Johann Jordaan

Principal

As head of school,  my involvement with Pomario is an exciting journey. I have served in several institutions in South Africa and abroad, but Pomario, with its unique character, is one of my favourites!  

After my high school career, a love of languages ​​led me to the University of Stellenbosch where I obtained an Honours degree in Afrikaans and Dutch literature, as well as the Higher Education Diploma (HED).

My initial teaching experience spans 16 years - a period in which I was fortunate enough to be exposed to many facets of education and residence management. After that, I entered the business world and for a next period of 16 years I was in charge of a computer training facility and various related industries. During this time I also served as chair of a school governing body and I stayed involved in school activities through sports coaching.

In 2017, I had the opportunity to apply my teaching and management experience abroad as the principal of an international private school in Nigeria. Three years later, I had the privilege of joining Pomario as Head of School.

I am married to Wilma, an occupational therapist, and we have four children. It is a pleasure for me and my family to live and work in this beautiful environment. Children, education and personal growth are my passions and I enjoy serving the Citrusdal community in this way. 


Meet our people

  • Leana Marais

    Department Head: Senior Phase

    Afrikaans

    I am originally from Great Brak River in the Garden Route. In 2016, I completed my B.Ed ISF degree at CPUT in Wellington, after which I joined my husband in Citrusdal. My family and I enjoy the countryside and prefer the simpler lifestyle it offers. Pomario provides me with opportunities for personal growth and to live out my passion for children – to truly make an impact in their precious young lives. I believe that you should bloom where you are planted, embrace challenges and turn them into miracles in your life!

  • Ilse Oberholzer ​

    English

    I obtained a BA degree in Languages ​​and Psychology, as well as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education at the University of Stellenbosch. Education in the East, world travel to the West, as well as education at a public school in Bellville, laid a good foundation for me as a teacher in Languages, Life Skills, Tourism and History. My love of adventure and the outdoors led to the emergence of L.O.S.T., Pomario's outdoor hiking group. Pomario gives me the opportunity to live out my calling as a teacher – to provide quality education, along with the opportunity to develop the child in totality.

  • Hanna-Mari Mouton

    Co-ordinator: Foundation Phase

    Grade 2 Class Teacher

    My name is Hanna-Mari Mouton, married to Anton and mom of two busy boys. We farm in the Eendekuil district. I grew up in Porterville and attended Porterville High School from grade 1 to matric. I fully realize that health is only grace; that is why I live life to the fullest every day and also make my learners aware of the privileges we receive undeservedly. I enjoy the combination of schooling and farm life. We are a close-knit family and we like to do activities together. I am a proud teacher who loves my school children just as much as my own children.

  • Elmarie Gelderblom

    Head of Preschool | 3-4 Year Teacher

    ​I am the proud mother of two beautiful girls and five grandchildren aged between 7 and 14 years old, whom I absolutely adore! I grew up in Durbanville and completed my Higher Education Diploma (HED Senior Primary) at Paarl Teacher's College in 1983.

    For 10 years, I worked at the Education Department as a coordinator of the Senior Certificate examination papers. Since then, I have worked as a Gr R teacher at two different ECD centres. In 2009, I was appointed as principal at an ECD Centre in Parow, where I worked until 2020.

    Children are truly my passion, and nothing compares to seeing them grow and master different skills. Building a well-balanced, positive self-image in each learner is truly my passion. I am excited to be part of the Pomario team, as three of my grandchildren are students at this beautiful school. I am looking forward to serving the Citrusdal community, especially our little learners who are very close to my heart!

    In my free time, I enjoy doing needlework, cooking, reading, and hiking trails. My family and grandchildren are my world!

  • Riki Koch

    Social Sciences​

    ​I was born in Malmesbury and studied BAgric at Elsenburg after school. I always had a passion to teach and decided in 2016 that my passion was to teach children rather than teaching people about vineyards and wine. I completed my postgraduate certificate in education in 2020 through UNISA. 

    I am blessed to be part of Pomario's team since April 2022. It has been a blessing to be part of such an amazing and passionate team. I feel together with this team, my passion for teaching will grow and that I can make a positive difference in each child's life and help shaping them for their future. 

  • Jo-Né Syster

    Hybrid Class

    Jo-Né is currently the Administrative Assistant for our Hybrid Class (Grade 10–12), as well as a member of the Marketing Team. She enjoys being creative in her work, whether through school photography, writing, or supporting learners and parents. Outside of work, Jo-Né loves the simple things in life, like reading a good book, going on nature hikes, photography, and cooking.

  • Ama-Ria Haggard

    Mathematics, EMS and Technology

    ​I was born and raised in Worcester and matriculated in 2014 from Drostdy in Worcester.  In 2021, I earned my BEd. Intermediate and Senior Phase degree at UNISA.  I am hardworking and sincere, with a passion for education. I want all learners to feel welcome and loved in my classroom and strive to make a difference in each learner's life. I am very proud to be part of Pomario as of January 2023 and looking forward to the adventures Pomario has for me.

    In my spare time, I love to spend quality time with my family and worship the Lord.

  • Melandri Els

    Geography, History, Afrikaans & Creative Arts

    I grew up in Heilbron in the Free State. I was lucky enough to have been in the same school, Hoërskool Heilbron, my entire school career, from Grade 1 to the end of Grade 12.

    I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher and have always loved working with children and helping them reach their full potential. In 2017 I started with my 4 year BEd degree at the North-West University in Potchefstroom.

    I have always had a great passion for netball and find great joy in coaching netball.

    At the end of April 2023, I relocated from Harrismith in the Free State to Citrusdal.

    I look forward to many more years at Pomario and being part of the wonderful team.

  • Mari-Loiuse Roets

    Mathematics

    I grew up in Pretoria and matriculated at Die Hoërskool Menlopark. Since I was little, I knew I wanted to make a difference in children’s lives even though I did not know in what capacity the Lord wanted me to serve. In 2008 I started studying BSC Biological Science at the University of Pretoria in the hopes of becoming a paediatrician. At the beginning of 2009, I knew that the Lord had different plans for my life, and that was when I started my journey in teaching. I am a qualified Afrikaans, Accounting, Mathematics and Science teacher. I have an active interest in swimming, athletics, netball, and cross country.

    I am married to PP and we have two girls. In June 2024 our family relocated from Groblersdal,Limpopo to Citrusdal.

    It is a great honour for me to join a dynamic school like Pomario and to make a difference in the lives of children in Citrusdal.

  • Benri Niehaus

    Economic and Management Sciences

    Technology and Business Studies

    I grew up in Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape and matriculated in 2020 where my passion for teaching and sports management first took root. From a young age, I aspired to become a teacher who could also coach different sports codes, a vision that has guided my academic and professional journey.

     In 2021, I embarked on my academic path by enrolling in the Human Movement Science degree at North West University (NWU). I completed my degree with a distinction in 2023. Building upon this foundation, I pursued a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) through NWU's distance learning program, specializing in teaching Life Skills, Economics, and Business Studies for Grades 7 to 12 in 2024. Along with my PGCE, I had an internship at a primary school in Somerset East till the end of 2024. I am grateful that I also achieved this qualification with a distinction. 

    Throughout my PGCE, I gained knowledge about classroom principles, discipline and where my love for teaching grew even fonder. I knew that this is exactly what I want to do. 

    In January , 2025 I came to Citrusdal for a visit and got the opportunity to work at Pomario. A week later, I moved to Citrusdal where I am proud to be part of the Pomario Family. I am the Aftercare Facilitator and Grade 1 - 3 class assistant, where I get to be in the classroom and built a relationship with each learner. 

  • Ané Kriek

    Afrikaans and Mathematics

    I grew up on a farm in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, where I matriculated in 2019. During high school, I spent time helping at a preschool, and after school I worked there, where I discovered my passion for working with children. I then went on to complete my BEd in Intermediate Phase at Stellenbosch University. I am a friendly and patient person who enjoys learning new skills. In my free time, I enjoy baking and solving puzzles or anything that challenges me to think.

  • Brigitte Bornman

    Department head: Intermediate Phase

    Natural Science and LO

    ​I was born and raised in Kemptonpark, Gauteng, but my family and I recently made the exciting move to Citrusdal in July 2023. As a proud mother of two wonderful boys and happily married, my family is the center of my world.

    In 2002, I obtained my BA degree in Education, followed by my BA (HONS/PSYCH) in 2003. My journey in the field of education began as a Psychometrist for the University of Johannesburg after passing my independent practice Psychometric exam in 2004. To further enhance my skills, I completed my PGCE through UNISA.

    Throughout my career, I have primarily focused on teaching the Foundation Phase for the past nine years. However, I am qualified to teach the Intermediate/Senior phase as well. My teaching philosophy is deeply influenced by Rita Pierson's inspiring TED talk: 'Every kid needs a champion. Someone who believes in them.' With this in mind, I strive to create a nurturing and supportive environment for my students, understanding that they are only young once and that they should feel valued and encouraged.

    To make learning engaging and memorable, I place great importance on making lessons fun and interactive. I believe that children never forget how you make them feel, and I aim to teach with compassion and enthusiasm.

    When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy indulging in a glass of good wine, tending to my garden, and losing myself in the pages of a captivating book.

    Thank you for taking the time to learn a little more about me. I look forward to connecting and sharing my passion for education with you.

  • Inneke Pasques

    Grade 3 Class Teacher

    I am a small-town girl from Porterville. In 2022, I earned my B.ED. Foundation Phase degree at CPUT in Wellington, and 2023 is my first year in education. I love every moment with my learners! My classroom is a safe environment for my students, where I strive to help each child reach their full potential. I am an avid sportsperson and am enthusiastic about coaching/assisting with mini-cricket, GrR-RR swimming, and biathlon. 

    I love to bake and paint- two passions my mom shared with me from a very young age. I also enjoy spending time with people that are close to my heart. 

    I’m excited about my future with Pomario!

  • Marial Momsen

    Grade 1 class teacher

    Citrusdal reminds me of home. I grew up on a citrus farm in Buffeljagsrivier (where the delicious ‘roosterkoeke’ are). After school, I studied B.Ed Foundation Phase at the University of Stellenbosch and started my career as a teacher in Somerset West. I exchanged the hustle and bustle of the town for the countryside and moved to Robertson. There I grew a lot for 6 years at Robertson Preparatory School, learned, and realized that the countryside is where I want to stay. In December 2023, I married my wonderful husband, Altus Momsen, from Citrusdal. What a privilege to be able to continue my passion for children, education, and farm life at the beautiful school, Pomario. Animals, walking, any DIY projects, and my family are some of the things I like to spend my time on. I am excited for my future at Pomario and all the new friendships that are being formed.

  • Irma Louw

    Uiltjie Class: Grade R​

    I was born and raised in Wellington and obtained my B.Ed degree from the University of Stellenbosch in 2006. My teaching career began in Wittedrift, a small town outside Plettenberg Bay, where I also met my husband. We got married in 2012, after which I relocated to Williston in the Karoo and continued my teaching journey there.

    In 2023, my husband was offered a new opportunity in Citrusdal, and our two boys and I relocated at the beginning of 2025. In June, I was given the opportunity to step in as the temporary Grade 1 teacher at Pomario. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience, as it reminded me why I chose teaching nearly 20 years ago. I am passionate about witnessing each learner’s growth, and those “A-ha!” moments in the classroom never lose their magic.

    I look forward to continuing this journey and being part of the learners’ development at Pomario.

  • Nicola Moolman

    Meerkatte Class: Grade RR ‍ ‍

    I originally come from the Karoo (Eastern Cape), where I grew up on a farm.
    During high school, I realised that my passion lies with children, and I then went on to study Foundation Phase Education at Stellenbosch University.
    I love people, nature, and especially children.

  • Sheri-Lee Thelander

    Beertjie class teacher

    I am currently in my final year of studying Foundation Phase Teaching and have 10 years of teaching experience working with young children. I previously taught at Pomario, where I gained valuable experience supporting learners in their educational and personal development.

    Teaching is my passion, and I love helping children grow in confidence, develop new skills and discover a love for learning. I strive to create a positive, nurturing environment where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

    Outside of the classroom, I enjoy running, making food and creating special memories with family and friends. I am also excited to be getting married next year and look forward to this special new chapter in my life.

    I believe that strong relationships, kindness and a sense of fun are key to helping children thrive both in and out of the classroom.

  • Morine Fransman

    Ladybird class: Gr RR & Aftercare Co-ordinator

    I studied at Boland College, Worcester, and have an Educare Diploma for Grade R Foundation Phase. I joined Pomario in 2020.  I enjoy my job, because every day is a challenge for me. I really like teamwork and sharing ideas. I am an enthusiastic person who is passionate about my work and I strive to convey this passion to learners. Good interpersonal relationships are extremely important to me. I believe every child has a song in him or her and it is our job to increase the volume. I enjoy spending time with children. I also like reading a lot. Rugby is my favourite sport and I also enjoy watching it.

  • Nadia Maarman

    Eendjies class: Babies (3 months till 1 year old)

    ​I come from a small town in the Northern Cape called Groblershoop. I studied Educare at Boland College, Worcester and graduated in 2017. I completed my practical in an orphanage in Moorreesburg in the department for babies. In 2017 I au-paired for a family in De Doorns with three children. I also au-paired in two different countries which was a wonderful experience for me. After obtaining my Educare Diploma, I did a discipleship course at FCE (Foundation for Cross-Cultural Education) for three months. I am a very spontaneous, cheerful person and I like dancing. I am a mom of a beautiful little girl, Nadine Maarman. She is my “everything”.

  • Jess-lene Fortuin

    Eendjies class: Assistant

    I was born in Citrusdal and have been working at Pomario for more than 3 years now, and I am very happy here. I am currently furthering my teaching career and studying part-time through STADIO. I’ve gained experience in various towns and firmly believe that every child is unique and learns in their own way.

    Pomario’s values and sense of community make it a wonderful place to be part of.

  • Christoline Barnard

    Class Assistant Hasies class

    I am Christoline Barnard, I come from the Eastern Cape, a small town called Jansenville.

    I attended High School in the Cape at Monument Park in Kraaifontein, matriculated in 2015 and then went to Boland Kollega in Stellenbosch where I studied Educare. I graduated in 2017 and started working at a nursery school in the Cape as a class teacher. I worked there from 2017-2020, after which I moved to Citrusdal. I went to help in a temporary position at Hexrivier School as a GR R teacher for 3 months. After that, I started working at Citrusdal Primary School as an Arts & Culture coach and also helped with sports. I was transferred to Cederberg Academy for the same job as well as a netball coach. I still play netball at Citrusdal Netball Club and also played for West Coast Netball for 3 years. I have a wonderful son Noah who is 2 years old. In 2025, I became part of the Pomario family!

  • Roeline de Klerk

    Class Assistant Beertjie class

    ​I am Roeline de Klerk, 29 years old and I was born in Citrusdal. I have lived here my whole life and still reside here. I am married to Anthony de Klerk and we have two children together, A-Jay who is 11 and Ru-nique who is 9 months old. My son attends Olifantsvallei Primary School and my daughter attends Pomario Private School.

    I have 6 years of experience in pre-school education and obtained my Level 4&5 Early Childhood Development and NCF certificates at Weskus College Citrusdal. Currently, I am a second-year Bed Foundation Phase student at UNISA, where I study online. I hope to complete my degree within the next 2 years so that I can practice my profession in education full-time.

    It is a privilege for me to be part of the Pomario family and I look forward to growing together with this Private School.

  • Sharon-Rose Owies

    Class Assistant Leeutjie class

    I am a mom of the most loveable, soft-hearted son. I grew up in Porterville and finished my matric at Steynville Secondary school in Piketberg in 2013. I have been living here in Citrusdal for the past 10 years. I started my ECD journey in 2017. I have 7 years of experience in pre-school education and obtained my level 4 and 5 Early childhood development and NCF certificates at West Coast College Citrusdal. I love spending time with my family and friends especially spending quality time with my son. I love reading books, music and a good movie.

    I am passionate about children and grateful that I can make a difference in their lives and to help them grow.

  • Shekarah Zimri

    ​ Class Assistant Meerkatte

    I am a dedicated and passionate Early Childhood Development (ECD) professional with over five years of hands-on experience in the field. Born and raised in Citrusdal, I matriculated from Cederberg Academy in 2017 and went on to complete both her ECD Level 4 and 5 certifications at West Coast College, Citrusdal. Currently in her second year of pursuing a Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase through Edutel as a long distance, learning student, I remain committed to growing my knowledge and impact in early learning, in addition to my classroom experience, I have two years of au pair experience and have provided tutoring support for two years, further strengthening my ability to connect with and support young learners. Known for her spontaneous, hardworking nature and genuine passion for education, Shekarah also enjoys cooking and engaging in arts and crafts, interests she often incorporates into creative learning environments.

  • Leandra Monique Curnow

    Class Assistant Uiltjies

    Hi, I was raised and born in Vredendal, a small town in the Western Cape. I am currently living in Citrusdal with my husband and 7-year old daughter. I completed my matric at Vredendal Secondary School in 2010 and went on to earn my  ECD Level 4 qualification at West Coast College, Vredendal. I have 1 year experience working as a teacher at a special needs school and I am currently a dedicated Teacher’s assistant in the Grade R class at Pomario. I have a deep passion for working with young children and take pride in helping them learn and grow each day. I have a friendly nature and strong work ethics. In my free time, I  enjoy cooking and reading, also spending time with my family.

  • Adèle Jonker

    Class Assistant - Grade 1-3, Aftercare

    ​I was born in Caledon, but we moved to Citrusdal 29 years ago. I am privileged to be part of the Pomario family as a class assistant since 2016. I have a passion for animals and children and I am excited about what the future holds for me. Apart from assisting with various activities in the school, I also look after the school's lovely black cat, Midnight.

  • Desiré Smit

    Music and Choir Teacher​

    ​I started teaching music in my second year at the University of Stellenbosch where I studied classical music (BMus and HonsBMus Cum Laudé). I took part in many international music festivals locally and abroad.  I have played in ensembles and orchestras, starting my orchestra journey at the age of nine.

    As a child I sang in singing groups and choirs and it is lovely to share this passion with Pomario’s students.  We currently have a Junior choir (grade 1-3) and a singing group (grade 4-12) called Con Spirito (With Spirit).  At Pomario all foundation phase students receive class music weekly, as part of their well-rounded education.  These classes include practical lessons as well as musical theory and development of listening skills.

    Students have the opportunity to take individual violin-, piano- or recorder lessons during school hours.  Pomario’s music students have fared well at local and regional Eisteddfods, and we look forward to reaching new highs this year.

    I love cooking and baking and enjoy gardening or reading a good book.  I enjoy being outside in nature and spending time with family and friends on our farm.  

  • ​ Sonja Burger

    Admin

    I am a former Citrusdaller who matriculated at Citrusdal High School before continuing my studies at the College of Cape Town. After living in the Cape for seventeen years, I returned to my hometown where my heart lies, so that I can offer my children the fantastic rural life in which I grew up. I have been working at Pomario as an administrative assistant since 2020 and I thoroughly enjoy it.

  • Cecile Loubser

    Finance & Admin

    In 2023, my family and I moved to Citrusdal and I started working here at Pomario. Every day I am thankful for the decision we made.
    When I was a bit younger, I lived here in Citrusdal and worked at Patrick’s, Caraldo, HS Citrusdal, and Carmien Tea.
    All the different work experiences I’ve had over the years — not just in Citrusdal — have helped prepare me for the many different activities and responsibilities at Pomario Private School.

  • Pieter Burger

    School Facilities Manager

    I served as a police officer in the SAPS for 35 years, stationed in Lansdowne, Khayelitsha, Bellville, and then spent 24 years in Citrusdal.
    I also spent five years working on our family farm where we farmed citrus.
    I retired at the end of October 2024 at the age of sixty, and then started working as a site manager at Pomario.

  • Tannie Chrissie

    Cleaner

    I was born and raised in Citrusdal, and I went to school at Citrusdal Primary.
    I'm married with 3 children and 5 grandchildren.
    I started working at Pomario in 2022. Before that, I was a cleaner at Cedarkloof, a sorter at Goede Hoop Citrus, and a packer at Citrus Select.
    I really enjoy working at Pomario and seeing how the children in the community grow and develop.

  • Wessel Syhan Waterboer - Don

    Support staff

    I was born in Citrusdal and grew up in Slagmanskop. I started school at Vredehof Primary and completed my schooling at Steynville Secondary. The last grade I completed was Grade 10, in 1993. Rugby is my favourite sport. Before working at Pomario, I was employed at Mouton Citrus as a general worker and palletiser.

  • Razaad Ruiters - Sakkie

    Support staff

    My name is Razaad Ruiters, but most people know me as Sakkie, simply because my full name can be a bit difficult for some to pronounce. I was born in Citrusdal in 1994 and have lived here ever since.

    I’m a hard worker with a real passion for what I do. In my free time, I enjoy watching sports and animal channels. I’m naturally a cheerful, humorous, and playful person.

    Previously, I worked as a general labourer, including a role as a grass cutter at Mouton Citrus, and I was employed by a contractor. They always appreciated my dedication and the quality of my work, something I’m very proud of.

    That’s a short summary of who I am, and I am glad to be part of the team!