Kirsten O'Connor's educational background includes a BA.Ed QTS in Primary Education, an M.Ed in Educational Leadership, and she holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

Kirsten was a class teacher and borough Leading Maths Teacher in Newham, London before moving to Tokyo in 2001. During her 17 years at The British School in Tokyo (BST) she was Head of Years 1 & 2, Deputy Head Teacher, and for the last six years served as Head Teacher of the Primary School. She successfully led the school through two 'Outstanding' ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) inspections.

Kirsten served as Senior Education Advisor with Clarence Education Asia (2020-2023), working on developing the educational landscape in Tokyo. Projects included the opening of Phoenix House International School in Tokyo and preparation for the opening of Rugby School Japan. Kirsten was Head of Primary at BST, when the school won BCCJ BBA Company of the Year in 2014  (British Chamber of Commerce in Japan).

Kirsten is a trained British Council Agent, and a member of both IAPS (Independent Association of Prep Schools), and the BSA (British Boarding Schools Association. She is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), and Board Member of TELL.