ELIS Murcia embodies a nurturing learning community, led by a team of dedicated and passionate professionals
Meet our Senior Leadership Team
Vanessa Grimward
Executive Principal ELIS Cognita
Vanessa Grimward was appointed Executive Principal of ELIS Murcia and ELIS Villamartín in September 2023 having previously held a variety of leadership roles at ELIS Murcia. Vanessa works closely with the Headteachers of the ELIS schools to support strategic developments and the sharing of best practice across the ELIS Cognita community. In addition, from September 2026, Vanessa assumes a new responsibility providing strategic guidance to the new Headteacher at The English Montessori School (TEMS) in Madrid.
She holds a First-Class Honours degree from the University of Southampton and a Masters in Educational Leadership from the University of Buckingham.
Vanessa is passionate about ensuring staff at her schools have high expectations of themselves and for their students, and they are committed to offering a top quality educational experience to all students and families.
She is a Council of International Schools (CIS) accredited evaluator and is a qualified National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS) Inspector.
Lealand Pearce
Headteacher
Lealand Pearce has served as Headteacher of ELIS Murcia since September 2026, leading the school's strategic direction while overseeing both its academic excellence and pastoral vision.
Prior to his appointment as Headteacher, Lealand was Head of Upper School from August 2023 to the summer of 2026, steering the academic and pastoral development of pupils from Years 7 to 13. He joined ELIS Murcia with a distinguished background as Deputy Head at Harrow Bangkok and a history of leadership roles in renowned UK independent schools. In addition, he chairs the education committee at one of the UK's leading teaching and learning institutions.
Lealand holds a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from the University of Leicester and a Bachelor of Science in International Logistics and Advanced Operations Management. His unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy and advanced intervention is reflected in his continued role as a trainer for the world's foremost suicide intervention organisation.
María Dios Zetterlind
Deputy Head
María Dios has been part of the ELIS Murcia family practically since its foundation, so her extensive and brilliant professional career in the school has always been linked to an unquestionable commitment and dedication that has allowed her to take on numerous responsibilities. This journey began as a teacher, progressing through her role as Head of Early Years and then Head of Lower School (Infant and Primary) and currently serving as the Deputy Head.
Since those early days, the school has evolved in line with societal changes, leading her to recognise the need to continue learning to acquire new skills associated with new challenges, such as taking on leadership roles and implementing values associated with Global Citizenship.
Her work ethic and character have earned her the respect of the entire educational community, especially with parents, with whom she has always had an exceptional and fruitful dialogue for the benefit of families and the school itself.
María Dios holds a degree in Primary Education with a specialisation in English as a foreign language, a master’s degree in Speech Therapy, and a Master´s Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Buckingham.
Yanalie Stevens
Head of Lower School
Yanalie joined ELIS Murcia in 2003 and has since been an integral part of the school's educational community. Her commitment to excellence and her ability to inspire both students and colleagues have earned her numerous leadership roles within the school. Yanalie's commitment to education is underscored by her academic achievements. She holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and a master’s degree in education, both of which she earned from the University of Nottingham. Over the years, Yanalie has worn many hats within the school. She has served as a class teacher, in positions ranging from Year 2 to Year 6. Her versatile skill set has also seen her take on significant responsibilities, including coordinating the English department and serving as the coordinator for both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.
This multifaceted experience has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape. She is dedicated to ensuring the continued growth and success of the school's Lower School section.
Stefania Pimblett
Interim Head of Upper School
Stefania Pimblett has served as Interim Head of Upper School since September 2026, in addition to her existing responsibilities as the school's Safeguarding Lead and SENCo.
She brought a wealth of experience to the school upon her arrival, having worked in the UK and the Middle East. Stefania is a leading thinker in the field of advanced student support and intervention, always willing to help both staff and students.
Stefania holds a Master's in Special Educational Needs and Disability, which includes the NASENCO qualification (National Qualification for Special Educational Needs Coordinators).
Her dedication and expertise make her an invaluable member of the school community, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of students.
Jose Antonio García
Business Manager
Having a degree in Business Management and Administration, Jose started working at El Limonar International School Murcia in 2008, coinciding with the acquisition of the school by the Cognita Group. Previously, Jose held roles both in Controlling and Management in a variety of different sectors including construction, the chemical industry and Human Resources.
Working at El Limonar International School Murcia has provided Jose with the opportunity to learn about the educational sector, a sector which has such great importance in our lives, and it is indeed during these years that Jose has developed his career with the greatest satisfaction.
Together with the rest of the Senior Leadership Team, Jose works hard to achieve constant improvements to the school’s offer, allowing students to enjoy the very best facilities and the latest technology in their educational experience.
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