We are excited to introduce Ms Michelle Babb, an enthusiastic and reflective educator with over seven years of experience teaching in Key Stages 1 and 2, both in the UK and internationally. Before joining LEH Foshan, Ms Babb worked as a Key Stage 2 teacher at a British school in Myanmar, where she led the Maths curriculum, championing mastery-based learning and organising whole-school STEM challenges. Ms Babb holds a Master of Arts in English Language from the University of Glasgow and a PGCE in Primary Education with QTS from the University of Cumbria. Her background also includes service in the Royal Air Force as an analyst, where she developed strong leadership skills and a keen sense of collaboration.
Journey in Education
From Homegrown Inspiration
to LEH Foshan
What sparked Ms Babb’s passion for education? It all began at home. “My passion for teaching was first ignited by my mother, who dedicated her life to education,” she shares. Growing up surrounded by her mother's love for teaching, Ms Babb developed a curiosity for learning—a curiosity she now loves to pass on to her students. “What continues to motivate me is the opportunity to inspire curiosity and foster a love of learning in my students, just as my mother did for me. There's something incredibly rewarding about sharing those 'aha!' moments with students, watching their faces light up as they grasp new concepts.”
When asked what drew her to LEH Foshan, Ms Babb speaks warmly of her interest in China’s rich culture and history, and the opportunity to contribute to the growth of a new school. Since she arrived, Ms Babb has been touched by the kindness of her colleagues and the positive attitude of her students. “The sense of community is what I appreciate most,” she explains. “The collaborative spirit among staff and students creates an environment where everyone can thrive.”
Head of the Prep School, Ms Mandy Bateman, noted that Ms Babb's teaching style is centred on engagement and active participation.
She strives to ignite curiosity, encourages students to explore ideas further, and promotes critical thinking. Ms Babb aims for all her students to develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter and build confidence in expressing their thoughts—qualities that LEH values highly in a Prep School teacher.
A Dynamic Approach
Teaching Style Shaped by
Global Experience
Ms Babb’s teaching style focuses on active engagement and nurturing curiosity. “I strive to draw children into each topic by igniting their curiosity and encouraging them to explore ideas further,” she says. She aims for her classroom to be a vibrant environment where inquisitiveness flourishes, guiding her students as they collaborate and question rather than simply delivering information. Ultimately, she hopes to equip her students with essential skills, including our 8C values, that will help them thrive beyond their school years.
Her international teaching experiences, spanning the UK, Kuwait, and Myanmar, have enriched her approach to education. Ms Babb has learned to adapt her teaching to meet the diverse needs of students from different cultural backgrounds, ensuring each child feels seen, heard, and supported. She believes her role is to be a facilitator—nurturing each child's potential while respecting and celebrating their individuality.
Since joining, Ms Babb has made her classroom a thriving environment where inquisitiveness flourishes. In each lesson, she encourages students to ask questions and explore their interests, fostering a sense of independence in their learning journey.
Nurturing Potential
The Sunflower Class
and Their Journey
Ms Babb’s current class, known as the “Sunflower Class,” reflects her focus on growth and positivity. “The sunflower represents growth, positivity, and the vibrant energy that every child brings,” she notes. By the end of the year, her aim is for her students to feel proud of themselves—ready to shine as role models for their younger peers, confident in their readiness for new challenges, and armed with the resilience and compassion needed to navigate an ever-changing world.
Outside of school, Ms Babb loves diving into books, exploring museums and art galleries, and enjoying a play or film. She finds inspiration in art, literature, and theatre, and uses these moments to recharge so she can bring her best self into the classroom each day.
With her passion for education and her wealth of experience, Ms Babb is a wonderful addition to our Prep team. We look forward to seeing the Sunflower Class bloom under her guidance!
If you would like to meet Ms Babb and our team of British Prep teachers in person, we warmly invite you to our Prep School Open Day on 19 October. Please scan the QR Code on the poster to sign up.
