POLOKWANE – Bet-Shalom Christian School has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of two teachers as heads of department.

Angelique Kennedy was appointed as the foundation phase HOD in December last year, while Tanya Wannenburg took on the role of intermediate phase HOD earlier in the same year.

Kennedy has been with Bet-Shalom since 2015 and continues to teach Gr 3 along her new role.

“Teaching and multitasking as an HOD can be demanding. Managing my time efficiently is key, as my duties often require additional hours beyond regular teaching commitments. Teaching focuses on individual learners, while HOD responsibilities encompass the entire department.”

Wannenburg joined the school in 2018 and teaches Afrikaans First Additional Language and life orientation to Gr 7 learners.

She referred to the contrast between teaching and leadership, saying both roles require hard work, problem-solving skills, effective communication, and adaptability, but the approach differs when working with children versus adults.

“My focus shifts throughout the day, depending on whether I’m in the classroom or the office.” She added that teamwork plays a crucial role in balancing responsibilities: “Managing both roles becomes easier with a hardworking team that prioritises the needs of the learners.”

Kennedy teaches English Home Language, social sciences, and Bible in Gr 3.

“What I love about working with children is seeing them learn, grow, and overcome challenges. It’s fulfilling and motivates me to continue making a positive impact,” she said.

Wannenburg enjoys witnessing the personal growth of her learners. “Seeing older learners develop different aspects of their personalities and mature into adolescents is very rewarding,” she said. Initially studying psychology, she later pursued teaching, realising her passion for education.

“As soon as I started teaching, I enjoyed it so much that I completed my postgraduate certificate in education and became a full-time teacher.”