“It is a great privilege to work so closely with these children, their families and the multi-disciplinary teams involved with them. I find my work at The DreamTree School enormously fulfilling and aim to make a difference in the lives of many more children and their families.”

Elaine’s passion for children with autism, and special needs, began in 1998 when her heart was touched by a very special four-year old boy. This saw her embark on a career in special needs education. After graduating from North-West University in 2004 with a B Ed Honours degree (specialising in remedial teaching), Elaine gained experience and specialised knowledge teaching at schools for autistic and other special needs learners in both the UK and South Africa. She has since obtained further training in TEACCH, PECS and Makaton.

“I have always known that I wanted to work with children and have always been passionate about trying to make a difference in people’s lives. I am excited to be part of The DreamTree School and look forward to continuing to witness the changes that occur in the lives of both our children and their families.”

Heather completed her BA degree through UNISA, majoring in Psychology and Criminology. Her introduction to special needs education came upon her return to Somerset West, after many years of travelling. Heather’s experience is based mainly on one-on-one therapy with children of all ages, but it is working with the younger children where she derives her greatest joy.

“My passion is working with children, and I am excited about the difference I can make in the lives of The DreamTree learners.”

Michelle has extensive experience working with children with special needs, across a wide age group from 2 to 16. Her involvement over many years with these children has given her important insights from which our learners benefit daily.

“A passionate teacher, I thrive on seeing my learners every morning and feel deeply honoured that their parents have chosen to place them in my care. A good and open relationship with the parents is an important part of helping the learners achieve their goals whilst offering them the support they need. My hope is that every learner will feel the love and support I create in the classroom.”

After obtaining her B Ed degree, Mareli went on to gain nine years’ experience working with special needs children, across different grades, in a mainstream environment. In addition, Mareli also brings with her four years’ experience working with special needs children at the Tina Cowley Reading Centre.

Chuki assists teachers on an ad-hoc basis with practical intervention in the classroom, with a specific focus on those children currently not receiving any other individual Occupation Therapy.