A closer look at the educators supporting students through individualized instruction and active learning.
The Learning Center is an afterschool program offering academic support, at no cost, to students from across Bequia. It is supported by a small but committed team of teachers who provide instruction, tutoring, and enrichment activities for young people across a range of ages and educational needs. They work with students in small group and one-on-one settings, often focusing on foundational skills in literacy and numeracy, as well as granting support in math, social studies, science, and the arts.
While resources are limited, the teaching team adapts materials and lesson plans to meet the needs of each learner. Ongoing collaboration among staff and with families helps ensure that support is individualized and practical.
Since she joined The Learning Center in 2019, Kabrina King has been an invaluable part of our team. From stepping up to volunteer for many events, to being the heart behind the delicious meals at center parties, Kabrina brings warmth, dedication, and a genuine love for what she does.
She supports our students with their projects, sharpens their skills in math, reading comprehension, and spelling, and always shows up with a smile. Some have backgrounds in formal teaching, while others bring experience from education-related fields such as youth work or nonprofit organizations. Their approaches vary, but all share the goal of supporting academic development, particularly in those who may not have access to consistent or specialized support through the regular school system.
Since joining 2014, Juliette Leslie has grown to become one of the center’s most inspiring educators. We’ve had the privilege of watching her grow in ability and confidence, and now she’s helping her fourth graders do the same.
This past term, 50% of her students earned straight A passes, which is a reflection of her dedication, creativity, and hands-on support. Whether it’s project work, math practice, reading comprehension, or after-school revision sessions, Juliette is always right there, guiding and cheering her students on.
The teachers also contribute to the planning and delivery of special events and summer sessions. These programs aim to keep students engaged outside of the school year and help close learning gaps.
Deverne Farrell has been a teacher at the Learning Center the past eight years. After completing SVG Technical College, she joined the team and immediately dove into improving her instructional skills in phonics through professional development programs. She works with children of all ages attending the center, enhancing their reading, writing, and mathematics.
In addition to academic work, teachers help facilitate activities that build confidence, communication skills, and social development.
We’ve recently had a new addition to the staff, though not a new face in the Learning Centre. Once a student, Jermaine Frederick is now working as teacher, in the very place where his academic journey began! He first joined in 2011 after connecting with Uncle Ray and Aunty Dawn while attending the Bequia Anglican Primary School. That early spark led him to St. Vincent Grammar School, where his love for the sciences—especially biology—took root. He later studied Psychology, Biology, and Chemistry in the UK before earning his BSc in Biochemistry from Cardiff University. In his spare time, he volunteered with impactful organizations like Greenpeace UK, Fareshare London, and Bath Cats & Dogs. At Greenpeace, he conducted key research on Bioplastics, exposing how biodegradable plastics often contain chemical additives that prolong decomposition, not shorten it. He also contributed to projects around cobalt- and nickel-free batteries, exploring safer, more sustainable alternatives to these environmentally harmful materials. From a curious student to a changemaker, Jermaine’s journey shows how investing in education can echo back home in powerful ways.
Tylisha Miller leads the program, as she’s done for more than a decade. Passionate about education, she creates engaging programs that support students’ growth and confidence. She ensures that learning is active, cooperative, and fun. She also runs special programs throughout the year.
The Learning Center continues to evolve, and the teachers remain central to its day-to-day function. Their work provides a consistent educational presence for young people in Bequia.
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