STAR TEACHER OF THE WEEK

When and why did you decide to become a teacher?

During my high school years, I was greatly inspired by my biology teacher to become a teacher one day. I first studied theology at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) and started church ministry as a pastor. At the age of 30, I was redirected to take up teaching. I then enrolled at the University of South Africa (Unisa) for my higher education diploma. I believe that Jesus Christ is the teacher of all times and to follow in His footsteps is an honour. I love to work with children and the youth at large and still believe that schools are mission fields where teaching, evangelism and counselling run concurrently on a daily basis.

Can you tell us about your journey towards becoming a teacher?

My first calling was to become a pastor. While serving as a tent-making pastor, I started as an unqualified teacher in Mariental. I then pursued my professional studies in education and was appointed as a full-time teacher. I left the teaching profession in 2000 for full-time church ministry and returned to this noble teaching profession in 2011. I am about to retire in December after 25 years of teaching.

What is the best part about being a teacher?

The most rewarding parts of teaching are: Being able to see the light-bulb moments when learners grasp concepts and perform outstandingly; identifying learners with leadership qualities and helping them develop these skills in the Learners Representative Council (LRC) and through hiking trips; giving moral and psychosocial support to learners; coaching extramural activities like athletics, rugby and culture codes at school. These make me very happy to witness.

What has been the highlight of your teaching career thus far?

I was fortunate enough to serve in various leadership capacities within the educational fraternity such as head of department, principal and member of curriculum panel for life science. I supervised many LRC groups of various schools and started the editorial team and a science club at M&K Gertze High School. I took learners to visit the High Energy Stereoscopic System (HESS) telescope site in the Gamsberge and visited the Cheetah Foundation site near Otjiwarongo. During these activities, I could connect with the learners on a different level, which makes teaching even more joyful.

What are some of your hobbies or things you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I try to live healthy and keep fit. I love cycling and because of my love for the outdoors, I participated in the Namibia Wilderness Therapy Programme where hiking with school-going youth was central.

I also love singing and playing guitar. This inspired me to use my talent to compose the school anthem of M&K Gertze High School in 2016 titled ‘A Beacon On Our Way’.

What lessons have you learnt from your learners?

Learners enjoy interactive lessons like practicals and outdoor teaching. They definitely keep you on your toes to finish marking as quickly as possible because they want their results! Recognising those learners living in harsh conditions and rendering a helping hand. From my under-15 rugby team players: "Teamwork makes the dream work!"

My science club members: "Don't walk while you can fly! The sky is the limit."

What is the one thing that keeps you going every day?

I always try to keep following the footsteps of my Master Teacher, Jesus Christ, who set the example of how to inspire others through teaching, coaching, preaching and compassion. Two months after a double coronary bypass open heart operation, I remain grateful to God for his healing power. I have five months left to serve as a humble teacher before I retire.