NWU SHAPES FUTURE TEACHERS THROUGH PRACTICE

Abygail Smit 

@Abysmit06

The North-West University (NWU) has a proud history dating back to 1919. Today, the Faculty of Education is the largest provider of both contact and open-distance learning in South Africa. The faculty not only focuses on creating well-rounded teachers, but also preparing students for their careers. 

By combining practical and theoretical assessments, NWU requires education students to participate in probation periods at schools. Practical experience has its benefits as well as struggles, which students face every day. Through these practicals, students develop confidence in front of a classroom and learn how to adapt their teaching style to different learners and environments. 

Before sending first years into the field, the university provides a Professional Orientation Programme (POP) during the first semester. It teaches students to handle certain class-based situations which they may encounter during their second semester practicals. 

Anré Maritz, a first year BEd foundation phase student, believes you can truly experience what it is to be a teacher during these probation periods, and where you can find out if it is really your passion. Maritz completed her practical period at Laerskool Hennopspark in Centurion, Pretoria. While  some students choose to return to their old schools to teach, many turn to schools in Potchefstroom so they can remain part of student life. However, it can be quite challenging to move away for a period of time for those who are placed far from home. 

Students must also complete the Teaching Practical (TPED) module from the second semester onward. This module prepares students for realistic scenarios they might face and how to accurately teach a class to the best of their abilities. After finishing their probation period, education students must create a workbook with information about their time at their chosen school and it will count for their final TPED mark. 

Ultimately, the combination of POP, TPED, and real-world classroom exposure equips NWU education students with the tools they need to transition smoothly into their careers as teachers.

Good luck message from NWU Faculty of Education (Source: Abygail Smit)

Edited by Isabel Burgers