Staff
Terri-Anne Sass, the Principal of Treeside Private Academy, has more than 25 years teaching experience, having taught at Curro school and Penryn College in Nelspruit, Emirates International School in the UAE as well as Crawford & St, Stithians College, Weltevreden and Robin Hills Primary in Gauteng. Having Taught both locally and internationally, Terri has a vast knowledge of the different curriculums used worldwide. She also has experience working with online programmes, working with multiple age groups.
Leani De Villiers joined us at the beginning of 2023. With over 14 years’ experience, Leani is no stranger to the home schooler scene, she has worked in tutor centres and tutored privately.
Charlene Eckard has been teaching for the past 13 years. She has experience in teaching all ages from primary to high school. She spent a few years in the corporate industry where she trained adults. Charlene is an enthusiastic, creative, and committed educator with an innate ability to understand and motivate children to reach their full potential.
Janene Bladwell is a seasoned educator and remedial therapist. Janene has taught at many of the local schools and is familiar with a variety of learning and teaching environments. She believes wholeheartedly in lifelong learning with purpose. She has a way of seeing and nurturing the child to become the best version that he or she can be.
Lexa Pool is a compassionate Foundation Phase educator with over 20 years of experience. She builds strong foundations in reading, writing, and maths, creating a safe, nurturing space where children thrive. Passionate about drama, she has led the English Speech and Drama Eisteddfod as Head of Division for 20 years. Lexa’s kind, inspiring approach encourages children to believe in themselves and strive for excellence in all they do.
Greg Smith has been a Physical Education teacher and sports coach for the past 23 years, heading up the sports programs at King David Linksfield Johannesburg, Blouberg International School Cape Town as well as having the role of Sports Coordinator in Saudi Arabia for Aramco Recreation. His role has always been developing new and adaptive sports programs in order to expand on individual and group skills to a high level of excellence according to the pupil’s ability and task commitment.
With six years of teaching experience, Zelia brings a deep passion for education and a commitment to nurturing both academic and personal growth in students. She finds joy in the small accomplishments that shape a child’s learning journey and believes that teaching extends well beyond the classroom. Whether it’s guiding students through everyday life skills or instilling discipline and confidence, she strives to make a lasting, positive impact each day.
My name is Tania Hodsdon-Hoare. I am deeply passionate about Montessori education and have dedicated over 25 years to teaching, both locally and
internationally. I have also had the privilege of owning and managing my own preschool. In addition, I was responsible for running the Nelspruit training
Centre for Montessori Centre South Africa. One of my favourite Montessori quote is: “The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.”
Mrs. Jeanette Brink is a passionate and enthusiastic educator with over 12 years of experience in both the private and public education sectors. She believes in a holistic approach to teaching, nurturing not only academic growth but also the unique talents and individuality of each learner. Draws inspiration from the world around her and encourages learners to connect with their environment as part of their learning journey. She has a special love for writing and is always eager to support learners with challenges they may face, both in and beyond the classroom.
A nature lover at heart, Mrs. Brink
