Early Years Educator

Nurturing Curiosity, Building Futures

Early Childhood & EAL Educator | M.Ed. | IB Certified

Early Years and EAL educator with over 5 years of experience in bilingual and inquiry‑based settings, including exposure to IB PYP practices. Fluent in English, Chinese, Russian, and Latvian, and currently learning Arabic.

Kira Zotova Profile Picture

Holistic. Reflective. Lifelong Learner.

I aim to create a positive, supportive environment where children feel confident to think, explore, and share ideas. My teaching is rooted in a holistic view of the child, drawing on child psychology and inquiry‑based practices to design engaging, real‑world learning experiences (You can read more in the Teaching Portfolio section).

Student-Centered Learning

Holistic Development

Bilingual Instruction

Safe & Inclusive Environments

Creative Background

With a background in Graphic Design and Photography, I bring creativity into the classroom, ensuring learning materials are visually engaging and effective. I believe that aesthetics play a crucial role in retention and engagement, transforming standard lessons into immersive experiences.

Educator portrait with camera

Teaching Experience

A track record of fostering development in international kindergarten settings.

2015-2018; 2025 Fall semester

EAL Teacher (PK-K3)

Cambridge Red Oak Kindergarten

Designing weekly lesson plans, managing classes of 30-40 students, and facilitating English language acquisition.

2025 spring semester

EAL Homeroom Teacher in IB Class (Pre-K)

Seven Star (IB) Kindergarten

Ensured safety and well-being, taught foundational English, and managed daily routines aligned with IB standards.

2018-2020

Lead Teacher (K1-K2)

Cambridge Red Oak Kindergarten

Facilitated project-based learning and fostered strong parent-teacher relationships.

Qualifications

Highlighting my academic journey and commitment to continuous professional development.

Education

  • Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Advanced Teaching

    University of the People • 2022-2025

  • Bachelor of Arts - Chinese Language

    Xiamen University • 2010-2014

  • PGCEi

    TES Institute • Enrolling Sept 2026

Certifications

IB Workshop Cat.1 Certificate (2025)

Child Psychology for Teachers Diploma (2020)

Educational Administration & Management (2020)

TEFL Level 3 Certificate (2018)

HSK Level 5 - Chinese Proficiency

Teaching Portfolio

This portfolio shares who I am as a teacher in a visual and reflective way. It highlights the moments, ideas, and practices that shape my work with children.

Philosophical concept - abstract representation of deep thought and contemplation

My Teaching Philosophy

Creating classrooms where curiosity leads the way. Inspired by Dewey and Vygotsky, I design meaningful, hands-on, and social learning experiences for young minds.

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Professional Evidence

This section showcases a range of professional evidence, including observation reports, theme maps, IB workshop lesson planners, diplomas, certificates, and my academic transcript. Together, these documents highlight my qualifications and ongoing professional development.

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Academic & Reflective Work

This section highlights the key theories, reflections, and research that shaped my development from 2023 to 2025. It represents the academic foundation behind the way I plan, reflect, and teach.

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Beyond the Classroom

Integrating arts and creativity into education.

Core Skills

Graphic Design Professional Photography Classroom Management Lesson Planning Event Organization

Interests

Photography Soccer Music Cooking & Baking

Languages

Fluent in English, Latvian, Russian, and Chinese.

Currently learning Beginner level Arabic and Danish.

Get in Touch

Currently based in Xiamen, China. Open to full-time opportunities.