After nearly a decade supporting students and families at one of the world's leading British international schools, Claire has brought her passion for inclusion and student wellbeing to St Chris.
Having worked in schools across the UK and internationally, she has dedicated her career to supporting young people and helping schools create environments where every child can flourish.
This week, we shine a light on Claire Marcouse, who recently joined St Chris as our Assistant Head (Inclusive Learning and SENCO). Her passion for inclusion, combined with her belief in the importance of understanding each individual, makes her a natural fit for the St Chris community.
A Career Shaped by Inclusion
Claire began her career as a Business and Economics teacher in London before moving into leadership positions as Head of Subject and later Head of Faculty. While she enjoyed helping students achieve their goals in the classroom, it was her growing interest in supporting those facing barriers to learning that shaped the next stage of her career.
A pivotal moment came in 2013 when she completed a Master's degree in Special Educational Needs (SEN).
"It broadened my understanding of inclusion and challenged me to think differently about how schools can create opportunities for every learner to succeed."
The qualification sparked a passion that would go on to define much of her professional journey.
In 2016, Claire moved to Japan to join The British School in Tokyo as Secondary SENCO. She later became Director of Student Support Services and SENCO across both the primary and secondary schools, supporting children and families from a wide range of cultural and educational backgrounds.
Throughout these experiences, one belief remained constant:
“Every young person deserves an education that recogises and celebrates their individuality.”
Life at St Chris
Although only a few weeks into her St Chris journey, Claire has already been struck by the school's culture and values.
"What initially drew me to St Chris was its reputation as a truly progressive school and its commitment to inclusion, student-centred learning and the belief that young people thrive when they are known, valued and encouraged to be themselves."
For Claire, one of the most rewarding aspects of her role is the opportunity to see the complete journey of a child through the school.
"Anyone who has a whole-school role where they are able to follow, support and influence a child's progress from 3 to 18 is very lucky, as it's a true privilege."
She has also been impressed by the strong sense of community she has encountered since arriving.
Helping Young People Flourish
At the heart of Claire's work is a desire to help students feel that they belong. She finds fulfilment in seeing students grow in confidence, overcome challenges and discover success in ways that are meaningful to them.
“I find it especially rewardig when students feel understood, supported and able to succeed. Seeing a young person's confidence grow, knowing they feel that they belong, is one of the most fulfilling aspects of working in education.”
Claire believes that schools have an important role in developing the whole person, helping young people build the confidence, resilience and self-understanding they need for life beyond the classroom.
Looking ahead
As she settles into life at St Chris, Claire is excited to build relationships with students, families and colleagues, and to contribute to the school's ongoing commitment to inclusion and wellbeing. Young people themselves remain her greatest source of inspiration.
"Their perspectives, creativity and potential are incredibly inspiring."
For anyone considering a similar career, her advice is simple:
"Take time to build relationships and listen carefully. Understanding people – their strengths, challenges and experiences – is at the heart of effective support."