poland, and I’m thrilled to continue my teaching journey at Atelier21. The school’s philosophy aligns perfectly with my approach, and I’m excited to be part of an environment where learning is both meaningful and enjoyable.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll find me enjoying soulful jazz music, taking leisurely walks, cooking or diving into creative DIY projects.

Kamil Łakomiak

Year 2 educator

I am a recent graduate in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. For me, education is not just a profession but above all, a calling that was sparked by reading Stefan Żeromski’s book “Siłaczka.” My mission is to support young minds in their development at every stage of their education.

The studies I have completed have had a significant impact on my approach to teaching and upbringing. I believe that education is not just about imparting knowledge but, most importantly, about supporting each child in their individual development.

Although I am only at the beginning of my professional journey, I strive to be the best and most supportive teacher. I am always ready to support children while continuing my own education and gaining further qualifications.

In my free time, I love playing board games, card games, and wargames. I am also passionate about history, which I hope to teach in the future.

Aleksandra Zagubień  

Year 1 educator

I am a graduate in Maria Grzegorzewska University  specializing in early support for child development, with preschool and early school education. In addition, I expanded my skills through various trainings and workshops, including Children’s Mathematics, Social Skills Training, and Positive Discipline. I am currently studying clinical and health psychology part-time and participating in the training and internship program “Psychology Practitioner Vademecum.”

Accompanying children has always brought me joy. For about five years, I led a Cub Scout group. Later, I gained professional experience working as an animator, camp counselor, nanny, teacher, and therapist for children on the autism spectrum.

When working with children, my priority is to build a safe bond, give children space to develop empathy and independence, and help them learn through experience. Working with children gives me the opportunity to rediscover the world and gain insight into myself. I believe that in the child-teacher relationship, both parties benefit and learn from each other.

In my free time, I love going to the theater, singing, deepening my psychological knowledge, and admiring art. I enjoy traveling, especially to Scandinavian countries.

Keith De Villers

Year 1 educator

My name is Keith and I am from South Africa. From an early stage in my high school career, I knew that teaching was my true calling. This early decision has guided my journey, allowing me to blend my two greatest passions: education and the English language.

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Education, which deepens my understanding and refines my approach to teaching.

One of the greatest sources of inspiration in my teaching career comes from my students. Their unending curiosity and awe of the world around them continually energize and motivate me, reaffirming my commitment to fostering a classroom where exploration and discovery thrive.

Outside the classroom, I am an extrovert at heart with a profound love for travel. I enjoy meeting new people and immersing myself in different cultures.

Julia Jackowska

Teaching partner

My name is Julia Jackowska, and I’m currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education at the University of Warsaw. My academic journey has been driven by a deep passion for understanding and nurturing the development of young minds.

I have gained valuable experience working as an assistant teacher, where I had the opportunity to engage with students and actively contribute to their learning journey.

On a personal note, my free time is devoted to my deep interests in yoga, music, and gardening.