The team

Having a dedicated, caring, and skilled team is crucial for your child’s development. Knowing your child is supported by passionate professionals ensures they thrive in a nurturing environment.

At Butterflies School, our team is committed to providing an enriching experience. We’ve carefully selected educators who bring expertise, warmth, and inspiration to the classroom.

img-butterflies-empowering-education-23

The Founders

Teresa de Gruyter

I strongly believe that if we ensure children enjoy coming to a school where they feel happy, safe and where they are heard and valued, they are already halfway in the process of achieving their full potential. I also believe in a holistic approach to education where attention to a child’s individual needs is as important their as academic achievements.

To be a founding member of the Butterflies is a privilege. We aim to make a difference in the way we teach children to love and learn in order to create. And this is why we are Empowering Education!

About me? I graduated as a Graphic Designer in the UK and I spent the first few decades of my life working in the corporate world across various industries and in different countries. It wasn’t until 2007 that I discovered how much I enjoyed teaching, so I retrained to become an ESL qualified teacher.

Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family and my friends; travelling nationally and internationally, rediscovering history or experiencing new cultures and I love being creative – arts and crafts and cake decorating are some of my hobbies.

Nejal Acevinkumar

As the cofounder of the Butterflies I believe that children should be themselves, playing is a vital role in creating a nurturing and supportive environment where students can thrive academically. Happy children in school are a joy to behold and are a testament to a positive and nurturing learning environment. 

At the Butterflies we provide opportunities for physical activity, play, and outdoor time that can help children release energy, reduce stress, and improve their overall mood. At Butterflies we prioritize recess, physical education, and playtime. We understand the importance of a healthy balance between academic work and play.

I hold a MSc in Psychology and I am a flexible team member with great communication and problem-solving skills, these allow me to be a good and efficient communicator.
I have experience working with children from different cultures and abilities, this has brought my attention to a child-centred approach.

During my free time, I love to spend time with my son and my family. I enjoy exploring new restaurants and different cuisines. 

The Team

Carolina Serrão
David de Gruyter
Raquel Madureira
Izabella Cupello
Sofia Palma
Vanessa Silva
Joana Querido
Catarina Rolo
Marta Gonçalves
Erica Lopes
Joana Cardoso
Ana Mitsiaris
Letícia Amaro
Liliana Sebastião

Do you want to join our team?