Education is evolving – and fast. We asked some of the North Coast’s leading education experts to tell us more about the future of learning, and share how they’re reimagining education for a new generation.
Mrs Jacqui Pienaar – Principal
La Lucia Junior Primary School
At La Lucia Junior Primary, the team is committed to evolving with the times while staying true to the core values that give education its purpose. They embrace their responsibility to nurture compassionate, thoughtful and globally-minded citizens of the future.
What is the biggest change you see coming in education?
Education is shifting towards a more personalised, holistic model. I believe we will see a greater emphasis on nurturing adaptable, empathetic individuals who thrive in a rapidly changing world.
How are you preparing students for a digital world?
Learners are introduced to digital tools in developmentally appropriate ways. We are equipping them with the skills and ethics needed for a tech-driven future.
What role does mental health play in your curriculum?
Mental wellness is woven into everything we do. A learner who
feels supported emotionally is far more likely to flourish academically and socially.
Details: 10 Winston Crescent, La Lucia; 031 5722 996;
IG: @laluciajpschool; FB: La Lucia Junior Primary School
Lesley van Straaten
Life and Career-Choice Coach
Having been an educator for most of her career, Lesley is now a life and career-choice coach, and NLP practitioner. She calls herself “The Chatalyst”. Together with her clients, she chats, listens, and catalyses the changes required to overcome and flourish.
What is the biggest change you see coming in education?
The leaning toward technology and AI means that students need to think creatively and critically in their own unique capacity, applying competency and emotional intelligence.
How are you preparing students for a digital world?
Equipping students with problem-solving skills and adapting to the rapidly evolving landscape through comprehensive hands-on experience, is key. At the centre of this is personal identity – realising and unleashing the power within.
What role does mental health play in your curriculum?
Empowering students to focus on their talents and passions and reframing limiting beliefs is essential. Self-awareness and resilience are critical. If they know who they are, they can thrive in any environment.
Details: lesand@telkomsa.net; 082 4510113;
IG: @the_kwazilience_way
Kerryn Viljoen – Deputy Principal
Crawford International North Coast Preparatory
Crawford International North Coast is shaping tomorrow’s leaders. The beautiful co-ed school (Grades 000-12) is set in an idyllic and secure campus just a short drive from either Ballito or uMhlanga.
What is the biggest change you see coming in education?
One of the most meaningful shifts I have seen is the move away from traditional teaching towards a more student-centred, inquiry-led approach. We encourage students to ask questions, explore ideas and connect their learning to the real world.
How are you preparing students for a digital world?
Technology offers powerful opportunities for creativity and collaboration, and we aim to teach children how to use it with purpose and care. This includes everything from online safety to understanding the reliability of information.
What role does mental health play in your curriculum?
Mental and emotional wellbeing play a central role in our daily classroom life. We aim to create a space where children feel safe, supported and seen.
Details: www.crawfordinternational.co.za/north-coast;
IG: @crawford_northcoast; FB: Crawford International North Coast
Tammy D’Aubrey – Head of Preschool
Village Kidz
Village Kidz is a family-centred preschool for children aged 12 months to 6 years, where personalised learning, generous outdoor spaces, and a deeply invested team create a caring and enriching early childhood experience.
What is the biggest change you see coming in education?
The biggest change coming in education is a shift toward nature-based, experiential learning, especially in early childhood education, and Village Kidz is leading the way. With immersive outdoor experiences and a low child-to-adult ratio, it nurtures each child in a caring, personalised environment where young minds flourish.
How are you preparing students for a digital world?
We place a strong emphasis on play, creativity, problem-solving and collaboration, which equips children with the cognitive and social skills necessary to navigate a technology-driven future.
What role does mental health play in your curriculum?
At Village Kidz, mental health is a cornerstone of our curriculum. By nurturing emotional safety, self-awareness, and secure relationships, we help young children build the essential emotional foundations for lifelong wellbeing, resilience, and a love of learning.
Details: Eden Village, Foxhill, Salt Rock; 032 815 0513;
IG: @vlgkidz; FB: Village Kidz
Londiwe Khawula – Drama Teacher
Reddam House Ballito
With a background in the film industry, Londiwe is passionate about the arts. She brings real-world insight and creativity to her classroom.
What is the biggest change you see coming in education?
The most exciting change I see is the move toward individualised learning. Students are no longer just following a set path – they’re shaping their own journeys! With more freedom to explore their interests, they’re learning in ways that truly inspire them.
How are you preparing the students for the digital world?
We teach students to use technology in meaningful, creative ways. It’s exciting to see how empowered students feel when they take ownership of their work using technology.
What role does mental health play in your curriculum?
I’m a strong advocate for mental health. Drama requires empathy, self-awareness and emotional honesty. My classroom is a space where students are encouraged to connect with their own experiences, understand others and express themselves freely.
Details: 031 140 8808; info.ballito@reddam.house;
IG: @reddamballito;
FB: reddamhouseballito
