THRIVE

Esi Hufft is a Counselling Psychologist who completed her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at the University of Pretoria and is registered with the Health Professions council of South Africa. She provides psychological support, counselling and wellbeing services to learners at Maris Stella. Her role encompasses supporting learners with their emotional, social, behavioural and psychological wellbeing through individual counselling, consultation, assessment and early intervention.

Working collaboratively with learners, parents, teachers and the school’s multidisciplinary support team, Esi assists in identifying learners who may require additional support, coordinate appropriate interventions and monitor their progress.

As part of her role, Esi also facilitates and supports the IEB application process for learners transitioning to high school, assisting families and learners with the necessary documentation, psychological information and coordination required throughout the process.

Her approach is holistic and collaborative, with a strong focus on creating a safe, supportive environment in which every learner is encouraged to develop emotionally, socially and academically.

For more information, please contact [email protected]

As Maris Stella’s Senior Primary Remedial Teacher, Jacqui provides individualised academic support to help each girl learn, grow and progress at her own pace.

Working closely with the Thrive Team and class teachers, she monitors each girl’s progress and puts thoughtful, targeted support in place where needed. Her focus is not only on strengthening academic skills, but also on building confidence and helping girls develop a positive relationship with learning.

Jacqui also leads our Parallel Maths classes in Grades 4–6, a Maris Stella initiative that gives girls the opportunity to learn Maths in smaller, supportive groups while still following the same curriculum as their peers. With more individual attention and the space to work at a pace that suits them, girls are able to strengthen their understanding, ask questions more freely and, importantly, grow in confidence.

It’s an approach that recognises something we believe strongly at Maris Stella: girls don’t all learn in the same way or at the same pace, and sometimes the right support can make all the difference.

As Maris Stella’s Junior Primary Remedial Teacher, Samantha supports girls who may need a little extra guidance in Literacy and Numeracy, helping them build the skills and confidence they need to reach their potential.

She believes strongly in meeting each child exactly where she is. Lessons are tailored to individual needs and use a multi-sensory approach to make learning engaging, accessible and, importantly, enjoyable. Children are given the space and support to work at their own pace, celebrate their progress and gradually grow in confidence.

Samantha also believes that children thrive when the people around them work together. By collaborating closely with parents, teachers and therapists, she helps ensure that each girl feels understood and supported, both academically and emotionally.

Kate is an occupational therapist with a special interest in paediatrics and a passion for helping children develop the skills they need for learning, play and everyday independence.

She has completed postgraduate training in Sensory Integration and Hand Therapy, giving her a deeper understanding of how sensory processing can influence a child’s behaviour, participation and development. Her approach is practical and child-centred, with a focus on understanding each child as an individual and helping them build confidence in the things they find challenging.

For the past eight years, Kate has been the practice owner of Kate Rowland OT Inc., working closely with children and their families to help them thrive and reach their individual potential.

Chané is a dedicated Speech-Language Therapist whose current focus is language, learning, and literacy. She believes strongly in the power of education and loves helping children develop the communication and learning skills they need to succeed at school and in everyday life.

Chané believes that learning isn’t always linear, and that every child develops at their own pace. She supports children who may need different strategies and approaches to strengthen their expressive and receptive language skills, helping them find the tools that work best for them.

With a caring and supportive approach, Chané works closely with families and teachers to support each child’s unique learning journey. She provides personalised support in a warm and encouraging environment, helping young learners build confidence, independence, and the skills they need to thrive.

Contact:  [email protected]

As an occupational therapist, Zoè is passionate about helping children thrive in all the different spaces that make up their world, from the classroom and home to the playground and their social environments.

She supports children in developing the practical skills, confidence and independence they need to participate fully in everyday life and reach their individual potential. Zoè believes that every child is different, and enjoys finding thoughtful, practical ways to help each one navigate the areas they may find challenging.

Working closely with families and teachers is an important part of her approach, ensuring that the strategies and support around each child are meaningful, achievable and can make a real difference in their day-to-day lives.