I’m a Grade R teacher at BELGRAVIA DAYCARE CENTRE, and after many years of being in different jobs I have found my purpose in life, that being a GRADE R teacher. I love what I do and I’m good at what I do. Seeing my students succeed in any form, from the biggest successes like getting into Primary school to the smallest success like finding that missing pencil, these are the things that makes me proud to teach. I had set out a goal for myself in 2023 to make sure I make a change in each and every learner in my classroom. Whether a big or small change, I wanted to make a difference. However, as the gang violence continues, so does our learning in the classroom. Since 2023 we have taken these kids from the roads and given them good quality education, a safe place to be, warm nutritious meals, and most of all love and care. I won’t lie it wasn’t easy as these children did not have age-appropriate manners and etiquette. But today, we have the most well-mannered learners , who not only come in and say “Good morning, Teacher “or “Teacher may I use the toilet please” but has also show great improvement academically. I believe a good teacher can make a positive change in any child.

I’m most proud of my learners of 2023 who are currently in Grade 1. These learners are not only from underprivileged homes, but also must face many difficulties with day-to-day violence within the community. Three of my learners from the informal settlement (the Vlei) have made it to the top 10 in their new school (GRADE 1) and the Primary school teacher would like to know which ECD they came from, as our school has laid down a good foundation for these learners making them in advance for their grade. Another learner who has started to read confidently in my grade R  class last year, has excelled in her grade this year, she came in 2nd position in her class. My daily encouragement for my learners, which now is a part of our morning routine before we start our busy day, is our AFFIRMATIONS. It has become the motto in class. We stand proud and tall, and they say it with pride and confidence.

I AM LOVED!

I AM WORTHY OF LOVE!

I AM ONE OF A KIND!

I CAN STAND UP TO OTHERS!

I AM UNIQUE!

I CAN BE WHATEVER I SET MY MIND TO!

A big Thank you/Shukran to all our sponsors, the committee and supporting people who are in the background. YOU have kept our school going. WE ALL ARE PART OF THIS CHANGE. A CHANGE WE MAKE IN THESE LITTLE CHILDREN’S LIVES.

YOURS IN EDUCATION

MYMOENA DAVIDS