Get to know us

Our mission

Our mission is to provide a foundation for lifelong learning by embracing both time-honoured educational values and innovative teaching methods. We aim to equip each child with not only academic skills but also the emotional and moral grounding needed for life. At Happy Hands, we recognize the importance of individuality and strive to help children grow in confidence, character, and creativity.

Our vision

In a rapidly changing world, we envision a learning space where children are not judged by comparisons to others, but celebrated for their unique talents and potential. Our vision is to prepare children—and support their families—for a future where adaptability, self-expression, and resilience are key. We aspire to empower every child to become a confident, compassionate, and capable individual, ready for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Our team

Our greatest strength lies in the dedication, experience, and heart of our team. Each member of our staff brings a wealth of knowledge, a deep love for teaching, and a genuine commitment to nurturing young minds. With decades of combined experience across some of Zimbabwe’s leading schools and early childhood institutions, our teachers are more than educators—they are mentors, guides, and caregivers.Led by our Principal, Adrienne, who brings over forty-five years of teaching expertise, our team blends traditional values with modern approaches to education. We believe in the power of connection and the importance of seeing each child as an individual. Through collaboration, patience, and creativity, we create learning experiences that spark curiosity, encourage growth, and inspire confidence.Together, we are more than just a team—we are a family, united by a shared passion for shaping bright futures, one child at a time.

Adrienne Banks

Adrienne is presently in her twelfth year as Principal of Happy Hands. She is the reason Happy Hands expanded in 2011 from a nursery school to an early learning centre by adding Grade 1 and 2 classes.In addition to her role as Principal, Adrienne also holds the position of Grade 1 teacher. She has forty-five years of experience in the teaching profession and has worked at the following Zimbabwean schools: Hartmann House, St John's Prep, Heritage, Springvale House, Ruzawi, and Digglefold. She has also run her own nursery schools in Bromley and Ruwa.Upon leaving school, Adrienne completed three years at the Teachers' College in Bulawayo and graduated with a Diploma in Infants' Education.Adrienne combines the best of traditional and modern teaching methods, providing a solid foundation for one of the most formative years in a child’s learning journey.

Jamie Edwards

Jamie Edwards - Our grade 2 teacher, holder of a UNISA International Certificate in Early Childhood Development. Jamie has twenty years experience in Zimbabwean schools including Hippo Valley Primary, Bryden Country School and Eiffel Flats Primary, she was also owner of Little Angels Academy in Chiredzi. Jamie has an ideal blend of creative and organizational skills that bring out the best in our older children.

Ray Kuzanga

Our Administration Manager and Bursar is Ray Kuzanga. Ray has risen through the ranks of Happy Hands to a highly effective and efficient Administrator and Bursar. Ray has shown consistent dedication and loyalty to our school for over twenty five years.

Storm Booth

ECD B teacher - Storm Booth has ten years teaching experience including Little School House Montessori, Little People, Spectrum Learning and Happy Hands. Storm holds a UNISA international certificate in Early Childhood Development and Grade R teaching and she is a Certified Play Therapist. Storm’s vast experience in foundation phase education makes her an invaluable asset to our team.

Caroline Gomwe

Meet our Grade 000 teacher-Caroline Gomwe Caroline has been part of the Happy Hands team for nine years. Caroline has worked her way up the educational ladder with commendable determination. She worked as a class assistant for ECD A and B for two years. Caroline qualified with a ZeChiDef Professional Diploma in Early Childhood Development. Caroline also holds a certificate in Jolly Phonics and First Aid as well as an AMS (UK) International Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Development. This secured her position of Grade 000 class teacher for the past seven years.

Laura Staples

Meet our E.C.D. A teacher... Laura Staples Laura has been seven years at Happy Hands and involved in foundation phase education for twenty years. Laura has a wealth of experience in teaching young children and has a special insight into their developmental needs. Laura holds a Professional ZeChiDef Diploma in Early Childhood Development.

Tapiwa Muchamba

Our young assistant Tapiwa Muchamba has been with us for over three years. She works closely with Miss Caroline in our three year old class and is a great asset when it comes to potty training. Tapiwa's gentle nature and maternal attributes endears her to our littlest students.

Morgan Nyakuwanikwa

Morgan is the newest and youngest member of our team. He joined Happy Hands two years ago and is responsible for keeping the grounds in immaculate condition. Morgan also plays a role as security guard and traffic controller. His friendly and willing personality is appreciated by all.