Welcome to our new Staff who have joined the Cannons family in 2025!
Each one brings a wealth of experience, enthusiasm and dedication. We are excited to have them on board and look forward to all the great things we will accomplish together.
Ms Tessa Follett-Botha: Grade 1 Teacher
I am Tessa Follett-Botha, the newly appointed Grade 1A teacher. I am thrilled to join this vibrant school community and contribute to the educational journey of our young pupils. I was raised in Wellington, a small town just outside Cape Town, where my passion for childcare and education was nurtured from a young age. Following my matriculation, I had the opportunity to au pair in The Netherlands for a year, which was a truly enriching experience.
Upon my return to Cape Town, I pursued my degree in Foundation Phase Education. Prior to joining Cannons Creek Primary, I spent four fulfilling years as a Grade 1 educator at Garden Village Primary.
My teaching philosophy is guided by the principles of holistic development, with a strong emphasis on compassion, communication, and inclusivity. I strive to create a psychologically safe and supportive learning environment that fosters academic excellence, creativity, and social growth.
Outside the classroom, I enjoy hiking, training, cooking, and exploring my creative side through Arts and Crafts. I value time spent with family and friends, listening to music, and discovering new breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town. I look forward to meeting you and working together to make the 2025 academic year an unforgettable and successful one for our learners.
Mr Stalint Gallant: Grounds & Facilities Manager
My name is Stalint Gallant. I’ve been an Estate/Facilities manager at schools for 14 years. I’m married with three children: one son and two daughters. I live in the Southern Suburbs. I love spending time with my family, I enjoy the outdoors – camping and hiking. I have a diploma in Project management and previously worked at two Independent schools and two Government schools. I’m passionate about Project management. It’s one of my core skills. My goal for this year is to keep the grounds and facilities team motivated and develop their skills in order to have a clean and safe environment for staff and pupils. What I love about my job is that there’s always a different challenge and this way I always learn something new, as well as working collaboratively with all the staff.
Mr Percy Chinhamo: High School Tourism, Geography and Mathematical Literacy
I trained as a Maths and Science teacher but specialised in Geography. Teaching is a vocation for me. I have passion for Volleyball and Chess as extra-murals. I’m originally from Zimbabwe (Norton is 40kms outside Harare) but am now a permanent resident in South Africa. I am a father of seven – my youngest starts Grade 5 at Cannons this year. I love having family time. I hope to set new records in the school as I have done in previous schools, God-willing. I enjoy nurturing children and watching them blossom.
Mrs Nicole Stadler: Support Staff
I’m Nicole Stadler from Westridge, Mitchells Plain. I’m a mother of five beautiful children, married to a wonderful man. I’m a born again Christian, a God-fearing woman. For the past four years, I haven’t been working as we moved to Hermanus for my husband’s work. I spend most of my time doing what I can in the community. I’m so thankful for this opportunity.
Mrs Tracy Ingram: High School STEAM and Mathematics
I am married to Keith, a professional fast-bowling coach, and together we have two wonderful children who attend Cannons Creek. Keith and I met while teaching at a school in Durban, and seven years later, we moved to Cape Town to embark on an exciting new business adventure.
My love for teaching was nurtured from a young age, growing up in a home with two teacher parents. Education was always at the heart of our family, and I can’t recall a time when I didn’t want to follow in their footsteps. I believe the variety of life experiences I’ve had is rooted in my passion for learning and my willingness to embrace new challenges.
Over the years, my career has taken me from teaching Mathematics and Physical Science to leading departments and mentoring educators. Most recently, I worked in EdTech, further broadening my perspective and skills. Now, I am thrilled to return to the classroom, where my heart truly lies.
This year, my goal is to elevate STEAM education, infusing innovation and creativity into my teaching while ensuring learning remains fun and engaging. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with inspiring colleagues and incredible students who make every day dynamic and rewarding.
Ms Lucy Twani: Head of Sport
Growing up in the Eastern Cape, I have always experienced sport as an integral part of my life. From Kingsridge High School for Girls, to my time at the Nelson Mandela University as a student athlete, I have immersed myself in the world of sports, both as an athlete and a coach. With a background in Sport Management and further specialization through a CIES/FIFA executive program at Nelson Mandela University, my journey in sport has been a constant evolution. My journey has taken me from playing netball at provincial and national level (SA U21) to being a rugby administrator for an SA Rugby franchise in Gqeberha, to being a sports administrator at the Diocesan School for Girls in Makhanda then to coaching at a high-performance institution, North West University, I have had the privilege of experiencing the power of sport from multiple angles. I’ve gained invaluable experience in sports administration and management. Now I’m thrilled to bring my expertise and enthusiasm to Cannons Creek, where I can continue fostering a love for sport and contribute to creating an environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, fun-filled, and competitive environment. I look forward to taking Cannons Creek Sport to even greater heights!
Mrs Jo Steyn: High School Head of Mathematics
I am a highly motivated Mathematics teacher with a passion for inspiring young minds and nurturing the next generation. I hold a BSc degree and a BEd (Hons) in Mathematics Education. Prior to joining Cannons Creek, I was at St Andrew’s School for Girls in Johannesburg for 12 years. I also taught at various other schools including Sacred Heart College and King David High School. My aim as a teacher is to provide the best possible opportunities for students to learn and achieve to their highest level in all areas of school life. I feel energised by my work and colleagues and believe in the magic of teamwork. My goal for the year is to deepen my students’ critical thinking skills and confidence in their Maths ability. In my free time, I love to be in the great outdoors. I have a vibrant family life and enjoy spending time with my husband and three amazing daughters. I am delighted to be part of the Cannons Creek family and I look forward to a successful year ahead.