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Our 4 pillars

of learning

Language as a medium
Language can be used to learn almost anything and our instruction should not be limited in teaching language alone.
our school
We engage students by making real-world connections through exploration and high-level questioning.
UK INQUIRY BASED LEARNING
We inspire students to take ownership of their learning, fostering independence and active engagement.
ourschool IMG 8209
Collective knowledge construction that favors the development of learning, communication and interaction skills.
UK COLLABORATIVELEARNING

UK
educators

Research confirms that an inspiring and highly skilled teacher plays a pivotal role in shaping student learning.

At Uk, our educators deeply care for their students, engaging them in a way that nurtures their curiosity and sense of wonder. They provide support during challenges, empowering students to discover their own capabilities and explore their full potential. UK is dedicated to recruiting “Amazing” teachers who align with our commitment and mission and constantly engage in professional development to ensure that they are up to date with the latest teaching methodologies.

Meet the uktors

01.Eirini Strakari

Founder & Head of Studies

Eirini Strakari

02.Marina Zarkada

Teacher of English

Marina Zarkada

03.Eleni Dimitriadou

Teacher of English

Eleni Dimitriadou

04.Lega Liana

Teacher of English

Lega liana

05.Eleana Tzianni

Teacher of English

Eleana Tzianni

06.Maria Pospotiki

Teacher of English

Maria Pospotiki

07.Emy Karakaxa

Teacher of English

Emy Karakaxa

08.Victoria Ioannidou

Teacher of English

Victoria Ioannidou

09.Lera Villy

Teacher of English

Lera Villy

Christine Avramidou

Teacher of English

Christina Avramidou

11.Maria Lepentsioti

Teacher of English

Maria Lepentsioti

12.Vana Chlorou

Administration

Vana Chlorou

13.Niki Patsia

Administration

Niki Patsia

our story

It is fortunate to be in a position, to have a role that you know can touch and shape young individuals, the future.

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The UK School of English opened its doors in 2005 in the city of Trikala, and its space was immediately filled with dreams, passion, and joyful children. Our approach is communicative, inquiry-based, and interdisciplinary.

Language is the tool to explore our world without borders, and to travel through it by coming into contact with different cultures, global ideas, and perspectives.

Our teaching revolves around the child, aiming to provide a modern learning experience and skills useful for the future.

In 2015, we moved to ‘Despotiko,’ our new “Land”, which allowed us to dream even bigger for our school and students. New collaborations, modern classrooms, every day, a day of celebration! With care and a restless spirit, we have been moving forward since then, with appreciation and gratitude.

our SPACE

FLEXIBLE LEARNING SPACE
Our well-equipped, spacious classrooms are optimized for flexibility and the use of digital resources. Our school includes communal spaces, a quiet study area and our booth where students can work on their own, read or relax.

MULTI-PURPOSE HUB
From “The Land of Promise” House gatherings and art exhibitions to guest speakers and parent gatherings our HUB is a truly flexible space that adapts to our changing needs.

OUTDOOR LEARNING
Whether it is planting flowers in our garden, observing and recording information or simply reading Jane Eyre under the “tree of wisdom” in our backyard, our school provides many opportunities to learn outdoors.

pelekeio
some history

Our building has a story to tell. A story which could be taken from a novel, a film or an old book found in an English second-hand bookshop. It’s the story of the Peleki family, a story of woe!

The Peleki family was prosperous, and they had this house constructed in the early 1900s. They lived a happy life until tragedy struck their door. The father, a renowned lawyer, passed away early in life, and a year later, their two children, aged 18 and 19, drowned while on holiday with their mother.

Evridiki Peleki led a life of charity afterward and gave away all her fortune upon her death. Her wish was for this building to be a cradle of knowledge, a place where happiness could be found, and where laughter could be heard once again.

Click to visit our gallery:

Eirini Strakari

Founder & Head of Studies / Teacher of English

eirinistrakari@gmail.com

About Eirini

What would you like in an English Language school? When you step into our school, what do you hope to see, hear, and feel?

Imagine a place where English is spoken everywhere—in the hallways and throughout the entire school—where students converse naturally and fluently in English. Imagine a school where classroom walls are brought to life by students’ thinking, a place which ignites the senses and the natural curiosity of children. Imagine a place where experimentation, creativity, and learning flourish. Imagine a community that has come together from all different backgrounds to share new experiences in learning.

Welcome to our school where your learning experience is as unique as you are! Here, we believe that education should adapt to the needs, interests, and learning styles of each individual student. At Uk we are redefining the traditional classroom by creating a learning environment that is flexible, interactive, and tailored to you. We encourage you to take ownership of your learning journey, explore your curiosities, and develop the language skills you need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

Our team of dedicated educators is here to guide and inspire you, helping you set goals, track your progress, and achieve your full potential.

Thank you for choosing Uk as your learning home. We are excited to support you on your journey and to see the amazing things you will achieve.

Warmest wishes

Eirini Strakari

Marina Zarkada

Teacher of English – Grade 3 coordinator

2024 Cambridge Dedicated teacher – Shortlisted

marinazarkada@gmail.com

About Marina

Sharing knowledge and experiences with young people through the years has been a great blessing, something I will always cherish and feel grateful for. I honestly hope that I have only taught my students as much as they have taught me.

Teaching is not just a profession for me. It’s an opportunity to come closer to people of all ages and walks of life, develop through my experiences with them, experiment, be creative, never lose that child inside me and, possibly, contribute to a better world. I feel that education is the second sun in life and an educator is a ray on a learner that might need it. At UK the sun is very strong and always ready to spread a lot of LIGHT and LOVE around!

UKers asked her...

What words do you think your friends would choose to describe you?

They would most probably describe me as an idealist – also as playful, creative, meticulous and compassionate.

I would definitely take them to Disney World in Florida as it is the most magical place on earth for young ages with endless unique experiences to try.  I cannot imagine another place where my students’ eyes would sparkle with more joy and excitement!

Eleni Dimitriadou

Teacher of English  / Grade 7 coordinator

eldim357@gmail.com

About Eleni

I have been teaching English since 1995, but I consider 2013 a significant point in my career, as it was the year when I joined the UK school of English team. As a member of the UK teaching staff, I have had the chance to use innovative methods and new technologies to teach our students not only English, but important life skills, such as critical thinking! I believe that learning is a lifelong process that can also be fun. I hope that, apart from English, this is what I teach my students: to love to learn.

UKers asked her...

What's one thing you wish grown ups knew about kids?

One thing I wish grown-ups knew about kids is that they have a hidden superpower which is their ability to turn even the smallest moments into extraordinary adventures. Kids see the world through a lens of wonder and imagination that makes every day special, a potential quest for discovery. It’s so easy for them to experience ordinary moments into joyful experiences.

One of my favorite “hidden” places in the school is the quiet corner of our library, tucked away behind the stacks of books. It’s a serene spot where I go to find inspiration and unwind. Surrounded by the comforting scent of old pages, it’s the perfect place for me to reflect, recharge, and come up with new ideas to bring into the classroom.

Lega liana

Teacher of English – Grade 5 coordinator

lianalega@gmail.com

About liana

 I’ve always dreamt of teaching English and this is what I’ve been doing for the past 24 years. Having graduated from Aristotle University with a love for literature, I always do my best to infuse my lessons with creativity and innovation. Since 2014 my dream has actually taken more substance than ever before here, at the UK School of English where we have come to aspire for greater things in an attempt to experiment, teach outside the box and educate the heart.

 My goal is to spark curiosity and joy in young minds so as to make learning a vibrant and engaging journey.

My motto: “The purpose of life is to live it, to taste it, to experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience”

Eleanor Roosevelt

UKers asked her...

Imagine your classroom is a spaceship. How would you describe the journey you and your students embark on together?

Our classroom spaceship travels through galaxies of knowledge, where each lesson is a new exploration. Together, we navigate using the stars, fostering curiosity, discovery, and a sense of wonder in every young soul.

My teaching style is like a tapas bar—offering a variety of engaging, bite-sized lessons that cater to different tastes and keep students eagerly coming back for more exploration and discovery.

Eleana Tzianni

Teacher of English – Grade 2 Coordinator 

eleanatzianni@gmail.com

About Eleana

I have worked as an English teacher in Thessaloniki and Yiannitsa and in 2015 I joined the UK team in Trikala, which was a stepping stone for my career. The UK School of English has taken me to places I never thought I could reach! Through teamwork and our constant focus on creativity and innovation,I feel that we are trying to educate the mind, open up the heart and inspire the soul!

My life motto would be this: live your life to the fullest, be the person you dream of, see the beauty in everything, and never stop laughing!

UKers asked her...

What motivates you to keep learning and growing as a teacher?

I’m motivated to keep learning and growing as a teacher by the endless curiosity and potential of my students. Their enthusiasm and unique perspectives inspire me to seek new knowledge and innovative methods. Each classroom experience fuels my passion for discovery and improvement, driving me to be the best educator I can be.

If I could be any fictional character for a day, I’d choose Doc Brown from Back to the Future. I’d dive into his DeLorean and zoom through time, exploring different eras and witnessing historical moments firsthand. Imagine the thrill of inventing new gadgets and experiencing history’s highs and lows—all while rocking a wild hairstyle and a quirky sense of adventure!

Maria Pospotiki

Teacher of English – Grade 6 coordinator (Michigan exams)

marakiposp@gmail.com

About Maria

I have studied English language and literature and I’ve been working as a teacher for many years. I have taught students of all ages and backgrounds and I believe that education should be inclusive above all. At UK School of English I have the chance to experiment with innovative methods and use a variety of educational tools to make learning engaging. I love using different forms of art to teach my students and spark their curiosity about the world. I believe that students learn better when they feel valued and understood. My inquisitive nature is one of my traits, so teaching is not just a profession for me but an opportunity to learn more about the world and myself through my students’ eyes.

UKers asked her...

What's the best advice you've ever received?

The best advice I’ve ever received is to focus on progress, not perfection. It encourages continuous improvement and resilience, reminding me that it’s okay to make mistakes as long as I learn from them and keep moving forward.

As a student, I was curious and engaged, always eager to learn new things. I enjoyed participating in class discussions and took my studies seriously, but I also valued spending time with friends and participating in extracurricular activities. Balancing academics with other interests helped me develop a well-rounded perspective.

Emy Karakaxa

Teacher of English – Ks coordinator
emykarakaxa@gmail.com

About Emy

English has always been my passion, and I fulfilled my dream of becoming an English teacher by studying English Language and Literature at Aristotle University in Thessaloniki. My inquisitive nature has driven me to further my studies through numerous courses, seminars, and workshops, including Early Childhood Education, S.T.E.A.M Learning, and a Teacher Training program for Special Educational Needs.

Working at the UK School, I’ve had the chance to collaborate with inspiring teachers and explore innovative teaching methods. As a strong supporter of Experiential Learning and Emergent Literacy Methods, I’ve seen firsthand the amazing results these approaches produce. I am dedicated to helping my students become responsible for their own learning and encouraging their growth as independent thinkers.

UKers asked her...

How do you hope to impact your students' lives both in and out of the classroom?

I hope to impact my students’ lives by sparking a lifelong love for learning. In the classroom, I strive to make each lesson an exciting adventure driven by curiosity. Outside of class, I want them to carry confidence and wonder, ready to explore opportunities and tackle challenges. My goal is to inspire them to dream big, harness their unique talents, and believe in their ability to make a difference in the world!

If our classroom had a theme song, it would be “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey. Its powerful message of perseverance and hope perfectly reflects our classroom spirit. It reminds us to stay optimistic and keep pushing forward, no matter what challenges we face!

Victoria Ioannidou

Teacher of English – Grade 8 coordinator (MIchigan Exams)

vic.ioan23@gmail.com

About Victoria

An inspiring English teacher and mentor, who encouraged me to pursue English Language and Literature in Thessaloniki ignited my passion for teaching and learning, which has only grown since then. My deep care for children led me to further my knowledge in areas like dyslexia, special education, and school psychology. I truly believe that “If a child can’t learn the way we teach, we should teach the way they learn.” This principle guides me as I adapt my approach to meet each student’s needs and at Uk we celebrate their uniqueness in every possible way!

UKers asked her...

If our classroom could have a magical feature or superpower, what would you pick and how would it help us learn?

If our classroom could have a magical feature or superpower, I’d choose the ability to instantly transport us to any place or time related to our lessons. Imagine diving into a historical event, exploring distant planets, or walking through the pages of a classic novel—all in the blink of an eye!

A Book of Memories: This would be a scrapbook filled with photos, student artwork, and notes about our favorite class moments and achievements.

A Sustainable Energy Device: This device would demonstrate our school’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.

A Personal Message: A collection of letters written by students and teachers to their future selves, sharing hopes, dreams, and reflections on our time at school.

Villy Lera

Teacher of English – Grade 1 coordinator

vassiliki.lera@gmail.com

About Villy

I am a dedicated educator with a passion for inspiring students to engage with the English language and develop essential life skills. My background in English Language and Literature, along with expertise in Translation and Subtitling from the University of Strasbourg, led me to discover my true calling in teaching. With nine years of experience and a CELTA certification, I bring enthusiasm and a deep love for my students to the classroom. I have actively pursued professional development in areas such as Early Childhood Education, Messy and Sensory Play, Critical Thinking through Art, and teaching students with Special Educational Needs. Since 2019, I have found my home in the vibrant world of UK schools, where I am dedicated to nurturing a love for learning and caring deeply for my students’ growth and well-being.

UKers asked her...

How do you keep yourself motivated and enthusiastic about teaching?

My inquisitive nature has driven me to attend numerous seminars, workshops, and courses. This allows me to stay updated on the latest teaching methods. I wholeheartedly agree with the view that children progress at different rates and have unique ways of learning. There are suitable ways to help each child learn and achieve amazing results! Seeing my students succeed and knowing I played a part in their journey keeps me motivated.

I love spending time with my baby boy, watching him grow and discover the world. It’s amazing to see life through his eyes. I also  like exploring and travelling! I have participated in many Erasmus+ Youth projects and made friends from all over Europe. I like watching movies and detective TV-series on Netflix and I listen to rock and metal music, while I am a huge Disney fan! I’m a yoga lover and working out everyday helps me both physically and mentally. Namaste!

Christina Avramidou

Teacher of English – Pre – junior course coordinator

christinoudi@gmail.com

About Christina

I’ve had a passion for English since childhood, sparked by a love for music and movies. After four enriching years at UK School, I’ve grown both as a teacher and as a person. I’m truly inspired by our school’s “Know, Value, Care” philosophy, which creates a nurturing environment where students feel seen and supported. My deepest desire is to help my students build their confidence, feel free to express themselves, and learn in a fun and creative way. Witnessing their growth and seeing their happy faces within our school’s walls is what drives my commitment to teaching.

UKers asked her...

If you could create a new holiday just for our class, what would it celebrate and how would we spend the day?

If I could create a new holiday just for our class, it would be “Unique You Day.” On this special day, we’d celebrate each student’s individuality with activities that highlight their unique talents and interests.The day would be filled with fun, appreciation, and the joy of celebrating what makes each of us special!

One of my favorite “hidden” talents is scrapbooking. I create a personal scrapbook each month to capture and celebrate my best moments and important events. Whether it’s a memorable trip, a special achievement, or just everyday joys, this monthly ritual helps me reflect on the highlights of my life and stay connected to what truly matters.

Maria Lepentsioti

Teacher of English 

lepentsiotim@gmail.com

About Maria

I have studied and graduated from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and I have been teaching English ever since to students of all ages, from energetic kindergarten children to mature young adults. Through these diverse teaching experiences I have grown to realise how much I love teaching! Being a teacher makes my heart full and my days happy!. My main goal is to inspire my students to find joy in language learning and pursue knowledge with genuine interest and passion. The way I see it, this can only be achieved in a supportive environment where learning goes hand in hand with fun, creativity and meaningful engagement and this is exactly what I’ve been aiming for in all my classes. My educational beliefs are summarised in the words of a professor of mine who never ceased to remind us that “children might forget what you taught them, but they will never forget how you made them feel”.

UKers asked her...

Our classroom spaceship travels through galaxies of knowledge, where each lesson is a new exploration. Together, we navigate using the stars, fostering curiosity, discovery, and a sense of wonder in every young soul.

My teaching style is like a tapas bar—offering a variety of engaging, bite-sized lessons that cater to different tastes and keep students eagerly coming back for more exploration and discovery.

We engage students by making real-world connections through exploration and high-level questioning.

UK INQUIRY BASED LEARNING

Vana Chlorou

Administration

vanachlorou@gmail.com

About Vana

My name is Vana Chlorou, and I serve as an administrative assistant at our school. I love my work and thrive on organizing, resolving situations, and communicating with people. My everyday goal is to make sure that everything around me runs like clockwork and that the people I work with feel safe and serene. What calms me, though, is the daily contact with the kids. These little creatures give me so much strength that I can deal even with the most difficult situations that may come up in a day. Supporting our students, teachers, and staff is incredibly fulfilling, and each day brings new opportunities to make a positive impact.

UKers asked her...

The best advice I’ve ever received is to focus on progress, not perfection. It encourages continuous improvement and resilience, reminding me that it’s okay to make mistakes as long as I learn from them and keep moving forward.

As a student, I was curious and engaged, always eager to learn new things. I enjoyed participating in class discussions and took my studies seriously, but I also valued spending time with friends and participating in extracurricular activities. Balancing academics with other interests helped me develop a well-rounded perspective.

We engage students by making real-world connections through exploration and high-level questioning.

UK INQUIRY BASED LEARNING

Niki Patsia

Administration

niki1patsia@gmail.com

About Niki

My name is Niki Patsia, and I am an administrative assistant at our school. I genuinely love my job, especially the opportunities it provides to meet new people and engage in meaningful communication. Supporting the needs of our students, teachers, and the entire school community is incredibly fulfilling for me. I am passionate about helping children and ensuring our school runs smoothly. Each day in our school is different—a new challenge, a new opportunity to feel satisfaction, and a chance to grow.

UKers asked her...

My inquisitive nature has driven me to attend numerous seminars, workshops, and courses. This allows me to stay updated on the latest teaching methods. I wholeheartedly agree with the view that children progress at different rates and have unique ways of learning. There are suitable ways to help each child learn and achieve amazing results! Seeing my students succeed and knowing I played a part in their journey keeps me motivated.

I love spending time with my baby boy, watching him grow and discover the world. It's amazing to see life through his eyes. I also like exploring and travelling! I have participated in many Erasmus+ Youth projects and made friends from all over Europe. I like watching movies and detective TV-series on Netflix and I listen to rock and metal music, while I am a huge Disney fan! I’m a yoga lover and working out everyday helps me both physically and mentally. Namaste!

We engage students by making real-world connections through exploration and high-level questioning.

UK INQUIRY BASED LEARNING

What if schools were less about preparing students for tests and more about preparing them for a lifetime of learning?

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admissions

What if understanding and application of skill and knowledge rather than the mere acquisition of knowledge were the goal?

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What if schools took the development of students’ intellectual character as their highest calling?

learning at uk b980

What if schools prioritized social-emotional learning as much as academic subjects?

TRAINING
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