Meet our leadership team

Stefan Rumistrzewicz has led the British School of Málaga since April 2021, bringing over 22 years of experience as a Senior Leader and Headteacher in schools around the world. Before joining BSM, he guided the British School of Murcia through two successful inspections and strong growth. He is passionate about collaborative leadership, team-building and the idea that students, teachers and parents can all grow and improve together. The school’s motto, ‘Growing our Future Together,’ and its Core Values of Creativity, Aspiration, Resilience and Empathy reflect this vision. As part of the International Schools Partnership, BSM continues to flourish.

Nadia Parra is an experienced secondary school leader with extensive expertise in both the UK and Spain. She is passionate about creating inclusive and caring learning environments where every student feels valued and supported. Her goal is to deliver high-quality teaching that engages students personally, inspires them to reach their potential and nurtures creativity and lifelong learning. With a strong focus on teaching, learning and inclusion, she believes all students matter and deserve the opportunity to thrive. Nadia has delivered seminars at the Institute of Education on raising boys’ achievement and has worked to foster dynamic, supportive school cultures. She holds a Master’s in Education and is committed to continuous professional growth and shaping future-ready young leaders.

Mercedes Coffman Spencer is Head of Primary at The British School of Málaga. She moved to Málaga in 2019 and took on her current role in 2022. Originally from Guernsey and England, she qualified as a teacher in 2001 and has taught and led in a variety of schools since. She holds a Bachelor’s degree, a PGCE and a Master’s in Education, and is also a Fellow of The Chartered College of Teaching. Mercedes is deeply proud of the Primary team and believes in strong teacher-student relationships and adapting teaching to support each child’s holistic development. She is passionate about the school’s positive atmosphere and the Core Values that shape everything BSM does. She describes the school as a warm, community-oriented place with a true ‘family feel’.

Janet Legler, originally from Canada, joined The British School of Málaga in 2003 as an English teacher and became Head of Pastoral Care and Safeguarding in 2008. With a global background in education and travel, she has witnessed the school’s growth into the thriving community it is today. She believes what sets BSM apart is its genuine care for students. CARE is not just an acronym for the school’s Core Values of Creativity, Aspiration, Resilience and Empathy, but a daily practice. Ensuring students are safe and happy is her top priority, enabling them to succeed academically and grow as compassionate individuals. Through strong partnerships with local and international NGOs, BSM nurtures well-rounded, socially aware citizens. Janet is proud to be part of a school where former students often return, a testament to the lasting impact of the BSM community.

Mark Watson, originally from Lincolnshire, graduated from the University of Nottingham in 2004 with a BSc (Joint Hons) in Mathematics and Management. He began his teaching career through the UK’s Teach First programme, addressing educational disadvantage in England and Wales. After four years teaching in London, including leading a team of eight at Alec Reed Academy, he moved to Spain in 2008 to join The British School of Málaga. As Head of Mathematics and UCAS coordinator, he supported students in reaching their university goals. Now as Head of Learning and Student Progress, he focuses on delivering a diverse and engaging dual curriculum. Outside school, he enjoys sports and playing Padel.

Raúl Rico is the Director Técnico at The British School of Málaga, responsible for coordinating the Spanish Department and university access for students applying to Spanish institutions. Born in Málaga, he holds a degree in Environmental Sciences, a Master’s in Advanced Biotechnology and a Master’s in Secondary and Sixth Form Education, all from the University of Málaga. He joined BSM in 2015 as a Secondary Science teacher and has led the Dirección Técnica since 2016. Raúl supports families with ESO and Bachillerato validation and university entry, especially since the UK’s exit from the EU. Outside work, he enjoys sport, travel and time outdoors with his family.

At The British School of Málaga, Janet Legler leads safeguarding with the belief that children who feel safe are happy and successful learners. She upholds the principle that a child’s welfare is paramount and that every student has the right to be protected from harm and exploitation. Janet is committed to ensuring the welfare of all students is safeguarded, regardless of race, religion, ability, gender or culture, fostering a secure and inclusive environment for learning and growth.

Hi, I’m Miss Lianne, a primary teacher passionate about creating a safe, supportive and inspiring environment for every child.  Alongside my teaching role, I’m also the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, which means I help ensure the well-being and safety of our pupils is always a top priority.  Whether I’m in the classroom helping children grow or working behind the scenes to support their welfare, I’m dedicated to making school a happy and secure place for all.