The Realema Teacher Intern Programme helps talented and dedicated candidates who are unable to afford tertiary studies to become passionate and professional teachers. The non-profit organisation appeals to community members to help them grow the teachers of tomorrow.
Realema was founded by the headmaster of St John’s Preparatory School Patrick Lees. It operates in partner schools, including St John’s College, Roedean, The Ridge and Kingsmead College, among others.
The programme selects and nurtures potential students among matric learners at Masibambane College, St John’s Academy and Roedean Academy, who are provided with full bursaries, accommodation, mentorship and teaching opportunities at partner schools for the duration of their four-year Bachelor of Education degree.
Director of the programme Pier Myburgh said, “Many of the problems in South Africa stem from the legacy of apartheid. Education is core to an individual’s ability to deliver on their own full potential. It is important for children to have teachers who are passionate, professional and deliver at a high standard. We also believe that a transformation in all schools is important.
“Students grow into leaders who can mentor others in their community. Growing teachers creates the best social impact. I have learned more from the interns than they have learned from me.”
The programme recently received a boost when MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet awarded them R100 000 as part of their ’21 Years of Giving Back’ campaign. Myburgh explained that this money will be used to fund the Unisa fees of seven interns for one year and some books.
“Without our partner schools, where all the incubation happens, this programme would not be possible… I have seen our interns overcome unbelievable challenges in their own lives and through the programme to achieve success.”
The programme is funded through donations from corporates, individuals and trusts. Funds pay for the interns’ studies, accommodation, food, mentorship, a stipend, books, medical aid and a laptop for their full course of study.
The programme has grown from assisting four interns in 2014 to 30 in 2019. From here they aim to expand to Joburg East.
Myburgh believes that it is the mentorship that sets the programme apart.
“Each student has a workplace mentor, who is usually a teacher at the partner school, and a goodwill mentor who assists them with issues that cannot be discussed at the workplace.”
Community members who wish to volunteer to mentor, offer life skills development workshops or make a donation, are urged to contact Myburgh on pier@global.co.za.
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