Coming from Gibraltar – a small British territory in the south of Spain, Youssef was exposed to vibrant, diverse and historically rich cultures and outlooks from a very young age. His ability to speak four languages allowed him to develop a deeper understanding of people and facilitated his ability to effectively communicate with young people and adults alike. Transcending language, cultural and religious barriers. 

Surviving cancer at the tender age of 3, Youssef became consumed by focus and intrigue with the world of science and medicine. This led him down an interesting path in higher education, initially a BSc. in Biomedical Science followed by an MSc. in Cancer Biology. Youssef was determined to discover the depths of this disease through research and experimentation. He remains an avid researcher and hopes one day to complete a PhD in cancer research. 

Throughout this time, Youssef was involved in STEM outreach education and widening participation for young people across London. An experience that further ignited a love for teaching that had been established many years before through teaching languages as a young student. His activities in supporting, teaching and guiding students in secondary and higher education led to him completing a PGCE in Secondary Science and this is where his official journey as an educator began. Almost 7 years later Youssef has worked in mainstream education as well as in alternative provision school. Developing a wealth of knowledge and experience of both academic and pastoral needs of young people. Designing inclusive curriculums and introducing young people to a global and plural world with endless opportunities for those who dare. 

Seeking knowledge has always been a driving force for Youssef. As the first in his family to attend university, he was determined to be a role model and example for generations of young people to come. Therefore, in addressing this love for education, Youssef went on to study another masters and this time it was an MSc. in International Relations. His interest in how politics plays a significant role in many if not all of our day-to-day activities was enough to push him into formal academic study in this field. All this while he was teaching his beloved Science subjects. 

This ample and diverse education he had undertaken allowed Youssef to engage, motivate and teach many subjects at his last school. Citizenship, Biology, Chemistry and Spanish are but a few. Nonetheless, what these varied subjects taught him was that in educating young people, every subject plays a pivotal role. This intertwined with transferable knowledge between all is key in shaping our future generations of rational, eco-friendly and diverse young leaders and thinkers of tomorrow. 

📧 youssef.elhana@sophiahigh.school