Teacher Pinky (Lelanie)
Owner and Founder
Hi, my name is Lelanie Rautenbach, and I have always been passionate about young children. After completing my B.Ed. degree in the Foundation Phase and Psychology III, I had the privilege of gaining experience at Midstream College Pre-Primary in Centurion, Pretoria — a private school I regard as one of the best in the country… maybe even the world! 😄 The age group I worked with ranged from 6 months to Grade R. Later, the school's management opened two additional pre-primary schools in the estate, and I was offered the position of Curriculum Developer. This role gave me the incredible opportunity to attend the NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) annual conference in Washington, D.C. There, schools and curricula from all over the world were discussed, and we were able to incorporate the best evidence-based practices into our curriculum. In April 2022, we relocated to Somerset West, driven by the needs of my then 2-3-year-old daughter, who needed a suitable school. Unable to find a school that met my standards in Somerset West, I decided to open my own school for children aged 6 months to 6 years — Miracle Minds Pre-School! 💫 My goal was to create a school with a loving and nurturing environment (which is crucial for meaningful learning in young children) and a curriculum grounded in research. Our curriculum combines the best practices and philosophies of Montessori, Regio Emilia, Piaget, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) of Canada, and the most effective aspects of CAPS — ensuring your child will be school-ready, whether they attend primary school in South Africa or abroad. My goal was achieved and we continue to grow from strength to strength and will always strive to better our service towards our little Stars and Star parents. From birth to age five, this is the most vital period in a child's development, as neural pathways are forming and connecting. For this to happen optimally, children need emotional security and an environment enriched for learning. It is of utmost importance for a school and the parents to work as a team, to assure the best care possible for the most precious and most vulnerable in our lives. It is a true privilege to be part of a child's journey during this precious stage of their development.
Cant wait to meet our next little Star shining bright!
Teacher Lelanie (or Teacher Pinky😎 jip it comes with a story) #oncemystaralwaysmystar
Qaulifications
B ED Foundation Phase with Psychology III
Brenda Matanga
Educational support Staff
Brenda is a valued teaching assistant at Miracle Minds Preschool, known for her bubbly personality, infectious laughter, and endless energy. She brings joy into every classroom and playground, creating an atmosphere where children feel happy, confident, and excited to learn and play. Always eager to get involved, Brenda is the one running, chasing, playing hide-and-seek, and joining in every game with genuine enthusiasm.
A fast learner and deeply dedicated team member, Brenda shows strong commitment to Miracle Minds, our parents, our staff, and—most importantly—our children. Her warmth, playfulness, and willingness to always say “yes” to fun make her someone the children absolutely adore. Through her care, energy, and heartfelt connection with each child, Brenda plays a special role in making Miracle Minds a place filled with laughter, movement, and happy memories.
Junior Makani
Movement Coach
Meet Junior — a dynamic young movement coach and enthusiastic Rugby Tots coach with a heart for helping children grow through play. Junior has a deep passion for movement and believes that sport is more than just physical activity; it’s a powerful tool for building confidence, character, and self-esteem in young children. Through fun, engaging games and age-appropriate sport skills, he creates an environment where kids feel safe to explore, try new things, and believe in themselves.
Known for his boundless creativity, Junior brings energy and imagination into every session — and when it comes to face painting, he’s simply the best around! 🎨 Whether he’s coaching, encouraging, or transforming kids into their favorite characters, Junior makes every experience memorable, joyful, and inspiring.
Mary Matanda
Educational support Staff
Teacher Mary is a familiar and trusted face at Miracle Minds Preschool, having served the school faithfully for nearly 3 years. Her calm presence, gentle authority, and genuine love for children make her someone that children naturally feel safe with and deeply connected to. She has a rare gift of understanding each child’s needs, emotions, and personalities, and she responds with patience, kindness, and consistency every single day. As a qualified caretaker, Teacher Mary is known for her exceptional awareness and foresight—often noticing potential dangers before they arise and quietly ensuring that children are always protected. Parents and fellow teachers value her wisdom, reliability, and steady guidance, while children love her for her warmth, fairness, and comforting nature. Her consistent care and strong character make her a treasured role model and an essential part of the Miracle Minds family.
Kendra-Lee Hovell
Teacher
I am deeply passionate about fostering and enriching learning environments that promotes both academic and personal growth. My caring and patient approach, combined with a diverse skill set, enables me to support the holistic development of each child. Through my extensive global teaching experiences, I have had the privilege of connecting with children from various cultures and backgrounds. This exposure has greatly enhanced my teaching practice and has equipped me to adapt curriculum development to meet the unique needs and values of each individual child.
Qaulification
INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMA IN PSYCOLOGY & B.ED FOUNDATION PHASE EDUCATION 2016 - 2024 Open University & UNISA
TEFL Certificate Professional Development Institute 19th January 2021
TOEIC- ETS Teachers Council of Thailand 2016
Johanna Beukman
Gr RR & R Teacher
Experienced Gr R and Preschool Educator with a Passion for Pre-Primary Development. I have a passion for teaching younger learners, especially Gr R. I believe in holistic learning and in constantly being aware and adapting to the learners needs. I stay informed by reading, attending webinars and completing online courses regarding early childhood development and education. Learning should be fun and I believe I can provide a fun yet educational learning environment for all to participate in. I enjoy the outdoors and often take my teaching outside to incorporate nature and our natural surroundings in learning.
I am also a mom and wife. My son is currently a student at Stellenbosch University and my daughter a gr 9 learner at Parel Vallei High School. My Husband is a civil engineer, working in Cape Town. I enjoy working in the garden, sewing, arts and crafts, reading, cooking and taking long walks with our dog. Our family often participate in a fun game of yard cricket or walk our dog along the beach.
Qualifications
Bed Foundation Phase
N6 Educare
First Aid level 2
Na-imah De Bruyn
Lead Aftercare Teacher and Supervisor
I’m a dedicated Foundation Phase educator with experience as both a classroom teacher and a private ECD centre principal. I create a warm, structured learning environment that supports each child’s developmental needs while maintaining clear routines and expectations. My approach is patient, organised and centred on building strong relationships with learners, parents and staff. Stepping into a leadership role strengthened my ability to guide teams, manage school operations and maintain a high standard of teaching and care. I lead by example and support others in working confidently and independently. I’m committed to continuous growth, clear communication and creating a school environment where children feel safe, supported and ready to learn.
Qualifications
University of South Africa (2014)
Higher Certificate in Adult Basic Education and Training
University of South Africa (2025)
Bachelor of Arts in English and Psychology
CORNERSTONE INSTITUTE (2026) PGCE
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Foundation Phase)
Basic First Aid (Level 1) 2025