Empowering the future of education

The Teaching Practice Office in the College of Education (CEDU) hosted an insightful and engaging Teaching Practice Orientation Day on 19 March under the theme “A RE TSEBANENG.” The event was designed to introduce and prepare students for their upcoming teaching practice, setting the stage for a successful and fulfilling experience in the world of education.

Students attending Teaching Practice Orientation Day

Professor Matshidiso Taole, Head of the Teaching Practice Office, opened the day by warmly welcoming all guests in attendance, which included CEDU students, Teaching Practice module lecturers, officials from the South African Council for Educators (SACE), and other stakeholders. Taole expressed gratitude for the active participation of everyone present and underscored the importance of teaching practice as a vital component of students' educational journeys. She explained the procedures for applying for placements, ensuring that students understood the steps involved in securing their teaching practice opportunities.

A key presentation was delivered by Nkele Yvonne Lechaba, Head of Registration and Teacher Professionalisation at SACE, who represented SACE CEO Ella Mokgalane. Lechaba shared valuable insights into SACE’s vision for an exceptional teaching profession. She highlighted that their upcoming strategic phase would encapsulate this vision and drive the mission forward. Lechaba outlined the core values and principles that guide SACE, focusing on the Act of Parliament, teacher ethics, and the importance of maintaining high standards within the education sector. She explained how these standards shape teachers' behaviour and ensure that the integrity of the profession is upheld. Students were encouraged to fully comprehend these guidelines, which are key to maintaining the required ethical standards and quality in education. Lechaba also addressed student questions, providing clarity on crucial matters such as criminal background checks and the SACE registration process.

CEDU and SACE representatives

Back, from left: Dr Sibongile Mahn, Dr Patricia Moshaba, Prof Fulufhelo Mukhathi, Prof Tebogo Mogoshoa, Dr Mmakwalete Malatji, Dr Ezekiel Chauke, and Kathrine Naidoo

Front, from left: Dr Mmapeu Manyaka, Prof Matshidiso Taole, Zasendlunkulu Malimela, Prof Margaret Maja, and Yvonne Lechaba

Doctor Mmapeu Manyaka, Senior Lecturer from the Department of Early Childhood Education and Development in CEDU, took the opportunity to explain important details that students need to know in order to successfully navigate the teaching practice process. She emphasised the importance of Tutorial Letter 102, which contains essential information on admission requirements for placements and detailed guidelines for teaching practice. Manyaka encouraged students to carefully read this tutorial letter, as it outlines the necessary steps for securing placements and provides the names of the teaching practice coordinators responsible for their respective modules. Additionally, Manyaka stressed the significance of online participation and engagement in the Unisa learning environment, particularly given that Unisa is an ODeL institution. She urged students to actively participate in online teaching and learning activities  and assessments, as these are critical components of the learning process. Students were reminded that online participation is closely monitored, and failure to engage may result in student not receiving the required assessment results.

It was also made clear that each teaching practice requires a commitment of 25 days in a school setting, with all students being supervised during this period to meet the Department of Higher Education’s accreditation requirements. This ensures that teaching quality is maintained across all teaching practices. Non-compliance with these guidelines or any fraudulent activities related to teaching practice will be closely monitored, with disciplinary action taken where necessary.

Students were later divided into groups to engage with their module lecturers and coordinators for further assistance. The orientation day concluded with a strong message about the importance of ethical practice, academic integrity, and professional conduct throughout the teaching practice period. It was a day filled with vital information, interaction, and preparation, empowering future educators to take the next step in their academic and professional careers.

As students embark on their teaching practice journeys, the insights and guidance shared during the Orientation Day will undoubtedly help them navigate this essential aspect of their education with confidence and clarity.

* By Freddy Mlambo, Acting Communications and Marketing Specialist, CEDU, with inputs from ChatGPT