Nick Kendell is the Senior Associate for Australia and New Zealand. Nick has also taken over the organization and running of the Australasian Fair in January each year and the Bangkok Fairs, with Harry Deelman in January and March. Nick started his international teaching career in 1995, and has since worked across 3 different continents. He began at the Hong Kong International School, where he held a variety of positions in the Upper and Lower Primary schools. After spending 9 1/2 years in Hong Kong, Nick moved back to Australia to take up a Deputy Principal role at Scotch Oakburn College in Launceston, Tasmania. After 4 1/2 years in this role, Nick moved to Cairo in 2008 to become the Head of Primary at the New Cairo British International School. He completed his time in Cairo, and returned to Australia in July 2011.
Click here to see Nick speaking at the NCBIS celebration at the pyramids -
Nick and his wife Paula (also a teacher) run the Australasian Search office, and together they bring the experience of over 25 years in international schools.
With his very recent experience as a school administrator, Nick provides a unique perspective to the Search team, and is a valuable resource to both candidates and schools.
Contact Nick at nkendell@searchassociates.com or message him on Facebook. Click here to access a selection of resources designed to help you prepare for your international school journey.
Paula Kendell, Executive Office Manager
Paula Kendell brings more than 20 years of teaching experience to her role as Executive Officer with Search Associates Australia and New Zealand. Since joining Search Associates in 2011, she has drawn on her extensive international teaching background and genuine passion for helping educators embark on rewarding careers overseas. Having lived and worked internationally herself, Paula understands both the excitement and the challenges of taking that first step and is particularly passionate about supporting teachers who are new to international education.
Paula's international career began in Hong Kong, where she held a variety of teaching roles at Hong Kong International School, most recently as a Physical Education teacher working with children from Reception to Year 2. Her work with young learners led to an invitation to coordinate a four-year-old programme at a prestigious British kindergarten in Repulse Bay, an experience that further strengthened her expertise in early childhood education.
After starting a family, Paula combined her love of teaching with her entrepreneurial spirit by designing and operating her own private play school in Hong Kong for children aged 18 months to three years. The experience gave her a unique understanding of child development, family engagement and creating nurturing learning environments from the ground up.
Returning to Australia, Paula taught in Tasmania as both an Early Childhood teacher and music specialist in a school embracing the Reggio Emilia philosophy. She later returned to international education in Cairo, Egypt, where she spent three years teaching Reception in a British international school. During this time, she also contributed to the development of an Early Childhood literacy strategy, further expanding her expertise in curriculum development and early years education.
After spending the last 20 years in Tasmania, Paula now lives in Melbourne and works alongside her husband, Nick, supporting teachers and schools throughout Australia and New Zealand. Her experience across a wide range of educational settings, from international schools and early childhood programmes to running her own educational business, gives her a practical and balanced perspective on life overseas. Candidates value her honest advice, approachable nature and willingness to share the lessons she has learned throughout her own international journey. Whether working with experienced educators or helping first-time international teachers navigate the recruitment process, Paula is committed to ensuring every candidate feels informed, supported and confident as they take the next step in their career.
Email: pkendell@searchassociates.com
Mobile: 0459222157
Anne Deegan, Executive Assistant
Anne Deegan joined Search Associates Australia and New Zealand as Executive Assistant in 2026, bringing with her nearly 30 years of experience in Australian primary education. Throughout her career, Anne has been passionate about supporting both students and educators, earning a reputation for her collaborative approach, practical knowledge and genuine commitment to helping others succeed.
Anne spent many years teaching in primary schools before establishing her own training business, which she has successfully operated for the past 15 years. Through this work, she has designed and delivered professional development programs for teacher aides, equipping education support staff with the skills, confidence and knowledge to make a meaningful contribution in the classroom. Her work has reinforced her strong belief that learning never stops and that investing in the professional growth of educators ultimately benefits every child.
Having worked exclusively within the Australian education system, Anne brings a deep understanding of Australian schools and the experiences of teachers considering the move to international education. She appreciates that deciding to teach overseas is a significant step and enjoys supporting candidates as they explore new opportunities and prepare for the next stage of their careers. Her calm, encouraging nature and attention to detail help candidates feel supported and confident throughout the recruitment process.
Anne is married with three adult children and enjoys travelling, reading, tackling cryptic crosswords and spending time immersed in nature whenever she can. Her warmth, professionalism and extensive educational experience make her a valued member of the Search Associates team, and she takes great satisfaction in helping teachers discover the many rewarding opportunities that international education can offer.
Email: adeegan29@gmail.com
Deidre Fischer, Executive Assistant
Deidre Fischer brings a distinguished career in international education spanning leadership, school improvement and educational consultancy across Asia. As a former Head of Pre-School to Grade 12 international schools, she has spent decades working with students, educators, school leaders and governing boards to strengthen teaching, learning and organisational effectiveness. Her extensive international experience and practical leadership make her a highly respected advisor to schools and educators alike.
Throughout her career, Deidre has held senior leadership positions including Director of the International School of Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia, Superintendent of Cebu International School in the Philippines, and Interim Head of Bali International School in Indonesia. In addition to these leadership roles, she has worked extensively throughout the region, living and consulting in countries including Cambodia, Japan, Thailand, India, China, Hong Kong, Brunei, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore. This breadth of experience has given her a deep understanding of the diverse cultures, educational systems and leadership challenges that shape international schools.
Passionate about improving student learning, Deidre works closely with school boards, leadership teams, teachers and support staff to build high-performing learning communities. Her consultancy combines data-informed decision making with practical, collaborative strategies that schools can implement immediately. Whether conducting statistical analysis, facilitating strategic planning or leading professional learning workshops, her focus is always on helping schools build capacity from within and create environments where both educators and students can thrive.
At the heart of Deidre's work is a simple but powerful philosophy: "Find ways to connect with your people and help them reach their potential." Inspired by Megan Tschannen-Moran's Trust Matters: Leadership for Successful Schools, she believes that strong relationships, trust and shared purpose are the foundations of successful schools. Her commitment to supporting effective learning environments for all students continues to guide her work with Search Associates, where she draws on her exceptional international experience to support schools and educators in achieving their goals.
Email: dfischer@searchassociates.com
Chris Green, Educational Consultant
Chris brings more than 30 years of experience in international education to her role as an Educational Consultant with Search Associates. An accomplished educator, school leader and consultant, she has dedicated her career to helping schools build outstanding learning communities while supporting teachers to thrive in diverse international settings. With a particular passion for intercultural competency and global education, Chris offers candidates a wealth of practical knowledge gained from decades of leadership across multiple continents.
Throughout her career, Chris has worked in a wide range of international schools, from small start-up schools with fewer than 100 students to well-established schools serving more than 2,000 learners. Her experience spans both proprietary and not-for-profit schools, giving her a broad understanding of the many different models of international education. A teacher of economics, social studies and English language acquisition, she has also held numerous middle and senior leadership positions, including Principal, Interim Head of School and Executive Board Chair.
Chris has lived, taught and led held leadership positions in schools in Australia, Kuwait, Sudan, Cambodia, China, Mozambique, Jamaica and Thailand. Her leadership appointments have included Principal roles at the International School of Beijing and at the American International School of Kingston in Jamaica, Interim Head of School at the Aga Khan Academy Maputo in Mozambique, and middle leadership roles at Khartoum American School in Sudan. These experiences have provided her with a deep appreciation of the opportunities and challenges that come with living and working internationally.
In addition to her school leadership roles, Chris has worked as an educational consultant, supporting schools through accreditation and authorisation processes and facilitating professional learning in intercultural competency, global citizenship and competency-based assessment. Her work has focused on helping schools strengthen teaching and learning while fostering inclusive, internationally minded communities.
Having recruited teachers throughout her leadership career, Chris understands what schools are looking for and what makes candidates stand out. She brings the unique perspective of both an experienced recruiter and international educator, providing thoughtful guidance to teachers as they navigate the international recruitment process. Her extensive leadership experience, commitment to educational excellence and passion for developing globally minded educators make her an invaluable member of the Search Associates team.
Email: chrismickgreen@gmail.com
Mick Green, Educational Consultant
Mick Green brings more than 30 years of international teaching experience to his role as an Educational Consultant with Search Associates. A passionate classroom teacher throughout his career, Mick understands firsthand the opportunities, challenges and rewards of teaching overseas. His own international journey, which began in the late 1980s, continues to shape the practical advice and encouragement he offers teachers considering a move abroad.
After beginning his teaching career in Australia, Mick accepted his first international teaching position, expecting to spend only a few years overseas before returning home. Instead, he discovered a career and lifestyle that would take him around the world for more than three decades. He has lived and worked in Australia, Kuwait, Sudan, China, Mozambique, Jamaica, Cambodia and Thailand, building a rich understanding of the diverse cultures and educational communities that make international schools so unique.
An experienced International Baccalaureate educator, Mick spent much of his career teaching IB Diploma Programme Economics and is a strong advocate for the philosophy and programmes of the International Baccalaureate. Throughout his teaching career, he remained committed to the classroom, believing that meaningful relationships with students are at the heart of great education. His contributions extended beyond teaching, including establishing an alumni programme that helped former students remain connected to one of his international schools long after graduation.
Mick has experienced the Search Associates recruitment process from the candidate's perspective, attending the Search Cambridge Fair in the United States, where he secured a position at the International School of Beijing. That experience reinforced his belief in the value of Search Associates and the opportunities it creates for educators seeking international careers.
Today, Mick is a passionate advocate for teachers and school leaders who are considering taking the leap into international education. He understands the questions, uncertainties and excitement that accompany such a significant decision because he has lived that journey himself. More than 30 years after leaving Australia, he still considers accepting that first international teaching position to be one of the best decisions of his life. The lifelong friendships, professional relationships and experiences he has gained continue to shape his belief that international education offers extraordinary opportunities for both personal and professional growth.
Email: chrismickgreen@gmail.com
Maree Patterson, Administrative Support
Maree Patterson is an important member of the Search Associates Australia and New Zealand team, providing administrative support to both candidates and staff. Based in Melbourne, she plays a key role behind the scenes, helping ensure that applications are processed efficiently and that candidates receive a smooth and professional experience from their very first interaction with Search Associates.
Before joining Search Associates, Maree worked in schools and government departments in Tasmania, gaining valuable experience in education and administration. Her strong organisational skills, attention to detail and commitment to providing excellent service have made her a valued member of the team.
One of Maree's primary responsibilities is reviewing new candidate applications to ensure they are complete and ready to progress through the registration process. She also provides administrative support at Search Associates job fairs, assisting with the many behind-the-scenes tasks that help these events run smoothly for both candidates and recruiters.
Friendly, approachable and highly organised, Maree enjoys helping educators take the next step in their international careers. Her efficiency and willingness to assist make her an invaluable part of the Search Associates Australia and New Zealand office, helping to ensure candidates receive timely support throughout their recruitment journey.
Email: mpatterson@searchassociates.com
"I just wanted to thank Nick, Paula and the rest of your team for all the work you do at Search Associates. We are having such a wonderful experience in Vietnam and this would not have been possible if it weren't for you, your team and the great network and service that Search Associates provides. Living and working abroad continues to open up many new opportunities and gives us such wonderful experiences that we are very grateful for." - Brandon
"This is a thank you note Search Associates and specifically, a 'you are amazing note' for Nick Kendell. I would like to say that, from the very first time I spoke to Nick which was in between flights on his way back from Cairo ( he had had not even reach Australian soil), he was gentleman of his word, he was sincere, and had great integrity and professionalism. Nick replied to my many, many, many questions both quickly and with great detail. I had already investigated time and effort into collecting information about different international school programs. Also researching how some of the contracts worked but I need to say I really had only just touched on the tip of the iceberg. Nick is a wealth of information about all those little things that add up and he fills in many of the blanks. I was concerned about being able to secure a position because this was my first time in the "circuit", but Nick kept reassuring me that everything would be fine and that the "right" position would come along. His was very helpful with continuous positive and informative feedback on the choices that I was making. While in Sydney to attend the Search information session and have my interview, Nick was informative, friendly, down to earth and made me feel comfortable. The informational session was very explanatory and it was a nice way to meet other teachers that are also looking at international positions. Nick also made the interview process unintimidating and an affirming experience. It is hard to express how grateful for all of Nick's efforts and I believe he truly gives a service that is above and beyond the call of the role. If I was to apply for another position again my first choice would be Search Associates, so thanks to the Nick for making my first international school position a smooth and pleasant one, I am now looking forward to my new job in Shanghai in January." - May
"You may be asking yourself the question, why use Search Associates and how can Nick Kendall help? Our answer would be, why wouldn't you? Nick has been such a friendly and amazing associate to work with over the past few months. He has been a positive force behind us securing amazing positions in a fabulous international school. From the first moment of meeting Nick, we were confident that he knew what he was doing. He has the experience and knows the international school scene very well. What has impressed us the most is his regular and open communication where he is always ready to answer questions, support and be optimistic. We would definitely love to work with Nick again and we wouldn't hesitate in recommending him!"
"Nick Kendell is a high-quality Search Associate. His incredibly professional work ethic ensures he responds quickly to emails, phone calls and at the Sydney Fair, he worked overtime to listen to and advise candidates. He paid close attention to my individual needs and offered objective and honest feedback. Since the Fair, he has maintained regular contact with me and been available to give advice at the drop of a hat. My wife and I are very appreciative of Nick and have highly recommended Search Associates to colleagues wishing to teach internationally." - Derek
"Thank you so much for your great advice and tips. I will definitely take them on board as I know I will be embracing change and challenging myself to the fullest. I want to say a huge thank you to you personally and to Search Associates for the personal touch that you have shown me .Thanks for going the extra mile. Your support has been fantastic no matter how trivial my questions have been. I have appreciated it! I will always recommend Search Associates highly to anyone interested in teaching overseas." - Joanne
"The whole experience of registering with Search Associates has been very professional and rewarding. Once 'Active', a world of possibilities opened up and I was able to find a position that matched my interests and experience. The web site was easy to use - but demanded a thorough presentation of my credentials. As a platform for finding positions in the international arena - it was excellent" - Bill
