Stellenbosch and Strand educators shine at provincial teaching awards

Educators from Rhenish Girls' High School in Stellenbosch and Altena Primary School in Strand, were among 15 winners of the provincial teaching awards.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) presented the awards, which were livestreamed on Friday, August 15.

Lana Schreuder, of Rhenish Girls' High School in Stellenbosch, received the Excellence in Teaching Physical Sciences Award.

The WCED's motivation statement for the award said that Ms Schreuder "masterfully" integrates platforms like Google Classroom, YouTube, and PHET as well as other virtual simulations to create a dynamic, learner-centred environment. 

“Through a 21st-century teaching approach grounded in 5E's instructional model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate), enhanced by blended learning strategies, she empowers learners in their unique setting, not just to consume knowledge, but to make meaning of it,” the motivation statement read.

The WCED also praised her for prioritising the mental well-being of her pupils during covid-19 and beyond. 

Ms Schreuder said she was “proud of the award, but also humbled because there are so many great teachers and excellent finalists.”

“Having gone through this district and provincial process, I also really want to help, support, and motivate more of our excellent teachers to participate in this enriching and rewarding process in the future,” she said.

Ms Mariska Niemand, of Altena Primary School, walked away with the Excellence in Teaching Mathematics Award.

The department’s motivation statement said that she employs the Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) model in her classroom and creatively uses everyday materials as tools of teaching. 

“Her resourcefulness shines through her creative use of everyday materials, such as bottle tops, to develop learning aids that make Mathematics accessible and exciting,” the motivation statement read.

Ms Niemand said she knew from a young age that she wanted to become a mathematics teacher.

“My goal has always been to change the mindset around mathematics — from fear and doubt to love and confidence. This recognition is not only for me, but also for everyone who believes in me, and most importantly, for my learners, who are the reason I do what I love every day. I am truly blessed.”

MEC for Education, David Maynier, said a better teacher translates directly into better learning outcomes.