About Learning Tree Academy
Building Strong Foundations for Lifelong Learning
Our Story
Founded in 1974, Learning Tree Academy began with a simple mission: to provide exceptional early childhood education that nurtures the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. What started as a single campus has grown into a network of state-of-the-art facilities serving families across the region.
We believe that every child deserves the best possible start in life. Our approach combines research-based curriculum with warm, responsive care to create an environment where children thrive and families feel supported.
🎯 Our Mission
To provide high-quality early childhood education in a safe, nurturing environment that promotes each child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development while fostering a lifelong love of learning.
👁️ Our Vision
To be the leading early childhood education provider, recognized for our innovative programs, exceptional educators, and commitment to helping every child reach their full potential.
Our Core Values
❤️ Love & Respect
Every child is valued and treated with dignity and kindness.
🌟 Excellence
We strive for the highest standards in everything we do.
🤝 Partnership
We work collaboratively with families to support each child's growth.
🎨 Creativity
We encourage curiosity, imagination, and innovative thinking.
🛡️ Safety
We maintain the highest safety and health standards at all times.
🌍 Diversity
We celebrate and embrace the unique backgrounds of all families.
Our Educational Philosophy
Learning Tree Academy follows a child-centered, play-based approach that recognizes each child as a unique individual with their own strengths, interests, and learning style. Our curriculum is designed to:
- Promote Active Learning: Children learn best through hands-on exploration and discovery.
- Foster Social-Emotional Development: Building positive relationships and emotional intelligence is fundamental.
- Encourage Problem-Solving: We help children develop critical thinking and decision-making skills.
- Support Language Development: Rich language experiences through conversations, stories, and songs.
- Build Physical Skills: Both fine and gross motor development through active play.
- Cultivate Curiosity: We inspire wonder and a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
Accreditation & Recognition
🏆 Accredited
All our campuses are accredited for the Education of Young Children.
⭐ 5-Star Rating
Recognized by the state Quality Rating and Improvement System.
👨🎓 Certified Staff
All teachers certified in Early Childhood Education or related fields.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Mrs. Saritha Adhikarla
Founder & Executive Director
11+ years of experience in Early Childhood Education with 10+ years of experience in Techonology.
Janie Deysel
Operations Director
Oversee processes, resources, and teams while aligning activities with strategic goals.
Thandolwenkosi Ncube
Marketing Director
Leads strategic marketing efforts to boost brand growth.
Candice Louw
Director of Curriculum
Curriculum Development and specializing in play-based learning.
Experience the Learning Tree Difference
Visit any of our campuses to see our programs in action.