Welcome to Sandcastle Play School
Saldanha, Saldahna, Western Cape, South Africa
Sand Castle Play School is a nurturing Play Sense school set inside a charming little play castle within the safe, secure environment of Blue Bay Lodge & Resort. Led by the experienced and caring Teacher Elmien, who has many years of experience working with toddlers, we offer a gentle, play-based curriculum designed to support early learning, confidence and social development.
With a maximum of only 6 children, each child receives individual attention in a calm and loving setting. Aftercare facilities will be available from 2026, making Sand Castle Play School a trusted and convenient choice for families.
Meet Your Teacher
Mart-Mari Dods
Playschool Owner
Elmien Gunter
Playschool Teacher
I have "official" teaching experience of more or less 10 years, but I have "unofficial" experience as mother and granny of more than 40years! I love children of all ages, but have a passion for the age group 18 months to 3 years and my teaching experience was in this age group. I taught at a Montessori school for 5 years in Gauteng. After relocating to Saldanha, I taught at Topolino Private School in Langebaan for a little over 4 years. I am a passionate sport woman and completed 14 comrades marathons, 1 Iron Man Tria-athlon and countless marathons! I completed 4 midmar Mile swimming competitions in Kwazulu Natal. I incorporated my love for sport and children by becoming a qualified swim instructor for all age groups from 2 years and older. I have experience as a Play Ball instructor as well and (much to the embarrassment of my then teenage daughters, was responsible for the fitness training of their school's first rugby team. This earned me the nickname of Drill Sergeant! As you can see, even though I am a Granny, I have more than enough energy and LOVE to keep up with all the little ones in my class! I am a firm believer that children of this age should learn through play and this is exactly why I am very excited to be part of the Play Sense Team!
Testimonials
Lorinda and Pippa
The Sandcastle Play School and wonderful teacher Elmien have been a prayer answered! This school and it's beautiful setting, that offers nature, beach, playground and pool, is a magical, safe and loving place for a child to grow and bloom. At the heart of this special school is teacher Elmien - with her warmth, wisdom and sensitivity she finds a way into each childs heart. Elmien balances education, play, support, enthusiasm, creativity and discipline to create an environment where children can be educated and loved while they learn to become social and independent little beings.
My daughter loves her school and teacher, and for a parent there is no greater gift than a child happy to go to school. I am a bit of a over-protective mom and I can truly say that I can relax and focus on my work once I have dropped my daughter of at Sandcastle because I know she is safe and happy and all her needs are being met. I will be forever thankful that the Sandcastle Play School and teacher Elmien was my daughter's first school experience.
Rylee's Granny Coreen
Rylee Rose fell in love with the castle as soon as she set eyes on it. We are so grateful to teacher Elmien for the nurturing environment she has created. Rylee has flourished as Elmien has fostered creativity, curiosity and a safe space for exploration. The Play Sense curriculum is engaging and instills a love of knowledge. This has been the perfect start to Rylee's educational journey. Teacher Elmien is phenomenal.
Kristin
We couldn’t be happier with our experience at The Sand Castle! From the moment we joined, it was clear that this is a place where children are nurtured, celebrated, and truly cared for. The environment is incredibly supportive; encouraging our little one’s creativity and curiosity at every turn. From day one Rylee has loved it with zero tears.
Teacher Elmien is truly incredible—patient, warm, and endlessly enthusiastic. She understands each child’s unique personality, making every day a new adventure. Our daughter has grown so much since joining this playgroup, not only in skills but also in confidence, imagination and independence. The play-based curriculum is perfect for her age, with activities that balance fun and learning in the best possible way. The small class size allows for lots of individual attention, and it’s amazing to see how the children have formed such sweet friendships.
The Sand Castle has truly become a second home for our daughter, and we’re grateful for such a wonderful start to her learning journey. Highly recommended to any parent looking for a warm, engaging, and enriching early learning experience, in a more curated environment.
Mart-Mari and Kyle are relaxed and also so lovely to engage with. The experience has truly been special for Rylee.
Letitia
The Sandcastle Play School-(The key word being Play)
At the Sandcastle Play school the focus is learning through play and they really do learn that way. For my daughter the stimulation she’s getting through this method is very effective. It’s not only play; it is focusing on developing the imagination. Teacher Elmien really challenge the kids to be curious, to use their imagination and to use their body to move through play.
As a parent, I am truly grateful for the exceptional care and education Clara receives at The Sand Castle Play School. From the very first day, we felt welcomed, supported, and reassured that Clara is in a warm and nurturing environment. Teacher Elmien demonstrate genuine passion, patience, and dedication in everything she’s teaching the children. Teacher Elmien is attentive, compassionate, and incredibly skilled at working with young children. They create a safe, engaging, and stimulating atmosphere where little ones are encouraged to explore, grow, and express themselves with confidence. Her ability to connect with each child individually is remarkable.
We are always kept informed of our child’s progress, daily experiences, and important milestones. The creativity and supportive approach make a noticeable difference in the positive attitudes and excitement our children bring home each day.
I highly recommend The Sandcastle Play School for its warm environment and outstanding early childhood program.
We are deeply appreciative of the positive impact the school has had on Clara’s growth, confidence, and happiness.
Class of 2026
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
- 07:45
- 12:00
- 6
Play School Fees:
- R2,761
- R2,982
- R3,202
- R2,530
After Care Fees:
- R1,200
Location
Get In Touch
Sandcastle Play School
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