This school year, we are delighted to welcome five Language Assistants to our educational community! Kathrine Mae Aporo, Ava Brimley and Chalena Rudolph are joining us for the first time, while Chloe Delos Santos and Amelia Maloney are returning for another exciting year.
You will find Kathrine, Chloe and Amelia working with students in Primary and Secondary, Ava in Pre-school, and Chalena in Secondary.
Our Language Assistants are an important part of school life. They help students develop their English communication skills, build confidence and discover new ways of learning. Beyond language practice, they bring fresh perspectives, cultural experiences, creativity and enthusiasm into our classrooms, helping students connect with the wider world.
We are thrilled to have them as part of our school community and look forward to everything they will contribute this year.
But who are they? Let’s get to know them a little better!
Get to Know Our Language Assistants!
Kathrine Mae Aporo
New Language Assistant | Primary & Secondary
Mabuhay! My name is Kathrine, and I’m originally from the Philippines. I’ve been participating as a language assistant in Spain for several years while continuing my studies in education. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, cycling, reading, and exploring new places!
Ava Brimley
New Language Assistant | Pre-school
Hi! My name is Ava (pronounced like “Eva”). I’m originally from the United States, specifically Arizona. I lived in New York City for 6 years before I moved to Madrid. I love to paint watercolors, read books about philosophy, and listen to country music. I am also a certified yoga instructor!
Chloe Delos Santos
Returning Language Assistant | Primary & Secondary
Hi! I am Chloe from Melbourne, Australia and I have been in Madrid for four years. Alongside being a language assistant, I have a strong love for film, jewellery making, and cooking. It is my second year in Santa Gema, and it has been a pleasure working with the students and being part of this community.
Amelia Maloney
Returning Language Assistant | Primary & Secondary
Hi I’m Amelia! I’m from Ohio in the United States, where I grew up and went to university. Before moving to Madrid, I was a primary school teacher for 4 years. Since moving to Madrid, I’ve enjoyed traveling throughout Spain and Europe, especially the north of Spain! I love hiking, making art, and cooking.
Chalena Rudolph
New Language Assistant | Secondary
My name is Lena and I’m from Minnesota, USA. This is my fourth year living in Spain. I love the warm colors of autumn, classical music and history. My two greatest weaknesses (as my students already know) are coffee and chocolate! I’m excited to be here at Santa Gema!
Here’s to a Great Year Together!
We’re so happy to have our Language Assistants as part of our school community! We know this year will be full of shared experiences, new friendships, cultural discoveries and plenty of opportunities to learn from one another. We encourage all our students and teachers to get to know them, ask questions, share ideas and make the most of everything they bring to our classrooms.
