Meet the Team

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.

Ronel Le Roux

Afrikaans

My name is Ronel Le Roux. I believe in creating a safe, welcoming, and neutering classroom community that fits the diverse needs of all students. It is my goal as an educator to help students meet their fullest potential. My classroom is a place where all students can learn without a fear of failure and a place where they can succeed based on their individual efforts.

I firmly believe the respect I show my students is the respect that I will receive in return. I want students to be inspired and motivated to learn. I want students to believe that they CAN. If they do not believe in themselves – who will? I know and understand the challenges that comes with learning a second language, and I want students to embrace the challenge and see it as an opportunity rather than an obstacle.

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 Peterse

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.

Claudia Nolte-Schamm

Social Science, Life Orientation and Economic Management Science

My name is Claudia Nolte-Schamm, and it is my pleasure to be teaching Life Orientation to our grades 8 to 11 and Social Sciences (History and Geography) to the grades 8 and 9. My family and I relocated from Cape Town to Plett last year and since my daughter Sarah is also a learner here, we are happy to be part of the Legacy House community. My son will join our school next year, as part of the new grade 8 class.

My interests include being outside in nature, singing while playing guitar and involvement in my local church community.

Natasha Burger

Geography , Life Science and Natural 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.

Elaine Thomas

Administrator

Hi, I’m Elaine Thomas, I am motivated and detail-oriented administrative professional with a passion for organizational efficiency and excellence. I am eager to apply my strong communication skills, keen eye for detail, and proactive approach to support and streamline operations in a dynamic work environment. Im dedicated to delivering high-quality administrative support to contribute to the success of the team. I am proud and excited to be a part of this wonderful school