Group photo of Bluebird Pre-Primary teachers outdoors on campus
  • Our Leadership Teachers
  • Specialist & Support Educators
  • Blue Hats Teachers
  • Green Hats Teachers
  • Yellow Hats Teachers
  • Red Hats Teachers
  • Purple Hats Teachers
  • Navy Hats Teachers
  • Administration
  • School Care & Environment

Our Teachers

Bluebird is built on the strength of a passionate, dedicated team of teachers who are equally committed to early childhood development and growing and learning as professionals.

Our teaching team receives excellent support from Bluebird’s educational and creative specialists. Our Early Learning Support Specialist enriches and guides how the curriculum is taught, and facilitates extension and support sessions in small group settings.

With Drama and Music specialists on our staff, we give your children opportunities to express their personalities and creativity, and let their imaginations run free.

By taking a thematic approach to early childhood education, we make each activity more relevant and meaningful and help your children develop their powers of interpretation and association.

Our Leadership Teachers

Joyanne West, Head of School, Music and Drama Specialist, and Early Birds Director of Bluebird Pre-Primary

Joyanne West

Head of School • Music and Drama Specialist • Early Birds Director

Joyanne West leads Bluebird with heart, experience and creativity, nurturing confident young learners through music, drama, curiosity and joyful early childhood discovery.

About Joyanne

The magic of childhood and the wonder of the early years make leading Team Bluebird the very best job in the world. Each day brings laughter, learning and discovery as we nurture curious minds and growing hearts, guiding them toward becoming confident little leaders of tomorrow.

Bluebird has been my home for the past six years, and my heart is deeply rooted in this very special school. With a proud 75-year legacy of excellence in early childhood education, Bluebird is a place where tradition, warmth and purpose come together beautifully.

With over 30 years of teaching and leadership experience at some of South Africa’s leading private schools, I have seen firsthand the extraordinary power of quality preschool education. These early years are truly sacred as they are where children discover who they are, how they belong and how capable, brave and loved they can be.

My passion extends far beyond the classroom. I am deeply committed to walking alongside families as partners, supporting them through the joys and pressures of modern life and helping them give their children the very best start. When children feel safe, seen and celebrated and when parents feel supported, something magical happens. At Bluebird, every child finds their special place of belonging and every family becomes part of our caring, connected community.

One of the highlights of my role is being part of Bluebird’s specialist teaching team, where my love for music and drama comes alive. These lessons are pure joy and give me the privilege of spending time with every child, discovering their unique personalities and little sparks of magic.

Through music and drama, children are free to express themselves, build confidence, develop empathy and shine - all while having the most wonderful fun.

At Bluebird, our shared purpose lives in every moment: giving children roots to grow and wings to fly. This is where childhood is cherished, and where every story begins.

Margareta Holleran, HOD, Curriculum Development, Early Learning Specialist, and Staff Support at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Margareta Holleran

HOD • Curriculum Development • Early Learning Specialist • Staff Support

Margareta Holleran brings decades of experience in early learning, guiding curriculum, supporting teachers and nurturing thoughtful, developmentally rich education.

About Margareta

Since 1987 when I began my teaching career in a Grade One classroom at a school in Edenvale it was evident to me that teaching is a privilege. My interest in the use of cognitive thinking strategies started during my psychology studies.

After several years teaching across the Foundation Phase and informal preschool systems I came to realise that teaching created and influenced my personal happiness. My passion for early intervention has been guided by theorists like Reuven Feuerstein, Loris Malaguzzi and Carl Hayward. Their thinking has led me to experience the benefit of a reflective, teaching process particularly during the early education years.

Such thinking puts us alongside children in their life journey. At Bluebird we believe that a successful learning journey entails a supportive family unit working alongside a team of multidisciplinary skilled educationists guiding the child’s holistic development to meet the needs of each specific age.

Specialist & Support Educators

Cindy Pitum, Movement Specialist and Early Birds Co-Ordinator at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Cindy Pitum

Movement Specialist and Early Birds
Co-Ordinator

Cindy Pitum brings over 30 years of joyful experience, inspiring confidence, creativity and movement through dance, music and engaging early learning.

About Cindy

I have had the privilege of teaching precious children at Bluebird Pre-Primary for over 30 years, instilling a love of movement and dance. I am deeply passionate about developing skills, building confidence, and planning fun, engaging lessons that help each child shine.

Supporting Joyanne and the staff during the planning, rehearsing and production of the annual concert is another highlight in my job. Working together with the team to find just the right song, the right moves and putting it all together is a beautiful celebration of creativity and teamwork.

The Bluebird magic shines through and it is always so wonderful to see the pride and joy on everyone’s faces as the concert comes to life.

Another aspect of my job at Bluebird which gives me great joy is being the Early Bird Co-Ordinator. From researching sensory play ideas and sourcing new materials, to teaching music with percussion instruments and capturing precious moments to share with parents who are unable to attend in person, it is fun all the way.

“If you do what you love, you will never have to work a day in your life.” This truly reflects how I feel about teaching at Bluebird, it is more than a job, it is my passion and my joy.

Lara Breytenbach, NEST Assistant and Teacher Support at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Lara Breytenbach

NEST Assistant • Teacher Support

Lara Breytenbach supports children through play-based, sensory learning, bringing warmth, curiosity and growing experience to her role in Bluebird’s learning support team.

About Lara

I began my journey at Bluebird in 2024, initially as a co-teacher, then as a teacher, and most recently as the NEST Assistant where I work closely with Margareta, the school’s learning support specialist.

In a relatively short period, I have gained substantial professional experience and developed a strong connection with the more than 100 children in our care. Teaching young children does not feel like work; rather, it is an engaging and rewarding experience grounded in play-based learning.

I am fortunate to work alongside dedicated and supportive colleagues, and each day spent at Bluebird is both meaningful and enriching.

I look forward to my exciting new role, where I will continue to engage children through sensory-based learning experiences.

Blue Hats Teachers

Victoria Zeelie, Blue Hats Teacher at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Victoria Zeelie

Blue Hats Teacher

Victoria Zeelie nurtures confident, curious learners, creating a warm, supportive classroom where children feel safe, valued and excited to grow.

About Victoria

I have a deep love for working with young children and find true joy in watching them grow, learn and flourish throughout the year. Having worked across many age groups over time, I can confidently say that early childhood is my favourite stage, as these early years are so special and foundational. I am passionate about nurturing curiosity, building confidence and creating a caring, supportive environment where little ones feel safe, valued and excited to learn each day.

Bluebird is a truly special place to work and feels like a home away from home. It is a warm, nurturing and welcoming school with the most supportive leadership team and dedicated staff. The relationships we build with our children’s families are deeply meaningful to me, as we work together in partnership, sharing in each child’s journey, celebrating their milestones and supporting them with love, care and understanding every step of the way.

Having attended Bluebird as a little girl, it is such an honour to give back as a teacher and I feel incredibly grateful to be part of such a beautiful community.

Anita Manele, Blue Hats Co-Teacher at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Anita Manele

Blue Hats Co-Teacher

Anita Manele brings warmth and enthusiasm, nurturing curiosity and creating a joyful, supportive environment where children feel happy, safe and engaged.

About Anita

It is a dream come true to be on the team at Bluebird after hearing so many incredible stories about this special place over the years.

I love working with children as I am passionate about nurturing curiosity, creating a warm environment and making learning a joyful experience.

Every day at Bluebird is special because of the children and my job is filled with joy and laughter all the way!

Nothabo Nsingo, Blue Hats Co-Teacher and Early Birds Assistant at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Nothabo Nsingo

Blue Hats Co-Teacher and Early Birds Assistant

Nothabo Nsingo brings passion and creativity, nurturing young learners through storytelling and care while supporting their growth during these important early years.

About Nothabo

Working with children fills my soul because I love interacting with them. Over the past four years at Bluebird, I have been blessed to spend time with little minds in many settings, and I am confident I have discovered my true passion.

As a mother of three, teaching feels like the ultimate cherry on top. With a focus on nurturing curiosity and creativity, I bring talents in lesson planning and storytelling to my class and to our school community.

I chose this profession because the early years shape a child’s future, and I love working with this age group. Being part of their journey means the world to me. For me, teaching is not just a job - I believe it is a calling. It is my passion, my purpose and my joy.

Teaching gives me the chance to make a difference in the lives of young children, helping them grow and develop into the best version of themselves.

Whenever I witness their progress and milestones, I know we are doing something truly meaningful and important. I feel blessed to be part of the Bluebird team.

Green Hats Teachers

Thelma Kombe, Green Hats Teacher at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Thelma Kombe

Green Hats Teacher

Thelma Kombe inspires curiosity, independence and joyful learning in the Green Hats classroom, sharing music, movement and warmth with every child.

About Thelma

I joined Bluebird in 2014 and have had the joy of working across all age groups. Over time, I attained the qualifications needed to teach and nurture young children, but my greatest passion lies with the 2-3-year-olds. As the Green Hats teacher, I treasure the adventures we create together, making every day special.

Music is another passion I am fortunate to share with my little friends. My days are filled with song and dance, and seeing my childrens’ faces light up is the highlight of my work. Above all, I find deep fulfillment in helping children reach their full potential and grow in independence.

Being part of the Bluebird family has been incredibly rewarding. In 2024, I was honored with a Long Service Award for 10 years of dedication, a recognition that made me feel truly valued. In 2026, Bluebird will be celebrating an extraordinary milestone of 75 years in Early Childhood Development. It is a privilege to contribute to this legacy and play a role in shaping young lives.

My love for young children and the joy of seeing them express themselves continue to inspire me. I am equally passionate about education, as working with children offers endless opportunities for growth. I live by the belief that “In learning you will teach, and in teaching you will learn”. I am grateful for the continuous weekly Staff Development Programs that Bluebird offers as I feel that I am constantly improving my teaching practice and learning from the best of the best.

Khanyi Mabaso, Green Hats Co-Teacher at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Khanyi Mabaso

Green Hats Co-Teacher

Khanyi Mabaso brings warmth and enthusiasm, supporting young learners with care while embracing teamwork and creating meaningful early learning experiences.

About Khanyi

I joined Bluebird in 2025 and was immediately inspired by the strong sense of community and dedication within the team. Many of my colleagues have been part of the Bluebird family for years which reflects a workplace where employee well-being, support and growth truly matter.

The leadership, work ethic and exciting curriculum motivate me daily to give my best and serve with purpose. Bluebird feels like a place of belonging where teamwork is valued and everyone plays an important role. I am so proud to be part of the Bluebird brand and carry that pride into my work each day.

I choose to work within the early years age group because children at this stage are truly precious. Being part of their educational journey, sharing in so many of their first learning experiences, is deeply meaningful and rewarding.

There’s nothing quite like witnessing those moments of discovery and growth and I get to be part of it every day!

Laura Kgasoane, Green Hats Co-Teacher and Early Birds Assistant at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Laura Kgasoane

Green Hats Co-Teacher and Early Birds Assistant

Laura Kgasoane brings dedication and care, supporting young learners as they grow, explore and develop through meaningful early childhood experiences.

About Laura

I have been part of Team Bluebird since 2025 where I serve as the Early Birds’ Assistant and a Co-Teacher in the Early Years group.

For me teaching is not just a job, I believe it is a calling. Teaching gives me a chance to make a difference in the lives of small children, to help them grow and develop into the best version of themselves.

Every day that I get to observe the development and growth in children as they explore the world around them, I know that we are doing something meaningful and important.

This is what really counts in life and I am blessed to be part of the Bluebird team in every way!

Yellow Hats Teachers

Alix Ratcliffe, Yellow Hats Teacher, IT Director and Support at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Alix Ratcliffe

Yellow Hats Teacher • IT Director and Support

Alix Ratcliffe supports young learners with care and dedication, bringing years of experience, encouragement and enthusiasm to the Yellow Hats classroom.

About Alix

From a young age I knew that I wanted to work with children, and I feel very fortunate to do this every day. I have been a part of the Bluebird team for seven years and consider it a privilege to support young children as they learn, grow and develop.

Investing in them and watching their progress throughout the year is incredibly rewarding and continues to make this work deeply meaningful to me.

Irene Manyike, Yellow Hats Co-Teacher at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Irene Manyike

Yellow Hats Co-Teacher

Irene Manyike brings experience and dedication, creating a secure, joyful classroom where children feel celebrated, build confidence and discover their world.

About Irene

I hold a B.Education in Foundation Phase teaching and have always loved being around children.

Teaching allows me to share in their curiosity and excitement each day and after 15 years at Bluebird, I still find great joy in watching little ones explore, build confidence and discover new things about themselves and the world. Working with young children reminds me how special these early years are and I am grateful to be part of their journey. I strive to create a classroom where every child feels secure and fully celebrated.

I have been honoured with both 10 years and 15 years long service awards for my dedication to this beautiful school. I couldn’t be prouder as it is a meaningful recognition of my dedication, commitment and years of service in the teaching profession.

Red Hats Teachers

Naledi Mowale, Red Hats Teacher at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Naledi Mowale

Red Hats Teacher

Naledi Mowale nurtures curiosity and confidence in young learners, creating a caring classroom where kindness, patience and magical learning moments flourish.

About Naledi

From an early age, I felt drawn to children and the world of learning, and teaching has allowed me to live out that calling each day. Beginning my journey at Bluebird has been a gift, as it is a school rooted in values that align closely with my own.

I am continually inspired by the way children learn, through curiosity, observation and meaningful connection with those around them. Being present for these moments of growth is both humbling and deeply fulfilling.

What makes our school especially meaningful to me is its gracious spirit. Mistakes are welcomed as part of learning, kindness is practised daily and children are supported with patience and care. Within this nurturing space, I hold every “Magic Moment” with the children in my care close to my heart.

Thokie Manele, Red Hats Co-Teacher at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Thokie Manele

Red Hats Co-Teacher

Thokie Manele brings years of experience, creating a calm, supportive space where children feel secure, valued and inspired to learn and grow.

About Thokie

My journey at Bluebird has spanned many years and a variety of age groups, allowing me to grow deeply as an educator.

Having been part of this wonderful school for 15 years, it is safe to say that working with young children is where my heart truly lies. I take great care in building trusting relationships so that every child feels secure, valued and at ease in my presence.

The joy children bring through their stories, laughter and simple moments is unmatched and continually fuels my passion for teaching. Bluebird is a place filled with calm, joy and purpose, and being part of this environment leaves me feeling inspired, refreshed and thankful at the end of each day.

Purple Hats Teachers

Tanya de Wet, Purple Hats Teacher at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Tanya de Wet

Purple Hats Teacher

Tanya de Wet brings years of experience and dedication, creating a nurturing classroom where children feel valued, supported and encouraged to grow confidently.

About Tanya

For the past 15 years, I have been deeply honoured and blessed to teach at Bluebird Pre-Primary, a place that is far more than just a school. It is a warm, nurturing community built on love, dedication and a remarkable 75 year legacy of excellence.

Working alongside an incredible team of passionate and dedicated colleagues has been both inspiring and enriching. Together, we share a passion for shaping and moulding young hearts and minds. Creating a supportive environment where every child feels valued, encouraged and empowered to grow.

What makes Bluebird truly special is the strong partnership between parents and teachers working hand in hand to build a wonderful school community rooted in trust, care and shared purpose.

To be part of a school with such a rich history, while living out my passion and purpose each day, is a privilege I cherish deeply.

Violet Kungwayo, Purple Hats Co-Teacher, and KidzClub Co-Ordinator at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Violet Kungwayo

Purple Hats Co-Teacher • KidzCLub
Co-Ordinator

Violet Kungwayo brings decades of experience, supporting young learners with care while fostering a strong sense of community, growth and belonging.

About Violet

Working with children during these foundational years and helping them develop their knowledge in a concrete way is my passion. Having been on the staff at Bluebird for over 20 years, I can honestly say that Ubuntu is alive and well in this beautiful school.

The energy of togetherness keeps us all motivated and I am so fulfilled in my work. The children make me feel treasured and important which is all the thanks I ever need! I am also so proud to be working for a school with a 75yr legacy of excellence in the Early Childhood Education space.

What an honour!

Administration

Nikki du Plessis, School Administrator and PA to the Head at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Nikki du Plessis

School Administrator • PA to the Head

Nikki du Plessis brings years of experience, supporting the school with care and efficiency while helping create a warm, connected community.

About Nikki

As the Administrator and PA to the Head, my role is incredibly rewarding. I feel privileged to share so many special moments with the children, and after many happy years at Bluebird, I have a wealth of memories and stories that truly reflect the heart of our school and its proud 75-year legacy.

In all the years that I have been at Bluebird, one thing remains true, at Bluebird we are not merely a school, we are a close-knit family and community.

Having been part of the furniture for 25 years, I could write a book! It would be a bestseller, without a doubt!

School Care & Environment

Grace Mabunda, Supervisor and Chef at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Grace Mabunda

Supervisor • Chef

Grace Mabunda brings care and dedication, preparing nourishing meals with love while creating a warm, supportive environment for every child.

About Grace

I am so proud to be part of the Bluebird team where I spend my day preparing meals for the children who love my food very much.

There is so much love at our school and the open environment makes me feel appreciated and included in every way.

Celebrating 15 years of service to the school was a very big milestone for me and I felt very proud to be appreciated and celebrated in this way.

I love coming to work every day and the children’s love and sweet words of thanks for the yummy food is all the thanks I need!

Isaac Goliath, Gardener and General Maintenance at Bluebird Pre-Primary

Isaac Goliath

Gardener • General Maintenance

Isaac Goliath brings care and pride, maintaining beautiful grounds while creating a welcoming, joyful environment for children to learn and play.

About Isaac

I joined Bluebird at the start of 2025, and from the very first day I felt so welcomed by everyone. Working at this amazing school has given me a chance to show my capabilities and to grow as a person, and I am truly grateful.

I love working in the garden and making sure the school looks its best at all times. I have been a green keeper for a bowling club before so looking after the grass is one of my favourite parts of my job. Making sure the children have a beautiful space to play and learn is very important to me and their happiness is my joy.

Each morning, when the children see me at the pedestrian crossing, they greet me with “Hello Uncle Isaac!” and I feel so happy to see their smiling faces. It is the most rewarding part of my day so a clean, beautiful garden is my gift to them.

The teachers at Bluebird are also so kind and welcoming, and I feel blessed to be part of such a warm, happy place. My son had the privilege of being a student at Bluebird too, and the incredible care and support he received has helped him start his journey in life.

I am proud to be part of TeamBluebird, where every day I get to make a difference and help contribute to the joy and growth of the children.