Our team

At Smiles we understand that educators are the most important part of our project, and for that reason we ensure we employ only the best people. Not only our staff are experienced and fully qualified, they are also bilingual English speakers.
For us each child is unique and has individual interests and needs, and therefore working with lower child to teacher ratios becomes essential to provide the necessary support that can guarantee high quality, personalised teaching. Our ratios are 1/4 in the babies room and 1/6 in the toddlers/pre-schoolers room.

BEATRICE CATARINA
Early Years Teacher

I was born in Italy and raised in between there and the United Kingdom. Growing up in a bilingual environment taught me how to adapt to new cultures and gave me a unique perspective and a thrill for travel I still have today. I’m an Italian and Spanish major, spending my twenties teaching in many different types of public schools, nurseries and private academies

I really believe that for children to learn a language fluently they have to feel stimulated to want to communicate and express themselves!

After teaching using various different methods, my approach is to present the language naturally in a ludic sense through art, music, dance and games.

I am happy to find my place in Barcelona and part of the Smiles team, where all staff is likeminded in their approach to make children feel safe, cared for and motivated to explore this new exciting world around them. 

SARA PALMERO
Early Years Teacher

Born and raised in a small town near Barcelona, ​​I have lived surrounded by nature and adventures, always accompanied by my brothers and family.

Since I was little, I already knew that I wanted to work with children. I remember playing teacher with my little sister so I could teach her everything I had learned at school that day.

I have trained in performing arts and I believe that we can always use these in our work, to let our creativity flow.

Currently, I am studying Early Childhood Education and I have worked as an English teacher in different private schools.

A very important part of my experience is the years that I spent as a volunteer in a Scout Group, where I was able to work with children in nature promoting their independence, positive values ​​and above all, at each child´s own rhythm.

I am very happy to be part of the Smiles English Kids family, where I can combine my two great passions: Arts and Education. How nice it is to learn this way!

ANDREA ROSALES
Early Years Teacher

Born in Mexico and raised in the United States, I discovered the value of learning another language from a very young age. With English, I gained access to a whole other culture which ingrained in me a passion for learning.

Having personally experienced Montessori schooling in my early years, I deeply believe in the magic of encouraging children to learn at their own pace and in their own way. To me, there is nothing more powerful as an “I believe in you” and “I’m here for you”. For me, these phrases are not only at the core of learning but also at the core of emotional growth.

I have a Bachelors’ Degree in psychology and have just finished a Masters’ in Humanist Psychotherapy in Barcelona. I speak French proficiently and have experience working with children at an early stimulation gym and individual tutoring. Truthfully, I’ve always dreamed of working at a school where I could not only apply my knowledge of early child development but also accompany children in a journey of discovery and transformation.

Barcelona and Smiles have offered me a home I am very fond of and keen to represent. I proudly look forward to teaching and learning from little minds that create big ideas.

LAURA MARTINEZ
Early Years Teacher Assistant

Born and raised in sunny Barcelona, I believe that being surrounded by so many different cultures from a very young age lit a spark of curiosity in me. That is probably why I became interested in language(s) and language learning, which led me to become an English major. I then spent some time living abroad in the UK to enhance my knowledge and experience further.

Being raised in a large family (and being one of the older members) I experienced first-hand how enriching it is for a child to be surrounded by other children, and how much they can learn. Now as an adult, I am passionate about building an environment where children feel comfortable and safe.

Joining the Smiles English Kids team has allowed me to combine all of my passions into one: a place where I can encourage children to discover the world around them in a safe and fun way and also to introduce a new language naturally. Being a part of their journey is very rewarding!

SAOIRSE KAY
Early Years Teacher Assistant

I am a TEFL qualified teacher from Ireland, with an International Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Irish Language Studies. I have also completed studies in Early Childhood Learning and Childhood and Youth Education, and I have always known I wanted to work with young children, to watch them learn and grow in confidence in a stimulating environment. I have spent time teaching English to students ranging from 3 -15 years old which has given me a keen awareness of the variety of different ways in which children learn and helped me to develop my own style. Before living in Barcelona I gained additional work experience with children in a bilingual primary school, and at an after-school club in a nursery.

I believe early childhood learning provides children with an excellent foundation as they begin their academic journey. I have a keen interest in learning new languages and exploring other cultures and intend to make Barcelona my home. I am very happy to join the Smiles team and work alongside teachers who are also dedicated to providing a safe, caring and stimulating learning environment for all the children.

BRUNA CHARMILLOT
Early Years Teacher Assistant

At the age of 19, I moved from my small town in the countryside of Brazil to Barcelona on my own, seeking new experiences, a new language and being in contact with a new culture. I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but one of the many things my lovely family has taught me is that if you do things with passion, you will always be successful. So I did.

I’ve learned Spanish and French, finished my studies in Early Childhood Education, volunteered in a program with children from 0 to 3 years of age at risk of social exclusion, and later on I taught English to kids and teens at a private academy. 

Now, after 6 years living in this beautiful city, I feel fortunate to be able to work with 2 of my biggest passions: languages and education. 

My goal is to transmit my excitement to our children and to help create an environment where they can learn new skills while having fun, which will lead them to grow confidently.

GENJI KAWAI
Early Years Teacher Assistant

I was born in Japan and raised in a small town in the Basque Country, north of Spain.
Growing up in a multilingual family has shown me the importance and benefits of learning languages at such a young age.

As a passionate Early Childhood Education graduate, I have a deep love for working with children. I had it very clear since the first day I started my studies.

It’s truly amazing how the little ones develop through the years, and it is very rewarding to see the important role that, as Early Years educators, we play in their childhood.  

My educational journey in both Spain and Denmark has led me to understand the importance of play-based learning which encourages children to learn through experiences.

Being a teacher makes me happy and proud, and it feels like much more than just a job. I can’t imagine myself anywhere else. I am very happy to be part of this caring and dedicated team at Smiles and I’m excited for what’s to come!

SOLEDAD OROÑA
Early Years Teacher Assistant

Hi, my name is Soledad! I was born and raised in Argentina and moved to Barcelona in 2019.

I always knew I had a passion for kids and child development! I studied Psychology and right now I’m finishing my Masters in coaching.

I would describe myself as empathetic, sociable and reliable. Always trying to keep a smile on my face and a good attitude towards life.  Also, I believe in the power of kindness and open communication while building relationships.

I’m super happy to join Smiles and be a part of this exciting journey all together. I’m sure we will have lots of fun within this amazing family!