Co-founder of The DreamTree School, together with her husband Paul, Henriette Hubers has dedicated many years to the nurturing and care of autistic and special needs children. Originally from Holland, one of Henriette’s sons was diagnosed with autism as a young child. The lack of suitable resources led the Hubers to start De Droomboom School in The Netherlands to provide suitable facilities for both their son, and many other children. After relocating to South Africa, they founded The DreamTree School. In addition to her involvement in the school, and various fundraising activities, Henriette has also published three books based on her personal experience: ‘Hoera, mijn kind is anders’, ‘De dag dat ik hoorde dat’ and ‘PiP’.

As one of The DreamTree School’s founding staff members, Elaine’s involvement with the school dates back to 2011. In addition to her role as Principal and Teacher (Yellow Class), Elaine also serves as Director on the Board. Together with fellow board members, Elaine is responsible for the efficient running of the school (operational and financial management), together with the wellbeing of each and every learner.

A qualified Speech Therapist, Marle has no less than 16 years’ experience working with children with a variety of communication needs, with a special interest in ASD. Her experience includes 6 years in the UK as well as many years of private practice in both Centurion (Pretoria) and Somerset West. As a Speech Therapist, Marle works closely with the schools attended by her clients in order to facilitate generalisation of the skills they have acquired in therapy.

Having qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 1974, Chuki has practiced as a Paediatric Occupational Therapist (focusing on special needs) since 1975, with many years’ experience working with both physically handicapped children as well as those with developmental and learning challenges. Chuki is also a qualified Neuro Developmental Therapist and Sensory Integration Therapist, further equipping her to work with children and their challenges. In addition to private practice, her experience within schools catering for children with special needs includes Vista Nova, Tafelberg Remedial, Sea Point (locum), Paarl School, Brackenfell (locum) and Saplings Hebrew Remedial Pre-Primary as well as having served as a member of De Hoop Primary School Governing Body (8 years) in various capacities (member, vice chair and chair).