Our Team

At CC Education Academy, Claudette serves as Head of Institution and plays several significant roles, including overseeing financial management for sustainability and quality assurance across educational programs, as well as the everyday running of the institution. She provides student support services, participates in the interview committee to recruit qualified educators, and coordinates all Inclusive Education courses. Claudette Rodgers has 28 years of extensive experience in Inclusive education, currently serving as the Head of Department for Inclusion at MEYR. She holds a local Diploma and a Master’s degree in Inclusive Education from the University of the West of Scotland, graduating with Distinction. Claudette actively tutors prospective LSEs, focusing on training from entry level to Diploma level, with particular focus on children with Social, Emotional, and Behavioural Difficulties, Autism, and ADHD. Her diverse expertise enables her to effectively mentor future educators in inclusive teaching practices.

Andrew Portelli is responsible for the administration and accounts functions at CC Education Academy, ensuring the efficient day-to-day running of the institution. He manages administrative documentation, maintains records, prepares official correspondence, and supports compliance with internal procedures. He also oversees accounts-related duties, including processing invoices, maintaining financial records, monitoring payments, and supporting budgeting and financial administration. In addition, Andrew coordinates essential behind-the-scenes operations, including office organisation, database management, quality assurance documentation, and administrative support. Through his strong organisational skills, reliability, and attention to detail, Andrew plays an important role in supporting the smooth operation and continued success of CC Education Academy.

Dr Maria Pace serves the role of Lead Programme Coordinator and Dissertation supervisor at CC Education Academy. Maria started her career in primary education, where she served as a classroom teacher. This experience laid the foundation for her passion in education. Subsequently she transitioned into the role of a nurture group teacher, a position she held for five years. This phase in her career stands out as one of the most rewarding and beautiful experiences she has had in education. Her journey then led her to become an education officer first in inclusion and more recently in wellbeing. She, also, has a passion for lecturing and research and has authored and co-authored a number of peer reviewed journal articles. Her areas of specialisation are the following: the wellbeing of children and the wellbeing of educators, emotional literacy, emotional regulation, mental health literacy and student voice. Academically she pursued studies in the field of education. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Primary Education, two Masters Degrees one in Social, Emotional, and Behavioural Difficulties (SEBD) and another in Education Leadership. She, also, holds a Doctor of Education in Children, Schools, and Families.

Neville Brincau is an experienced educator with 25 years in the field of education. He has spent the first 19 years of his career teaching Mathematics, Physics, and Science at secondary school level, and for the past six years he has served as Deputy Head at the same secondary school, where he continues to support students and staff while contributing to school leadership and development. He has also been a lecturer at Master’s level for the past two years, working across a range of subject areas and supporting educators in developing effective, evidence-informed practice. Outside of work, Neville enjoys watching films, swimming, and following his favourite football team, Manchester United.

Deo Grech is an experienced educational leader who currently serves as Head of School within Malta’s state primary education sector. He has held school leadership positions since April 2011, developing extensive experience in educational leadership, school improvement, strategic management and organisational development. He graduated from the University of Malta with a Bachelor of Education (Honours) degree in 1997 and subsequently obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership from the same university in 2013. In July 2017, he successfully completed the Leaders in Education Programme offered by the National Institute of Education in Singapore, further broadening his understanding of contemporary educational leadership within an international context. In June 2022, he was awarded a Master of Science in Leadership and Strategic Management by Triagon Academy (Malta–Germany), strengthening his academic and professional expertise in strategic leadership, organisational management and decision-making. Since October 2023, Deo Grech has also been actively engaged in higher education as a visiting lecturer and dissertation supervisor at academic institutions, including CC Education Academy. His academic work focuses primarily on educational leadership, strategic management, educational policy, organisational change and the professional development of aspiring and practising educational leaders.

Antoine Spiteri began his career in education by graduating in Inclusive Education before obtaining a Bachelor of Education (Honours) degree from the University of Malta. He later completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Assessment for Learning and graduated with Distinction with a Master of Science in Educational Leadership. His academic and professional interests focus on inclusive education, educational leadership, challenging behaviour, and the role of leaders in supporting educators and fostering positive learning environments. Alongside his professional career, Antoine has been actively involved in voluntary and community work for many years. He is one of the founding members and currently the Coordinator of LGBTI+ Gozo, where he leads initiatives centred on advocacy, outreach, and community support. He has also served as a Scout Leader for over 20 years, working primarily with the youngest sections and helping young people develop confidence, resilience, and a love for the outdoors. Outside of his professional commitments, he enjoys travelling, exploring the outdoors, and embracing new adventures.

She is a Legal Procurator practising before the Courts of Malta, where she regularly appears and provides legal representation in a wide range of proceedings. For the past four years, she has also served as one of the legal representatives of the Directorate for Child Protection, a role she holds in particularly high regard. Her professional work has given her valuable experience in matters concerning children and families, and she takes great pride in contributing to the protection and wellbeing of children. This area of practice is especially meaningful to her, as she is committed to ensuring that children’s interests, dignity, and welfare remain at the forefront of legal proceedings and decision-making.

Mr Brian Vassallo B. Psy (gen), Dip Inc Ed, MSc (uk) taught the first year of primary education at Mariam Albatool School for fourteen consecutive years. In 2014 he was assigned the role of Assistant Head of School and since 2022 he was appointed Head of School, a position he still occupies. He is a graduate in Psychology and in Inclusive Education from the University of Malta and a Masters graduate in Educational Leadership from the University of Leicester (uk). He is also a visiting lecturer at the University of Malta where he contributes within the Masters in Access to Education, the Masters in Human Rights and Democratization of Governance, and the Diploma in Inclusive Education. He has also been lecturing at CC Academy for the past 4 years. He is the author of numerous research papers published locally and in renowned international journals. His research interests include Multicultural Education, Educational Leadership, and Cultural and Disability Inclusion.

Yvette Buttigieg is a Learning Support Educator with over 30 years of professional experience in the field of inclusive education. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Inclusive Education and is currently reading for a Master's degree in Mental Health Literacy. Her academic and professional interests focus on the mental health and wellbeing of children with special educational needs, child neglect, parentification, accessibility, and inclusion. As a lecturer and tutor for the Award in Inclusive Education programme at CC Education Academy, Yvette is committed to preparing educators to embrace inclusive practices and promote equitable learning opportunities for all. Her work is driven by a strong belief that every learner deserves an environment in which they can thrive, participate fully, and reach their full potential.

Fiona Marmara is an experienced inclusive education professional with over 15 years of work supporting learners with diverse needs, including students facing social, emotional, and behavioural difficulties, as well as those at risk. She has extensive experience in Nurture Class settings, with a strong focus on emotional wellbeing, self-regulation, positive behaviour approaches, and inclusive practice in primary education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Inclusive Education and recently completed a Master by Research in Emotional Wellbeing in Inclusive Educational Contexts, with a focus on emotional wellbeing and at-risk students in primary education. Fiona also contributes as a lecturer in Inclusive Education, supporting the professional development of future Learning Support Educators. Her professional and research interests centre on creating inclusive learning environments and strengthening emotional wellbeing to support the holistic development of all learners.

Shirley Cassar has dedicated the past 21 years to working as a Learning Support Educator in a secondary school, supporting learners in reaching their full potential through inclusive and student-centred practices. Her passion for education led her to complete a bachelor’s degree in Inclusive Education, where her research focused on educators’ job satisfaction. She later pursued a master’s degree, exploring mental health and well-being—areas that are particularly close to her heart and continue to shape her professional philosophy. Currently working within the Academy as a Diploma lecturer and tutor in the Inclusive Education programme, she is committed to empowering her students, fostering their confidence, and providing the guidance and support they need to succeed both academically and personally. Shirley strongly believes that every learner deserves the opportunity to thrive in a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.

Amy Rodgers is an English language educator with a passion for helping learners develop confidence and proficiency in English. As a lecturer for the English Proficiency Course, she is committed to creating an engaging and supportive learning environment where students can strengthen their communication skills for both academic and professional success. Through interactive teaching methods and a learner-centred approach, Amy empowers students to build their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, enabling them to communicate effectively and achieve their personal and educational goals.

Justin Gerada is a Maltese educator, trainer, and lecturer with extensive experience spanning school, community, and adult education contexts. He has worked closely with diverse learners and their families through classroom teaching, private tutoring, after-school support, and adult literacy programmes. He also lectures with CC Education Academy, contributing to the Maltese Proficiency programme and the Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. He holds a Master of Education in Teaching Ethics in Schools, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Religious Education, and a Licentiate in Sacred Theology, along with undergraduate qualifications in Theology from the University of Malta. He is currently furthering his academic and professional development by reading for a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership with CC Education Academy.

Anthea Ellul has always been deeply passionate about education, with a particular aspiration to work within a classroom environment. From an early stage, she developed a strong affinity for mathematics, a subject that continues to inspire her both professionally and personally. She views teaching not simply as a career, but as a meaningful opportunity to guide and support students as they discover their own abilities and potential. Anthea recognises that mathematics is often perceived as a challenging and, at times, uninteresting subject. However, she firmly believes that with the right approach, guidance, and encouragement, it can become both accessible and enjoyable. One of her key priorities as an educator is to break down complex mathematical concepts into manageable and engaging learning experiences, helping students develop a clearer understanding and appreciation of the subject. In her role as a mathematics educator within the academy, Anthea is committed to creating a positive and supportive learning environment where students feel confident to ask questions, take risks, and grow. She places strong emphasis on nurturing problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and resilience, equipping her students with the tools they need not only to succeed academically but also to apply mathematical thinking in real-life situations. Through her dedication and student-centred approach, she strives to empower every learner to reach their full potential and develop a lasting confidence in mathematics.

Beverly Micallef serves as a Tutor and Trainee Dissertation Tutor at CC Education Academy. She brings extensive experience in education, having worked in government, church, and independent schools in both primary and secondary settings. She has held roles including classroom teacher, Assistant INCO, Form Teacher, and CCP Mentor, and has extensive experience supporting students with diverse learning needs, including those with Social, Emotional, and Behavioural Difficulties (SEBD). Beverly has contributed to initiatives such as eTwinning, Erasmus+, the Prince's Trust Achieve Programme, and Young Reporters for the Environment, supporting students in competitions, projects, and further education opportunities. Her interests include inclusive education, mental health literacy, creativity, sustainability, digital and AI literacy, financial awareness, and student wellbeing. She holds a Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Home Economics and a Diploma in Inclusive Education and is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Education specialising in Mental Health Literacy. Beverly is passionate about helping students and educators recognise their strengths and achieve their full potential.

Rita Saliba is a Deputy Head of School with over 30 years of experience in education, including eight years in educational leadership. She began her career as a primary school teacher before specialising in literacy as a Complementary Teacher, supporting children with literacy difficulties in both Maltese and English. She later coordinated the Nwar Family Literacy Programme, mentoring tutors and promoting family literacy initiatives. Rita currently leads whole-school literacy, assessment for learning, and inclusion initiatives. She also lectures in teacher education programmes, mentors student teachers during teaching practice, and supervises postgraduate dissertations. She holds a Bachelor of Education (Hons) from the University of Malta, a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Sheffield, a Postgraduate Degree in Assessment for Learning, and a Diploma in Applied Educational Leadership. Her professional interests include literacy education, educational leadership, assessment for learning, inclusive education, teacher professional development, and family engagement.

Graziella Abdilla Camilleri currently serves as Head of Department (Inclusion) for Middle and Secondary Schools, while also working within Primary education. Through these roles, she actively advocates for inclusive and supportive learning environments where every student is given the opportunity to thrive. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Facilitating Inclusive Education and is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Mental Health Literacy, further strengthening her ability to support students’ diverse academic and emotional needs. As a lecturer in the Diploma in Providing Inclusive Education, Graziella brings both professional experience and a strong commitment to promoting effective inclusive practices. She is dedicated to fostering positive, student-centred environments and supporting educators in creating meaningful learning experiences for all learners.

Claudine is a Lecturer in Inclusive Education who brings a wealth of practical experience and a deep commitment to supporting diverse learners. Alongside her lecturing role, she works directly as a nurture group teacher, providing targeted support to young learners who benefit from a more personalised and emotionally responsive approach to education. Through her work, Claudine encourages aspiring educators to adopt reflective and compassionate practices, ensuring that every student feels valued, understood, and empowered to succeed. Her dedication to inclusive education is evident in both her teaching and mentoring, as she strives to inspire others to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their learners.

Ruth Vella is a primary school teacher with varied professional experience, primarily across the Early Years and Primary sectors. She holds a Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Primary Education and has previously worked as a Learning Support Educator and Kindergarten Educator. These roles have enabled her to develop a strong understanding of inclusive education, child development, effective pedagogy, and curriculum implementation. At CC Education Academy, Ruth values the opportunity to share the knowledge and experience she has gained throughout her career with aspiring educators. She aims to encourage their professional growth and support them in becoming confident, reflective, and inclusive practitioners. She believes that teaching is not merely a profession, but a passion—an opportunity to inspire, empower, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Ms Doris Pace has a background in midwifery and nursing, with research experience in school-based health clinics. She holds a master’s degree in midwifery and a bachelor’s degree in midwifery, and currently lectures in the Early Years Diploma programme with CC Education Academy.

Rosalie Galea is a qualified Speech and Language Pathologist who graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Communication Therapy in 2017 and holds a Master's degree in Inclusive Education. She has extensive experience working in paediatric, educational, and community settings, supporting children, families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams. Rosalie has delivered training and professional development for parents and educators, completed the Hanen Programme, and has experience lecturing in higher education, supervising dissertations, and delivering COPE sessions. Her professional interests include inclusive education, language, communication and literacy development, and evidence-based practice, with a strong commitment to promoting equitable and inclusive learning environments.

Daniel is an assistant Psychologist who holds a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) and is currently reading for a Master’s degree in Mental Health Literacy. His academic interests centre on the mental health and wellbeing of children and adolescents, with a particular focus on bullying and its impact on young people. In his role as a corrections tutor with CC Academy, he is committed to supporting, guiding, and encouraging students to recognise their strengths and reach their full potential. Outside his academic pursuits, Daniel has achieved several musical certifications and currently serves as Percussion Leader with the musical group Big Friends Guggen Musik. He also enjoys hiking, gaming, and travelling.

Krista Rizzo is an educator with 19 years of experience in the field of education. She holds a Master's degree in Inclusive Education and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. Passionate about fostering inclusive learning environments, she is committed to ensuring that every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their full potential. Through her knowledge, dedication, and student-centred approach, Krista strives to promote meaningful learning experiences that enable all learners to thrive.

Priscilla Madiona is a lecturer and dissertation supervisor, bringing over ten years of teaching experience in ICT and vocational IT. She specialises in leveraging technology-enhanced learning, gamification, and AI to foster inclusive education for diverse learners. Alongside her Master’s in Vocational Education, she is a multi-talented instructor with extensive experience as a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer, a guitar teacher, and an Emergency First Response Instructor.

Shaun Fenech is a lecturer, and an Advanced Clinical Allied Health Practitioner with the Ministry of Health. He holds an MBA with Distinction, with a focus on enhancing inclusive communication and operational efficiency. Balancing his scientific and management background, Shaun is also a highly qualified PADI Master Instructor, a First Aid Instructor Trainer and Mentor.