We are Pinelands Montessori

Hi, my name is Leigh Hendricks and I’m currently in my 3rd year of studies at UCT. My majors are psychology and sociology. I attended Pinelands Montessori from age 3 to age 5. I remember it being a stimulating, all-round environment which developed my self-confidence and competence in everyday tasks as well as my education in early childhood. Up to today I can still remember some of the songs we sang and activities we did. I also remember being part of PlayBall.

In 2017, I returned to Pinelands Montessori as a short-term volunteer. The classrooms brought back some old memories and it even had some of the tasks that I used during my time at the Montessori! What I found fascinating (now that I was an outsider), I had a glimpse into the development and nurturing of independence of the children at the school. The same nurturing that I was privileged to experience as a child. Pinelands Montessori really set the foundation to my individual successes.

My three kids went through Pinelands Montessori and honestly, if they had a High School, I would still send my kids. The teachers are caring and instill life skills my kids still practice to this day. The school has an open layout which allows the children freedom to choose what they want to work with. I like the playground and the safety of the school which is so important in this day and age. I still recommend family and friends to the school. Adam, Yushaa and Thanaa love visiting even though they are in Gr 11, 9 and 6.

Our experience at the school has been a truly wonderful one for our son and our family. The school is extremely well run, staff is friendly and professional and parents receive frequent communications about classes, activities and events. Our son has grown emotionally and socially since being enrolled at the school. He has grown more independent and curious about everyday life and various activities, even simple things at home such as helping set up the dinner table, participating in cooking, or being a handyman with his dad!

He comes home every day very excited and full of stories about the day, including his classmates and teachers. He thrives in the Montessori environment and also enjoys being around children who are older than him, as he looks up to them as role models. We couldn’t be happier with our choice.

Pinelands Montessori offers a warm and nurturing environment. Although our daughter didn’t speak any English when she began last year, the teachers and the students immediately made her feel comfortable. She quickly began opening up and communicating more – in school, at home and in public settings.

The Montessori approach seems very personal, embracing and nurturing the individual child. This unique method of learning allowed our daughter’s true personality to shine through within months. We couldn’t be happier, and neither could she.