Efi Ioannidou is an experienced educator whose career combines a broad perspective on education with a strong connection to the everyday life of the classroom. Her professional experience includes several years at the headquarters of the Ministry of Education, where she contributes to a range of educational initiatives, before choosing to return to the school environment where she feels she can make her most meaningful contribution. As a science teacher with a particular interest in STEAM and hands-on education, she creates opportunities for pupils to investigate, experiment and learn through experience. Central to her approach is the development of transversal skills: communication, collaboration, problem-solving, adaptability and the ability to navigate differences constructively. Whether through experiential activities, classroom discussions, challenges that arise naturally among pupils, or even the creative use of break time, she sees everyday school life as an opportunity for meaningful learning.

This philosophy is particularly evident in her involvement with STEM Decathlons, where scientific thinking and problem-solving go hand in hand with teamwork. Efi places particular value on helping children learn how to work effectively with others, whether they are long-time classmates, meeting for the first time or approaching one another as competitors. Her contribution also extends well beyond her own classroom. She is actively involved in the wider life of the school, supporting events, fairs, celebrations and theatrical productions, from preparing spaces and sets to addressing technical needs. Her care for animals and the natural world is similarly expressed through action. By caring for stray cats around the school and demonstrating respect for living things in her everyday behaviour, she offers pupils an authentic example of the values she seeks to cultivate: responsibility, empathy, cooperation and respect for the world around them.