Vivia Xu
Executive Principal
Vivia Xu has a BSc from Shanghai Normal University, a PGCE from the University of Sunderland, UK, and an MPA in Public Administration from East China Normal University. She has been involved in the founding of several prestigious schools, holding teaching and management positions. She is a pioneer of integrated curriculum education.
Over the past ten years, she has persistently studied Chinese and international educational theories and actively practised them on the frontline of education and teaching, developing a unique understanding of the integrated curriculum. Principal Vivia Xu has extensive experience in integrated curriculum development and is familiar with teaching strategies such as bilingualism, co-operative teaching and inquiry-based learning, as well as having extensive experience in teacher training.
“Education shapes futures and changes lives. Education is an immersive and interactive process in which students explore new ideas and ways of thinking, and discover their own unique skills and interests.”
—Vivia Xu
Dr Natalie J. Pitre
Head of Primary School
Dr Natalie J. Pitre, is an excellent teacher and leader in K-12 education and adult education with more than 20 years of experience and has worked in China for over 9 years. She has also been an educator and leader in Canada, Egypt, The United Arab Emirates, Japan, and Papua New Guinea. She has a Doctorate in Educational Leadership K-12 with a focus on international education, a Master’s Degree in Language Education, a K-12 teaching qualification, and holds an Ontario Principals’ qualification. She is also an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at Queen’s University in Ontario, Canada and has been working there for over 8 years. Dr Natalie Pitre has served as an Academic Quality Manager of IB, AP and A-Level programs and Deputy Director of teacher training and course development in Dipont, Shanghai. Before joining Chengdu Dipont KCS, Ms. Natalie Pitre also served as a leader in Shanghai Soong Ching Ling School and Vanke DTD School and has a passion for cross-cultural learning.
“As an educator and leader, I believe in learning for all and the importance of creating a school environment that is welcoming, safe, inclusive, culturally responsive, and where every person feels a sense of belonging. Building relationships and establishing trust amongst one another is essential to strive towards continuous school improvement. The growth and success of every child and member of our school community matters and it is my role as a leader to ensure conditions are in place to maximize potential in all of us. I am an advocate of developing collective teacher efficacy and the desire to support teachers to learn with and from one another, learn how to use data to inform instructional decision making, and be able to recognize our impact on student progress and growth. It is my role to model the importance of being a learner and lead students and staff to cultivate a love of learning together at school, in the communities where we live, and in the world around us.”
—Dr Natalie J. Pitre
