Joan Schmidt served as the Principal of Maris Stella School in Durban from 2014 to 2024, following her role as Deputy Head and Academic Head since 2009. Maris Stella is a Holy Family Catholic school that accommodates students from Grade 000 to Grade 12.
Joan previously taught Mathematics to Grades 8 through 12 and was the Head of Subject from 2005 to 2009. She holds a Higher Diploma in Education and completed the Wits Leadership Development Course in 2013.
Joan was a Board Member on the Catholic Board of Education from 2013 to 2023 and currently represents Catholic Schools on the IEB Committee for Curriculum and Assessment.