2019 25 Years of freedom and democracY - Department of Basic Education
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2019 25 Years of Freedom and Democracy
Content ForEword By the MinistEr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv ForEword By the DEPUTY MinistEr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Excellence in PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Excellence in PRIMARY SCHOOL Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Excellence in Secondary SCHOOL TEACHING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Excellence in Secondary SCHOOL Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Excellence in Grade R TEACHING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Excellence in TECHNOLOGY-Enhanced Teaching and Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (FET) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Excellence in Teaching Physical Science (FET) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Excellence in SPECIAL NEEDS TEACHING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 LIfeTime Achievement AWARD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 The Kader Asmal Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Foreword
By the MinistEr
MRS AM MOTSHEKGA, MP
MINISTER OF BASIC EDUCATION
T
he 19th National Teaching among these is the persisting high levels awarded by the people of South
Awards (NTAs) marks a of poverty, high rate of unemployment, Africa, through the African National
significant landmark in violence and abuse of all forms, lack of Congress, to those who have made an
the calendar of our basic proper infrastructure especially in rural outstanding contribution and sacrifice
education sector. Through the NTAs, communities, and low morale amongst to the liberation struggle.
we shine a spotlight on dedicated teachers. As Government, we are doing
and caring teachers. Collectively, we everything in our power to turn this Mama Maxeke was a teacher, pioneer,
are doing everything in our power around. freedom fighter, diplomat, women
to ramp up our efforts in improving rights campaigner, and the founding
learner outcomes. Ideally, every We salute all schools and teachers who President of the Bantu Women’s
learner in the basic education system have entered the National Teaching League, the forerunner of the ANC
must master at least three critical Awards since the year 2000. The Women’s League. She led the first
skills i.e. numeracy, digitally literacy, extraordinary efforts of our teachers women’s march against pass laws in
and become confident readers. Thus and schools often in very difficult 1913 in Bloemfontein.
they have an equal chance to become conditions can’t go unnoticed.
This year, we are honoured to present
true and complete citizens of our new
On behalf of all Education MECs, and the 2019 NATs in honour of this giant
South Africa that turns 25 this year. By
Government as a whole, we wish to of our history, Mama Maxeke. We
its very nature, public schooling has
thank our teachers profusely for their do so because she was first African
lofty ideals of enhancing democracy,
unyielding commitment to the children woman from South Africa to graduate
human rights and social justice. In this
of South Africa. We are indeed proud to with a Bachelor of Science degree
regard, through our basic education
have men and women who are worthy (B.Sc.) obtained from the Wilberforce
ecosystem, we shall contribute to the
to be honoured as the crème de la University in the United States of
building of a united, non-racial, non-
crème in our system of basic education. America, in 1901.
sexist, democratic society. The NTA
We acknowledge your selfless service
is part of the Department of Basic
aimed at the betterment of the lives On her return to her home soil, she
Education programme on Teacher
of the South African child. Thank raised funds from all the AME churches
Appreciation and Support (TASP)
you for nurturing and developing world-wide, and used the money to
which is aimed at ensuring that the
these precious young lads who are in build a primary and a high school as
celebration of teachers is not a once
your care for the better part of their well as a teacher’s training college. Her
off event.
schooling lives. pursuit and passion for education, the
entire story of her life, is an inspiration
We owe a debt of gratitude to
The 19th National Teaching Awards from which we can draw lessons
thousands of teachers who dedicate
takes place as we mark 80 years for today. Mama Maxeke defied the
every minute of their lives to our
since the death of Mama Charlotte architects of both colonialism and
delivery Outcome 1, that is, improved
Maxeke. She is indeed our newly apartheid. Hers was a triumphant
learner outcomes. The progress we
minted Isithwalandwe/Seaparankoe spirit that powered on in spite of the
have made as a sector was registered
recipient. As we know, Isithwalandwe/ multitude of odds staked against her.
despite huge challenges the country
Seaparankoe is the highest honour We dare not fail your people.
and basic education system face. Chief
iv
Foreword
By the DEPUTY MinistEr
MR ME SURTY, MP
DEPUTY MINISTER OF BASIC EDUCATION
W
e celebrate the 19th and promoted Mathematics, Science and teaching environment. This is the
Teacher’s Awards and Technology. We also promoted best recognition we can give to these
on the cusp of the early childhood development, having brave, smart and industrious cohort
twenty fifth year of our more than nine hundred thousand of educators. We are proud of you
democracy, founded on a Constitution children attending preschool (Grade and please continue be the catalyst
which entrenches human rights, R). Consistent with our commitment of radical change in your schools and
including the right to basic education. to fulfill the dignity of our children we society.
Our Constitution is underpinned by the have succeeded in feeding more than
values of human dignity, equality and nine million children daily.
freedom. We also host this event in the
immediate aftermath of the centenary Yet at the heart of what we do must
of the birth of our struggle heroine be the provision of quality education.
and hero, Albertina Sisulu and Nelson In order to achieve sound education
Mandela. They together with the many outcomes we rely on the unstinting
thousands of heroines and heroes support of our educators, many
fought resolutely and relentlessly thousands of whom teach in deep
for our equality and freedom. This rural areas, hard to teach and reach
democracy is the product of their environments and sometimes in
struggle. under resourced and overcrowded
schools. As we build hundreds of new
Our journey in creating the non-racial, state of the art schools the challenges
non-sexist, united and democratic of overcoming the huge disparities
society that we aspired for, meant that created by an Apartheid system of
we had to pay attention to the historical education persists.
disparities, address the issues of
equity, promote the interest and rights Yet there is a steady rise in quality
of the girl child and embed a culture outcomes, and our efforts in reading
of human rights to achieve unity and with understanding and being
social cohesion in the curriculum, numerate is paying dividends and has
policy and practice in our schools. created post-school opportunities for
more than a million of our learners.
To this end, we introduced the generic This we would not have achieved
outcomes of a human rights culture, without teachers, especially teachers
promoted lifelong learning, freed the in the classroom.
potential of our children by opening
the doors of learning and culture by These awards are a recognition of our
improving access and opportunity leaders, the competent and motivated
to the millions of deprived learners, educators who inspire change and
established assessment and evaluation, contribute to excellence in the learning
1
Excellence in PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHING
P
henyo Victorian Violet Koka, a Grade “I am privileged to be surrounded by
2 teacher at Dikobo Primary School excellent, caring teachers at my school,
in Limpopo Province, completed her and I have learned many valuable lessons
degree in 2012 and is a teacher at her old from my peers. Teaching is truly a calling
school in her home town. “I wanted to for dedicated teachers who often work
become a doctor, but teaching chose me long hours to add value to the lives of
and now I am making a difference in my their learners. I would like to believe that
community. Teaching is about laying the I am such a teacher. I agree with those
foundation blocks and observing learners who believe that teaching is a rewarding
discovering their talents. I have a special career that adds value to the life of
bond with my learners,” she says. the educator, as well as the life of the
learner.”
According to Ms Koka, one of the
challenges in primary school teaching Ms Koka views the NTAs as an opportunity
is to put the smaller kids at ease and to be rewarded for diligent work, often
to create a comfortable classroom under difficult circumstances, and
Phenyo Victorian environment. Some learners confide in encourages educators to become part of
Violet Koka her and share the problems that they
face at home. Routines are important to
the challenge to make a change within
their schools and communities. I would
Dikobo Primary School, teach the learners a sense of discipline. like to acknowledge the support from
Limpopo As many parents are uneducated, she my seniors, my District and my Province
often remains at school with learners without whom I would not have been
to assist them with homework. “I view able to make it this far,” she concluded.
myself as an ambassador and role model
for these young ones”.
N
icola Macpherson enrolled as a fundraising events to assist learners
student at Unisa to complete her who cannot afford sporting equipment.
studies as a single, determined She is also a swimming coach and a
young mother. She became a swimming team manager for junior gala swimmers
instructor when her son was born and (foundation phase), and is involved
worked as a pre-school teacher before with development swimming coaching.
venturing into primary school teaching. Teaching is also about empowering
Ms Macpherson is currently teaching one’s peers and she had also trained
Grade 2 learners at the Barberton Life Orientation teachers to become
Primary School in the Mpumalanga swimming coaches. In addition to the
Province. above, she organises concerts, cultural
events and poetry competitions.
“There are tangible rewards in teaching
when a child who has been failing, “Everyone gets a turn to do something
finally passes or when a child says, ‘I in class; I believe in equity, not equality.
want to be in your class next year’. Despite all the challenges experienced
Nicola Macpherson However, it is emotionally challenging in teaching, the kids, their reaction and
when one wants to assist a learner who the appreciation and dedication from
Barberton Primary School, requires professional guidance without committed parents motivate one to keep
Mpumalanga the commitment and support of its going.” She believes that teamwork is
parents. It is important to maintain a important to share best practice with
good relationship with both learners other teachers.
and their parents to enable the child to
receive the support necessary to develop Ms Macpherson maintains that her
holistically.” participation in the NTAs has ignited a
new passion for teaching within herself,
Ms Macpherson is involved in many and that she feels valued and supported
extracurricular activities. She is a by the backing from her colleagues and
mini-hockey coach and organiser for the School Management Team.
2
P
ulane Selina Motloung believes that Degree at the University of the Free
teaching is indeed the mother of all State.
professions as it can touch lives and
make change happen. As she teaches at Ms Motloung believes that it is important
a full service school, there is diversity for learners to read with understanding
in the classroom. Although classes are and to inculcate a culture of reading.
full, she strives to provide each learner She subsequently established reading
with the individual attention required to clubs for learners at the School Resource
feel valued. “As a teacher, it is important Centre on Wednesdays where books are
to build a relationship with learners for reviewed and discussed.
a trusting two-way relationship to be
fostered and for providing solutions Ms Motloung feels that her determination
to the challenges they experience on a and hard work is rewarded when the
daily basis. An excellent teacher should vocabulary and sentence construction
therefore be a good listener.” of her learners improve. She initiated
a Support Wall in the classroom –
Pulane Selina Ms Motloung also emphasises the translating English words into Sesotho.
Motloung importance of extramural activities to
enhance the holistic development of
In addition to the reading initiatives
already mentioned, she also initiated an
Motshepuwa Public School, learners. When she arrived at the school, international pen pal project for learners.
Free State she introduced Netball as a sporting code.
She is a Netball coach and a professional “It is important to bring new initiatives
Netball umpire. She believes that Netball, and creativity into the modern day
and sport in general, enhances the self- classroom to stimulate learners. Every
esteem of her learners. child is a masterpiece in the making and
learning barriers can be overcome if
Ms Motloung, who teaches Grades 5 and every learner is supported according to
6, commenced with her teaching career their needs.”
in 2015 after completing her Honours
M
atsidiso Mary Mngadi, a Grade “I feel supported by my School
7, Senior Phase teacher, did not Management Team, my colleagues and
intend on becoming a teacher my learners,” she proudly states. “I look
and studied Psychology at the University forward to every new day of teaching and
of KwaZulu-Natal. However, she had a hopefully my learners do as well.”
change of heart and decided to study
teaching through Unisa and finds the “Educators must also be learners.
profession both emotionally rewarding They have to continually develop
and enriching. themselves through teacher development
programmes, courses and further studies.
“I imagine myself in the learners’ shoes, I have completed my BEd Honours in
asking what type of teacher would I Education Management, Law and Policy
want to have teaching me,” she says. “I and have applied to commence with my
am not a traditional educator and like Masters Degree in 2019, to tutor FET
to experiment with new techniques and Mathematics.”
approaches. The best way to learn is
Matsidiso Mary through play. Diversity is the spice of life Ms Mngadi agrees that ICT integration is
Mngadi and each learner brings his or her own set
of skills and personality to the classroom.”
important when teaching MST to develop
21st Century learners. Data obtained from
Boneha Primary School, the SASAMS assists her with administration
Gauteng Ms Mngad,i who teaches Mathematics, functions in the classroom. The modern
Science and Technology (MST), as well as teacher will have to familiarise himself/
English First Additional Language (EFAL) herself with technology to stay ahead
explains that although she teaches in a in the classroom. “It is my responsibility
Quintile 4 school, the challenge is that to equip my learners with the necessary
there are no Science laboratories at the knowledge and skills to turn them into
school and classrooms are also packed to technology savvy youth.”
capacity.
3
Excellence in PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHING
J
ohanna Catharina Bull teaches sandwiched between the two 11-year-
Afrikaans, English, Mathematics and olds who took first and third place.
Life Skills at Laerskool Proteapark,
Rustenburg, in the North West Province Teaching is an honourable profession –
for Grade 3 Foundation Phase learners. educating future South African leaders.
Being a teacher one touches the hearts
Ms Bull made teaching her career of and lives of both learners and parents. It
choice during 2011 owing to her love is also important for a teacher to have a
for children and her desire to make a strong support team – both at school and
difference. “I like to challenge my learners. at home – to be able to walk the extra
It is fulfilling to see learners achieve that mile with learners. I assist learners with
‘Aha-moment’ with something that they learning challenges at the school. I also
have been struggling with. I teach in often assist learners and their families
innovative ways using fresh techniques. with transport to their homes, and
The importance of learning through play provide meals to the needy. My learners
cannot be underestimated”. and I support a home for abused women
Johanna and children who are trained towards
Catharina Bull I particularly enjoy teaching Mathematics.
A stimulating experience for me was to
recovery via skills development.
Laerskool Proteapark, teach South Africa’s young Mathematics Life is not only about winning, but about
North West champion, Stiaan Scheepers, a Grade 3 having the courage to try again until one
learner in my school. Stiaan, who has been succeeds. It is therefore important to
described as a Mathematics Wizard, came teach with compassion and empathy. I
second in the international Junior Mental encourage all teachers and learners to
Calculation World Championships held in step out of their comfort zones and to
Germany during 2018, his achievement become involved in community outreach
programmes, as it is extremely rewarding.
N
okuthula Patience Songwaxa, who There are also many child-headed
has been Head of Department families within the community where
(HoD) at the Zimbane Primary unemployment levels are high. These
School, Umtata, Eastern Cape Province socio-economic and socio-psychological
for the past two years, commenced her challenges are serious barriers to learning
teaching career in 2001. Ms Songwaxa and teaching. Another challenge is the
loves to interact with children on a daily non-involvement of parents or parents
basis and she believes that “teaching with a negative attitude who are not
is about grooming learners” until they willing to work with the teacher.
become professionals under one’s hand.
It is also necessary to have listening skills “As a teacher for Life Skills Orientation,
as young, enquiring minds demand to be I am able to discuss issues considered
heard and acknowledged. taboos with my learners such as puberty
and sexual awakening. These issues are
Teaching is also about teamwork and often not discussed at home. I host regular
collaborating with other teachers to sessions inviting Love Life, and work
Nokuthula share best practice. As HoD, she presents closely with the Masiza Rehabilitation
Patience Songwaxa various workshops to guide other teachers
in the surrounding Districts. Ms Songwaxa
Centre in promoting personal values.
“I would like to have a closer working
Zimbane Primary School, has a passion for choral music and is a relationship with the Department in
Eastern Cape conductor of the school choir. She is also respect of school safety campaigns to
involved in creative arts and language address the current challenges, as our
festivals. school is located in a high crime area.
However, it is my role as a teacher to
The challenges experienced often include ensure that I teach my learners a spirit of
working with learners with multiple sharing and mutual respect to overcome
intelligences, as well as impoverished these trials”.
learners who are struggling financially.
4
D
uduzile Sithembile Promise resources are lacking and encourage
Nyembe, a Natural Science and teamwork with other schools as we
Mathematics teacher, commenced assist each other with the exchange of
teaching at the Casino Primary School in resources and best practice.”
Nqutu, KwaZulu-Natal Province during
2015. Being in a rural area surrounded by forests
and wetlands, Natural Science classes
When studying Natural Science at the are usually a hands-on experience. Her
Mangosuthu University of Technology, learners have been involved in the Youth
Ms Nyembe, who enjoyed mentoring Citizens Action Programme (YCAP), as
the juniors, decided to follow teaching well as the Eco-Schools and the School
as a career. As a single parent and Environmental Education Programmes.
breadwinner of her family, she feels Cultivating responsible future citizens
comfortable with the care-giver role she starts in the classroom, and expands to
had been entrusted with. the school and eventually fosters change
in the community at large.
Duduzile Mathematics is her favourite subject
Sithembile Promise and learners have been enjoying her
classes since she commenced teaching
“I am not only a teacher, but also a
part-time parent to these learners. It is
Nyembe at the school. Ms Nyembe ensures that therefore important to be an empathetic
her classes are interactive, and believes listener. My role as a teacher is to equip
Casino Primary School, that learning through play is the most my learners with the skills for them to,
KwaZulu-Natal practical way for learners to acquire not only look after the future of their
skills. “I introduce the topic and mediate environment and their community, but to
the learning process in the classroom. ensure that they are prepared to access
I enjoy it when a learner says, ‘I get job opportunities in the long term. My
it!’ I improvise when some of the basic learners leave footprints in my heart”.
“A
lthough not many people enjoy established mini-libraries for Grades 3
Mathematics, it is my favourite and 4 in the classroom. She also believes
subject as it requires the learner that cleanliness is close to godliness
to be creative when applying solutions,” and promotes handwashing and hygiene
says Ms Stella Kedisaletse Mutlane, a awareness in the school.
teacher at the Kim Kgolo Primary School
where she teaches Grade 4 Mathematics “I feel supported in my school owing to
and Creative Arts. the positive support of my HOD. It is also
important to continue one’s personal and
I was “pushed into teaching by my professional development through lifelong
mother”; however, I loved working with learning. She is currently busy with her
children and discovered that teaching Master’s Degree. Ms Mutlane encourages
fit me like a glove. It is a challenge to networking, discussion sessions and
develop learners to think for themselves the sharing of knowledge through
and to solve problems. I am inspired by Professional Learning Communities to
the thought that my contribution can enhance career development. She is
Stella Kedisaletse brighten someone else’s future. involved with the mentoring of younger
Mutlane Learners, who reside in my immediate
teachers through lesson study teams with
Foundation Phase for Mathematics Team
Kim Kgolo Primary School, environment, have the self-assurance (Grade 3) teachers.
Northern Cape to come to my house to finalise their
homework. They often bring their siblings Ms Multane believes that “hard work does
along and the house has turned into a not kill” but has its own rewards; although
buzzing homework centre. these are not always immediately visible.
“Life has taught me that the more you do,
Ms Mutlane aspires to inculcate a culture the more you get done, and then work
of reading in her learners. The school becomes a pleasure, not a chore.”
does not have a Library, and she has
5
Excellence in PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHING
“A
s my father was an Anglican “I am blessed with a ‘smart class’.
Priest, I was inspired to Information and Communication
become a Sunday School Technology (ICT) contributes to excellent
teacher in my youth. This ignited my results and to injecting fun into teaching.
interest in teaching at a young age. Also, ‘When a data projector lights up, so do
almost my entire family are teachers: the eyes of my learners,’ he jests. I am
myself, two sisters and a brother,” Mr also an ICT master trainer for my school
Wayne de Jager, a Grade 7 teacher in and teachers”.
Afrikaans Home language and Natural
Science at Citrusdal Primary School in Mr De Jager, who has a passion for
the Western Cape Province, explains. reading, says that he has been involved
with the development of the school
“I joined the school in 2017. As a library, as well as a project to encourage
teacher, you are in a position to change the donation of books to inculcate a
lives around and to mould learners to culture of reading. He envisages the
become the best that they can be. I find introduction of a newsletter for the
Wayne de Jager it disheartening when teachers make school during 2019.
learners dislike subjects as negative
Citrusdal Primary School, teachers breed negative learners”. “A principal who believed in me, enabled
Western Cape me to be the provincial winner of this
“I organise anti-bullying campaigns and category. It is important for every
in-class discussions to combat bullying teacher to know your strengths and
behaviour in my school. Bullying in weaknesses, and to be actively involved
all its forms – physically, verbally and in self-development programmes to
emotionally – has a negative impact on better yourself and your skills. I entered
learning and teaching”. the NTAs for this reason as the platform
enables teachers to share best practices.”
6Excellence in PRIMARY SCHOOL Leadership
M
arcus Thobya Matsebane, a “We are blessed with adequate
determined principal from infrastructure at the school; these include
Rapoho Primary School in the an administration block, additional
Limpopo Province, believes that every classrooms, as well as a Resource Centre,
battle can be overcome. He lives by the Grade R Centre and a NSNP kitchen. The
words of Martin Luther King: “If you can’t NSNP assists with the feeding of learners
fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if to ensure that they are only ‘academically
you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever hungry’. We also have a reading nook to
you do, you have to keep moving forward”. inculcate a culture of reading. In general,
I am proud to say that my school is a
As the first born, Mr Matsebane had vibrant, well-performing school with
to take responsibility for assisting his supportive parents.”
younger brother and sister with their
homework. “When I passed matric, I Mr Matsebane always reminds his
heeded the call to become a teacher. My teachers that the individual skills and
learners have ‘hijacked my heart’ and I abilities of each learner should be
Marcus Thobya have found great satisfaction in my career nurtured and developed for them to
Matsebane as a teacher,” he explains. develop holistically.
Rapoho Primary School, Mr Matsebane, who joined the school Although the NTAs reward exceptional
Limpopo on 01 February 2010, spends most teachers and principals, many educators
Saturdays with learners – teaching them are not recognised in their “little corners”.
Mathematics and using the Workbooks He therefore encourages all teachers
for practical lessons and guidance through to continue to inspire and encourage
the curriculum. “In our school, we are everyone within their respective schools
fortunate to have access to ICT resources, because, “all teachers leave footprints in
owing to a donation from Cell C.” the hearts of their learners”.
M
r Jonas Mojalefa Matsolo has must share best practice through
always understood the value continued networking.
that teachers add to the lives of
learners, and he fondly remembers the “My success is secretly embedded in the
teachers who impacted on his life. The life of every leaner and teacher in the
lesson he learned from their teachings school and the seeds that you sow on a
was that it is necessary to teach with daily basis will bear fruit for harvesting
compassion. He is of the opinion that in the long run. Some of my past learners
good teachers make excellent principals. are now teaching at my school. Once I
saw children, but now I see colleagues.
Mr Matsolo views himself as an excellent This is extremely rewarding.”
motivator who is able to mobilise
learners and teachers alike. Learners He maintains that the professional
want to be heard and feel valued. He development of the educators at the
therefore identifies two or three leaners school remains one of his priorities.
during assembly every morning and Owing to fundraising initiatives, which
Jonas Mojalefa provides them with an opportunity to are part of a professional investment
Matsolo share inspirational words. “This initiative
builds their confidence in public
crusade, study tours for principals
and teachers are possible. These have
Hohle Primary School, speaking.” enabled me to travel to SADC and other
Free State countries to gather quality information
According to Mr Matsolo, the greatest on education systems and best practice.”
gap that must be closed in education
is the quality of the teacher versus the My motto is, “education has changed my
quality of teaching. The NTA greatly life, it is now my responsibility to also
assists in identifying and rewarding change the lives of others placed in my
excellent teachers and principals who care”.
7Excellence in PRIMARY SCHOOL Leadership
M
s Zibuyile Angelina Nzama, is challenging as the school is not part of
joined Spearman Primary the NSNP, and the Al-Imdaad Foundation
School, Durban, in the KwaZulu- and Food for Life assist with feeding
Natal Province as principal during schemes for the needy at the school.
2016. She has been a principal since Bata and the Sydenham Association
2007 and has gathered a wealth of also donate school shoes to more than
experience from her teaching at deep 200 learners. We remain grateful for
rural and disadvantaged schools, which the support we receive from these
she enthusiastically shares with her organisations.”
colleagues at the school.
The school interacts with parents and
“Teaching is not a profession, but a involve the community to ensure the
personal mission. Teaching also provides safety of learners through the local
an independence as I am able to inject Community Watch.
my personality and creativity into the
curriculum. I enjoy the inquisitiveness Ms Nzama believes that, “one should
Zibuyile Angelina of my learners as it provides me with an walk the extra mile in everything one
Nzama opportunity to maximise their skills and
to mould them into young, functional
does”. She manages the school in a
functional manner through teamwork
Spearman Primary School, adults – ready to take on the world.” from committees for regular reporting
KwaZulu-Natal and assessment. A winning instrument
Ms Nzama believes that every learner, that has changed the management of
teacher and principal must engage the school, was to ensure the proper
in lifelong learning for personal implementation of policies. General
development. “I cannot stress the performance is improved when learners
importance of continued learning and teachers are motivated and
enough,” she added. contented.
“Although our school is a Quintile 5 Ms Nzama is of the view that relationships
school, disadvantaged learners from and academic results can improve when
neighbouring squatter camps and neighbouring schools partner to share
children’s homes are also enrolled. This best practice.
M
r Joseph Chilis Marema as the responsibility of all teachers, to
joined Bogosi Primary School, sacrifice their time and energy to “plough
Lebotloane Village as Deputy back” into the school and the community.
Principal during 2010, and was promoted
during 2012 when the principal retired. As the principal, he is constantly involved
in fundraising programmes to improve
Mr Marema, who initially intended to the conditions at the school, which has
become a Traffic Officer, was inspired to a full service school status. The school
take up teaching as a career by an English is situated next to the local travel office,
teacher who adopted him in Grade 10 as which has adopted the school in order
a vulnerable learner from a child-headed to maintain the school fences, and to
household. “Now he directs the lives of ensure the neatness of the surrounding
his learners instead of directing traffic,” environment.
he jests.
He is proud about the fact that he has
This Quintile 1 school, faces many been selected as the provincial winner
Joseph Chilis challenges such as a high unemployment in his category. Mr Marema, who has
Marema rate amongst parents and a lack of
resources. However, notwithstanding
spent 18 years in management, believes
that there are many lessons that he has
Bogosi Primary School, these, the school is performing well shared, and will continue to share with
North West academically, as well as in the sporting colleagues to enable them to become
arena. Mr Marema does more than what accomplished and motivated teachers.
is required from him to ensure that the He believes that teachers should network
curriculum is implemented for quality and share best practices to better their
learning and teaching to take place. He teaching environment.
believes that it is his responsibility, as well
8L
ineo Violet Kolobe, a principal at Ms Kolobe believes that she is an
Sedibeng Primary School, Tembisa approachable leader. “I tell my teachers
proudly states that, “Our once to share their problems with me,
small school has grown into a school for us to turn these challenges into
with 1000 learners. It is fulfilling to see manageable approaches. As a principal,
learners grow and develop over the the development of my teachers
years. Some learners cannot even write remains one of my priority areas. I
their own names when they commence have benefitted from the Thomson’s
with schooling, but they are able to do Personality Assessment course I
calculations and write essays when they attended; it has taught me to develop
leave the school”. emotional intelligence by identifying my
strengths and weaknesses, to improve
As a township school, Sedibeng Primary my leadership skills. It is important to
School often does not have all the understand yourself first, before guiding
resources required, but one makes others. I have learned that you will be
do with what is available. “Challenges richly rewarded if you put your trust in
Lineo Violet Kolobe tests your creativity and ingenuity. others.”
It is; however, disheartening that
Sedibeng Primary School, township schools such as ours are She would like to see all learners,
Gauteng being plagued by burglaries resulting in teachers and parents inculcating a
the disempowerment of teachers and culture of reading. “Our school has Walk
learners when ICT resources are stolen. to Read Campaigns, as well as Drop All
In an attempt to be vigilant, we have and Read sessions every morning from
beefed up security at the school, engaged 07:30 to 08:00 when classes commence.
in ward meetings and had consultations We also have a reading club for adults,
with the community.” targeting cleaning staff, janitors and
nutrition food handling volunteers.”
M
s Bernadine Samantha our learners can be assisted to succeed
Bostander is proud of the fact academically.”
that, owing to her intervention
and leadership, her school is no longer “I also value my teaching staff and
an underperforming school. continually encourage them to attend
professional development programmes
Her father was a teacher and a school and workshops training sessions.” Ms
principal, but she initially wanted to Bostander presents workshops on SA-
become a social worker. Ms Bostander SAMS, which she maintains is an excellent
says that there are many similarities system for the administration and the
between teaching and social work. A data management of schools – ensuring
teacher guides and mentors the youth to that the latest relevant data is validated
rise above their psycho-social challenges and available at district, provincial and
to develop holistically to embrace their national levels.
future as well-adjusted professionals.
The school is also involved in social
Bernadine Samantha Ms Bostander explains that the school programmes and community activities
Bostander is involved with numerous projects and
activities. “Being a principal enables
such as Isolabantwana (Eye on the child)
to protect learners when their safety
Vaal-Oranje Primary School, me to put mechanisms and strategies in is being threatened, by placing them
Northern Cape place to achieve academic excellence at in safe houses. There are 65 orphans
my school. We experience challenges in and 6 child-headed homes as young as
respect of resources, but sponsorships Grade 2 in the school. Announced and
and fundraising initiatives help us to rise unannounced home visits are also a way
above these challenges.” of ensuring the best interest of the chid.
She has a good relationship with her She encourages teachers and schools to
colleagues and parents alike. “Supportive share best practices to ensure that all the
parents lighten the load of teachers. schools in the various Circuits, Districts
Collaboration is the only way in which and Province benefit.
9Excellence in PRIMARY SCHOOL Leadership
M
r Mzukisi Mxunyelwa, a principal themselves with the 21st Century skills
from Khulile Primary School required to prepare them for the Fourth
in the Eastern Cape Province, Industrial Revolution. I am proud of
followed in the footsteps of his parents, the fact that I have achieved in turning
who were also teachers by profession. the school around from a dilapidated
“My passion for teaching was inculcated structure into a successful institute
from an early age when I noticed the where quality learning and teaching
visible fruits of my parent’s labour. I too takes place.”
wanted to make a difference to the lives
of the learners within my school and my Mr Mxunyelwa maintains that he has a
community,” he says. good relationship with the teachers at
his school and stresses the importance
“It is fulfilling to observe the various of co-operation amongst the members of
development stages within learners and the School Management Team.
their change in behaviour as they grow
– developing their personalities, skills Mr Mxunyelwa explains that continuing
Mzukisi Mxunyelwa and competencies. One can only say that teacher development is on his list
you have achieved your goal when your of priorities and that he encourages
Khulile Primary School, learners achieve excellent results.” teachers to become engaged in lifelong
Eastern Cape learning. “I appreciate the commitment
He explains that there is poverty and of the teachers at my school and
unemployment within the area, and a continually motivate them to remain
combination of learners from various dedicated despite various challenges
socio-economic backgrounds currently facing them on a daily basis,” he adds.
attend the school. Fortunately, the
Central Energy Fund in Johannesburg “I also organise annual team building
assisted the school with a sponsorship to workshops in East London. Networking
acquire ITC equipment such as computers and the sharing of best practice go
and notebooks. “I believe that access to hand-in-hand with the improvement of
technology will enable learners to equip learning and teaching in schools.”
T
hembi Busisiwe Nkosi says that her I spend most of my time at the school,”
Grade 5 Afrikaans teacher made she adds.
a lasting impression in her life
by teaching her moral lessons that she Ms Nkosi is as passionate about the
continues to teach today. For Ms Nkosi, environment as she is about her career.
it is a privilege and opportunity to share The school has been participating in
valuable lessons with learners that will the Eco-schools programme, winning
change their lives forever. She enjoys consecutive awards from 2012 to 2017, as
addressing learners every morning for well as consecutive Municipality Awards
15 minutes during assembly. “It is a good for the cleanliness of the school and
way to start the day,” she maintains. surrounding environment from 2012 to
2017.
One of the main challenges facing
the school is the fact that it is located “A leader works through the people he
along the border of the Kingdom of or she serves. My responsibility is to
Eswatini. This situation creates admission encourage and support them.” Ms Nkosi
Thembi Busisiwe challenges when the parents are not able participated in a leadership programme,
Nkosi to submit the required documentation,
i.e. birth certificates or ID documents to
the Penreach Courageous Leadership
Programme, which has helped groom
Mhlosheni Primary School, allow the learners to enrol. “As a principal her leadership skills. She agrees that
Mpumalanga this is a painful position to be in, as the the development of her colleagues
affected party always remain the child through teacher development initiatives
who is thus denied a quality education.” and Professional Learning Communities
is essential to equip them with the
“The support from my family and necessary knowledge and skills to add
colleagues keep me going despite all the value to the teaching profession. She also
challenges; my husband and children hosts workshops for parents for them to
are supportive and understanding when understand their role at the school as
their contribution is essential.
10M
s Beverley Daniels has been well-adjusted adults. Here at the school,
a principal at Athlone North we do not only assist them academically,
Primary School in the Western but on all levels for their holistic
Cape Province since April 2010. “Initially, development.”
I wanted to become an air hostess,” she
smiles, “but I have been teaching now for Being passionate about reading, she was
40 years. I am glad that I made the right disheartened when the school library
choice because I know that I have made a burnt down a short while ago. “A school
positive contribution to the lives of all the without a library is like a house without
learners whom I have mentored”. windows,” she added. Oxford University
Press donated a mobile library to the
Although Ms Daniels will be retiring during school and a permanent state-of-the-art
2019, she intends to continue her calling Library and a Grade R classroom will be
to mentor and to build capacity in school built through the ASIDI Programme during
leadership, assisting with the process of 2019.
Whole School Evaluation in disadvantaged
Beverley Daniels townships in the Western Cape Province. “I want to encourage teachers and
principals to overcome their challenges
Athlone North Primary School, “As a teacher, it is essential to transmit by working together, and through
Western Cape positive energy to learners to motivate community involvement to make changes
them to achieve academic excellence in their various schools possible by sharing
despite their dire circumstances of best practice.” Ms Daniels maintains that
abuse and neglect. Although our school it would not have been possible for her
is exposed to gangsterism, shootings to become a provincial winner without
and violence on a daily basis, I remain the continued support she receives from
committed to assist my learners to rise family and colleagues, the Circuit, District
above their circumstances to become and the Province.
11AVBOB SALUTES
TEACHERS
Teachers are a fundamental resource in any society, and
every effort to build our nation must start with a deep
appreciation of the values, guidance and learning that
they provide to our young nation. AVBOB would like to
acknowledge the immense contribution that our teachers
have made and the strides they have taken in supporting
and educating our learners. We thank our teachers for their
time and their continuous commitment to the children of
South Africa.
At AVBOB, we believe that the development of education
must extend beyond the walls of the classroom. Corporate
support and involvement are essential to ensure the
success of our learners. To this end, we have invested
close to R200 million into various initiatives such as our
Container Library project, Schools Infrastructure project
and the Sanitation Appropriate for Education Initiative.
This is how AVBOB supports the Department of Basic
Education in their efforts to provide quality education for
every learner in South Africa.
We have a committed and inspired vision of a greater
South Africa and we hope that our legacy of creating
opportunities to further education will help create a
brighter future for the children of our nation.
AVBOB – We’re here for you.
12Excellence in Secondary SCHOOL TEACHING
A
zhar Rajah, who has been a teacher you can in your immediate environment
for the past eight years, currently as change happens slowly, but surely. This
teaches Life Science and Life cannot happen without commitment and
Orientation at the school. teamwork. When teachers work together,
they can make a well-felt impact towards
“Teaching is exciting because every day the education of every child in that
is different; bringing its own rewards and school.”
challenges. I miss the youthful energy
of my learners when I am not in class. I “The NTAs brings faith and confidence
am motivated to make a positive impact back to the education sector. I am
on their lives as their achievements honoured being a provincial finalist in my
become your achievements.” He explains category – representing my school, my
that issues such as substance abuse and district and my province. The initiative is
teenage pregnancy have a negative impact both developmental and rewarding,” he
on learning and teaching. He therefore explains.
tries to guide his learners to make
Azhar Rajah them aware of the seriousness of the “As part of an Operation Dignity Project
matter, as they have to ultimately accept for the school, we have raised funds,
Ahmed Timol Secondary School, responsibility for their own futures. (R40 000), towards a sanitation project
Gauteng and have built 10 additional toilets
Mr Rajah emphasises the importance and 3 urinals. We also have an annual
of revision sessions before tests and Winter Warmth Campaign where Grade
examinations. “I go out of my way to 12 learners collect socks and food for
ensure that all my learners comprehend under privileged residents in the Kagiso
subject matter and encourage them to Township. Community outreach projects
ask questions in class. It is important to contribute to the holistic development of
focus on the positives and to change what a learner.”
“T
eaching is a career, not just Technology assists her in breaking
an occupation; it is a joy, not down barriers and providing assess to
a routine chore. Every day global information. Owing to MTN’s
is different and interesting, filled with intervention, she utilises a smartboard
a sense of personal satisfaction,” says to enrich the teaching and learning
Ms Sharnelle Jenny Beeton, a Grade 7 experience of her learners. “I am
teacher at the Kokstad College in the always willing to provide colleagues
KwaZulu-Natal Province. “Teaching is with Information and Communication
very rewarding and I am happy when my Technology assistance; we support each
learners achieve.” other at my school. All teachers must
experiment with new and innovate
She describes her teaching style as ways of teaching, and not only utilise
balanced teaching for stability. Her traditional methods. It is important for
classes are interactive, using creative and us as teachers to upgrade ourselves
innovative ways of teaching. Her learners constantly as lifelong learners.”
are like empty vessels yearning to be
Sharnelle Jenny filled with knowledge. “It is a pleasure Ms Beeton believes that a committed
Beeton teaching for knowledge-thirsty learners,”
she maintains.
teacher cannot sit back, but must be an
activist and impart knowledge and best
Kokstad College, practice with the entire community. “One
KwaZulu-Natal “My school is based in a small town, of my personal community initiatives is a
close to rural areas with many cultural Friday soup kitchen for the disadvantaged
differences and language barriers. I am community members of Twist Valley. I
a tri-lingual teacher, teaching in English, am also involved in all sport at school
Afrikaans and isiXhosa. Hailing from a and district level, including umpiring
disadvantaged background, I understand and coaching, swimming and athletics.
the challenges that my learners face, and A physically fit learner, is a mentally fit
I constantly remind them that education learner.”
opens the doors to a successful future.”
13Excellence in Secondary SCHOOL TEACHING
“S
ince I can remember, I’ve had learners and to thereby enthuse them
an inner desire to teach. As a with a spirit of hope and encouragement.
young girl, I used to gather the This is what keeps her going.
neighbourhood children to my make shift
classroom and teach them – whether “My unique and sincere approach
they wanted to learn or not. I believe towards learning and teaching, as well as
that teaching is my calling,” says Ms my passion to empower both my learners
Louise Fullard, a teacher at Hoërskool and my colleagues, so that they can
Bergvlam, Nelspruit, in the Mpumalanga take up the baton and uplift others, has
Province. probably brought me this far.”
Ms Fullard’s teaching career spans 25 Ms Fullard believes that it is important
years. She is the Head of Department for to continually grow professionally. “As
Afrikaans Home Language (HL) and First educators, we need to equip ourselves to
Additional Language (FAL). stay abreast of the professions’ changes
on an ongoing basis and ensure that we
Louise Fullard Ms Fullard believes that to be a teacher are truly connected with our learners in
is to be an “agent of change” as one has the classroom. “They don’t care what
Hoërskool Bergvlam, an opportunity to change the lives of you know unless they know that you
Mpumalanga learners for the better. “As a teacher, I care.”
witness the daily challenges of social
injustices amongst my learners, but my “If, I am fortunate enough to win in
biggest challenge is to help my learners this category, I will remain on course to
to deal with, and to overcome such continue to invest in others, to further
challenges.” broaden my vision and mission and to,
hopefully, eventually leave a lasting
The greatest reward is seeing the legacy.”
difference she makes is the lives of her
A
ccording to Beautybird Mogwera, entire community. I am involved in The
teaching provides her with an Gedagte Movement to assist with social
opportunity to mould and develop issues in the community.”
learners to their full potential. She
remains fascinated by the way young The school already commences with
adults view the world and also learns camps for Grade 11 learners during the
from them on a daily basis. December holidays to prepare them for
Grade 12. Ms Mogwera agrees that it
Ms Mogwera joined Relebohilie-Sibulele is a teacher’s duty to provide learners
Combined School in the Free State will all the necessary support and
Province during January 2015. After encouragement to make a success of their
studying Cost and Managing Accounting academic career.
at first, she decided to switch to teaching
and sees it as “her calling”. “My advice to fellow teachers is to listen
more, and to speak less; let the learners
“Being a rural school, there are numerous direct you. In doing this your teaching
Beautybird Lerato challenges to face. The school has many practice will become more effective.
Mogwera child-headed households and these
young adults have to face many other
Learners crave attention and flourish when
their contributions are acknowledged.
Relebohilie-Sibulele Combined socio-economic trials on a daily basis. They see themselves as adding value in
School, Free State When I look at my learners, I see hope the classroom, thus crawling out of their
in their eyes and it is my responsibility to shells.”
enable them to turn their dreams into a
reality and to make their lives meaningful Ms Mogwera encourages colleagues
despite the various challenges they are not to lose hope or to become weary of
facing. An effective teacher cannot only going the extra mile, as the reward that
be focussed on the school, but has to accompanies teaching is priceless.
become involved in the upliftment of the
14E
knes Mmakole Phasha who is a do not have a dining hall where learners
Grade 12 teacher in Agricultural can sit down around a table to eat their
Science, says that teachers do daily meal as part of the National School
not fully comprehend the impact they Nutrition Programme (NSNP), or sport
make in the lives of their learners. “I grounds for sporting activities,” she
was inspired by my Agricultural Science explains.
teacher to follow in his footsteps. His
teaching style promoted my self-esteem “In my subject one has to honour the
and self-confidence. A teacher who earth and the elements as they give life.
believes in his or her pupils, and supports I initiated a Green School Project for the
them, motivates and inspires them to Earth to improve the school environment
become successful adults.” focussing on six thematic areas – waste,
water management, energy saving,
Ms Phasha is inspired by the youthful beautification, involvement of the school
energy of her learners. “They learn from community and leadership. This project
me and I learn from them,” she smiles. teaches learners to stop the exploitation
Eknes Mmakole They see her as a pillar of strength and of our natural resources, deforestation,
Phasha confide in her as she has managed to win
their trust.
soil degradation and the extinction of
animals.”
Motlalaohle Secondary School,
Limpopo Ms Phasha is a “hands-on” teacher who Her advice to teachers is to stand up and
manages and harvests the school’s food do something to better the lives of those
garden. Agricultural Science involves around you. Together we can become
conducting practical observations and the change we want to see through
practical technical techniques. It is a very teamwork. “I could not have made it this
interactive teaching process. far without the support of my school,
my community and my province,” she
“Due to facilities and inadequate concludes.
resources one often has to improvise. We
M
ona Matthews was teaching jeopardise their own future when they
English at a government school miss class time. I am a strict, in your
in Taiwan for eight years (Grades face teacher. Parents work with me for
1 – 6) before the former principal of the good of their children’s education.
Gansbaai Academia requested her to They all get involved with projects and
return to South Africa to teach English fundraising activities.”
First Additional Language for the Grade
11 and 12 learners at the school. Ms There is a long list of community projects
Matthews has therefore travelled full that Ms Matthews and her learners
circle and returned to her roots to plough are involved with to foster a culture of
back the knowledge and experience that activism. Project Citizen is an initiative of
she gained teaching abroad. the Western Cape Education Department,
which teaches learners how to use the
“Teaching is in my blood and I have a good Constitution, Provincial and Local laws
relationship with learners and teachers to put together policies at school level.
alike. Teaching is also a journey that you Being part of the Junior Commissioner
Mona Matthews embark on with learners, helping them Project, launched by the local police,
to reach their intended destination. My learners work with schools and the
Gansbaai Academia, classes are exciting and I use practical community in respect of social issues. As
Western Cape observations and demonstrations part of the Junior Town Council, learners
to interact with learners. Teaching do community work at old age homes,
is a rewarding career when learners donate blood and are involved with
succeed, as their successes become your fundraising projects. The school also has
accolades.” an Adopt-a-learner project where Grade
8 learners are ‘adopted’ and mentored
“Absenteeism is often a challenge in my by Grade 11 learners. She is also the
school. Learners do not realise that they manager of the school’s food garden.
15Excellence in Secondary SCHOOL TEACHING
A
fter completing her matric, one’s resources and ingenuity in a
Nombulelo Geco opted for creative manner.”
teaching as a career because of
the integrity of the profession. “Teaching Ms Geco says that, “the hope and trust
is the mother of all professions. I wanted that my learners place in my guidance,
to contribute towards the education of motivates me to persevere. I have
my community and shaping the young positively encouraged a few of my former
minds of the future.” learners to follow in my footsteps and to
follow the teaching profession and many
As teaching is her passion, she does are now my colleagues”.
not have to force myself to wake up
every morning. “I am motivated by the She believes that all stakeholders in the
positive attitude of my learners, which education sector must work together to
make me feel fulfilled. I see myself as protect the integrity of the profession,
a beacon of hope to my learners and a and to ensure that quality teaching takes
living testimony that anyone can turn place in the classroom. “We need to be as
Nombulelo Geco their dreams into reality, irrespective of innovative as possible and share practical
one’s underprivileged background. It is ideas. Teamwork and best practice will
Valspan High School, my responsibility as a teacher to educate contribute to enhancing teaching styles
Northern Cape responsible future citizens.” and positive attitudes.”
The lack of proper teaching and learning Ms Geco also maintains that the teacher
materials, furniture and infrastructure is accountable to the community. “I will
are a few of the challenges she faces continue to mould, motivate and instil
on a daily basis. “I do not believe in excellent values in my learners. I remain
challenges, but in the will and strength committed to promote teaching as a
to overcome these challenges by using fulfilling career choice.”
P
hilips Babatunde Abosede has Many learners are not motivated to be in
been a teacher at Siwali Secondary school and have no long-term vision. He
School, Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape sees it as his calling to go the extra mile to
Province since September 2009. When inspire these young adults to take charge
he joined the school, there were only of their future and to excel academically.
five classrooms, limited resources and no
Physical Science teacher at the school; During 2013, the Industrial Development
however, he managed to turn the school Corporation (IDC), through their schools
around. development programme, adopted
the school and they received a smart
Mr Abosede wanted to become a teacher classroom, a Science Laboratory and
when he was in Grade 10. “Teaching much needed ITC Resources.
offers an opportunity to leave a legacy
and to make a meaningful contribution I view myself as a practical man of action.
to the lives of others. “Being a teacher is My mission is to make an impact in the
a privilege, not a right,” says this Physical lives of my learners, surrounding schools,
Philips Babatunde Science and Mathematics teacher. “When as well as the community as one must
Abosede I look at my learners, I see engineers,
doctors and teachers.” I therefore assist
open one’s eyes to see the bigger picture
in everything.
Siwali Secondary School, them with additional classes in these
Eastern Cape gateway subjects. Mathematics Grade Ms Abosede says that it is also important
12, is challenging, and I ensure that they for teachers to learn from the learners in
start with the basics. Since Mr Abosede their class. “There is a reason one has one
has been at the school, the pass rate has tongue and two ears; we should talk less
increased dramatically. and listen more,” he says with a smile.
16You can also read
