John Zacharias

Strategic and experienced education leader, Head of Mathematics and trainer with a strong record in academic leadership, departmental improvement, pastoral leadership, assessment, moderation, curriculum delivery and staff development across South Africa, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, South Korea and Qatar. Skilled in leading teams, strengthening teaching quality, using data to inform improvement, implementing policy, and supporting learner achievement through inclusive and results-focused practice.

Head of Mathematics Department, Secondary School at Doha Academy (2023-08 – Present)

• Direct a department of 8 teachers and lead teaching quality, curriculum delivery and academic strategy.
• Formulate departmental policies aligned with school-wide and regulatory expectations.
• Use assessment data and performance evidence to drive improvement planning and intervention.
• Promote professional collaboration, digital transformation and positive departmental culture.

Head of Year & Mathematics Teacher / Deputy Head of Pastoral at Newton International School (2018-08 – 2023-07)

• Oversaw pastoral care, safety, well-being and learner development across year groups.
• Designed systems and policies supporting learner behaviour, attainment and holistic development.
• Mentored colleagues through Professional Learning Communities in Mathematics.

Head of Year & Mathematics Teacher at English Modern School (2015-08 – 2018-07)

• Delivered strong mathematics teaching and classroom management outcomes.
• Supported school climate, learner engagement, professional development and collaborative planning.
• Contributed to behaviour and academic policy implementation.

Mathematics Lecturer / Assessor / Moderator at EastCape Midlands FET College (2015-04 – 2015-05)

Project Manager / Assessor at Khanyisela FET College (2014-02 – 2015-03)

Mathematics & Geography Teacher at Sanctor Secondary School (2013-08 – 2013-12)

English Lecturer at Shaqra University (2012-10 – 2013-08)

TESOL Trainer (Contract) at University of the Witwatersrand (2011-04 – 2012-08)

English Facilitator at Al-Khaleej Direct English (2010-03 – 2012-02)

English Teacher at Dong-Du-Cheon (2007-06 – 2010-01)

Primary Teacher at Gelvandale Primary (2007-01 – 2007-05)

Teacher at Sydenham School (2005-04 – 2006-12)

Mathematics Teacher at The Rawlett School (2003-11 – 2005-03)

Mathematics Teacher at Warren Comprehensive (2002-01 – 2003-08)

Deputy Head Teacher at Gladys King Private School (1999-01 – 2001-12)

HOD: Mathematics & Science at Bayview Primary School (1986-01 – 1998-12)

M.Sc. in Multi-disciplinary Education – State University of New York (2015 – 2018)

B.Ed (Hons) in Educational Management and Leadership – University of KwaZulu-Natal (2000 – 2004)

Higher Diploma in Mathematics Education – Nelson Mandela University / Cambridge UK Project (1991 – 1995)

H.Dip. in Education – Dower College of Education (1990 – 1991)

Diploma in Education – Dower College of Education (1983 – 1986)