“The staff at Mina Lopato has been there forever — they taught my 29 year old! There is dedication and loyalty and deep commitment. This is the great gift the Mina staff give the children in their care. So pleased with this wonderful, precious school with it’s Mina Magic.”
Younger Playschool | 12 Months - 2 Years
Felicity Klawansky
50+ years experience
I have the best job at Mina Lopato. I was drawn to this 2-year-old age group while living on a kibbutz and working in the children’s houses. I helped meet every need--food, clothing, care, and loves--and it didn't take long for early childhood development to became my passion. This is an amazing age!
Catherine Radebe
30+ years experience
I’ve been working at Mina Lopato since 1994. My background includes child care education, over twenty years of experience, two daughters, and two granddaughters. I serve as an assistant teacher to our 2-year-old class, where there is never a dull moment!
Older Playschool | 2—3 Years Old
Siphathisiwe ‘Phathi’ Mgutshini
13+ years experience
I love kids—it’s in my nature! They are so happy and joyful. My favorite thing is watching them grow and learn. I enjoy knowing I can make a difference to children (and their caretakers’) lives. impact. I level 4 ECD training and am taking more courses focusing on special nees.
Rose Chauke
37+ years experience
Working with the young children's group takes patience, a gentle spirit, and a lot of love, all of which I have in deep supply. My students are my favorite little people.
Grade 000 | 3—4 Years Old
Belinda Dube
29+ years experience
I started working at Mina Lopato Nursery School on 13th April 1999. It's hard to believe some of the kids I taught have already finished university. As a mother of three and a proud gogo of five musketeers, I have loads of experience with little people, and I love their energy, their welcoming spirit, and the fun things they say.
I’m currently studying at the Professional Childcare College towards an NQF Level 4 Early Childhood Development Preschool qualification.
Doreen Bulwa
20+ years experience
As an Assistant Teacher to the Senior Group, I've seen many of these children in our school since they were quite young. I'm a mother of two and know how fast childhood can go. I'm so glad to be part of a school that makes the most of it.
Grade 00 | 4—5 Years Old
Gabriella Davidson
14+ years experience
I received a Jewish education through King David schools, and a BA at the UJ as well as a Post Graduate Certificate in Early Childhood Development through UNISA. I have 10 years of experience, ranging from a preschool teacher of different age groups to heading preschools as a principal. Understanding that every child is unique in his own way is fundamental in assisting children reach their full potential in the various developmental stages of their lives in preschool. Developmental milestones, love, and understanding are equally important for them. I believe in combining this to create a secure and happy learning environment.
Thobeka Siza
15+ years experience
My favorite part of working with three- and four-year-olds are their dynamic personalities. Each day they find more words, more social expressions, and more questions. I love watching them work together while establishing their independence.
Grade R | 5—6 Years Old
Robyn Weiss
40+ years experience
I have taught at Jewish schools all over Johannesburg for three decades. The children, parents, values, and sense of community at Mina Lopato makes me proud to be part of the family. The 3-4 year group is my favorite as the kids are so sweet at this age.
Principal
Marissa Koffler
13+ years experience
I’m now in my fourth year as Principal of Mina Lopato Nursery School—a role I hold with pride and a deep love for Early Childhood Development. I’m a mom of four, with a BEd in Foundation Phase and ECD, and an Honours in Inclusive Education, both from Wits.
My teaching journey includes time at King David Linksfield and Victory Park, as well as Torah Academy Nursery and Primary Schools, where I was a Grade 1 teacher and Head of Foundation Phase. I’m passionate about designing play-based, inclusive curricula and leading with empathy, collaboration, and joy. What makes Mina Lopato so special is its warmth, creativity, and the passion of every staff member. The children inspire me daily to keep bringing the magic.
Physio & Speech Therapists
Candice Naidoo
Physiotherapist
I’m a physiotherapist, mom of two, and I love working with children. I’ve been in practice since 2013, with experience in both public hospitals and private care. I currently work at Netcare Garden City Hospital and several schools, including Mina Lopato since 2020.
I hold a master’s in Paediatric HIV and have completed advanced training in MAES therapy, Cerebral Palsy, and Buggy Seating. My passion lies in helping young children with developmental delays thrive.
Dina Lilian
I’m a speech therapist with over 20 years of experience, and a Master’s degree (Cum Laude) from Wits. I’ve worked both locally and abroad, helping children with pronunciation, language delays, fluency, and auditory processing challenges.
I see learners on the school premises, and my practice charges medical aid rates. Feel free to contact me on 082 820 6225 for more information.
Kitchen & Grounds
Gladys Gombarume
10+ years experience
As a qualified chef, I love cooking kosher, halal and vegetarian meals (kosher is my favourite). My boss says I'm super-efficient, and I think that's because I think with a young mind, love with a big heart, and am dedicated to this school with all I have.
Shephard Tshuma
10+ years experience
As a father I understand the value of a safe and clean environment to grow up in. I love seeing the children play in the garden all year round.