Star teacher of the week

Elzeth Harmse

I’m an Afrikaans teacher for grades 8 to 12 at Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool.

When and why did you decide to become a teacher?

I started teaching Afrikaans for grades 5 to 7 from 2013 until 2017 at the Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool (WAP) and moved to the high school of WAP in 2018 where I am still teaching Afrikaans. I have taught grades 8 to 12 in the meantime. I was a journalist before I became a teacher and instead of writing as a career, I am now trying to create writers for the future. Looking back on my own school years, I should have known early on that I would one day become a teacher as I was always assisting classmates in school or university, so I guess it is instinctively part of me and not just a job.

What is the best aspect about being a teacher?

The holidays! No, I am only joking. The best aspect is knowing that I have a new chance every day to make a difference in someone else’s life, whether it is big or small, or only in that moment or one that can last them a lifetime. Not all careers have the privilege of getting so many chances to inspire and influence someone on such a personal level.

Can you tell us of your journey towards becoming a teacher?

After school I didn’t immediately study teaching, but soon realised my chosen study path would not become my career, so I switched majors and soon after started working as a journalist and continued to study part-time. After four years working as a journalist, I started teaching. In the end I completed my studies in communication science, languages and also senior secondary teaching with languages as my main subjects.

What is the highlight of your teaching career?

This is a really hard question as there are so many possible answers, but a while ago an old student told me that I was the one teacher he would never forget and that I really made a difference in his life because I never judged him and made it feel okay to always be himself, regardless of what others think. That really hit me – realising that we have an impact on the learners, but also a responsibility in creating a safe environment for them to reach their potential.

Can you name a class and year you will never forget and why?

Yes, actually, my register class in 2017 – the 7D’s. Everyone connected so well and there was no drama, the kids were eager to help and support each other, they spoiled me a lot and we had so much fun in between all the work and responsibilities. If you have a strong group willing to walk the extra mile, it really makes the job worthwhile.

What lessons have you learned from your learners?

I learn lessons from learners on a daily basis, but one that stands out is the fact that children really learn through example. They won’t necessary remember what you tell them, but will act according to what they see, therefore it is important to stay true to one’s morals and to not say one thing, but do the complete opposite as children are not fools.

What leisure activities do you participate in?

None, because I am always grading essays and tests! Whilst this is true, I always try to take some me-time and spend time with friends and family or read or write or go on small adventures where possible.