Teachers

Our professional teachers love learning and pass that love and excitement to the children.
Meet

the wonderful team of childhood education .

1

Bridget Jones

Founder

Country Playden was founded over 30 years ago by Bridget Jones, whose passion for early childhood development and love for children laid the foundation for the nurturing school Country Playden is today.

With more than three decades of hands-on experience in early learning, Bridget has been deeply involved in every aspect of the school’s growth. Her vision has always been to create a safe, caring and stimulating environment where children feel valued, confident and free to learn through play.

Bridget believes that the early years are the most important in a child’s life. Her approach focuses on developing the whole child — emotionally, socially, physically and academically — while fostering strong values, independence and a genuine love for learning.

Under her guidance, Country Playden has built a trusted reputation within the community, welcoming generations of families and maintaining a strong sense of warmth, consistency and excellence. Even after 30 years, Bridget remains actively involved, ensuring that the school continues to uphold the high standards and family-centred values it was founded on.

Belinda Jones

Belinda Jones joined Country Playden in 2004 with a deep sense of commitment to both her family’s legacy and her passion for early childhood education. As the daughter of founder Bridget Jones, Belinda initially came on board to assist her mother but quickly became an integral part of the school’s leadership and daily operations.

Over the years, Belinda has played a key role in the growth and development of Country Playden, combining hands-on experience with strong leadership and a genuine love for working with children and families. Her approach is centred on creating a nurturing, structured and stimulating environment where every child is supported to reach their full potential.

As Principal and Director, Belinda is actively involved in all aspects of the school, from educational programmes and staff development to family relationships and the overall wellbeing of each child. She is passionate about maintaining the warm, family-oriented culture that Country Playden is known for, while continuing to evolve and strengthen the school for future generations.

Principal & Director

Carina Theron

Carina Theron has been a valued member of the Country Playden family since 2009. With many years of experience and a genuine passion for early childhood development, Carina brings dedication, warmth, and consistency to her classroom every day.

She is known for her caring nature, patience, and commitment to nurturing each child’s individual potential. Carina creates a safe, stimulating, and loving environment where children feel confident to explore, learn, and grow at their own pace.

Her long-standing journey with Country Playden reflects her loyalty to the school and her deep belief in the values and philosophy that make it such a special place for children to begin their learning journey.

Teacher

Imogen Hiltermann

Imogen Hiltermann joined Country Playden in 2024 and has quickly become a valued member of our teaching team. Energetic, caring, and enthusiastic, Imogen brings a positive and nurturing presence to her classroom.

She has a natural ability to connect with the children, creating a warm and engaging learning environment where they feel happy, secure, and supported. Her passion for early childhood development is evident in the way she encourages each child to grow in confidence and curiosity.

Imogen has so much to offer, and the children absolutely adore her.

Teacher
WE

are so supported

BELINDA

Belinda has been a valued member of the Country Playden team since 2017. As a fully qualified teacher, Belinda brings dedication, professionalism, and a warm, caring approach to her role.

Her hard work behind the scenes helps everything run smoothly, creating a supportive and welcoming environment for both children and staff. Belinda’s commitment is an important part of what makes Country Playden such a special place.

Support Staff

DELILIA

Delilia joined Country Playden in 2023 and works in our babies and toddler’s section. She is the most kind, gentle, and soft-spoken person who is perfectly suited to caring for our youngest children.

Her calm and nurturing presence creates a comforting environment where toddlers and babies feel safe, loved, and supported as they begin their early learning journey.

Support Staff

XOLANI

Xolani has been with Country Playden since 2021, fulfilling multiple important roles including guard, helper, gardener, and repairman. His hard work and reliable presence behind the scenes ensure that the school is safe, clean, and well-maintained every day.

Xolani’s dedication and willingness to assist wherever needed make him an invaluable part of the Country Playden family.

Support Staff