As the school year has drawn to a close, many educators are already looking ahead with anticipation.

For Joshua van der Linde, grades 1 to 3 physical education teacher at Montrose Primary School, the excitement of a new year lies not in the changing curriculum, but in the children who fill the classroom. “One of the greatest things about teaching is that every year you get a completely new group of kids. Even if the curriculum stays mostly the same, the personalities, the dynamics, and the challenges are always different.”

Van der Linde explained that each group brings its own rhythm. Some classes settle easily, while others require more patience and structure, but, for him, that unpredictability is part of the joy. “I am excited about the new personalities and the new dynamics that will happen in the classroom. With that comes both challenges and positives. At the end of the day, I am just excited to help another group of children reach their best potential in 2026.”

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For Van der Linde, teaching is deeply personal, as well as professional. His motivation is rooted in his own childhood experiences. “I had strong role models and good guidance growing up. So, for me, teaching is about giving back and being the best example I can be for these children.”

He believes that teachers play a critical role in shaping the future, even in the earliest years of schooling. “These children are our future doctors, engineers, and leaders. That’s a big responsibility. My job is to put them on the best path possible and give them the tools they need to succeed.”

Preparation, he says, starts long before the first school bell rings. “Logistics come first. Making sure admin is done, lessons are planned, and everything is in place.”

Rest, however, is just as important. “December is about switching off, resting, and recharging. If I come into the year rested, patient, and mentally ready, the kids feel that energy too.”

He also believes strongly in giving each learner a clean slate. “When I get a new group of children, I want to give them a fresh start. It’s easy to label kids, but that’s not fair. They deserve patience and a chance to show who they are.”

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Looking ahead to the new year, Van der Linde hopes to see growth, not only in physical skills, but in maturity and accountability. “I do love to see more proactiveness. An understanding of cause and effect, taking responsibility for actions, and learning from consequences.”

He acknowledges that these lessons take time. “They are still children. Maturity comes with growth, and part of my role is guiding them through that process.”

Reflecting on his own practice; he’s clear about what he wants to improve. “I want to have more patience. Even on the days I’m tired, I need to show up fully for the kids. They deserve that.”

When we asked him to describe his ideal classroom atmosphere for 2026, Van der Linde didn’t limit himself to one word. “I want a classroom filled with energy. A space that’s conducive to learning, thinking, and problem-solving.”

Above all, he values kindness and calm. “A caring, accepting environment is so important. When children feel safe and respected, that’s when real learning happens.”

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