Vision
Odyssey International School aspires to be a leading international school in central Vietnam, fostering an inclusive, inquiry-driven, value-based and nurturing learning environment.
Mission
- Our mission is to guide students to become compassionate, knowledgeable, and globally minded learners.
- Through inquiry-based, inclusive education, we cultivate essential skills, inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and responsible action.
- We foster lifelong learning, empowering our students to grow and strive and as truly global citizens to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Our Team
Michael Osswald
Amélie Blondel
Amélie Blondel
Head Teacher / French Teacher
From France, over 20 years of teaching experience in International Schools across Asia.
8 years in school leadership, from Primary Coordinator to whole school roles.
- Master Degree Education – Rouen University ( France)
- Master Teaching French as a Foreign Language – Rouen University
- Bachelor French Language – Rouen University
- Safeguarding Child Protection in Primary Schools
- Advanced certificate in Safeguarding for Deputy Safeguarding Lead
- IB DP French B
- IB DP CAS Coordinator
Jerica Claassen
Jerica Claassen
Head of Primary
A dedicated and experienced educator with a proven track record in the primary and secondary education sectors, specializing in the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum.
- Deep expertise in the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum framework, pedagogy, and assessment.
- Certified IB Workshop Leader, responsible for training and developing fellow educators within the IB community.
- Holds dual qualifications with a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Western Cape, South Africa.
- Currently pursuing a Master’s degree to further advance professional knowledge and educational leadership skills
Mery Desma Yenti
Mery Desma Yenti
Kindergarten Teacher
An experienced educator from Indonesia with a degree in Early Years Education. For over a decade, Ms Mery has dedicated her career to teaching 3 to 6 year olds in an IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) school.
Her passion lies in fostering young minds and nurturing their innate curiosity. She believe the learning environment is a “third teacher,” and she strives to create spaces that are inviting, safe, and rich with opportunities for play, exploration, and discovery. She understands that these early experiences are crucial to a child’s learning journey and will become part of their cherished childhood memories.
At Odyssey, Ms Mery is committed to using her passion and knowledge to build a meaningful and engaging learning environment where students can thrive. She looks forward to growing with the school, helping to cultivate a sense of lifelong learning and international-mindedness in every child.
Elissa Wessley
Elissa Wessley
Primary Teacher
I am Elissa Wessley, the Grade One teacher. I am delighted to be part of a school that prioritizes the whole child and fosters independent thinking within a supportive learning environment. Originally from Brisbane, Australia, I bring over 24 years of teaching experience, including 11 years in international schools and 13 years in Australian schools. My background spans Prep through Year Three, as well as specialty areas, with additional experience in early childhood education through kindergartens and childcare centres.
I hold a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) with Honours, an Associate Diploma in Business (Computing), and specialist training in Reading Recovery. As a founding teacher of Odyssey, I am passionate about providing engaging, inquiry-based learning opportunities that nurture creativity, independence, and problem-solving skills. I look forward to contributing to the growth of my students while continuing to expand my own professional learning in this inspiring environment.
Vince Smith
Vince Smith
Primary Teacher
Originally from Australia, Vince is a fully qualified Primary teacher with over a decade’s experience on three continents. Having taught Grades 1 to 6, he enjoys engaging with students in order to foster a love of learning.
As a founding member of Odyssey International School Vince believes that education for young learners should be fun and encourages students to follow their interests. He feels that independence and agency are paramount and that it is very important for international students to be well rounded and aware of other cultures in order to be responsible citizens of our ever changing world.
Baldwin Elizabeth Farrell
Baldwin Elizabeth Farrell
Primary Teacher
Hello! My name is Lizzy Baldwin, and I’m originally from the United States. My passion for education is deeply rooted in my own love of learning. I am excited to continue guiding students on their journeys as curious, confident, and lifelong learners.
- 6.5 years of teaching experience in diverse classroom settings
- Double major in Foreign Language and Communications– University of Tennessee Chattanooga (USA).
- Master Degree in Education — Moreland University (USA).
Samantha Burger
Samantha Burger
Primary Teacher
Passionate educator with a strong background in primary and middle years teaching.
- 9 years of teaching experience, originally from South Africa, with the past 5 years spent teaching in international schools in Vietnam.
- Bachelor of Education (Intermediate and Senior Phase)
Shannon Faith
Shannon Faith
Secondary English/ Secondary GP/ Drama
My name is Shannon, and I am originally from Australia but have been living and teaching in Vietnam since 2018. I hold an Honours degree in Creative Arts (Theatre), postgraduate teaching qualifications in Drama and English (Secondary), TESOL certification, and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
With over 30 years of teaching experience, I have taught Theatre, English (ESL & Language Arts), and Humanities/Social Studies both online and in person to students worldwide. I spent 14 years as the owner and Studio Director of TheatreMax Drama Studio, creating large-scale productions such as Peter Pan & Wendy and Alice in Wonderland, as well as commissioned works addressing social issues like pollution and bullying. My experience extends to working with diverse community groups, cultural festivals, and performers with special needs.
At Odyssey, I hope to foster a positive learning environment where students grow as curious, creative risk-takers and thoughtful global citizens.
Jermaine Dizon
Jermaine Dizon
Science Teacher - Librarian
Throughout the academic journey, Ms Jermaine’s teaching philosophy is centered on empowering students to become critical thinkers and inquirers and encouraging students to cultivate a deeper appreciation and interest towards Science and its innovations.
- Bachelor of Secondary Education, majored in Biology and currently pursuing Master of Arts in Science Education in the same specialization.
- 15 year teaching experience, including 11 years in the Department of Education in the Philippines as a Master Teacher in Science with roles in curriculum and instructional planning, leadership training and innovating strategies, specializing in secondary and senior high school.
Dan Maguire
Dan Maguire
Secondary Maths/ Secondary Digital Literacy
I’m Dan from Canada. It is my 15th year as a classroom teacher, specialised in secondary mathematics, and I have lived in Hoi An since 2019. I have a B.A. and a B.Ed., and am currently completing a masters in digital education.
This year I am teaching grade 6 and 7 Mathematics and Design. I’m very happy to be working at Odyssey. We have a great team here, and it’s exciting to be building the new secondary program together.
Pascaline Geffray
Hứa Thị Như Thủy
Hứa Thị Như Thủy
Vietnamese Teacher
My name is Thủy. I was born and raised in Hoi An, where I continue to live today. I have over 15 years of experience working in education. I graduated from Da Nang University of Foreign Language Studies in 2004 and have since completed several short-term courses on innovative teaching methods. I began my career teaching at a high secondary school in Hoi An for two years before moving on to work as a co-teacher in an international primary school. More recently, I have taken on roles in administration and currently serve as a Vietnamese teacher at Odyssey School.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with students from many different nationalities, and I truly enjoy the exchange of culture and learning that comes with it. Engaging with learners from diverse backgrounds makes my work deeply rewarding. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and keeping my home organized. My goal is to continue growing as an educator while building meaningful connections with international students.
Nguyễn Thị Kim Vinh
Trần Thị Như Ý
Thái Thị Quyên
Thái Thị Quyên
Co-Teacher
Ms Quyen is a a co- teacher with 10 years of experience supporting students’ learning and growth. She is a balanced person and eager to learn new things to support both students and her colleagues.
- Bachelor of English
- English Language teaching pedagogical certificate
- TESOL certificate
Lê Thị Thu Hương
Lê Thị Thu Hương
Admission & Marketing Manager
- Education: Ms. Hương holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business English from the National Economics University.
- Experienced Admissions & Marketing Professional: Huong brings over 12 years of dynamic experience, with 8 years dedicated to the education sector, specifically in Admissions and Marketing.
- Passionate Educational Visionary: Ms. Hương is driven by a passion to cultivate a lively and supportive learning environment, aiming to ensure every family’s smooth integration into the Odyssey International School community.
Trần Ngọc Linh Quyên
Trần Ngọc Linh Quyên
Assistant Executive
My name is Quyen, and I am originally from Hanoi, Vietnam. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Banking and Finance, along with a degree in English as a Foreign Language. In addition, I completed a Master’s degree in Business Administration.
Since graduating, I have developed a strong background in the education field, working in school operations and administration where I supported both academic and non-academic functions. These experiences have helped me build skills in organization, planning, and problem-solving while always keeping the needs of students and teachers in mind.
Outside of education, I have worked in hospitality and been involved in fashion events at a design school, which gave me opportunities to collaborate with diverse teams and strengthen my communication and coordination skills.
At Odyssey, I hope to contribute my professionalism, adaptability, and dedication to fostering a positive and supportive environment where both students and staff can grow and succeed together.
Võ Thị Nhung
Đinh Thị Đài
Lâm Viết Bông
IT
I’m Bông. I come from Điện Bàn, Quảng Nam, and graduated from Duy Tân University with a degree in Information Technology, specializing as a Multimedia Graphic Technician.
Throughout my studies and career, I have gained valuable experience working in diverse environments such as 4-star hotels, 5-star resorts, corporate enterprises within factories, as well as the Helio Center entertainment complex. These experiences have not only strengthened my professional skills but also enhanced my abilities in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Joining Odyssey, I hope to contribute my knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm to help build a dynamic, creative, and professional environment. My goal is to support the school’s continued growth and development, ensuring it becomes stronger and more sustainable in the future.