Meet the Team

We take great pride in our exceptional team of enthusiastic and experienced teachers and class assistants. Every member of our staff is deeply passionate about their work with young children- prioritising the creation of a stimulating and enjoyable learning environment for every child at our school. Every member of our team brings a wealth of skill, talent, and innovative ideas, making our educational approach truly unique.

We believe in the power of personalised education. Our team is dedicated to nurturing the distinct abilities and interests of each child. This commitment to providing a nurturing and enriching educational experience, supported by a diverse and skilled team, is at the core of our mission. It ensures that children at Explore + Discover receive the best possible start in their educational journey.

Our team members at Explore + Discover hold a range of qualifications, including Montessori qualifications, Early Childhood Diplomas, and Montessori Professional Development Training. They also all hold Paediatric First Aid Certificates. We offer regular internal and external training to support their ongoing personal and professional development.

Principal and head directress (Both classes)

Sophie

Sophie, our principal and matriarch of the team, has been a dedicated educator at Explore + Discover for 16 years.

She is highly qualified in both Montessori pre-primary and primary education and has received outstanding professional development in supporting children with additional needs. With decades of experience in formal education and raising her own family, Sophie is well-versed in developing the knowledge base and emotional wellness of preschoolers. Her expertise ensures that children are fully prepared to embrace their educational journey with courage and conviction when they leave Explore + Discover.

Honey Bee- directress

Maria

Maria is deeply passionate about the Montessori philosophy and specialises in teaching children aged 3 to 6.

With over 6 years service at Explore + Discover as well as a Montessori Diploma age 3 to 6, her demeanor is notably tranquil, patient, and soft-spoken, qualities that are enhanced by her experience as a mother of two.

Honey Bee- Class assistant

Mary

Mary is a treasure trove of knowledge, and boasts a wealth of experience as a mother of four children. She has over 6 years of experience at Explore + Discover.

Her warm and affectionate nature is complemented by her remarkable organisational skills. Mary possesses a deep understanding of practical Montessori activities and is also adept at crafting engaging art ideas when working with children aged 3 to 6.

Dolphin- Class assistant

Virginia

With over 9 years at Explore + Discover, Virginia is delightfully cheerful and chatty. She has a Montessori Professional Development Certificate birth to 3.

Her primary focus is to ensure that our toddlers experience a seamless settling period.

Additionally, Virginia expresses a genuine interest in connecting with both the child and parents, fostering a successful bridge between home and Explore + Discover for parents and children.

Dolphin- Class Assistant

Didi

With over 11 years of experience at Explore + Discover, Didi has a Montessori Professional Development Certificate in birth to 3. She is exceptionally observant and exhibits unwavering concentration when working with toddlers, providing each child with personalised and meticulous attention.

Her vibrant personality is infused with a sense of fun and boundless energy, as she thoroughly enjoys activities such as dancing, singing, and playing football.

Dolphin- Class Assistant

Ethel

With 21 years service to Explore and Discover, Ethel is a dedicated member of the Dolphin team. She has a Montessori Professional Development Certificate in birth to 3

She may seem to have a quiet demeanour however Ethel is extremely calm under pressure and is our resident Florence Nightingale- treating any bump and scrape with tenderness and care!

Dolphin- Class assistant

Rati

Rati is a quiet, loving and gentle presence in our school.

Her passion for working with children is evident as she pursues an Early Childhood Development diploma through UNISA. Her ultimate goal is to earn an education degree, ensuring your child receives dedicated care and support throughout their educational journey.

Admin

Business mentor

Debbie

Debbie successfully managed Explore + Discover for over 12 years and holds a vast amount of knowledge about Montessori teaching, with a diploma from the St Nicholas Montessori College (UK).

Now serving as the sounding board for the team, Debbie provides valuable assistance as a business and education mentor. She is currently based in the UK.

Accountant

Erika

Erika deals with all money matters and is responsible for ensuring the healthy financial footing of Explore + Discover.

Please email her if you have any queries related to your account:

accounts@montessori.za.org

Administrator

Crissy

Crissy brings valuable prior administrative experience from her work with an NGO to our team.

She is our administrative wizard, adept at wearing multiple hats. When it comes to enrollment or class list updates, she is your go-to person. Crissy's dynamic and friendly personality shines through in her interactions.

Beyond her administrative role, she actively assists the team and engages with the children when her administrative duties allow.