From time to time, we find ourselves bidding farewell to remarkable members of our teaching, administrative, and estate teams. This year stands out as one of those pivotal moments, as we say goodbye to an extraordinary group of individuals who have contributed so much to our school.
Admin – Corey Oosthuizen: Corey joined us in 2019 as one of our assistant teachers in the Primary School, and by the end of that year found themselves in a secretarial position in the admin faculty. Three months into the new position COVID struck and this was an incredibly challenging time. A few years later Corey changed direction in the admin department, to become the admissions officer. Today we bid Corey farewell as their new adventures take them out of the province to Gauteng, where new opportunities await. Corey, may you enjoy this next chapter, and may it bring you fulfillment and new learning.
High School – Magenta Graziani: Magenta joined the High School in 2023 as the Geography and Life Orientation teacher and soon found herself deeply entrenched in the life of our High School. The students loved her immediately and before she knew it, she became Class Guardian. Magenta’s next adventure takes her into a brand new career. Thank you for the time you spent with us and we wish you much joy in this new chapter.
Primary School – Eva Burkheiser: Eva joined us six years ago as the new Class 1 teacher, all the way from Germany. She was so excited to start teaching here in South Africa, an opportunity she never thought possible. While in Cape Town she met her partner and saw the arrival of their first little boy. Fast forward a few years later and she is expecting her second child. Eva, may you enjoy this next year of motherhood and growth in your family.
ECD Aftercare – Jenni Brassington: Jenni is a long-standing community member of the Constantia Waldorf School and the Waldorf Movement. As an alumni (she and Jon Stodel were classmates) she has witnessed this school’s growth for many years. Jenni, thank you for taking care of our little people, and making sure all of their needs are so beautifully met, you will be sorely missed.
High School – Andrea Grant: Seven years ago Andrea joined us as the new Drama teacher for High School and her job was cut out for her with the Class 9 plays, Class 12 plays, and Matric Drama (the marks speak for themselves). Like all teachers Andrea found herself immersed and soon also became the Tourism Teacher, Class Guardian, and the High School Faculty Chair. Anyone who has had the pleasure of working with Andrea walks away from that experience understanding her warmth, clarity, reliability, and beautiful laugh. Andrea, we wish you success in your next endeavour we know that you will be hugely successful in all you do.
High School – Joan Rayner: Joan has been an integral part of the Constantia Waldorf School for many years, taking on numerous roles with unwavering dedication. Her passion for mathematics has been truly inspiring, particularly through her exceptional Projective Geometry Main Lesson. The beauty and depth of the work she brings to life for our teenagers is awe-inspiring and has often been proudly featured in the Grapevine and other platforms across our school community. Joan annually enters some of our High School students into the UCT Maths Competition, and depending on how well they do, the UCT Maths Olympiad.
As a longstanding and active College Member, Board Member, High School Faculty Member, Class Guardian, and Mentor to many teachers and students alike, Joan’s contributions have left an indelible mark. She has also played vital roles in various Mandates within our school, showing her commitment to growth.
A simple “thank you” feels inadequate for all the time, hard work, and inspiration Joan has given us. As you step into this next chapter of well-deserved retirement Joan, we hope it brings you joy and fulfillment—and we’re sure we’ll see you around!
ECD – Pam Chanarin: Pam is another incredible member of staff, and a pillar in our community. Pam has worked at the Constantia Waldorf School for 37 Years! To take stock of all the work, love and dedication poured into hundreds of children, parents and the life of our school is a near-impossible task. Pam served as a Kindergarten Teacher, a Eurythmist Therapist, a member of the College of Teachers, and a real ‘bok for sports’.
Pam is a true example of ‘keeping the child in the center’ and a real proponent of childhood and Waldorf Education.
She has an incredible streak for having fun and creating laughter, and is a meticulous planner around everything she prepares for. Pam, we will miss you immensely and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your years of service and for affecting the lives of so many children positively. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement!
