Education That Recognises the Individual
Hands On Academy provides an alternative learning environment for teenagers and older learners who may benefit from smaller classes, greater individual attention and different approaches to learning.
Our Vision
A Safe and Accepting Place to Learn
Our vision is to create a safe, comfortable and accepting learning environment that recognises the uniqueness of every learner while maintaining a high standard of education and offering diverse ways to learn.
Our Mission
Our mission is to support the development of each learner's knowledge, confidence and character through encouragement and meaningful educational opportunities.
- Work towards their individual potential
- Develop critical thinking
- Grow in confidence and independence
- Develop compassion and responsibility
- Prepare for participation in the wider world
A Different Learning Environment
Not every learner thrives in a large mainstream classroom. Hands On Academy provides a smaller learning environment for learners who may require more individualised educational support or a different approach to traditional schooling.
We welcome families looking for an educational environment that understands that learners may have different academic, developmental, social and emotional needs. Each learner is approached as an individual rather than being defined by a diagnosis.
Our Learning Environment
Hands On Academy operates from a home-based educational facility with seven separate classroom spaces. Each grade has its own classroom, and the Academy also has a dedicated Consumer and Hospitality learning area with a fully equipped kitchen. The outdoor environment includes a garden, sport and play areas and an assembly/lunch area with seating for chess and other board games.
Meet the Team
The Hands On Academy team includes registered PGCE educators, subject tutors and administrative support.
Roxanne Thomas
PGCE Social Studies
BA Archaeology/History
Child Development: Specific Learning Disorders
With 15 years of experience in educational development in the museum sector, Roxanne realised her true calling lies in teaching history. She has taught as Head of FET at Hands-On since 2023 and took over management of Hands-On in January 2026. Since then, the Academy has expanded its GED programme and introduced a Skills Development course offering practical vocational skills.
Roxanne's approach reflects the Academy's belief that every learner is unique and deserves the space and support needed to grow.
Sydleen Meintjies
BTech Human Resources Development
Diploma in Business Studies
Diploma in Theology
PGCE FET EMS/Business/Accounting
Part of the Hands-On family since 2020, “Teacher Syd” facilitates the Grade 9 class and teaches Accounting, Business Studies and Economics in the FET department.
Sydleen also runs the Growing Good classes, which focus on understanding yourself and being a happy, balanced and understood member of your community.
Laurell Moodley
BEd Senior Phase
Hands-On since 2018
PGCE FET Consumers/Hospitality
Laurell has dedicated her life to teaching and values the impact education can have on the development of her students. Her engaging and meaningful lessons in the kitchen often become heartfelt lessons for life.
Elsie Strange
Grade 8 Facilitator & Afrikaans Tutor
Elsie has been a member of the Hands-On team since 2019. Her personal experience of living with barriers to learning within her family brings an understanding perspective that helps guide learners and encourages them to be their best.
Hayden Pieterse
BSocSci APES
Maths & Science
Hayden joined Hands-On in the second term of 2026. He is responsible for the maths and science departments and brings passionate, engaging lessons to his classes.
Rylee Thomas
Printing & Administration
Currently studying game development, Rylee assists teachers and learners with printing and administrative needs. As a past Think Digital graduate, she is also able to guide learners in the successful use of Think Digital and help them navigate common issues.