35 years: Celebrating A New Era of Legacy Families
This year, Somersfield Academy celebrates its 35th anniversary — a milestone that marks more than three decades of educational excellence, community spirit, and a commitment to nurturing socially conscious, independent thinkers. Since its founding in 1991, Somersfield has grown from a visionary idea into a vibrant learning community that combines Montessori principles with the International Baccalaureate (IB), offering a unique educational continuum in Bermuda.
And in 2026, that journey has come full circle: the first generation of legacy families is now enrolling the next generation of students, demonstrating the school’s lasting impact on its alumni.
Legacy Families: Full Circle Stories
As alumni look back on their time at Somersfield, many describe their school years as transformative. Now, as parents, they’re choosing to send their children back to the halls that shaped their formative years, a deep vote of confidence in the school’s mission and community.
Omar Dill — Alumnus & Proud Parent
“Somersfield gave me a strong foundation,” says Omar Dill, alumnus and new parent. “Being able to have my son learn in the same environment that helped shape who I am today means a great deal to both of us. "
Omar is now a case manager at HOME charity and holds a degree in psychology and sociology, bringing his commitment to service and community support into everything he does.
Jasmin Caines — Champion of Core Values
“The values I learned at Somersfield are the same values I want my daughter to carry forward. I want her to be a socially conscious, independent thinker,” says Jasmin Caines, founding alumna and parent.
For Jasmin, the meaning of a Somersfield education goes beyond academics. Her connection to the school’s emphasis on compassion, respect, and lifelong learning continues through her family’s ongoing involvement. Jasmin is now a physician at Island Health Services.
Alex Jones — Board Member & Legacy Parent
“I'm proud to be bringing my daughter back to the school my parents helped create for us 35 years ago. Somersfield was created as a progressive alternative to the old education system and I'm glad to see Somersfield continue its legacy of progress even as the rest of the world catches up." — Alex Jones, founding student, Somersfield parent, and Board Member.
Alex Jones embodies the blend of leadership and familial legacy. His professional contributions support the school’s strategic direction, while his daughter’s presence on campus reflects the personal and generational trust his family places in Somersfield.
Looking Forward: A Legacy of Community and Growth
Today, Somersfield’s influence extends well beyond the classroom. Alumni are shaping Bermuda’s educational and civic landscape — from teaching and mentorship to community development efforts. From coming back to teach, alumni-led scholarship initiatives, and alumni speaker panels showcase the ongoing connection between past and present students.
This anniversary year stands as a testament to Somersfield’s enduring mission: to empower children to think critically, act compassionately, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The emergence of legacy families — alumni trusting the school with their own children’s futures — highlights the depth of that mission’s impact.
Founding Students: The First Class of Somersfield
The first students to attend Somersfield — now recognised as founding students — represent the roots of the school’s legacy. These students helped shape the culture and identity of Somersfield from the very beginning.
Somersfield Academy Timeline (1991–2026)
1991
Montessori Academy opens at Tivoli in Warwick with 72 students.
1997
Student population expands, reaching capacity.
2001
School moves to Devonshire campus and becomes Somersfield Academy.
2005
IB Middle Years Programme introduced.
2019
Launch of IB Diploma Programme, enabling a complete MYP–DP path.
2021
Somersfield celebrates its first graduating class.
2025
Somersfield marks 20 years of IB excellence with alumni engagement events.
2026
35th Anniversary & the first generation of legacy families.
Founding Students:
Alexis Gosling Baker
Tai Kenneth Bean
Christina Blum
Jamie Blum
Seth Branum
Jasmin Caines
Jiney Caines
Dajon Carey
Callum J.C. Cunningham
Christopher Daniels
Alexandra Dill
Omar C. L. Dill
Eric Doidge
Dan Doidge
Peter Doidge
Aymori Duncan
Sephra Duncan
Brian Ernst
Aaron Eversley
Lyndsay Forrest
Neil Forrest
Emily Lloyd Foster
Darius Gordyk
Sierra Gordyk
Lucy Hall
Ciara Harris
Clayton Harshaw
Mario Johnston
Adrianna Jones
Alexander J.H. Jones
Matthew G.A. Jones
Nadia Khan
David Lambert
Shannon Lawrence
Gavin Manders
Hugo Marsh
Amanda Lloyd McGlynn
John Stuart McKenna
Daniel Olson
Demetri Pamplin
Mashundae Pearman
Jordan Place
Joshua Place
Bryn Pritchard
Meryl Pritchard
Jason Ralph
Vanessa Richmond
Rowland Robinson
Joseph E. Saunders
Samantha M. Saunders
Emily Sheere
Kristopher Simons
Jordan Smith
Katryn E. B. Smith
Michele H. B. Smith
Stacee Carol E. Smith
Jacob Benjamin Sousa
Sophia Stefanatto
H. Jay Tucker
H. Sean Tucker
Kyle H. Tucker
Alicia Wanklyn
Lead Wanklyn
Brigitta Wohlmuth
Pia Wohlmuth
Natasha Khan
These founding students — and the families who supported them — helped build the strong foundation that Somersfield stands on today. Their legacy continues through the students who walk the halls now, and the legacy families who choose to return.
Note: We are proud to have other founding and legacy families join. If you are one of them and you would like to comment on this article, please contact advancement@somersfield.bm.