With a career shaped by international experience and a deep commitment to student guidance, Edel Rio Tinto, Head of Careers and Student Pathways, brings passion, insight, and expertise to supporting students’ futures at Bangkok Prep.From her early teaching journey in rural Japan to leading comprehensive careers programmes and counselling pathways, Edel is dedicated to helping students explore their aspirations and make informed choices beyond the classroom.In this Meet our Teachers feature, she shares the experiences that inspired her career, what she values most in her current role, and how life in Bangkok continues to inspire her both professionally and personally. What inspired you to begin your journey in teaching?After a year in marketing, a chance encounter with a book about teaching abroad led me to a teaching job in Akita, Japan. My time teaching in rural high schools there was so rewarding that I knew I wanted to make education my career. I returned to Ireland to train specifically as a Business and Accounting teacher. That shift took place 18 years ago; it remains the best career decision I’ve ever made, and I’ve never looked back. What led you to transition from teaching into counselling?My transition into counselling was less of a calculated career move and more of a natural evolution. When the Head of Careers retired at my previous school, I stepped forward to lead the program for 1,600 students, drawing on my extensive experience within the Sixth Form.This role sparked a deeper interest in student development, leading me to earn a Postgraduate qualification in Career Leadership from Warwick University. While I initially intended to balance teaching Business with department leadership, the students’ needs shifted my focus; their frequent requests for deeper guidance inspired me to ensure I could provide the highest standard of support. This led me to complete a degree in Career Advice and Guidance, eventually bringing my expertise to the community here at Bangkok Prep. What do you enjoy most about your current role?One of the highlights of my work is listening to our students share their dreams for the future. Building relationships that go beyond grades allows me to offer truly tailored advice for their next steps. My role is to be a partner for parents and students as they navigate curriculum pathways and the fast-moving world of global university admissions. Whether I’m developing PSHE lessons or organising our careers events, my goal is to make career exploration engaging.The support from our community for initiatives like 'Take Your Child to Work Day' has been wonderful, giving our younger students a fantastic head start in exploring the world of work What do you enjoy doing outside of work?My favourite way to spend the weekend is exploring with my family & friends, visiting museums like Futurium, enjoying park walks, and tasting our way through the city's restaurants. During school breaks, we love to travel internationally to see new countries and visit family. I really enjoy living in Bangkok and I don’t think I will ever get to the end of my must see & do list!
