Meet The Team

Teresa de Gruyter

Founder / School Director

I strongly believe that if we ensure children enjoy coming to a school where they feel happy, safe and where they are heard and valued, they are already halfway in the process of achieving their full potential. I also believe in a holistic approach to education where attention to a child’s individual needs is as important their as academic achievements.To be a founding member of the Butterflies is a privilege. We aim to make a difference in the way we teach children to love and learn in order to create. And this is why we are Empowering Education!

About me? I graduated as a Graphic Designer in the UK and I spent the first few decades of my life working in the corporate world across various industries and in different countries. It wasn’t until 2007 that I discovered how much I enjoyed teaching, so I retrained to become an ESL qualified teacher.

Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family and my friends; travelling nationally and internationally, rediscovering history or experiencing new cultures and I love being creative – arts and crafts and cake decorating are some of my hobbies.

Nejal Acevinkumar

Founder / School Director

As the cofounder of the Butterflies I believe that children should be themselves, playing is a vital role in creating a nurturing and supportive environment where students can thrive academically. Happy children in school are a joy to behold and are a testament to a positive and nurturing learning environment.

At the Butterflies we provide opportunities for physical activity, play, and outdoor time that can help children release energy, reduce stress, and improve their overall mood. At Butterflies we prioritize recess, physical education, and playtime. We understand the importance of a healthy balance between academic work and play.

I hold a MSc in Psychology and I am a flexible team member with great communication and problem-solving skills, these allow me to be a good and efficient communicator. I have experience working with children from different cultures and abilities, this has brought my attention to a child-centred approach.

During my free time, I love to spend time with my son and my family. I enjoy exploring new restaurants and different cuisines.

Who We Are

Ana Mitsiaris

Arts Teacher

Hello, my name is Ana and I’m the Arts teacher in this amazing school. I’m from South Africa, where I obtained a BA in Communications and worked in the corporate world.

Arts and crafts are my passions. I grew up in a creative family, which allowed me to explore and appreciate working with my hands while experimenting with different techniques and materials.

Working with children over the past 11 years has been the highlight of my days. Seeing them perceive, understand and respond to the things around them, become visual storytellers, and helping them become little artists, critical thinkers, decision-makers and creators is incredibly rewarding.

Seeing the smile on their faces after creating something new is priceless.

“Every artist was first an amateur.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Carina Alves

Early Years Educator

Hello, I’m Carina, an Early Years Educator with a Master’s in Pre-School Education and training in Conscious Parenting. I live education with passion and believe every child deserves to grow in a safe, welcoming environment that respects their pace and individuality.

I aim to create rich and meaningful experiences through play, exploration and relationships, because it is through curiosity and discovery that learning gains real purpose. I value active listening, autonomy and emotional wellbeing, supporting each child with sensitivity and intention in their social, emotional and cognitive development.

My greatest reward is seeing children become confident, engaged and happy in their learning journey.

Carina Silva

Early Years Educator

I’m Carina, an Early Years Educator, with a degree in Basic Education and a Master’s in Pre-School Education from Escola Superior de Educadores de Infância Maria Ulrich.

My vocation began in childhood and today it shapes the way I believe in child-centred education, respecting each child’s rhythm, emotions and individuality. I believe learning happens when a child feels safe, respected and truly seen.

As an educator, I walk alongside children. I know how to wait, listen in the silence, and honour each child’s time. Being a mother reinforces in me the importance of empathy, care and partnership with families. I’m proud to be part of this school, which reflects my values and the way I believe childhood should be nurtured and celebrated.

Catarina Carvalho

Pedagogical Director

Hello! I’m Catarina Carvalho, the Pedagogical Director at Butterflies. I hold a degree in Basic Education (Music) and a Master’s in Musical Sciences. With 25 years of professional experience, I began teaching Music to Key Stage 2 and 3 pupils and later in Primary education.

Pedagogical leadership and coordination emerged as a challenge midway through my career. I lead teams with empathy and critical thinking, fostering healthy, proactive and creative environments, and giving a voice to those I work with. I believe in relationships built on trust, which is why working closely with our teaching teams, children and families is part of my day-to-day routine.

Catarina Rolo

Development and Well-being Coordinator

Hello, I’m an educational psychologist with over 20 years of experience in schools, where I support students’ emotional and academic development.

Throughout my career, I have deepened my knowledge in the areas of educational psychology, special educational needs, neuropsychology, family therapy and various approaches to clinical psychology.

At Butterflies, my goal is to create a healthy school environment where all students feel supported and have the tools they need to succeed.

I believe that emotional well-being is fundamental for good academic performance, and I am always available to support the school community — students, families and staff.

Diana Fernandes

Classroom Assistant

My name is Diana Fernandes. I trained as a Psychosocial Technician and, during my placement, I chose to deepen my work in early childhood—an area I’m deeply passionate about.

I entered the professional world in 2009 and, since then, I’ve remained inspired by the privilege of accompanying children as they grow. I believe children are the future, and we adults are the roots and structure that give them the security to flourish.

I believe love, kindness, respect—and also clear boundaries—are essential pillars for healthy development. Outside education, I’m passionate about animals, nature and travelling, and I’m always curious about the cultural diversity that enriches our world.

Diana Lima

Classroom Assistant

My name is Diana Lima, and I work at Butterflies as an Educational Assistant.

I have been connected to working with children for many years — an area I have felt passionate about since a very young age. I completed my secondary education as a Tourism Animation Technician, with a special focus on children’s activities, including after-school programmes, holiday camps, and recreational activities.

I became an aunt at the age of six, started babysitting at fourteen, and at twenty-one I became a mother to a wonderful little girl. Motherhood has helped me develop even greater patience, empathy, and sensitivity to each child’s individual needs.

I believe that children learn best through play, exploration, and freedom. I truly believe that messy children are happy children, as play and discovery are essential for confident, joyful development.

Érica Lopes

Classroom Assistant

My name is Érica Lopes, I’m a classroom assistant and I have a huge passion for children.

I grew up looking after the children of friends and family and, as soon as I finished 12th grade, I took an Educational Action course where I learned a lot about child development and the importance of supporting children closely.

I was always sure that my future would be with children, and the course reinforced my desire to pursue this path even more.

I love playing with children because, as well as being fun, I believe that it is through play that we strengthen our relationship, gain their trust and receive their love. There is nothing purer and truer than the love of a child.

Inês Vicente

Early Years Educator

Hello everyone, my name is Inês Vicente and, since I was little, I have always been fascinated by babies. At the Lisbon School of Education, I completed a Master’s in Pre-School Education, which allowed me to fulfil my dream of becoming an Early Years Educator in 2020.

I’m certain that every child is unique and special in their own way. My role is to care for, inspire and support each child in discovering who they are, guiding them towards a bright future.

With support, everything becomes easier—education is shared work, built in partnership, walking side by side with families whose insight and experience are essential in each child’s journey.

Jennifer Cavalheiro

Classroom Assistant

Hello, I’m Jennifer Cavalheiro. I trained in Pedagogy in Brazil and have worked in education since 2017. My journey began with a genuine purpose: to care for, teach and support children’s development with sensitivity and respect.

Today, I work as a Classroom Assistant with the same love and dedication, believing every child deserves to be welcomed, listened to and encouraged to grow in a safe and caring environment.

Jess Evitts

English Teacher

Hello! My name is Jess Evitts and I am the English teacher here at Butterflies. With over 14 years of experience teaching the Cambridge curriculum, I am passionate about helping each of my students fall in love with the language through games, music and movement. I’m originally from England, but Portugal is the country that definitely holds my heart!

Joana Cardoso

Admin Receptionist

I’m Joana and I work in the school reception, where the magic happens every day.

Here, we lovingly take care of every detail so that children, parents and teachers always feel welcome.

Our mission is to create a collaborative environment where parents can actively participate in their children’s education.

Together we form one big school family!

Letícia Neto

Kitchen Assistant

My name is Letícia and I am Brazilian. I’ve lived in Portugal for 13 years. I’m a pastry chef by profession and I love baking cakes and sweets.

Here at Butterflies School I work in the kitchen, and having contact with the little ones, watching them grow and learn every day, is one of my greatest satisfactions.

It is a pleasure to serve all the children at the school, from the youngest to the oldest.

Liliana Sebastião

Music Teacher

My name is Liliana Sebastião, I’m a music teacher and I’m delighted to share my passion with our students.

I have around 15 years of experience teaching music and my mission is to awaken musical taste and curiosity, whether through theory or through the practice of singing, piano or other instruments.

The development of creativity and group creation are essential elements in my approach to learning. I studied Musical Sciences at Universidade Nova de Lisboa and singing at the National Conservatoire and the Flanders Opera Studio.

I believe that music is a powerful tool for expression and an excellent means of personal and academic development. Music opens doors to new cultures, new ideas, new sensations and feelings, and every child has the ability to express themselves musically whenever they are given the freedom to do so.

Marta Magalhães

Nursery Teacher

Hi, I’m Marta Magalhães and, ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of becoming a kindergarten teacher. My passion for children began very early on, and this desire has grown with me over the years.

As time went by, I felt the need to explore the world of childhood and improve myself as a professional. That’s when I decided to invest in my future and study Early Childhood Education. I chose ISCE for my training, an experience that prepared me for the challenges and joys of this very special profession.

I’ve been working as an early childhood educator since 2015 and I’m passionate about what I do. It’s very gratifying to know that we can make a difference in the life of every child who comes through our doors.

Being an educator is more than a job for me. It’s a mission of love, dedication and continuous learning. Every smile, every achievement and every moment shared with the children reinforces the certainty that I have chosen the right path.

Monika Rennich

Classroom Assistant

Hi, my name is Monika and I work here at Butterflies as an English-speaking teaching assistant.

I have a deep passion for working with children and truly value the uniqueness and individuality in the way each child thinks and learns.

Since the age of 14, I have gained extensive experience working with children as a babysitter and nanny. I have also held various roles at camps, including teacher, counsellor and others, which have enriched my understanding and love for guiding and supporting children in their growth and development.

I’m excited to help support and grow with your children here!

Natacha Neves

Early Years Educator

Hello everyone! I’m Natacha. I completed my degree in Early Years Education at ESE João de Deus in 2007. From a young age I have worked with children in different settings and I always knew I wanted to be an educator.

I believe in education rooted in warmth, respect and genuine attention to each child’s rhythm. Being a mother to a little boy also enriches my perspective and daily dedication, helping me to care for, understand and support each child with greater sensitivity and presence.

Neida Dias

Classroom Assistant

Hello, I’m a young, responsible and dedicated professional with experience caring for babies and children, developed in a family setting. I completed a course as an Educational Assistant to build a career in this field and to contribute to children’s wellbeing and development.

Nuno Santos

Physical Education Teacher

I’m Nuno, and I’ve been qualified in Physical Education and Sport for over 15 years. I love working with children and believe movement is a powerful way to build confidence, discipline and joy.

In my lessons, I aim for every child to feel capable, valued and motivated to challenge themselves, always respecting their individual pace. More than teaching, my goal is to inspire healthy habits and create positive memories through sport.

Raquel Casimiro

Nursery Teacher

Hello, my name is Raquel and I’m a Nursery Teacher. I trained at the Almeida Garrett School of Education, motivated by the idea that early childhood education is one of the most decisive stages in a person’s life.

Being an educator is more than a profession; it’s a vocation that allows me to be part of each child’s story and have a lasting and meaningful impact on their lives.

I strive to offer a safe, cosy and stimulating environment where children can explore, learn and develop their skills fully and harmoniously. In every moment with them, I encourage creativity, respect, autonomy and the ability to socialise.

Come and join our family so we can fly together!

Raquel Madureira

Classroom Assistant

Hello, my name is Raquel and I work as a classroom assistant. I knew from an early age that I wanted to work with children, so I started working as a babysitter and later in a school setting.

I have a great passion for children, and I believe that routine moments, as well as playtime, are fundamental to establishing a solid and healthy emotional bond with them.

For me, these moments are essential for children’s development, as they allow us to create a foundation of trust and affection.

Rita Fernandes

Primary Teacher

Hello, I’m Rita Fernandes and I am a Primary Teacher at Butterflies. I’m passionate about education and find my true vocation in working with children. I hold a degree in Basic Education and a Master’s in Teaching for Key Stages 1 and 2.

I’m dedicated, creative, dynamic and empathetic, with experience in multicultural settings and co-teaching. I use active methodologies focused on each child’s holistic development and value an inclusive, collaborative and interdisciplinary approach. Every day, I aim to contribute to a more human, meaningful and transformative education.

Sandra Fernandes

Classroom Assistant

Hello everyone and welcome to Butterflies School!

My name is Sandra and I’m a classroom assistant.

I’ve enjoyed looking after children since I was very young. I started as a babysitter, was an au pair in London for a year, and have now been an assistant for almost 19 years.

I’m a mum of two and I love looking after your children as if they were my own. I have always cared for little ones and I find it very rewarding because they are natural, genuine and very loving.

Sandra Sequeira

Classroom Assistant

Hello, I’m Sandra Sequeira. I’ve worked in education since 2022 as an Educational Assistant, supporting children in their daily routines and learning.

I believe care, presence and consistency make a real difference to each child’s wellbeing and development. I aim to contribute to an organised, safe and welcoming environment where children feel confident to explore, learn and grow, always respecting their individual development.

Vanessa Silva

Kitchen Assistant

Hello everyone! I am Vanessa and I have a great passion for music — I love singing — and it is an important part of my life.

I work in the kitchen and I love baking cakes and serving the children with all my love and affection.

Every day that I spend with the children helps me learn more about them.