Stellenbosch physics teacher Lana Schreuder wins national teaching award

Lana Schreuder, a teacher at Rhenish Girls' High School in Stellenbosch, was named the winner of the national Excellence in Teaching Physical Sciences Award on Thursday, October 9. 

This national recognition comes just two months after she secured the provincial award in the same category.

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) hosted the 25th annual national teaching awards in Benoni, Gauteng. It praised Ms Schreuder’s approach to teaching. 

“This outstanding educator has consistently gone above and beyond to create an environment where students not only learn but thrive. The innovative approach to teaching, coupled with the deep passion for the subject, inspired countless learners to pursue careers in science and technology,” the department said.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) previously said in a motivation statement 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 statement read, also praising her for prioritising the mental well-being of her pupils during Covid-19 and beyond. 

Ms Schreuder expressed her gratitude to the staff and learners at Rhenish Girls’ High School for their support in providing her with opportunities to grow. 

Mr Tlhalefang Zwane from Bolokang Secondary School in North West won second place for this award, while Mr Sechaba Lekhooa, from Popano Secondary School in Free State won third place.