Calling Education believes in the inspirational and guiding influence of passionate teachers. We would rather have excellent teachers teaching in average facilities, than average teachers teaching in excellent facilities. It is one of our highest priorities to recruit outstanding teachers who understand “calling” and share our dreams for Calling Education.
SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM
Raoul Hamman
Principal,
Teacher of Mathematical Literacy
Raoul Hamman
Raoul grew up in Whiteriver, Mpumalanga, where he initially attended school. Later he moved to Nelspruit High School to pursue his passion for tennis. After he matriculated he spent a year coaching at a tennis academy in England. He studied at the University of Potchefstroom where he completed his Undergraduate Degree in Education (BEd), followed by an Honours Degree in Educational Psychology and a Masters’ Degree (MEd) in Mathematics.
After completing his studies, Raoul spent six months as a touring tennis coach and six months teaching at Curro Nelspruit. He then moved to Cape Town where he spent seven years teaching at Durbanville High School. He joined Calling Academy in 2019 and loves the privilege of seeing the growth and development of the school and its learners.
Raoul enjoys spending time outdoors where he gets to appreciate some of what God created while running and cycling. He places a lot of value on discipleship and building relationships and considers his greatest joy to be a good husband, friend and teacher. He is happily married to Kristine.
Craig Allwright
Deputy Principal,
Teacher of Mathematics
Craig Allwright
Karen van Boom
Grade 12 Head,
Teacher of Afrikaans FAL
Karen van Boom
Karen completed her BA HDE at UWC. She started her teaching career at Beacon Hill Secondary School in Mitchells Plain. She left teaching to start a business offering remedial classes in reading and basic Mathematics, but returned to the formal classroom when she joined Abbotts College, Century City, in October 2000.
Karen joined the Calling Academy team in January 2021. She is passionate about instilling positive values in young adults by incorporating life lessons in her teaching. She considers it a privilege to be part of the journey of these unique young men.
Karen is married to Heine, a primary school teacher. They are blessed with two sons and a granddaughter.
Jannie Kirsten
Grade 11 Head and Academic Head,
Teacher of Accounting
Jannie Kirsten
Jannie grew up in Paarl and absolutely loved his school career at Paarl Boys’ High School, eventually leading to his passion for teaching boys. He obtained a BCom (Agricultural Economics) Degree at Stellenbosch University after which he joined his family’s table grape farming business for 14 years, learning valuable lessons that enhance his current teaching subject.
After sensing that God was leading him into a new profession, Jannie returned to Stellenbosch University to complete his PGCE in 2016. Subsequently, he taught Accounting for two years at Swellendam High School before joining Calling Academy at the beginning of 2019. He is a keen enthusiast of endurance sports, loves trail running and enjoys his role as trail running coach at Calling Academy. Jannie is married to Beatrix and has four children: Gabriella, Jan-Dawid, Katja and baby Miga.
Dewald Maré
Grade 10 Head,
Teacher of Physical Science, Called to Impact pioneer, Connect coordinator and Marketing
Dewald Mare
Dewald is a passionate man who strives to make a difference in others lives by helping and inspiring them to reach their full potential.
Dewald finished his High School Career at Hoërskool Garsfontein and studied at the University of Pretoria. Dewald worked as a Science teacher at the prestigious Hoërskool Waterkloof, but felt the call of God to move to the Western Cape and become part of the movement of Calling Education to change and serve education in South Africa. He aspires to serve the next generation as well as he can, so that every young person can achieve the potential birthed in them.
Dewald loves adventure, being social with friends and lives to show the love of Christ to the world.
He has a passion for science, discipleship, growing and equipping the next generation.
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Yonela Mayile
Grade 9 Head,
Teacher of IsiXhosa FAL
Yonela Mayile
Yonela is an isiXhosa FAL teacher, who was born in the Eastern Cape, in a small village called Kubengu, however, she grew up in the well-known township of Nyanga in Cape Town.
Yonela graduated from the University of the Western Cape in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree majoring in Language and Communication Studies and IsiXhosa Language, followed by an Honours Degree in IsiXhosa in 2019. Her passion for teaching and the language motivated her to pursue her studies by enrolling for her PGCE at the University of Stellenbosch in 2020 in order to fulfil her dream of becoming an isiXhosa teacher.
Yonela joined the team at Calling Academy in 2022.
Anwell Cupido
Grade 8 Head,
Cricket coordinator and Teacher of Social Science & Tourism
Anwell Cupido
Anwell grew up in Paarl, where he attended a Catholic Primary School. Catholicism has played a central role in his life, instilling the values of a strong faith and a belief in God from an early age. Anwell matriculated from Klein Nederburg Secondary after which he attended the University of the Western Cape where he obtained a BA Degree majoring in Geography and Afrikaans & Nederlands. He was part of the pilot group of interns at Calling Academy in 2021 while studying for his PGCE part-time through the University of the North-West.
In 2022 he joined Calling Academy full-time where he now teaches Afrikaans FAL as well as Geography to Grade 8 and 9 learners. He also heads up the Cricket Program, coaching the U/15 and U/19 teams.
Anwell fosters an open and inclusive teaching approach within the classroom by striving to meet the needs of each and every learner.
TEACHERS
Verity Slaverse
Teacher of English HL
Verity Slaverse
Verity hails from Kuils River, Cape Town, and comes from a family of Educators. She matriculated from Sarepta Secondary School, after which she commenced her studies at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), completing a BA Degree in English and Psychology as well as an Honours Degree in English. As a student, she was awarded an exciting opportunity to participate in the Linnaeus-Palme International Exchange Programme at Dalarna University in Sweden. There she began a snowy semester studying towards her MA, which she completed upon her return. Verity was drawn to Teaching and after achieving her PGCE; she travelled East to teach in both private and public schools in South Korea.
Verity’s journey as an Educator, in South Africa, began as a tutor in English for Educational Development and, later, English Literature at UWC. Besides her teaching experience abroad, Verity also taught ESL locally. Later she lectured in Communication Studies at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) for nearly a decade before joining the team at Calling Academy in 2022.
She enjoys teaching English as she believes that it broadens learners’ horizons by presenting them with new cultures, and allows them to critically reflect on various themes and genres. English education fosters the development of 21st century skills such as communication, critical thinking, creativity, and problem solving. Therefore, not only does English assist in making learners’ subjects more accessible, it also prepares them to take their seats as global citizens in the long run.
Verity is an avid reader and Mom to sunny, spirited Scarlett, who shares her mother’s love for books.
Siphe Giba
Teacher of Mathematical Literacy and Business Studies
Siphe Giba
Born and raised amidst the scenic beauty of Worcester, Western Cape, Miss Giba embarked on an academic journey at Stellenbosch University, where she earned her BCom in Industrial Psychology and – with distinction – her Postgraduate Certificate in Education.
Driven by a fervent passion for both personal and communal development, she finds joy in exploring new horizons and reveling in the wonders of nature. She speaks 6 languages and is a lover of sport. She engages in netball for leisure, while also delighting in the pages of a good book during her moments of respite.
A guiding light in her life is her cherished Bible verse, found in Isaiah 41:10.
Philip Stevens
Teacher of Computer Applications Technology and Business Studies
Philip Stevens
Mr. Stevens grew up in Somerset West, attending Parel Vallei High School. After matriculating, he obtained a BCOM Accounting degree and spent a brief time in the accounting field.
On 29 February 2020, he gave his life to Christ and opted to complete a second degree in Theological Studies and thereafter he felt prompted to start a tutoring business, called Alpha Accounting whilst being employed at Somerset College.
He completed a PGCE, with his teaching practice at Calling Academy Stellenbosch. Upon graduation, God affirmed His call to serve at Calling and he began his journey as the CAT teacher in 2025.
Mr. Stevens is currently involved in bi-vocational ministry and serves as a Deacon in his local church.
Nakita Keal
Teacher of Mathematics
Nakita Keal
Caylin Farmer
Teacher of Afrikaans FAL
Caylin Hopley
Caylin Farmer obtained her BA (Hons) in Afrikaans and Dutch at Stellenbosch University and completed her PGCE through UNISA. She has a passion for languages and enjoys admin-related tasks.
Caylin completed her internship at Calling Academy Stellenbosch and truly found her passion for teaching. She is passionate about the next generation and equipping young leaders in their callings. She loves spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. She inspires and empowers learners to make every effort to confirm their calling.
Iviwe Mtubu
Teacher of Technology, Pre-CAT and Robotics
Iviwe Mtubu
Iviwe holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental and Geographical Science, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), and an Honours degree in Environmental and Geographical Science, all from the University of Cape Town. He is currently completing a Master’s degree in Environmental and Geographical Science, where his research focuses on climate change education, experiential learning, and working alongside teachers to design meaningful learning experiences.
He has worked as a Geography educator and curriculum specialist across a range of schooling contexts and previously worked at Calling Academy in 2022. Iviwe is also a registered Candidate Environmental Assessment Practitioner and the founder of ReMatric SA, a social-impact initiative creating second-chance matric and learning pathways for young people and adults.
Iviwe is passionate about education that is practical, dignified, and responsive to people’s lived realities. He values mentorship, community, and creating spaces where learners feel supported to grow and try again.
Shayna Rawson
Teacher of Life Sciences
Shayna Rawson
Shayna grew up in Somerset West, where she developed an interest in biology and the sciences. She went on to study a BSc in Human Life Sciences with Psychology at Stellenbosch University. After completing her degree, she felt to pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education and completed her teaching practical at Calling Academy in 2020.
Shayna is passionate about partnering with God in equipping young people to recognize and use their individual strengths to excel academically and grow into confident, purpose-driven individuals. After four years of teaching at Natural Learning Academy, where she gained valuable experience and insight, God opened the opportunity for her to join Calling Academy.
Outside the classroom, Shayna enjoys sport, spending time in nature, reading, and sharing life with the people she loves.
Lucia Leukes-Myeko
Teacher of English Home Language
Lucia Leukes-Myeko
Hailing from Eersteriver, Lucia is a passionate educator who earned a Bachelor of Education from the University of the Western Cape, specialising in English and Life Orientation. Her journey with Calling Academy began during a transformative teaching practice in 2022, where she developed a deep connection to the school’s mission and sense of community.
Driven by a philosophy of empowerment, Lucia focuses on helping learners look beyond their current circumstances to realise their full potential. She is dedicated to teaching students that through hard work and a clear vision, any goal in life is within reach, regardless of one’s background.
Allison Carstens
Teacher of History, Life Orientation, Social Science and Creative Arts
Allison Carstens
Allison grew up in Idas Valley, Stellenbosch, where her early experiences shaped her strong sense of community and commitment to education. She matriculated from Lückhoff High School and went on to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities at Stellenbosch University, majoring in Psychology and Sociology.
Driven by a deep interest in human behaviour, society, and learning, she continued her academic journey at Stellenbosch University by completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), which she obtained cum laude.
She has a strong passion for adventure and personal growth, and she enjoys exploring new experiences and cultures. She is also multilingual and can speak German, among other languages, which reflects her curiosity about the world and her appreciation for diversity.
NC Vermeulen
Teacher of Business Studies
NC Vermeulen
NC grew up in Paarl where he attended Paarl Boys’ High School. He obtained a BCom Investment Management Degree from Stellenbosch University as well as a PGCE in order to pursue his God-given passion for teaching. He began his career in Education at a private high school in Vietnam. There he gained an insight and understanding of international curriculums and how to implement different approaches to better accommodate the varying learning styles of his learners.
NC joined Calling Academy in January 2020. He currently teaches Business Studies in the FET phase, CAT (Computer Applications Technology) to Grade 10 and EMS (Economic and Management Science) to Grades 8 and 9. He is Head of Grade 11 as well as the Connect Co-Ordinator for Grades 8-12. When he is not in the class room; NC can be found assisting with outdoor sports such as Cricket, Trail Running and Tennis.
NC believes wholeheartedly in his role as an educator by impacting his learners’ lives in shaping their futures. As a mentor, he provides guidance for his students and believes a teacher not only imparts academic knowledge but is also responsible for instilling good values as well as assisting with ways to resolve modern-day challenges.
NC is married to Nicola they are parents to a son.
Reinhard Appolis
Head of Youth Development involving Alumni Relations, Post School Pathways, Subject Choice Guidance and Teacher of Life Orientation at Stellenbosch
Reinhard Appolis
Reinhard was born and bred in Touwsrivier where he attended De Kruine Secondary School. After achieving outstanding matric results he went on to complete his BEd with FET Specialisation at CPUT. He further obtained a BEd Honours degree in Teaching and Learning completing his practical teaching stints at Zonnebloem NEST Secondary School and HTS Drostdy.
Reinhard is passionate about community transformation by creating academic opportunities. He started a non-profit organisation, MeantFoYou, to educate learners about tertiary study opportunities and sourcing funding. He is committed to student success inside the classroom as well as in life. He joined Calling Academy at the start of 2020 where he focuses on building meaningful relationships to create student success. He has dedicated his life to inspiring the next generation of learners to chase their dreams and aim to make them a reality.
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Prudence Gabriels
Receptionist
Prudence Gabriels
Prudence is the warm, friendly face that greets one as one enters Calling Academy. A local lass, Prudence, is from Idas Valley in Stellenbosch where she attended Luckhoff High School. After she matriculated, she completed a course in Office Administration and Accounting. Previously, Prudence worked in tele-sales and office administration before she joined Calling Academy in 2018 as the receptionist. Prudence says her job allows her to live out her passion for working with children. To that end she has subsequently completed two First Aid Courses whilst at Calling Academy.
Jeanetta Oosthuizen (Sophie)
Administrator
Jeanetta Oosthuizen
Sophie grew up on a farm close to Augrabies in the Northern Cape between the grapes and the vines. She attended school in Kakamas her whole school career, but she knew there was more to this world than the very small town of Augrabies.
After high school she took a 2 year gap working oversees where she discovered her liking in design, which led to her studying Motion Design at Cape Town Creative Academy. Since graduating in 2019, she has been working as a freelance Motion & Graphic Designer. In her free time, she also loves adventures, staying active, and lekker food.
She discovered her true passion and calling: serving others, through volunteering and becoming part of the team of Serve Stellenbosch since 2024, a local missional justice ministry. This led to her being more involved with Calling Academy, where she felt a clear calling from God to join Calling Academy.
Anke Lotz
Academic and Administrative Intern
Anke Lotz
Anke Lotz grew up in Brackenfell and loved her high school years at Bellville High school where she met teachers who had a positive impact on her life. She completed her BSc undergraduate in Human Life Sciences at Stellenbosch University and is currently an intern at Calling Academy while she is completing her PGCE online through Aros. She is passionate about all things Jesus and His creation and believes that it is her calling to touch the lives of students by being a good ambassador for God’s kingdom and teaching students about the beauty and complexity of His creation. She aspires to teach Life Sciences and is excited to learn from the amazing staff at Calling Academy.
Greg Modungwa
Values Consultant
Greg Modungwa
Gregory is the Youth Director at Unashamedly Ethical and facilitates all initiatives related to the fast-growing Youth Movement called Tribe. He completed his Theological Degree at the Global University of Theology in 2013 and went on to be a youth pastor for 5 years. He has worked in schools for over 6 years as a youth worker specialising in value-driven programmes and organisational culture transformation of various schools.
Tribe, as an Initiative of Unashamedly Ethical, is dedicated to raising a generation of young people who are bold enough to take a stand for ethics & values so that they can reach their full potential and have a positive impact on society. Tribe’s primary focus is to equip schools with the tools and resources needed to develop a values-driven culture within the school.
Maylon de Kock
In-house Custodian
Maylon de Kock
Maylon was born and raised in Stellenbosch, attending Vlaeberg Primary and Stellenzicht High. She is the mother of two children. Maylon’s efforts to take care of and protect the schools interior facilities goes unmatched. Maylon joined the Calling Academy team in 2023 and has been a blessing to our school.
Shaun Jacobs
Landscaper and Groundskeeper
Shaun Jacobs
Shaun grew up in Stellenbosch, where he attended school at Vlottenburg Primary and Stellenzicht High. Shaun worked at Catherine Marshall Wines before joining the Calling team in 2023 and has been a blessing to Calling Academy Stellenbosch ever since. He is responsible for keeping our grounds in great condition and is a valuable asset to our school.