Our vision is to prepare and motivate our students for a rapidly changing world by instilling in them critical thinking skills, a global perspective, and a respect for core values of honesty, loyalty, perseverance, and compassion. Students will have success for today and be prepared for tomorrow.
We offer a truly different approach to school. Supported by the latest in technology and cognitive science, we move beyond the traditional tools of lectures, homework, high-stakes tests, and grades. At Legacy House, our students learn in collaborative classrooms of multi-age learners. Our flexible approach challenges each student with their own differentiated learning plan and inspires them through real-world projects and experiences.
Legacy House is dedicated to preparing young men and women to make a positive difference in their world. By fostering their intellectual, spiritual, physical, and emotional development, the school seeks to inspire and motivate them to: strive for excellence; seek truth; live honorably; act responsibly; and help others.
Legacy House is an independent school dedicated to providing a liberal education and enabling each student to develop their inherent ability to the fullest extent with a balance of discipline and freedom. We believe in producing unstoppable learners who are inspired to make an impact and determined to fulfill their potential and control their futures.
Samantha Thomas - Managing Director and Principal
English and History
I’m Samantha Thomas, a teacher with 24 years of experience. Lifelong learning is my mantra, something I instill in my students too. I strongly advocate for critical literacy, believing it’s essential for children. My Honours thesis at Wits focused on critical literacy’s impact on digital literacy.
I teach skills to navigate information overload and interpret texts’ intentions, empowering students to enact positive change. As a mother of two, I’ve seen the shortcomings of traditional schooling firsthand.
Beyond teaching, I cherish time with family, indulge in my passion for animals, and enjoy horse riding. My dream is a holistic school environment where every child finds their voice and passion. At Legacy House, we’re committed to nurturing each child’s potential.
Vanessa Potgieter
English and Afrikaans
My name is Vanessa Potgieter and I am extremely excited to be joining this awesome new school. I come from Johannesburg and moved down to this fantastic town called Plettenberg Bay with my family, during 2020. I am a qualified, experienced teacher with five years classroom experience and two years as a free-lance tutor, tutoring Afrikaans. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education through UNISA and I am also TEFL qualified. I have a great passion for teaching. My main aim is that my students learn in a fun, meaningful way and are able to apply what they learn. Every child learns differently and we need to create a learning environment that caters for every child. I am passionate about teaching Afrikaans as I feel it is such an interesting and descriptive language. My interests include hiking, walking my dog and keeping fit. I am honoured and privileged to have the opportunity to join this wonderful team of educators and this unique school.
Mauritz Lourens
Visual & Creative Arts and Afrikaans
Hello, everyone! I’m thrilled to continue this exciting journey with you at Legacy House. Whether we’re bringing creativity to life in Visual Arts for Grades 10 and 12, exploring the beauty of Afrikaans for Grades 8 and 9, diving into fun Art projects for Grades 8 and 9, or learning about life and growth in Life Orientation, we’re going to have an amazing time together. Get ready for classes filled with creativity, curiosity, and plenty of fun!
Stephen Deetlefs
Business Studies and Computer Application Technology
I’m Stephen Deetlefs, a seasoned Business Professional with 37 years of experience in Banking and IT. I’ve managed projects, led teams, and held line-management positions until my retirement in 2007. Post-retirement, I ventured into real estate, lecturing, consultancy, and web design.
Teaching Business Economics and Accountancy at Deutsche Schule Johannesburg in 2015 ignited my passion for education. Recently, I filled in as an IT teacher at Redford House, Blue Hills, where I taught Java Programming. Now, I’m thrilled to join Legacy House Plettenberg Bay to impart my firsthand business knowledge and contribute to student success and character building.
Cassandra-Leigh Allberry
Physical Science and Maths
I’m Miss Allberry, thrilled to teach mathematics and physical sciences at Legacy House. Passionate about science and math, I aim to inspire students daily, fostering a love for learning. Outside class, I adore exploring nature with my dog, drawing inspiration for teaching. Active in our astronomy club, I fuel my curiosity about the universe, enriching lessons. As the school’s health and safety representative, I ensure a supportive environment for all. Eager to share my enthusiasm for education and science with your children.
Nerine Pieterse
Maths
I’m Nerine Pieterse, a passionate individual with a love for numbers. My journey led me to study a BSc in Applied Mathematics & Statistics, reflecting my dedication to the world of mathematical exploration. While I spent 5 years in the accounting field, my true calling lies in teaching. Since my high school days, I’ve been tutoring mathematics, finding joy in helping students build confidence in their math skills. I’m excited to combine my expertise in numbers with my enthusiasm for education to make a positive impact on the learning journey of others.
Natasha Burger
Geography , Life Science and Social Science
Hi everyone.
This is me, Natasha Burger. I teach Life Science, Natural Science and Geography.
I have a love for teaching but simply believe that our students are not defined by the marks of their tests but rather by the type of person they leave as when the matriculate. I like to teach my students it’s great to have good grades, but it’s even better to be a good person.
Louise Tucker
Administrator
Louise Tucker brings a wealth of academic and administrative experience to Legacy House. With a Master’s in Classics and an Honours in Psychology, she has worked extensively in academia, her true passion. Louise is dedicated to supporting students, parents, and staff in reaching their full potential, fostering a collaborative environment, and ensuring the smooth running of administrative tasks. She believes in the innate potential of every individual and is committed to creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, but that we are powerful beyond measure.”