Teaching philosophy
➢ We believe in dialogue not merely teacher directed monologue when exploring themes together.
➢ Discussing thoughts and ideas on topics and then providing the children with the means of proving or disproving their theories to come up with answers on their own in exciting and interesting ways; to do this we bring in science, art and observation.
➢ We are involved and completely present in the discovering and exploring of themes, thoughts and ideas with the children. We act as a partner walking hand in hand with the child rather than merely leading them.
➢ We are continuously aware of our interactions and producing a setting that is inspiring for the children and for the teachers, thus creating a stimulating environment and beginning the journey to a lifelong love of learning.
➢ Children encounter a topic a few times, in different ways, in order to fully take it in and we strongly believe in a holistic method of teaching. Using sensory rich materials thus opting for natural products in our creative projects, theme tables and as toys; Natural products such as wood, shells, pine cones and flowers have an inspiring quality and are used in many different ways by the children, this encourages them to use their imaginations and develops thinking and problem solving skills.
➢ Movement is incorporated into our daily lessons through exercises, stretching, balance games, obstacle courses, balls/bean bag skills and during our outside time. Outdoor play is essential for a child’s development and children here are able to run freely on the playground and explore the spaces offered to them.
➢ Creating a happy, loving and safe environment in which learning through play and fun is our priority.
Rhino Class (9Months – 2 Years)
Zebra Class (2-3 Years)
Teacher Gugu
Teacher Melanie
Elephant Class (3-4 Years)
Teacher Janine Jeffries
As a mother of seven in a blended family, I have come to learn that each child is different and unique. I put God first in our family and instill values of love, kindness, honesty, respect, integrity and humility. I strive to emulate this in my classroom and to the children I have the honor of teaching.
I am passionate about teaching and over the last 6 years, I have had the privilege of educating, nurturing and equipping young minds. I love seeing them grow, develop and reach their age-appropriate milestones.
I believe that the watering of seeds that happen during the early childhood development phase of a child’s life stage is important.
As a teacher I take pleasure in being an instrumental part of this phase by nurturing the development of our future leaders of tomorrow.
“The future of the world is in my classroom today.”
(Ivan Welton Fitzwater)
Teacher Janine Jeffries
Teacher Inviolata
Giraffe Class (4-5 Years – Grade 00)
Teacher Andrea Dienst
Teacher Andrea Dienst
Since I was a young girl I have loved interacting with children younger than myself. I would design whole lessons, tests and other activities for the younger kids at church and other places. I would have them sit in ‘class’, grade their ‘tests’ and give comments on their handwriting etc. This love of guiding and growing younger children has remained a firm passion of mine. I love teaching. It gives me the opportunity to empower youngsters with the skills and knowledge that they need in order to succeed at big school and hopefully later in their lives too.
As a teacher, I strive to instil a lifelong love of learning. I aim to achieve this through fun, engaging and interactive lessons. I enjoy incorporating nature into the learning activities of the class. I try to use unique activities to pique and maintain their interest, and I actively remain present with my learners to ensure that they feel heard, appreciated and loved every single day.
Each year brings an entirely new group of individuals and therefore new challenges and relationships. I find this exciting because no two years/ classes are ever the same, but I am always filled with such adoration for each and every learner, and I am inspired by their ability to adapt, their resilience, compassion and honesty – characteristics that I try to build and maintain within myself too. We have a lot to learn from these little humans, and I feel that teaching gives me the opportunity to nurture and protect them in a way that prepares and preserves them as they grow older.
Lion Class (5-6 Years – Grade R/0)
Teacher Margie
Other Valued Staff
Teacher Phumzile
