Tshidiso Chiloane joined the Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET) family in 2018 after matriculating from Makgome Secondary School. He describes CRET as a true blessing in his life. “After matric, you are often confused and worried about your future, but with CRET and their support, it felt like a joyride,” he explains.
Tshidiso received a full bursary from CRET, which made his university life well-organised and structured.
“While other students worried about books or allowances, I knew I was taken care of. I could simply call or email CRET, and they would provide guidance and sort everything out.”
Coming from a disadvantaged background, Tshidiso’s parents could not afford to support him with a living allowance, so he relied heavily on CRET for most of his needs. “CRET’s love goes beyond academic support, they also provided psychosocial support. Through services like Independent Counselling and Advisory Services (ICAS), they helped me handle the challenges that could have hindered my progress.”
Tshidiso completed his studies at the University of Johannesburg, where he says the faculty of education provided outstanding training. “We were prepared for what we would face in schools, and the training brought us face-to-face with the realities of the schooling system.”
His first experience as a student teacher confirmed that he was well-equipped for the classroom. “I recall being left alone with a class, which was not supposed to happen. While it was challenging, it was also a blessing in disguise. It showed me that everything I learned at university was valuable and had a positive impact on my growth as an educator.”
Transitioning from student teacher to full-time teacher was not difficult for Tshidiso. From his first year of study, he was already assisting schools with extra classes, and by the time he graduated, he had been exposed to a variety of school environments, making it easier for him to adapt. However, the biggest adjustment came with taking on the full responsibilities of a teacher. “Having my own class and managing the admin side like marking, registers, preparing lessons, and teaching extra classes was challenging. I had to get used to no longer being a ‘free agent’ who just followed instructions.”
Tshidiso teaches grades 8 to 12 and handles three different subjects: Mathematical Literacy, Economics, and Technology, with five periods a day. A typical day in his classroom starts with a prayer, followed by greetings to gauge the learners’ mood. “They often comment on my outfit, which I allow because we have built a safe, open environment where we can give and receive feedback. It is the kind of learner-teacher relationship we have.”
He notes that every class is different, as each group of learners has varying abilities. “Thanks to my university training, I have learned different teaching strategies to accommodate various learning styles.” Despite his preparedness, Tshidiso acknowledges that the paperwork required from teachers can be overwhelming. “As much as it is necessary, it can demotivate us.” He also believes that integrating more technology into the education system could greatly improve learning outcomes. “Learners are already skilled with smartphones, but the lack of infrastructure and access to technology remains a challenge in many schools.”
Balancing his career and personal life has been another challenge. “Being a young teacher and trying to find a balance between work and my social life has not been easy and working on Saturdays does not help.” He adds that he has learned to set priorities and has found ways to make it work. “So far, so good, at least according to my principals!”
Looking ahead, Tshidiso sees himself becoming part of a school management team in the next five years. While he does not have immediate aspirations of becoming a principal, he believes it is something he could achieve in the future.
What keeps him motivated is seeing his learners succeed. “Seeing learners, I have tutored succeed makes me so emotional. They are now navigating adult life, and I can use them as examples for my current students. It makes me want to do more for others.”
To those pursuing education, Tshidiso offers a word of encouragement: “Do not let anything demotivate you or make you lose the love you have for this profession. It is not an easy path, and while it may not make you wealthy financially, the true wealth lies in the great minds you will help shape. Those learners will be forever grateful.”