“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.”
Minis + Nannies
Siphathisiwe ‘Phathi’ Mgutshini
11+ 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.
Baby Group | 12 - 18 months
Younger Playschool | 12 Months - 2 Years
Felicity Klawansky
30+ 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
25+ 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!
Preschool | 2—3 Years Old
Belinda Dube
20+ 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.
Rose Chauke
15+ 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
Robyn Weiss
35+ 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.
Doreen Bulwa
15+ 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
10+ 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
8+ 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.
Principal
Marissa Koffler
10+ years experience
I am beyond thrilled to be joining the Mina Lopato family next year! I am a mom of three children and passionate about education, ECD and curriculum development. I completed my Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase and Early Childhood Development at Wits, and went on to do my Honours in Inclusive Education. I have worked at King David Linksfield and Victory Park both as a class teacher and in academic support. I then discovered my love for ECD and my true calling in the Grade R classroom at Torah Academy Nursery School, where I worked for four years. I have thoroughly enjoyed my current role at Torah Academy Primary School as a Grade 1 teacher and Head of Foundation Phase, where I have been for the past three years. I cannot wait to be back in Grade R and I look so forward to being a part of the Mina Lopato family.
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.