Hello, and welcome!

My name is Alida Potgieter. I was born and raised in South Africa and am now proudly a German citizen—a rather romantic story that I will save for another day!

I have been a qualified teacher since 2006 and have had the privilege of working with children between the ages of 2 and 12 in both school and private settings. Throughout my career, I have taught in South Africa, London, Germany, and now here in Paris at École Montessori Internationale Les Colibris, Suresnes.

Since joining Les Colibris in 2021, I have had the joy of becoming part of this wonderful Montessori community. I began as a Montessori Assistant and now serve as the English Teacher for the 3–6 environment, as well as the Teacher and Coordinator of our Wednesday English Kids Club.

One of the greatest privileges of my work is accompanying children as they discover English in a joyful, natural, and meaningful way. Through songs, stories, games, conversation, and hands-on Montessori materials, I strive to create an environment where every child feels confident to explore, communicate, and develop a genuine love for language. Watching a child gradually understand, speak, read, and express themselves in a new language is one of the most rewarding parts of being a teacher.

I believe every child has unique potential and learns best when they feel safe, respected, and inspired. It is a true privilege to accompany each child on their individual learning journey and to celebrate every step of their progress.

"The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, 'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'" — Dr. Maria Montessori

My name is Elizabeth Makilanda. I am from Newcastle upon Tyne in the North East of England. I hold a BA (Hons) in Care and Education and Disability Studies. I have more than 15 years of experience in the school sector, working with children from 2 to 6 years old.

I have also been living in France for more than 4 years. I am a dedicated and passionate Montessori educator at Les Colibris school, working with children from 2 to 3 years old. My goal is to contribute to each child's development by implementing Montessori methods and philosophies that promote independence, autonomy, and social skills.

My name is Aude-Claire, and I am of French–Luxembourgish nationality.

I have been a Montessori educator for the 3–6 age group for many years, and I have been the Head of the Les Colibris school in Suresnes since September 2025.

Watching children grow, develop, discover and make sense of the world around them makes me happy every day, and seeing their eyes light up when they become passionate about a subject or succeed at something new truly gives meaning to my work.

As a violinist, I love sharing my passion for music with them, and I occasionally bring my instrument into the classroom during circle time.

As Head of School, I am committed to bringing the Montessori pedagogy to life within the school, and to building a community of parents, children and educators in which everyone finds their place, feels part of the project, and gives the best of themselves.