References
Students - Past & Present
Ashlee Harcombe
BEd Graduate, IIE's Varsity College
Siobhan was such an inspiring lecturer during my time at Varsity College, not only did she push me to achieve my best, but she also helped me believe in myself when I didn't think I could. Her passion for teaching, the way in which she explained concepts, and the way she encouraged us to think deeper truly shaped the way I approached my studies. Siobhan created a space where learning felt exciting and purposeful, and that made all the difference. Through Siobhan's support, I grew not only as a student, but as a person.
Hannah Wyley
BEd Graduate, IIE's Varsity College
Siobhan was an outstanding lecturer, mentor, and support system during my four years of studies. Her encouragement, expertise, and focus on collaboration and holistic development continue to shape my teaching today. She was always approachable and willing to assist us—even with matters outside of her modules. Even after graduating, Siobhan still offered me guidance with the same warmth and care, always treating us as future colleagues. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking professional and meaningful support.
Angela Chowles
Grade 2 Teacher, Kronendal Primary School, Hout Bay
Having Siobhan as a lecturer, and support system during my four years of studies. Her encouragement, expertise, and focus on collaboration and holistic development continue to shape my teaching today. She was always approachable and willing to assist us—even with matters outside of her modules. Even after graduating, Siobhan still offered me guidance with the same warmth and care, always treating us as future colleagues. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking professional and meaningful support.
Angela Chowles
Grade 2 Teacher, Kronendal Primary School, Hout Bay
Having Siobhan as a lecturer, and support system during my four years of studies. Her encouragement, expertise, and focus on collaboration and holistic development continue to shape my teaching today. She was always approachable and willing to assist us—even with matters outside of her modules. Even after graduating, Siobhan still offered me guidance with the same warmth and care, always treating us as future colleagues. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking professional and meaningful support.
Robyn Jones
BEd Graduate
It is with great pleasure that I write this reference for Siobhan Duffy. She is an outstanding lecturer and mentor whose impact extends far beyond the lecture hall. Attending her lectures was always inspiring — she brought every session to life with enthusiasm, relevant real-world examples, and a distinctive touch of creativity that made learning engaging and practical for the classroom.
Ms. Duffy’s dedication and care for her students were evident in everything she did. She consistently went the extra mile to support us, whether by offering guidance, lending a listening ear, or providing encouragement when it was needed most. It was truly a privilege to be her student.
Even now, as a novice teacher, I know I can reach out to her for advice or support, and she will always be willing to help. Ms. Duffy exemplifies professionalism, warmth, and commitment — qualities that set a high standard for any aspiring educator.
I am confident that she will continue to make a meaningful difference wherever she teaches or mentors.
Amy Rosselli
Grade R Teacher, Christgen School, Parow
I first met Siobhan during my first year at IIE Varsity College Cape Town, but it was in my second year—when she became my lecturer—that our journey truly began. Siobhan’s kind, motherly nature and her constant encouragement to reach out whenever we needed support made all the difference in my academic journey. I genuinely believe that without her guidance, I wouldn’t have coped as well with my studies, nor would I have developed the amazing relationship we share today.
Even two years after graduating, we still meet regularly for coffee—usually with me asking for advice on all things teaching. Siobhan is someone who cares deeply for every person she comes across—whether students, colleagues, or friends. She supports wholeheartedly, yet gives you the space to figure things out independently. She will fight for you when it is nessaccary. She is creative, patient, and endlessly encouraging; and she has remained my sounding board and mentor.
I couldn’t have asked for a better lecturer, and now, it’s a true privilege to call her my colleague.
Jamey Roziers
BEd Graduate, FP Teacher
I was most fortunate to have the opportunity to be one of Siobhan’s students while studying for my degree. She is an outstanding lecturer and mentor, who has helped me greatly during the academic journey up to graduation. What makes Siobhan such an outstanding lecturer and mentor is that she is passionate about helping her students reach their full potential. Her positive attitude and wise words of advice have been a great source of motivation in times I felt overwhelmed. She created a learning environment that was welcoming and encouraged critical thinking in the lecture room. She is very dedicated as a mentor and was always willing to give additional support. As a novice teacher she is someone who inspires me to be the best teacher I can be. In my teaching career I have used many of her tips and lesson advice that she has taught me during my years of studying. I highly recommend Siobhan as a mentor.
Kirsten Levendal
Grade 2 Teacher, Simonstown Primary School
Siobhan taught me to be myself and to have confidence in the classroom. She has guided and supported me both in and out of the classroom, motivating me to always do my best—not only for myself, but for the learners I teach. Siobhan has shown me how to stay calm, take on each task to the best of my ability, and push through every challenge to come out stronger on the other side.
I am forever thankful for the role she has played in my life and I wish her all the success!
Chante Vos
BEd 4th year Student
Siobhan is like a lighthouse in a storm! guiding, warm, and unwavering. During my second year of teaching, when I was ready to give up, she reignited my passion and reminded me why I chose this path. Her kindness, bubbly spirit, and infectious joy make her not only an incredible mentor but also a truly inspiring human. I have no doubt that her new business will touch lives the same way she touched mine.
Danielle Seale
Grade 3 Teacher
It is with great respect and appreciation that I write this reference for Siobhan Duffy, who served as my lecturer during my time at Varsity College. She consistently demonstrated a deep passion for teaching and a genuine commitment to student success.
From the beginning of the course, it was evident that Siobhan brought both subject knowledge and enthusiasm into every lesson. She had a remarkable ability to make complex content accessible and engaging, encouraging active participation and critical thinking among all students.
What stood out most was her willingness to go above and beyond. She was always approachable, patient, and willing to offer guidance whether during lectures, after class, or through extra support when needed. This supportive attitude made a significant difference in my academic journey.
Siobhan is not only a dedicated educator but also a positive role model, and I have no doubt that she will continue to make a lasting impact wherever she ventures.
Amber French
Grade 1 Teacher, Rallim, Sunningdale
If you're a teacher looking for genuine guidance or just someone to talk to openly about the ups and downs of our profession, I can't recommend Siobhan enough. She was my lecturer while I was studying to become a teacher and she made a lasting impact on how I approach teaching today.
Siobhan was the first person who really helped me understand that it's important to have your own teaching style. (She even made me like the word pedagogy, which I swore I’d never say out loud!) She helped me see how our individual approaches as educators can and should align with the fact that each student learns in their own unique way.
What made Siobhan stand out even more was her approachable and gentle way of mentoring. It felt safe to ask questions, voice doubts, and admit when things felt overwhelming. She created a space for honest conversations and always offered thoughtful, practical advice that came from real experience. If you’re looking for someone who truly gets it, whether you need advice, coaching, or just a supportive ear, Siobhan is that person. I feel lucky to have learned from her.
Phuti Naledi Mabotja
FP Educator, EPIK Organisation, South Korea
I just wanted to say how much I love the new direction Siobhan is taking, it’s incredibly inspiring.
One moment that has always stayed with me was during a class where we had to get creative and present an advert. The way Siobhan reacted to my presentation gave me such a boost in confidence. That small moment played a big part in affirming that I had chosen the right career path and university. The Reflective Practitioner module remains one of my absolute favourites from my four years of study. Siobhan brought so much insight to it, and I still carry GRIT; growth, resilience, intention, and time with me today. It’s become a personal mantra in both my professional and personal life. I truly can’t wait to make use of Siobhan's services in the future. Wishing her all the best on this exciting journey ahead!
Caitlin Teeton
FP Educator, Counseller, Aspen, Colorado
Teaching isn't just about imparting knowledge — it's about igniting imagination and fueling creativity in myself and my students. I am so grateful that Siobhan guided me toward this style of thinking and teaching early on in my journey. It has shaped the kind of teacher I am today.
Robyn Gibson
BEd FP, Diploma in Cosmetic Science, PGCE Business Management (current)
Technical Manager in Cosmetic Manufacturing
I first met Siobhan as my lecturer whilst studying at the IIE Varsity College during my studies in Foundation Phase Education. From the start Siobhan was a ray of sunshine, she always pushed me to strive for my goals both in my education and in my personal life. She helped me persevere through all obstacles and was a consistent motivator. As a lecturer she guided me to develop an in-depth and thoughtful understanding of the content provided as well as its influence within the classroom. Aside from being a lecturer Siobhan is an incredible mentor. Since completing my education, she has continued to be a supportive and encouraging confidant. I could not recommend her more. She is a true testament to kindness and integrity.
Raldeah Haji Mohamed
Grade 1 Teacher, Duneside Primary School
Thank you so much to my mentor, lecturer, teacher, and supportive guide for being such an incredible source of guidance and support as I navigate my journey as a new teacher! Siobhan's wisdom, patience, and encouragement has been invaluable. I am deeply grateful for the learning and growth I have experienced under her mentorship. Siobhan's passion for teaching and dedication to helping others has inspired me to be a better educator. Thank you for believing in me, for challenging me to grow, and for being a beacon of support. I am thankful for the impact she has had on my journey and look forward to continuing to learn from her.
Tara Murdock
Grade 2 Teacher, Curro
I had the privilege of being taught and mentored by Siobhan during my time at university six years ago, and her impact on my teaching journey has been lasting and profound. As a lecturer, she was nothing short of exceptional—clear, engaging, and incredibly thoughtful in her approach. But it was her mentorship and gentle encouragement that truly shaped me, both professionally and personally.
Siobhan has a rare ability to support while simultaneously challenging you to grow, and she always led by example—with kindness, patience, and unwavering integrity. She embodies everything a teacher should be: a role model, a guide, and an advocate for her students. Her influence still resonates in the way I teach and connect with my own students today.
Her online business is a natural extension of who she is—thoughtful, empowering, and grounded in genuine care for others. We could all learn so much from Siobhan’s approach to education and leadership. She continues to inspire me, and I know she’ll continue to inspire many more.
Zea Grimston Grade 2 Teacher, Glenbridge Primary School
When I started my degree, I knew what kind of teacher I wanted to be, but I didn’t know how to get there. When I had Siobhan as a lecturer, she began showing me how to become the teacher I am today. She was an incredible lecturer with lots of fun ways to teach, and I was grateful to have her as a mentor because she showed me ways to make teaching fun. I feel so lucky to have her as someone I can turn to for questions or advice about my future in teaching. She inspired me to create a quote about teaching: ‘Uncomfortable is the new confidence,’ which means that stepping out of your comfort zone can help you build more confidence in yourself and in your teaching."
Michaela Hunt Student Teacher, Sweet Valley Primary School
My name is Michaela Hunt. I graduated with Honours from Varsity College. I am currently a student teacher at Sweet Valley Primary School. I am so grateful to have had Siobhan as my Foundation Phase lecturer during college. Her support went far beyond the classroom—she guided me through overwhelming moments, answered every question with patience, and always made me feel safe and encouraged. I will never forget the first time she came to observe my teaching; her thoughtful, constructive feedback in our chat afterward gave me the confidence to believe in myself and affirmed that I was meant to be in this profession. Siobhan's dedication, kindness, and belief in her students make her an exceptional educator and mentor. She is a one of a kind!
Michaela Hablutzel Grade R & 1 Teacher, Grumeti Kids School, Tanzania
Siobhan was one of my lecturers at Varsity College during my Bachelor of Education studies in the Foundation Phase. She was more than just an academic instructor — she was someone many of us students felt genuinely comfortable approaching, even for matters beyond her subject area. Siobhan consistently guided us with care and ensured we thoroughly understood the content being taught. She served as a true role model; walking into her lectures, we saw firsthand how a modern educator should be. Her genuine passion and enthusiasm for teaching were both inspiring and deeply admirable.
Ashton Samuels
Online Primary School Teacher, Novakid
An absolute beacon of light in what can be an intense career. She made(makes) me feel like she's in my corner. To this day she(my teacher) holds my hand in teaching and guides me so that I can be the best teacher for my learners. She is tenacious and resilient. Because of her, i can hold my head up high in the most difficult circumstances in teaching, and in the workplace . I can Be confident and love the type of teacher that i am. Her expertise and guidelines within the teaching field gives me a sense of clarity and helps me continue to build my foundation- since there is always more to learn.She's taught me that its process over product- things take time and you will get there. This is a lesson I pass to my students every day.
Hanje Du Plessis
Grade 2 Teacher, Oakridge Academy, Jeffreys Bay
Ek is tans in my derde jaar as grondslagfase-onderwyser, en tot vandag toe is Siobhan Duffy steeds ’n konstante bron van ondersteuning en inspirasie. Sy is altyd beskikbaar om te luister, leiding te gee en bemoedigend saam te dink. Ek kan haar nie genoeg aanbeveel nie.
Siobhan was een van die dosente wat my die meeste beïnvloed het tydens my studies aan Varsity College. Van die eerste dag af was haar liefde vir onderwys duidelik sigbaar. Haar entoesiasme en kreatiewe manier van onderrig het my diep geraak en my aangemoedig om dieselfde energie in my eie klaskamer te bring. Ek onthou nog hoe sy gesê het: “Gebruik drama in jou lesse – sing vir jou kinders en kyk hoe dit die atmosfeer verander.”
Tydens my finale praktiese ondervinding het sy as my mentor opgetree. Haar wysheid, aanmoediging en geloof in my as student het my gehelp om met selfvertroue my eie onderwysstyl te ontwikkel – iets wat ek vandag nog met trots gebruik.
Ek glo opreg dat haar nuwe projek ’n groot seën gaan wees vir ander onderwysers – of hulle nou aan die begin van hul loopbaan is, of reeds jare ondervinding het. Siobhan bring altyd kreatiwiteit, energie en ’n diep liefde vir kinders en leer na alles wat sy aanpak.
Hillcia De Bruin
Grade 2 Teacher, St Augustine's, Paternoster
Ek wil hiermee graag my waardering uitspreek en ’n sterk aanbeveling maak vir Siobhan Duffy wat gedurende my studiejare ’n diep en positiewe indruk op my gemaak het.
Sy was nie net ’n uitstekende dosent nie - sy het regtig uitgestaan. Haar kalm teenwoordigheid, geduldige manier van onderrig en egte bereidwilligheid om altyd te help, het haar anders gemaak as die res. Sy het met opregte deernis onderrig, en dit het duidelik geword dat sy in haar studente belang gestel het, nie net akademies nie, maar ook as inividue.
Ek onthou tot vandag toe haar oulike en kreatiewe lesse, wat leer pret en betekenisvol gemaak het. Haar klas was altyd ’n plek waar ek veilig gevoel het om vrae te vra en waar ek geïnspireer is om my beste te gee. Dit is selde dat ’n dosent sulke blywende herinneringe en impak maak, en ek is dankbaar dat ek onder haar leiding kon leer.
Ek beveel haar met oortuiging aan vir enige onderrigposisie of professionele rol waarin empatie, kreatiwiteit en ware toewyding van waarde is.
Katherine Mills
BEd Graduate and Foundation Phase Teacher
Siobhan was always just a message away. At a time when I felt I wasn’t doing enough as a teacher and my confidence had declined, I reached out to her, questioning whether I had chosen the right profession. She responded with warmth and understanding, offering practical, hands-on advice that reassured me and helped me regain perspective. Thanks to her guidance, I feel more confident about where I am and optimistic about where I am going. Thank you, Siobhan.
Emma Kortje
Grade 2 Teacher, St Joseph's Marist College
I met Siobhan during my first year of BEd Degree studies, and she has been an invaluable mentor ever since. Her willingness to share her knowledge and offer insightful advice has guided me throughout my academic and professional journey, from being a student to a novice teacher. She's always ready to help you bounce ideas around or offer a guiding hand through new adventures. As she always says, she's only a phone call away.
Emily G
Montessori Teacher, Bloubergstrand
Siobhan is someone who is kind, open-minded, always ready to lend a helping hand, objective and ready to challenge change.
When I think back on being her student, I always remember laughter and hard conversations. She always ensured to be honest and open about my strengths and weaknesses, opening my eyes to areas that require growth. Not only did she do this gently, but she left me always feeling as if I had the tools to challenge my own required change.
One thing is for sure, be ready for change because she's going to open your eyes to the truth you NEED to see in order to move forward and thrive.
She's reliable and always approaches you with a smile. If anything, you'll feel at peace discussing your challenges with her and will end the discussion with a viable plan. You are not alone in your challenges and it's important to rely on others for support. Choose to move forward, take those steps confidently, whatever may come. At least, that's how I always felt after engaging in conversation with Siobhan.
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Louise Biddulph
Foundation Phase Teacher teaching in China
It is with great respect and gratitude that I write this letter of recommendation for Miss. Siobhan Duffy, who has been my lecturer, mentor and colleague. Throughout my studies, Siobhan has been an outstanding guide, providing not only academic support but also professional and personal encouragement that has deeply shaped my journey as an educator.
Siobhan possesses a rare ability to combine expertise with genuine care. She consistently created opportunities for me to reflect on my practice, challenge myself and grow into a more confident teacher. Her guidance opened my eyes to new and innovative ways of teaching young learners in the foundation phase, helping me develop strategies that are both practical and meaningful in the classroom.
Beyond her professional excellence, Siobhan is an exceptionally kind and caring individual. She goes above and beyond to support those around her, always willing to share her knowledge and extend a helping hand. As both a mentor and a colleague, she has inspired me to not only strive for excellence in teaching but also to embody compassion and empathy in all areas of my work.
I have no hesitation in recommending Siobhan Duffy. She is a dedicated, knowledgeable and inspiring educator whose positive influence reaches far beyond the classroom. Anyone would be fortunate to have her as part of their community.