Watch this page as we bring to you snippets from the lives of some members of our teaching staff. 

Dive into the lives of our teachers to learn more about them as well as their hobbies and passions! 

Meet the teachers

Gerald Yorwerth

I am from Wales in the UK and have been a teacher of English since 1979. I joined the British Council Colombo in 1989 and have been here ever since, for a total of 31 years!

I was part of the very first Young Learner courses when they started in 1991, and to date continue to teach Young Learners, adults, professional courses while also being a Trainer for the CELTA qualification.

I enjoy my time with my four dogs and five cats, and visiting Haputale. I look forward to meeting you all in class!

Neda Samimi

I have over 25 years of experience, delivering both young and adult courses, and Teacher Training.

I was initially teaching in Europe, and now a teacher in Sri Lanka. I'm a certified speaking examiner of several internationally recognised exams. I enjoy teaching as it helps people communicate and advance in life. I was awarded the TESOL certificate and a Diploma from the Trinity College London, and PGCE from the University of Greenwich.

In my free time, I enjoy pottery and doing various crafts.

Anoop

In a 7+ year career as a teacher of English, I’ve taught a wide range of learners, including adults, young learners, SEN students and professionals. During my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with students from across the globe, including China, Russia and Pakistan. I have CELTA and TYLEC qualifications, as well as an MBA. I’m also a performing artist with appearances in over 10 theatre productions. I even have an IMDb profile!

Brian Sullivan

I am a Senior Teacher for Adults based in Colombo and have been teaching English for over 30 years. I have a range of teaching qualifications from Cambridge and have been working for the British Council for almost 25 years. I have worked for the British Council in 5 different countries which include Poland, Malaysia, Korea, Qatar and now Sri Lanka. I have also worked extensively as a teacher trainer in USA, Malaysia and Korea, and I teach IELTS Coach and myClass.

Chaandima Nanayakkara

My name is Chaandima, and I prefer to be called as Chaan as many get my name wrong. I joined the British Council in 2013 and teach young learners and adults. I also conduct story-sessions for children at the teaching centre and libraries.

My 15-year experience in teaching undergraduates has given me the ability to cater to different audiences. I have completed CELTA and hold a master’s in Applied Linguistics.

I love baking, cooking, watching movies and enjoy playing board games with my family.