OUR PEOPLE

Message from our director

As a mother, I came to understand that education should never be mundane or rigidly defined. It should spark curiosity, inspire creativity, and nurture a deep passion for learning. At Straits Waldorf School, our approach to education is rooted in this belief. We know that when a child’s innate curiosity is matched with creative expression, it creates a foundation for lifelong learning and meaningful growth.

Every child deserves the opportunity to explore their unique potential, and we are committed to providing an environment where they can do just that. Our mission is to offer an educational experience that combines intellectual curiosity with artistic and practical experiences, allowing children to discover their true capabilities and develop a love for learning.

As a strong advocate for men and women balancing home responsibilities with career aspirations, I have made it a priority in my career to create spaces where one can thrive in their professional lives while also being there for their children. At Straits Waldorf, we understand the importance of peace of mind and support for families, and we strive to be a school where both children and parents feel empowered, nurtured, and valued.

I also believe deeply in the power of second chances and in fostering equality in every aspect of life. Everyone deserves the opportunity to excel, and I’ve always found it vital to create opportunities for individuals to reach their full potential, regardless of their journey.

Thank you for considering Straits Waldorf School as part of your child’s educational path. We are excited to support your child’s journey toward becoming a compassionate, curious, and confident individual.

Mrs. Viknesh - Director at Straits Waldorf (Singapore's only Waldorf-based International grade school)

Viknes Kadirval
Founder & Director

LiShan

Head of Curriculum

LiShan’s journey in education began at Camphill, a community for children with special needs in the U.S., where she spent five years supporting children in home, school, and therapeutic settings. She holds a five-year certificate in Curative Education from Camphill Academy and completed her Waldorf grade school teacher training at the Rudolf Steiner Center in Toronto. She also earned a Master’s in Transdisciplinary Healing Education from Antioch University.

Her studies include Anthroposophic Psychology and Rhythmical Einreibungen, a therapeutic massage practice rooted in Anthroposophy. A passionate artist, she enjoys felting, painting, and crocheting, often carrying yarn and needles with her to create wherever she goes.

Now based in Singapore, LiShan brings a rich international background and deep care to her role as lead teacher for grades 5 and 6 at Straits Waldorf School.

LiShan- Head of Curriculum at Straits Waldorf (Singapore's only Waldorf-based school)

Our Teachers

Pavithra Chandramohan

Class Teacher

Pavithra, originally from India, began her career in architecture after completing her studies in art and design. She holds a degree in Architecture and a Master’s in Urban Design from the National University of Singapore. Her journey shifted when she became a mother and discovered a passion for creative parenting and education.

Inspired by sessions on Anthroposophy by Julie Amanda Neale, she felt called to integrate her artistic background with early childhood education and is now pursuing teacher training at the Sydney Rudolf Steiner College.

Pavithra believes in nurturing children through creativity, presence, and a deep respect for their natural development. Her thoughtful and artistic approach makes her a valuable part of the school’s early childhood community.

Emilya Ane Lagumen

Eurythmy teacher

Emilya is a trained Eurythmist who completed both her undergraduate and master’s studies in Eurythmy in Germany. She brings this unique art of movement—developed by Rudolf Steiner—into the classroom to support children’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

Her work at Straits Waldorf School focuses on adapting Eurythmy within the Southeast Asian context, drawing inspiration from traditional dances and instruments such as bamboo flutes, drums, and gamelan. By weaving in regional music and culture, she brings new life and relevance to this century-old practice.

Emilya’s passion lies in helping children connect movement with meaning, rhythm, and language, while honoring the local environment and cultural heritage they grow up in.

Koh Wee Hoon (Sita)

Waldorf Movement

Sita is a certified Steiner-Waldorf early childhood educator and holistic therapist with training in Reiki, sound healing, yoga, meditation, and Inner Child Integration. She is currently pursuing a Diploma in Psychosophy, a spiritual approach to psychology based on Rudolf Steiner’s teachings.

Her work is centered on guiding both children and adults toward self awareness and balance. Sita sees children as radiant beings and believes deeply in nurturing their inner life through rhythm, creativity, and soul-centered care.

Outside of teaching, she enjoys writing poetry, creating photo art, and taking long walks in nature. She shares a love of music with her two sons, often finding joy and inspiration through those shared moments.

Ruksheen Aga

Waldorf Handwork

Ruksheen’s journey in Early Childhood Education began in 2015. Her experience with the Waldorf Steiner Education Association, complemented by her roles at Eton House @223 Mountbatten, showcases her dedication to nurturing young children. Her diverse educational background, from a Degree in Commerce to certifications in childcare, demonstrates her commitment to holistic learning. Her passions for children and crafting make her a well-rounded educator, while her teamwork and dedication undoubtedly contribute to the children’s growth and development.

Over the years, she has attended various Waldorf workshops and courses led by distinguished Waldorf educators such as Warwick Sandler, Nancy Blanning, Thanh Cherry, Marleny Alfaro, Ourania Poon, Bella Tan and Jake Tan, continuously expanding and enriching her knowledge.

Mariya Mustan

Main Lesson Teacher

Mariya is an experienced educator, homeopath, and mother who brings a holistic perspective to her work with children. With over a decade of experience in teaching and adult learning design across Singapore and Australia, she has taught English to primary and secondary students and developed professional training programs for adults.

Her journey into Waldorf education began through her search for meaningful, child-centered learning for her own children. The philosophy’s deep respect for emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing resonated with her, leading her to embrace it as an educator.

Mariya is guided by the principle of “balance in health and rhythm in learning,” which she brings into every aspect of her classroom practice.

Reenah T

Visual Arts & Literacy

Reenah holds an Honours degree in Political Science from the National University of Singapore and is a graduate of the School of the Arts, Singapore (SOTA), where she specialised in painting and portraiture. She brings her artistic background into her work as a painting and literacy teacher, while also serving as the Compliance Officer at Straits Waldorf School.

Her interests extend beyond education—Reenah is a space policy enthusiast who previously chaired the Space Policy Unit at NUS’s Students for the Exploration and Development of Space. Her research paper, Mitigating Orbital Debris, was presented at GLEX 2021 in St. Petersburg and published by the International Astronautical Federation. She co-authored the Community White Paper in response to Singapore’s White Paper on Women’s Development and has worked as a Research Assistant at the Institute of Public Understanding of Risk, analyzing public perceptions of nuclear energy in China. Reenah is also certified in UX/UI Design by the Vertical Institute.

Veronica Borsonelli Marcarini

Class Teacher

Veronica brings over ten years of teaching experience and holds a Bachelor’s in Mathematics and a Master’s in Science and Mathematics Education. Originally from Italy and and having lived and taught in Brazil, for over 10 years, she moved to Singapore in 2023 to work with the Australian International School.

She was drawn to Waldorf education for its emphasis on creativity, nature, and respect for each child’s rhythm. Her approach blends academic depth with warmth and curiosity, and she values the opportunity to support children’s growth in meaningful and holistic ways.

Outside of the classroom, Veronica’s life is enriched by her loving marriage and together with her husband they continue to enjoy and immerse themselves in nature and explore diverse cultures