More than a job: Dawn Park teachers shape tomorrow’s leaders

Teaching is about more than lessons and textbooks for the educators at Dawn Park Primary School, who say their greatest reward is watching learners grow into confident individuals who can shape the future.

During Teacher Appreciation Month (October), the Boksburg Advertiser visited the school to speak to Sylvia Pitsane, Hlompho Tsotetsi and Maditlhaka Bokaba about their experiences in the classroom, their passion for education and the importance of feeling valued.

For Pitsane, who has spent 26 years in the teaching profession, the impact of an educator is best seen in the progress of a learner.

“We are moulding the future of our learners. We are teaching them to become our future leaders,” she said.

“I feel appreciated when learners begin to open up and trust me, particularly those who initially struggle to adjust to the classroom environment.”

She explained that some learners are shy or hesitant when they first arrive.

“Gradually they become more comfortable as I work with them and address their learning challenges,” she said.

“When you intervene and help those who may be struggling, they start showing steady improvement. Once they realise that their abilities have changed they become more confident.

“When a learner can say, ‘I used to work like this, but now I can write,’ I feel proud, because I helped that learner become who they are.”

Tsotetsi said teaching was initially a profession that eventually became a passion.

After spending 10 years teaching at high school level, he took a break before returning to the classroom, where he has now spent just over 17 years.

“I had my dreams and sometimes you are told to go back because that is what you are supposed to be doing. I came back to teaching and I realised that this is where I belong,” he said.

Tsotetsi, who has a background in electrical engineering and a teaching diploma, said his passion for education is rooted in his desire to help African children reach their potential.

“It started as a profession, but at the end of the day, it became a passion,” he said.

“Recognition from the school and the education district has also made me feel valued.”

Bokaba, who has been teaching for 18 years, said the sense of belonging she has found at Dawn Park Primary has made a lasting difference to her experience.

“I do feel valued, especially here. Dawn Park is a home away from home for me,” she said.

“Having previously worked at another school, I was welcomed into an environment where staff members support one another despite their differences. We are united.”

She also highlighted the role of the school’s leadership in encouraging and supporting educators.

She said staff members are encouraged to continue developing themselves professionally, while opportunities to spend time together help strengthen their relationships.

“As senior teachers, we feel respected. They remind us not to give up and grow as educators,” she said.

While the three educators have different journeys, their experiences reflect the importance of creating an environment where teachers feel supported and learners are given the opportunity to grow.

For them, appreciation is not only about awards or recognition, but seeing learners overcome challenges, knowing their work matters and being part of a school community where they feel at home.

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