Six of the best teach the teachers

Continuing education: Humanities dean Prof Paula Ensor congratulates Paul Thebus of Grassy Park High, one of 48 teachers who received certificates for completing the Schools Development Unit's new short courses, aimed at developing educators.

In a milestone for the Faculty of Humanities on 22 April dean Professor Paula Ensor presented certificates to the first 48 teachers who completed the faculty's first certified short courses.

The six courses covered new aspects of the grades 10 to 12 mathematics, physical science, life sciences and life orientation curricula. These were offered by the Schools Development Unit (SDU) in the School of Education as part of a short-course programme convened by the SDU's Anthea Roberts.

"I've been using the ideas from the course in my classroom and they have worked well," said Nomhle Mavuya of Ikamvalethu High School, who did the short course in industrial chemistry.

SDU director Dr Jon Clark reflected on how the opportunities for teachers to receive continuing professional development had expanded. "It's an SDU goal, working with education departments, to develop new, interesting and relevant courses to assist teachers."

The short courses are in line with national policy for teacher development, explained Associate Professor Rob Siebörger, who chairs the Faculty of Humanities' short courses sub-committee.

"We look forward to other departments in the faculty also using this means to provide assessment and certification for the short courses they offer.

In the picture from left, back are Assoc Prof Rob Siebörger, Dr Jon Clark, Thompson Mlumbi (Rhodes High), and Assoc Prof Rudi Laugskch. (Front) Sophumelela High teachers Nwabisa Tshangana, Nomahomba Mgxaji, Nondwe Mfihlo and Babalwa Masebeni.