Miranda Pretorius, a 38-year-old Grade R teacher from South Africa, has been recognized as an excellent teacher in the Gauteng Department of Education's 26th teaching awards. This marks her first-ever recognition in the profession, which she has been in for 10 years. Pretorius teaches at Delta Park Remedial School, a school for children on the autism spectrum. Her dedication and hard work have finally paid off after being nominated three times in a row without receiving the award.
Pretorius shared her passion for teaching, saying that working with young children helps her learn more about herself. She cherishes moments when her learners, who initially struggled with basic tasks, are able to hold scissors, read, write, and draw by the end of the year. Her dream is to reach as many children on the autism spectrum as possible and show them that they are capable of achieving their goals. Pretorius's journey to becoming a teacher was not easy, as she had to fend for herself from a young age due to her mother's struggles with substance abuse.
Pretorius's early life was marked by challenges, and she often found herself in "survival mode." She didn't perform well in school and was frequently tired due to caring for her mother. However, her life took a turn when someone recommended teaching to her at a church job. She discovered her passion for working with children and pursued a career in teaching. Pretorius is now an inspiration to her learners, who face their own challenges due to their autism diagnosis.
Another award winner, Neo Zungu, a business studies teacher at Namedi Secondary School in Diepkloof, Soweto, was named a second runner-up in excellence in secondary school teaching. Zungu's award reminded her of the long hours, extra classes, and sacrifices she made to attain her qualification. She believes that her award is a celebration of the impact she has made in the lives of her learners.
Zungu started her teaching career in 2021 and has achieved a 100% pass rate, with her learners getting distinctions. She takes pride in being a teacher and believes that education has the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. Teaching in a township school can be challenging, but Zungu finds it rewarding. She understands that her learners face unique challenges and strives to make a positive impact on their lives.
Zungu's experience has taught her that teaching is not just about what happens in the classroom, but also about understanding her learners' backgrounds, dreams, and challenges. Every day brings new opportunities to make a difference in the lives of her learners. Her award serves as motivation to continue inspiring and empowering her learners.
The awards ceremony, held by the Gauteng Department of Education, recognizes outstanding teachers like Pretorius and Zungu. Their stories serve as inspiration to others, highlighting the importance of dedication, hard work, and passion in the teaching profession. Pretorius and Zungu are role models for aspiring teachers and demonstrate the positive impact that educators can have on the lives of their learners.
Key points
- Miranda Pretorius, a 38-year-old Grade R teacher, won an award after being nominated three times.
- Pretorius teaches at Delta Park Remedial School, a school for children on the autism spectrum.
- Neo Zungu, a business studies teacher, achieved a 100% pass rate with her learners getting distinctions.
