Personal Educational Philosophy
"I believe that pre-school education should be about creativity - teachers using their creativity in providing imaginative and motivating learning opportunities, in a challenging and stimulating environment, so that children are encouraged and supported in becoming spontaneous, divergent and enthusiastic learners.

Giving children an age-appropriate and extending education will provide them with facts and information which can then be transferred and used in new and exciting ways.
An early learning environment like this will equip children not only for formal education but will instill lifelong learning as they acquire skills, knowledge and attitudes."

Barbie and St Martin's
"It is a privilege and pleasure to lead a team of professionals who see working in this School as a vocation and a ministry, not merely as a job.
I value their understanding that St Martin's is an educational institution; that whilst we nurture the children in our care, our primary aim is to enhance and extend their all-round development - socially, emotionally, physically, intellectually, aesthetically and spiritually.
I so enjoy the laughter and the fun we share as we work together with commitment, dedication and responsibility to the benefit of the children.
St Martin's is a loving, caring and affirming environment in which each individual is respected and valued - both the big people and the little people!
Because of this I love to come to School each day ...."

Training and Experience
Barbie has a number of educational diplomas including a Diploma in Education for the Pre-Primary School, a Higher Diploma in Education for the Senior Primary School and a Further Diploma in Education - these allow for specialist training in pre-primary education as well as remedial education and guidance and counselling. She has also completed numerous phase-related certificates.

Barbie began her teaching career at St Martin's Pre-Primary School, she then moved to Pietermaritzburg at the behest of the Natal Education Department to work at Tee See Pre-Primary, the school attached to the then Natal College of Education. Barbie opened one of the inaugural, flagship Reception Classes at Model Junior Primary in the mid-80's. She then returned to Durban, on promotion, as Head of Department to Berea West Pre-Primary School and joined St Martin's Pre-Primary School as the Principal in 1987.
Barbie especially values the experience she had in serving on the NED Syllabus Committee for many years; being involved in writing the curriculum for the Grade R/School Readiness Class, "The Learning Through Activity Programme", was a highlight of this time, as was offering related workshops around the province and country.

She continues to be involved in curriculum development and teacher-upgrade.

Interests and Hobbies
"I am a golfer (keen but frightful!) and a voracious reader. I also enjoy becoming absorbed in the magical world of movies .... And I volunteer at Habitat For Humanity, building homes (actually laying blocks!) for the under-privileged.
Otherwise, it has to be said that I have a severe case of sublimation and St Martin's is my passion!"

Significant Events/Achievements
"Becoming a Principal!
Winning the Bronze Division (Matchplay and Strokeplay) of the Natal Ladies' Golf Championships on a number of occasions.
Co-authoring "A Basic Reception Class Certificate Course". This is a teacher's training certificate course for the Foundation Phase. It has been offered, in various guises (!) and at various times by ACCESS Distance College, a subsidiary of Shuter and Shooter; the South African College for Teacher Education/SACTE and UNISA. It presently forms part of a course being offered by the University of Natal (Pietermaritzburg)."

Personal Educational Philosophy
"I look at a child and I see a rainbow of colours shining out from that child. Some colours shine brighter than others, some shine further than others but every colour is there. My endeavour is to take every colour coming from a child and to nurture him/her, challenge him/her, love him/her until all the colours shine brightly and as far out as they possibly can. It is so easy for a colour to fade into black but I long to hold a child in my heart, in my hand and allow that child to shine, shine, shine!"

Michelle and St Martin's
"God is so evident in everything we do a St Martin's. There is a sense of peace surrounding St Martin's that really stands out to me. While the children run explore and discover things in the world and build friendships, they are cloaked with a very precious love from the teachers and enveloped by peacefulness.
St Martin's is a beautiful school filled with imagination, resources, children's laughter and teachers dedicated to the children in their care."

Training and Experience
Michelle set out to do a one year certificate in pre-school teaching with Train-A-Child College but quickly realised the benefits of further training. She went on to complete a B Prim Ed degree specialising in the Foundation Phase through Embury Education and Training Centre. Michelle's training included practical experience at Wonderland Pre-School, Addington Primary School, Clarence Road Primary School and Chelsea Prep (Northway Campus).
Michelle joined the St Martin's staff in January 2004.

Interests and Hobbies
"I am very involved with activities at my Church (Church on Florida), such as Children's Church. I love to worship God and creative activities allow me to do that.
I thoroughly enjoy reading as well as writing, as this is another vehicle of expression.
But my heart truly lies with children. There is something inside of me that draws me and links me to them, it is quite inexplicable! My interest lies in the heart of a child."

Significant Events/Achievements
"To date, I would say that the day God called out my name, when I answered and He took me into His loving arms, would be the most significant event in my entire life. Somehow I don't think anything can or will surpass that for me!
Gaining my degree has really been so important to me. There has been so much "blood, sweat and tears" (many tears!) put into the very substance of my degree so it is a very, very great achievement for me.
My wedding was a very special day for me and has changed my entire life! Being married is interesting and fun. And of course the birth of my child, Joseph, in 2008. The most incredible part was when I first held him in my arms."

Personal Educational Philosophy
“I believe that the pre-primary years are the most significant years of a child’s development.  In Proverbs 22:6 it says; ‘Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.’  It is my desire to allow God to capture their hearts while they are still young and impressionable so that even when they are old, they will not turn from Him.
During the pre-school years, foundations are laid, imaginations are stretched and discovery takes place.  All of life’s learning will be built upon these foundations. It is, therefore, so important that strong foundations be built.”

Nikki and St Martin's
“It is a great privilege to be a part of a school as highly esteemed as St Martins Pre-Primary School and of a dedicated, loving and knowledgeable staff that have the love of God shining out of them.  I look forward to impacting the lives of the children around me and learning from the Principal, staff and children at the same time.”

Training and Experience
Nikki is has completed 2 years of her B Ed Degree (Foundation Phase) through Embury Institute for Teacher Education and is currently completing her Degree through UNISA via correspondence. Nikki had insightful teaching experience at Wonderland Pre-Primary School and Embury College in 2009 and during 2010 Nikki was privileged to gain teaching experience at Rosehill Primary School and Livingstone.
Nikki has also achieved a certificate in Child and Infant First Aid and CPR.

Interests and Hobbies
“I enjoy cooking, travelling, entertaining and photography in my spare time, but my passion is children. My involvement in my church and youth group is a passion of mine and I love imparting into the girls in my cell group.”

Significant Events/Achievements
Becoming a Christian!
Being appointed as a mentor and a peer counsellor during my senior years of high school.
Being offered the opportunity to work at St Martin’s!
Becoming a Sunday school teacher, youth leader, cell group leader and church deacon.
Completing a five day hike through the Transkei!

Personal Educational Philosophy
"Pre-primary education is the foundation for any future learning. I feel that it is of the utmost importance that children are offered the most learning opportunities possible during these years, in order for them to develop to their full potential."

Melany and St Martin's
"I feel extremely blessed to be a part of the St Martin's staff. When joining the "team" at the beginning of 2006 , I was welcomed with opened arms. The teachers' knowledge, dedication and years of experience continually inspire me and the loving care given to the children warms my heart daily. Seeing God's hand over this wonderful School is a true reflection of the staff's commitment to regular prayer meetings and Barbie's Godly leadership. I look forward to going to work as I am learning so much and growing as a teacher."

Training and Experience
"After completing Matric, I obtained a diploma in Public Relations. I then travelled to America where I spent 3 months working in a Summer Camp as a counsellor. During this period, I realised my passion was to work with children and returned to South Africa to study teaching. I obtained a diploma in Montessori teaching and am currently studying towards my B Ed (Foundation Phase) Degree through UNISA."
Melany commenced her St Martin's career in 2006.

Interests and Hobbies
"I am an outdoors, outgoing person who enjoys my family and friends. During the summer months, I love spending time at the beach where I can relax and re-charge my batteries."

Significant Events/Achievements
"My biggest achievement was playing hockey for KZN in high school. I have also swum the Midmar Mile 3 times. The most significant moments in my life were my wedding day and the day my beautiful daughter was born. God has blessed me with a fantastic, fun-loving husband who I married in March 2004. Six months later; I was ecstatic to have fallen pregnant and gave birth to my gorgeous, darling daughter on the 30 June 2005. Donovan and Michayla are such blessings in my life and I praise God daily for giving them to me. "

Personal Education Philosophy
"Pre-primary education is all about learning through play and having lots of fun while experiencing different educational opportunities. The teacher carefully plans and structures these so that the children can learn in an exciting way."

Lungie and St Martin's
"It is a great honour for me to be a part of the St Martin's team. I enjoy working with these very caring and supportive women. I have learned so much from them. I am so pleased that I am able to teach isiZulu at St Martin's - it will be valuable for these children to be able to communicate in another language when they are older."

Training and Experience
"I have an Early Childhood Certificate and I am studying for my Early Childhood Development Diploma. I began my teaching career at Asisebenze Crêche, teaching the Grade R Class, then from, 2002 - 2007, I taught the Grade R Class at Mbozama Primary."
Lungie joined the St Martin's team in 2008.

Interests and Hobbies
"I am a gospel singer and I love singing. I also enjoy reading."

Significant Events/Achievements
"I love my two children, Andiswa (born 2000), and S'qiniseko (born 2008).
To be a part of the St Martin's team. Graduating and receiving my ECD Certificate."

Personal Educational Philosophy
“I think that teachers play such an important role in nurturing the intellectual and social development of children during their influential years.  The education that teachers pass on plays a key role in determining the future prospects of the children in their classes.  I believe that teachers should provide the tools and the environment for their children to develop into responsible adults.”

Kate and St Martin’s
“It has been amazing to come into a work team and feel like part of a family.  I love teaching, children, being creative and I love having fun – what more could one ask for!  It is a blessing to be a part of this wonderful place and I am excited about my future at St Martin’s.”

Training and Experience
Kate has a Diploma in Pre-School Education and completed her Bachelor of Education degree through Unisa in 2008.
She came to St Martin’s in July 2008.

Interest and Hobbies
“I love spending time with people! I like reading and watching movies. I also value being involved with those less fortunate than myself - I visit an orphanage and welcome my participation with these children.”

Significant Events/Achievements
“Completing my teaching degree!
I did an underwater diving course which is huge as I am quite afraid of the deep, dark sea – but I did it and I even did a dive with 20 sharks which was out of this world!”

Personal Educational Philosophy
“The pre-primary environment is one in which children begin learning valuable life lessons in forming relationships. They learn sharing, loving and tolerance towards others’ behaviours.  This is where they grow not only physically but also emotionally and spiritually.  And most importantly, they begin the process of intellectual development as they start discovering the knowledge, skills and attitudes that will influence their on-going education.”

Tiny and St Martins
“I enjoy being a part of the St Martin’s team.  We learn from each other and share in the experience of educating the children in our care.  Our relationship is fruitful and purposeful but also with many a laugh.”

Training and Experience
“I studied part-time through Intec College and obtained an Early Childhood Certificate.  Before coming to St Martin’s in 2011, I was employed in a nursery school for six years, the last three of those teaching the 2–3 year old children.”

Interests and Hobbies
“For me there is no greater joy than spending quality time with my two boys, Andile (Born 1999)and Wandile (Born 2001).  I love being involved in their development and growth and share in their joy of achievement.  I am also a member of a group of ladies from Church that meet every Tuesday evening for praise and worship.  For a little ‘me’ time, a good book or comical movie does it.”

Significant Events/Achievements
“I began my working career as a domestic assistant in a nursery school.  With determination, passion, hard work, and prayers, I obtained my E.C.D. certificate.  I want to share the importance of education in today’s world and create a love for learning in children from a young age.”

Personal Educational Philosophy
"However sophisticated and technical our world becomes, nothing can compare to a well-organised and loving environment for a young child to experience those first moments away from home. Nothing is more valuable to a young pre-schooler than opportunities to play. More specifically, opportunities to play in a well-designed school organised carefully to meet their needs in every way.

A stranger walking into a school should feel the peace, the "busy-ness" and the loving atmosphere."

Carry and St Martin's
"Each day is a total joy. Waking up in the mornings, there is always a feeling of anticipation of what the day will hold. What today? A child will say something so funny you just want to write a book. A parent may need a shoulder to cry on. Each day is so rewarding and challenging yet gentle and loving. The impact everyone has on each others' lives make you really believe that heaven does begin on earth."

Training and Experience
Carry completed the National Teachers' Diploma in Nursery Education at the Training College for Nursery School Teachers in Johannesburg; this comprehensive course covered every aspect of early childhood education.
Carry started teaching in 1974 and her teaching experience (with years off to have two children) includes all phases in the pre-primary school, from the three year old group up to a Reception Class attached to a Junior Primary School. (Carry also opened one of the first Reception Classes for the Natal Education Department.) Her experience also includes many years teaching second language learners in Grade 1.
Carry commenced her St Martin’s Pre-Primary career in 2001.

Interests and Hobbies
"I love walking, especially the friendships made en route.
My calligraphy has filled my life - not only the creativity but meeting like-minded people willing to spend hours perfecting a script.
I love being with my kids and family and always look forward to spending time with them.
Water me down and help me grow in my Christian walk and I'll blossom and flourish forever.
Give me a good book; a glossy magazine; time with my cat; a walk on the beach; happy times with special friends; a chance to share; shopping at Woolies. Quite a simple life really. Just don't ask me to cook!"

Significant Events/Achievements
My lifelong friendship with Sheila, from Nairobi to Durban and through everything in my life.
The impact of family support in times of need. Guess who knows you cannot do it alone?!
Meeting a running partner who inspired and encouraged me to do Comrades in 2002.
Being the mother of two grown-up sons who make me laugh and lift me up.
Being prayed into St Martin's Pre-Primary in 2001 to be part of the team.
Being part of the family of St Martin's Church."

Personal Educational Philosophy
“The pre-school years are extremely important in a child's life.  Young minds absorb so much and especially in the first few years of their life.  As educators, it is so important to guide children in the right direction in a kind and loving way.  It is important to provide boundaries so that the children can learn and grow in a safe environment.”

Lauren and St. Martins
“I became part of the St. Martins 'team' at the beginning of 2009.  Everyone works well together and it is a contented place.  The staff is lead by a strong and caring woman who looks after her teachers.  Working in a happy environment inspires people to give of their best.”

Training and Experience
“I am trained in beauty therapy as well as pre-school teaching.  I studied pre-school teaching at Train-a-Child College in 2002.  I then au-paired for a year in America.  In 2004 - 2006, I worked at Dippy Duck, where I taught the 1 - 2; 2 - 3 and 3 - 4 year old classes. In June 2006 - 2008, I was employed at Kandies Kids where I was responsible for 3 - 4 year olds, the Grade R, as well as taking the After-Care.
I am studying part-time through Unisa to finish my teaching degree.”

Interests and Hobbies
“I read, go to movies, go to the beach and socialise with friends. I like my exercise: I go to the gym, do taibo and go for walks in the mornings. I also enjoy going to Church, I go to Grace Family Church in Umhlanga.”

Significant Events/Achievements
“I have travelled overseas quite a bit. I lived and worked in London from 2000 - 2002. And I lived in America for a year in 2003. It was wonderful being able to experience living in other countries and having the opportunity to travel over there.”

Personal Educational Philosophy
“I believe that pre-school education should be fun and exciting as well as informative and relevant. I believe that children should be free to express themselves as individuals, to be creative and imaginative while learning important educational and social skills that will develop them to their full potential and ensure future success.”

Caryn and St Martin’s
“I feel so blessed to be apart of such an incredible team and well-established pre-primary school. There is such a warm, loving atmosphere at this School that is created by each staff member. I am truly looking forward to my time here at St Martin’s; I believe it will be a time of joy and growth for me.”

Training and Experience
“I am currently in my final year of studying a Bachelor’s degree in Education: Foundation Phase.
I have worked both locally and in America as an au pair for the last 8 years, working with children of all ages (from 18 months till 16 years old) I have also worked as a crèche assistant at Teddy Bears Picnic Daycare in Pinetown.”

Interests and Hobbies
“I am actively involved at my church, Highway Christian Community, such as hospital ministry and mission trips. I love to travel and experience new cultures and environments. One of my favourite and fondest trips was to Israel a few years ago, where I got to spend time in the old city of Jerusalem. It was phenomenal.”

Significant Events/Achievements
“Living in America for 3 years, being able to complete my third year teaching prac at an America school as well as travelling so extensively while I was there.   
Going to Mozambique this year on my first mission trip.”

Personal Educational Philosophy
"Pre-primary education is about helping children to discover and explore the world around them. The teachers design activities carefully to suit the age of the child and they join in with fun and enjoyment. This teaches them what they need to know for Big School and for life."

Bongi and St Martin’s
"I enjoy each and every minute at St Martin's Pre-Primary School! There is commitment, communication, love and caring here and I am so glad that I am a part of the staff. "

Training and Experience
Previously the After-Care helper at St Martin's, Rachel is presently studying for her B Ed (Foundation Phase) degree.

Interests and Hobbies
"As a Christian, I love singing and I am in the church choir. All in all, I love children, I have a passion for them. I am also a Sunday School teacher. I also like to cook."

Significant Events/Achievements
"Being employed at St Martin's Pre-Primary in 2011 as the After-Care Teacher's Assistant."

Personal Educational Philosophy
"I think pre-primary education allows children to learn from the earliest stage. In a stimulating environment, the children relate and play with each other - they learn to share, to lead and to sort out problems independently. They develop their physical skills as they climb, ride tricycles, cut, draw and paint. They discover that the teachers are always there for them and they can feel safe and happy. They discover the pre-school concepts needed for Big School and as they explore their creativity, the children work through various processes and see that they can achieve their own results."

Chrissie and St Martin's
"St Martin's is special! It's got everything! It is so well-equipped, with everything that the children need. It is particularly good that all the staff are qualified in pre-primary education and we all really enjoy working with children. The staff communicate nicely - we are open and share so much; the things that make us happy and sad."

Training and Experience
Chrissie holds the Access Certificate for the Reception Class.
She is the longest serving member of staff, she began working at the School its very first day, back in 1975.

Interests and Hobbies
"I like to spend time at home - I enjoy the TV and always watch the soccer and I like to cook."

Significant Events/Achievements
"The biggest thing for me was getting my teacher's certificate from Access College - it changed the way I relate to children and helped me to see that I could contribute to their education.
The School helped me to build my house and that has been wonderful - I so enjoy my home ....