The EduHero Bringing Big Dreams to a Rural School
At Keller Education, we celebrate teachers who go above and beyond, using the Keller methodology to inspire and transform their students’ lives. One such remarkable EduHero is Debbie Cloete, a passionate educator whose creativity and resilience have brought quality education to the rural Eastern Cape.
Debbie’s teaching journey spans decades, beginning at Meredale Primary in Gauteng, where she worked alongside the legendary Dave Balt for fifteen years. She then transitioned to independent schools, teaching at St David’s Marist Inanda and Somerset College. Love eventually brought Debbie to Elliot, where she embraced life as a farmer’s wife and took on the challenge of transforming an old, dilapidated hotel into the now thriving Stone House Independent Prep School.
Debbie’s teaching philosophy is encapsulated in her greatest wish for her students: that they are “free to be themselves.” Her creative and energetic teaching style is complemented by her willingness to take on new challenges and try innovative, ‘out-of-the-box’ methods. One of Debbie’s proudest moments was convincing Nelson Mandela to visit St Davids Marist, a day that included a deep conversation about education and a promise to uphold Madiba’s legacy of empowerment.
Debbie’s innovative approach to teaching found its perfect match in the Keller methodology. She fondly recalls meeting Gavin Keller at Somerset College, where he introduced the ideas of marking with coloured pens and doing away with homework. Today, with the help of devoted colleague Karli van Heerden and a team of dedicated staff, Stone House seamlessly integrates many of the Keller tools and ideas into the existing programme. Puppets, the brain glove, learner journals and ferocious goal setting have all contributed to the school’s standing as a hub of educational excellence in the Platteland.
Understanding that children with concentration issues or behavioural challenges often need connection, Debbie and her team have utilised the Keller principles to create a nurturing environment where every child feels valued. The Care Circle is a highlight of the day at Stone House, where students discuss their experiences and develop community. The 6 Cs are integrated into every classroom, enhancing comprehension and creativity. Purposeful play has also redefined break times, giving students a full hour to explore and making the school day more balanced and enjoyable.
Debbie’s journey is a testament to the power of innovative education coupled with unwavering commitment. Her work with the Keller methodology has not only enriched the lives of her students but also set a standard for excellence in rural education. So, here’s to Debbie Cloete, an EduHero who dares to dream, innovate, and inspire.
Want to follow in her footsteps? Become an EduHero today. Contact us at home@keller.education to find out more.