Michele Costabile - Maths and Physics Teacher

My path to the classroom is one built on a foundation of engineering, international experience, and a family legacy of teaching. I graduated in Environmental Engineering from the University of Padova in Italy. I then spent over a decade as a consultant, specialising in waste management and occupational health and safety.

Fifteen years ago, my curiosity took me to Perth, Australia, for a postgraduate degree in Professional Engineering. This adventure led me to a unique role as a consultant for a mining company in the remote town of Broome. It was a challenging and eye-opening experience that taught me the value of applying scientific principles in diverse environments.

However, a pivotal moment came when I began tutoring mathematics and science at a local secondary school. I immediately discovered a profound sense of inspiration. Perhaps it was in my blood, as both my parents are retired teachers of mathematics and physics. I realised that sharing knowledge and igniting curiosity in young minds was my true calling.

I decided to return to Europe to pursue a formal teaching qualification in the UK. After a rewarding first year in London, I embraced the opportunity to teach internationally. My journey has taken me to inspiring IB schools in Switzerland and the Czech Republic, allowing me to work with wonderful students from all over the world.

Now, I am delighted to be in my second year in Russia. After a great experience in Moscow, I am truly excited to be in Saint Petersburg—a city whose soul I have long admired through the pages of its legendary writers.

I believe my background brings a practical, global perspective to the classroom. My goal is not only to teach mathematics and physics but to show how these subjects are powerful tools for understanding and shaping the world.

I look forward to collaborating with my students, making them enthusiastic learners, and together, building a dynamic and supportive classroom environment here at ISSPb.