Hello!
Welcome to Housemartins classes.
My name is Raquel and I am a Level 4 Montessori teacher with over 10 years of experience working both as a nanny and in Early Years settings.
In my most recent role, I worked as a Baby Room Leader at a Montessori Nursery where in collaboration with my team, we created a fantastic routine for the room, easy settling in for both babies and parents and created daily activities to support the babies wellbeing and development.
A couple of years ago, my love for nature led me to train as a level 3 Forest School Leader which I am very passionate about and incorporate into my teaching.
I have first aid paediatric training as well as Safeguarding in Early Years Level 2.
I love collecting children's books as I love not only the stories but I am fascinated by the illustrations. I find reading to and with children a fantastic way of learning more about the children themselves: it supports bonding and communication. It really is quite magical at times.
I love music, cooking and baking, so expect a lot of it incorporated in my classes!
But best of all, I am a very proud mum of 1 and auntie of 5!
My Story
I chose the swallow (or Andorinha) as the namesake for my classes because these magnificent birds represent a deep connection to new beginnings and the beautiful journey of parenthood.
In Portugal (where I'm from), the iconic swallow is a cherished symbol of home, family and loyalty. Just as a swallow's return brings the promise of Spring, our classes celebrate the fresh start a new baby brings to a family. Each baby is an explorer on a grand, new journey, and we, like the guiding swallows who return reliably to build their nests, are here to provide a nurturing, safe and stable "home" for their earliest educational flights.