Our Staff

We believe education
changes everything...

All of our teachers and staff at the Bakhita School of Excellence are Timorese, proudly serving their own communities and shaping the future of Timor-Leste through education.

The school is led by Director Ornella Byak, who is from Australia and is the Founder of BETTER (Building East Timor Through Education/Resources) and the Bakhita School of Excellence. She lives full-time in Same and leads a passionate team of Timorese teachers and staff with care, faith, and dedication. Locally, she is affectionately known as “Ama Mutin”, meaning White Mother — a name that reflects the deep respect and love from the community she serves.

With BETTER’s ongoing support, our staff receive regular training and professional development in teaching, English, and classroom practice. Together, they combine international teaching standards with Timorese warmth and culture, creating a school where every child is supported to learn, grow, and succeed.

JOIN OUR TEAM

The Bakhita School of Excellence in Same is growing — and we are always looking for passionate, hardworking people to join our team.

We believe that education changes lives, and we are proud to be a school that is built by Timorese, for Timorese. Our staff work together with care, respect, and purpose to give every child the best chance for a brighter future.

If you are a teacher, please send:

• Your CV (Curriculum Vitae)
• A Cover Letter explaining why you want to work with us
• Your University Transcript
• Your Criminal Record Check (Rejistu Kriminal)

If you are applying as a cook, cleaner, or school administrator, please send:

• Your CV (Curriculum Vitae)
• A Cover Letter
• Any relevant qualifications or certificates

Send your application to the Director & Founder, Ornella Byak by email [email protected].