OUR STAFF

St Martin’s is proud of its dedicated, creative and qualified staff. All of the teachers are trained specialists in Foundation Phase education and the School has a stringent policy to this effect. The Teachers’ Assistants/Interns are either qualified themselves or are education diplomates, certificands or in-service education students who are gaining practical experience in the classroom.

The remainder of the staff have job specific qualifications and/or experience.

As a South African School, St Martin’s believes that its staff should reflect the diversity of our population, and the School has worked mindfully and purposefully to achieve this goal.

Claire Shepherd

Principal

Orange Group/Grade R Teacher (5/6-year olds)

Quote:

“Tell me and I forget, Teach me and I remember, Involve me and I learn.”
– Benjamin Franklin

Personal Educational Philosophy

My teaching philosophy centers on fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where every learner feels valued and empowered. I see the teacher as a guide, facilitating exploration and discovery rather than merely delivering information. I recognise learners come into the space with their own thoughts, feelings, and ideas that enrich the learning experience. Education should focus not only on academic achievement but also on developing critical thinking and interpersonal skills. I aim to cultivate curiosity and a love for learning by encouraging open dialogue and active participation. I also strive to adapt my teaching methods to accommodate divergent learning needs, ensuring that each learner can access and engage with the material in a meaningful way. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire learners to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens who contribute positively to their communities.

Claire and St Martin’s
Red Group/Grade R Teacher (5/6-year-olds)

I am privileged to be included within a group of like-minded individuals who see the importance of education, and the value of our youngest learners. I look forward to ensuring that each learner is supported holistically in their learning journey. I aim to inspire learners and my colleagues, creating an environment in which everyone is empowered and valued. Rooted in our faith and guided in our work by the hand of God will ensure that we do our best, not for ourselves but for those we serve in our community.

Training and Experience

1999 Diploma in Foundation Phase (Preschool and Junior Primary Phase) – Edgewood College of Education

2018 Advanced Certificate in Teaching Foundation Phase – University of the Free State

2020 Honors in Educational Leadership and Management – Regent Business School

I began my teaching career in 2000. Between 2000 and 2003 I taught Grades R, 1, and 2. From 2003 to 2012, I taught overseas in the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates. This time afforded me experience in international best practice. I learned that, by having high expectations of achievement, children will exceed those, if we only allow them a chanceto succeed. I came back home in 2013. From 2015 to 2024, I went from HOD of Grade R to Deputy Principal of Junior Primary to Principal of the Junior Phase, working with groups from 3 months old to Grade 3. In 2025, I began my journey with St Martins Pre-Primary School.

Interests and Hobbies

I enjoy reading, watching movies and traveling when I can. Spending time with my family is important to me. I spend time gardening and am not afraid to take on home decorating (DIY projects), allowing me to express myself creatively. I enjoy floating above the ground in a hot air balloon, which I do as often as I can – spending time in the silence of nature is priceless.

I enjoy researching and have a keen interest in meeting the needs of neurodivergent learners within the early learning environment.

Significant Events/Achievements

In 2020, with COVID-19 lockdown and keeping a school going, I managed to complete my Honours in Educational Leadership and Management.

I have been blessed to be able to travel to places such as Namibia, Kenya (Masai Mara), Italy (Rome) and Morocco (Marrakesh) experiencing different cultures, people, foods and environments. Being able to teach in different countries has opened my mind to the wonder of children. In 2010, I met my other half, a man who accepted me, faults and all, and continues to walk with me through life. He makes me laugh and supports me always. I have been blessed to have been there for the birth of all of my nephews and nieces. It is a privilege to be an aunt and godmother and watch these children grow into adults and become their own people.

Simone Abrahams

Green Group/Grade 00 Teacher

(4/5-year-olds)

Quote:

“Pre-primary education is vital to young children, as it assists in shaping and growing their developing minds …. pre primary teachers guide this process and equip learners with the fundamentals of education that they need for the future, as well as motivate and instill confidence in them.”

Personal Educational Philosophy

“I think that teachers play such an important role in nurturing the intellectual and social development of children during their influential early 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 children to develop into responsible adults.”

Simone and St Martin’s

“It is such a privilege to be a part of the St Martin’s family, in a place where I have learnt so much and am continuing to learn daily. Having the opportunity of being a part of so many children’s development and growth, while practicing the Christian ethos that is so important to us at St Martin’s, is extremely rewarding. “

Training and Experience

I have always had a passion for children. I taught Sunday School at Westville Baptist Church and did a Summer Camp for Special Needs Children in the USA. I also facilitated a Down Syndrome child for two years. I have a Diploma in Pre-School Education and I worked at a small pre-school for five years until I completed my Bachelor of Education degree through Unisa in 2008. I came to St Martin’s in July 2008.

Interest and Hobbies

Being a Mom myself, I love spending time with my son and a lot of my time is spent on his extra-curricular activities, such as karate and soccer. On a quieter note, I enjoy reading and baking whenever I get the chance.

Significant Events/Achievements

Becoming a Mom to my son, Cordae’ in 2011 and a Wife to Wade in 2022. Achieving my Certificates for Generic Management and ISO 9001. Achieving my Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching (Cum Laude). Receiving a Certificate for First Aid Essentials for Children.

Paola Yenga

Purple Group/Grade 000 Teacher

(3/4-year-olds)

Paola and St Martins

“It is an honour to work with the staff of St Martin’s Pre-Primary; being led by an incredible woman, who is passionate and naturally loves children, makes it worthwhile to be working in this environment. It is an environment that is close-knit and thrives on us all helping each other, as well developing one’s skills.”

Personal Educational Philosophy

“Pre-primary school lays a foundation in all sectors of development for a child. This is where the child receives a holistic education. Children are given a chance to be children but at the same time receive appropriate guidance that will stimulate all the aspects of their nature, which will prepare them for their upcoming schooling years.”

Training and Experience

“Paola has a Higher Certificate in Business Principles and Practice. She has also done a short course at Siyahlanganisa Centre for a certificate in HIV AIDS VCT-counselling. Paola received a Debate Certificate in high school.

In 2014, as an in-service student, Paola joined the St Martin’s staff as a teacher’s assistant. Paola completed her BEd (Foundation Phase) studies in 2017 and then took up a position as a class teacher. ”

Interest and Hobbies

“I have a love for music and dance. I am a down-to-earth person who loves adventure and challenges. I enjoy reading, watching movies and socialising. I have a passion for engaging with children and just working or being around them brings joy to my heart. Helping them reach their full potential and possibly become great leaders, that is the joy of it all.”

Significant Events/Achievements

“One would be joining the worship team in my church. I have always had a love of working for God and being used by Him to bring about change and transformation, according to His Will. The other would be becoming a Sunday school teacher, whereby all my talents, passions and interests come together…Last but not least! getting married to my husband, Siya.”

Goodness Shibe

Teachers’ Assistant

Quote:

Personal Educational Philosophy

“I strongly believe that pre-primary education is the core foundation for children’s growth. It provides knowledge, skills and attitudes that influence the child’s long-term educational career. In being a teacher, I am able also to understand a child physically, emotionally and socially. Allowing children to express themselves and offering proper guidance will equip them for life-long learning. “

Goodness and St Martin’s

“I am excited to be given the opportunity to be at St Martin’s Pre-Primary. The vision of the school is based on Christianity, which symbolises love, growth and prosperity. The overwhelming love you experience through the staff is amazing.”

Training and Experience

I have experience in the beauty industry. I also worked for three years (from 2016 to 2018) as a teacher assistant at Little Treasure’s Play School. Now I will be studying part-time at Lyceum College doing early childhood development, to become a qualified foundation phase teacher.

Interest and Hobbies

“I am quite a sporty person. In high school, I was a soccer player. Now I am currently involved in golf. I am also interested in learning how to swim.”

Significant Events/Achievements

Being a mother and being able to nurture and provide for my family. I have two daughters, Elihle (born in 2010) and Anele (born in 2014). Winning the Stroke Play and Match Play Championships at Athlone Golf Club in 2018. I also play league for the Club.

Lulu Conana

Teacher’s Assistant

Quote:

“Education gives us a knowledge of the world around us and changes it into something better. It develops in us a perspective of looking at life. It helps us build opinions and have points of view on things in life …. The more knowledge you gain the more opportunities will open up to allow individuals to achieve better possibilities in careers and personal growth.”

Personal Educational Philosophy

Education gives us knowledge of the world around us and changes it into something better. It develops in us a perspective of looking at life. It helps us build opinions and have points of view on things in life. Education makes us capable of interpreting, among other things. Education lessens the challenges you will face in life. The more knowledge you gain the more opportunities will open up to allow individuals to achieve better possibilities in careers and personal growth. Education has played an important role in the career world of the 21st century.

Lulu and St Martins

It is a great honour and blessing to be a part of the highly efficient St Martin’s team. I have learned from their love, knowledge and passion. I appreciate the School’s diversity, especially ensuring that students learn Zulu. The warmth in the St Martin’s staff and the amount of care and undivided attention given to each individual brings great joy and is overwhelming.

Lulu and St Martins

Interest and Hobbies

My hobbies are baking and cooking and I would trade anything for a good book.

Significant Events/Achievements

I am a mother to a beautiful girl, Elona Conana, born on 11 March 2010. My goal in life is to make her live a blissful life and lack nothing. My graduation in 2015 is my biggest achievement and I still aim for the moon and stars. I was also secretary in the SRC when I was in college and was a very active member of the COSAS movement in High School. At one point in my life, I was certain I wanted to study political science but looking at the politics in our country, I changed my mind. I was also good at debating back in High School.