OUR STAFF

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 extended 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 instil an interest in 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-around development – socially, emotionally, physically, intellectually, aesthetically and spiritually.

I so enjoy the laughter and 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, junior primary and senior primary education as well as remedial education and guidance and counselling. Barbie’s Post Graduate Diploma in Higher Education enables her to lecture in tertiary education. 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 “demonstration” 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-’80s. 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 and presently lectures part-time in the BEd programme at Varsity College.

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 underprivileged.
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 Stroke Play) of the KwaZulu-Natal Ladies’ Golf Championships on a number of occasions. Playing league for Athlone Golf Club and representing the Durban Region in Regional Tournaments. Serving as the captain of the South African Protea Nomads, an international golf group.

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; UNISA and the University of Natal (Pietermaritzburg). Achieving a summa cum laude pass in my Post Graduate Diploma in Higher Education in 2017.”

Meeting Graham in the Autumn of my life!

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.

Personal Educational Philosophy

I believe that every child is capable of reaching their dreams, if given the right environment, nurturing and tools.  Pre-Primary is where we help give these tools and a safe environment, where exploration and questions are encouraged.  It is vital to always encourage a child’s curiosity – who knows what they will achieve one day if we believe in them, the sky is their limit.

Vanessa and St Martins

I am excited to be part of the St Martin’s team, where creativity and collaboration is encouraged. This opportunity is invaluable to me, to grow myself as an educator, following a holistic and Christian ethos.

Training and Experience

I completed my Bachelor of Arts Degree at Rhodes in 2012, where I worked with pre-school- and Foundation Phase-aged children, creating drama expeditions.  I then went on to complete my PGCE, specialising in Foundation Phase in 2013.  It was during my PGCE year that I fell in love with Special Needs, which encouraged me to pursue my honours in Learning Support, which I completed in 2015.  I started both my honours degree and my teaching career in 2014.  I started teaching Grade 2 at Northlands Primary School, before moving down to the preschool, where I taught Grade R for 6 years.  I joined Joyce Broadhead Pre-Primary in 2022, where I taught Grade R, until December 2023.

I joined the St Martin’s family in January 2024.

Interests and Hobbies

I have a big family, and I love spending time with them during the holidays.  I am a proud boy-aunt to four beautiful and busy boys. I am an avid reader; I especially enjoy crime and psychological thriller novels.  I love music and games and can often be found playing 30 Seconds or Canasta with my friends on a Saturday evening.  I am an animal lover, and I adore cats – I can be found talking to or cuddling cats whenever possible.

Significant Events/ Achievements 

For me obtaining my degrees were major achievements for me, and I hope to study further in the near future.  When I was 18, I chose to be confirmed in the Catholic Church. Becoming an aunt to my four wonderful nephews was a blessing, which still gives me great joy today.  I became an aunt when I was just 10 years old (!); with my youngest nephews being born in my final year of University.

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.”

Personal Teaching Philosophy

Teaching is not about answering questions but about raising questions – opening doors for children in places that they could not imagine.  Always be kind and patient because you are handling fragile minds and hearts.  It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken adults as we are the developers of young minds.

Anele and St Martin’s

Being part of the St Martin family is a great honour. The staff is warm and open, they are always ready to welcome you with love and grace. This is a place of growth, love and breath-taking experiences.  We are one.

Training and Experience

I have a Diploma in Pre-School and Foundation Phase Teacher Assistance.  I have a TEFL certificate and have the privilege to tutor second-language students.  Prior to joining the St Martin family, I was a team leader working in a programme with the Ethekwini Municipality where we educated communities and schools about disaster management.  In previous years I worked in a customer service environment and have a certificate in Occupational Health and Safety.

Hobbies and Interests

My space is in the kitchen, I enjoy cooking and eating good food.  I love singing and dancing, and I enjoy creating DIY videos.

Significant Event/Achievements

I am a mother to a handsome boy, Khanyisani Shezi, born on 22 June 2023.  In 2022 , I published my first children’s book titled “Shapes” on Amazon.  In 2021, during the CANEX Intra-African Trade Fair, I had the opportunity to work in their Music Factory; we got to record a song with international artist, Vincent Berry, this gave me more confidence in my musical journey and I am hopeful that my passion for music and love for kids will someday give me the perfect combination!

Personal Educational Philosophy

Children learn best in a happy, loving and supportive environment in which they feel safe and nurtured.  This love, support and real connection needs to come first, before any academic learning can take place.

I believe that all young children are naturally curious and inquisitive about the world around them.  It is up to us, as educators, to provide a stimulating learning experience that includes and involves the children and allows for freedom of exploration as they learn about the hows and the whys.  These first few years are the most important in laying down the foundations for their future learning and development.

Kerry and St Martin’s

It is a privilege to be a member of the St Martin’s family, which has a long-standing name and excellent reputation in pre-school education.  I look forward to growing and developing further as an educator, whereby I get to play an integral part of helping shape, grow and nurture young minds.

Training and Experience

I always knew that I was going to work with children and making the decision to become a teacher and embarking on my Bachelor of Education degree was an easy one.  I enjoyed starting my teaching career in the United Kingdom, teaching reception and gaining invaluable experience. Since returning to South Africa, I have continued teaching within the early years.    

Interests and Hobbies

I really enjoy walking, hiking and being in the outdoors.  The Drakensberg is one of my favourite places to visit and spend time in nature. I am part of a running club and look forward to doing another half-marathon in the future.  I absolutely love reading and baking is something else I also really enjoy.  Spending time with family is very important to me.

Significant Events/Achievements

The time spent studying for my teaching degree is what I am most proud of.  In my first year, I was awarded Top Academic Achiever.  In my second year, I was awarded Top Teaching Practice Award; Academic Achiever and Best Overall Achiever.  These exact same awards were presented to me again in my final year.

Becoming an Aunty in 2021, to a beautiful little boy, has brought so much joy into my life.