Honoring the Best in Education: Winners of the 2023 Western Cape Provincial Teaching Awards

Teachers play a vital role in shaping the future of society. Their dedication and hard work deserve recognition, especially when they consistently pursue excellence and show a passion for improving learning outcomes. The Western Cape Provincial Teaching Awards are a way to honor the outstanding contributions of public school teachers and acknowledge exceptional teaching practices.

Recognizing the Best in Education

On Friday evening, MEC David Maynier hosted the 23rd Western Cape Provincial Teaching Awards. The event celebrated the incredible efforts of teachers who have made a significant impact on the education of young learners. Their commitment plays a vital role in equipping students with the skills necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving economy.

Excellence in Teaching

The 2023 Provincial Teaching Award winners are the epitome of teaching excellence. From early childhood education to high school, each recipient has demonstrated a unique combination of skill, dedication, and passion for education. The winners come from various domains, including primary and secondary school teaching and leadership, special needs education, and mathematics and science education.

Primary School Teaching and Leadership

Ms. Hester Horn from Paul Greyling Primary School in Fish Hoek received the award for Excellence in Grade R Teaching. Mr. Dillon Henwood from Elnor Primary School in Elsies River earned the accolade for Excellence in Primary School Teaching (Grades 1-7). The Excellence in Primary School Leadership award went to Mr. Mogamat Rosdine Desai from Heideveld Primary School in Heideveld.

Secondary School Teaching and Leadership

Ms. Natasha Smith from Apex High School in Eerste River was recognized for Excellence in Secondary School Teaching (Grades 8–12). Mr. Mzoliswa Michael Mavovana from Hector Petersen Secondary School in Wallacedene, Kraaifontein, received the award for Excellence in Secondary School Leadership.

Special Needs Education

The awards also acknowledged the significance of special needs education. Ms. Jasmin Joy Meyer from Dorothea Special School in Cloetesville, Stellenbosch, was awarded Excellence in Special Needs Teaching, while Mr. Taswald Andrews from Florida School of Skills in Ruyterwacht won Excellence in Special Needs School Leadership.

Mathematics and Science Education

In the field of mathematics and science education, the winners included Ms. Shariefa Clark for teaching mathematics (GET), Ms. Nomakwezi Mayekiso for teaching mathematics (FET), Mr. Clemence Thomas for teaching natural sciences, and Mr. Cyril Goldstone for teaching physical sciences. Additionally, Ms. Shanley Amy Cyster from Dorothea Special School in Cloetesville, Stellenbosch, was awarded Excellence in Technology-Enhanced Teaching and Learning.

Best Teacher Award and Lifetime Achievement Award

The Best Teacher Award went to Ms. Lizette Schroeder from Protea Heights Academy in Brackenfell. Finally, the esteemed Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon Ms. Siddieka Hassen from Capricorn Primary School in Vrygrond.

Looking Ahead

The 14 provincial winners will represent the Western Cape at the National Teaching Awards in October 2023. With four national awards and two runners-up in the previous year, high expectations surround this year’s contenders.

The Western Cape Provincial Teaching Awards are a testament to the remarkable work of educators in the province. These awards serve as an opportunity to extend gratitude and appreciation to these dedicated individuals, encouraging everyone to thank a teacher during National Teachers’ Month in October. After all, teachers are the most valuable asset in shaping the minds of future generations.