Staffroom Chatter at Stellenbosch University

In this powerful episode, the host interviews Ms. Jasmin Joy Meyer , a dedicated special needs educator who exemplifies what it means to be an agent of change . With passion and perseverance, she integrates technology into her classroom to open new possibilities for her learners, champions special needs sports to build confidence and community, and pours her heart and soul into creating inclusive...

In this inspiring episode, the host sits down with two dynamic voices from Stellenbosch University — Keagan Brown and George Davids — to explore what it truly means to be agents of change . Together, they share personal experiences, challenges, and visions for how students can shape their communities and influence the future. From campus initiatives to broader societal impact, this conversation hi...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Mr. Stephen Price—school principal and founder of Teach the Nation and Shortlist ED. Known as an agent of change in South Africa, Mr. Price shares his journey, insights, and bold vision for empowering teachers and reimagining the future of learning. Tune in for a powerful conversation on leadership, innovation, and the heart of inclusive education.

In this powerful episode, hosts Nadia and Avu sit down with Professor Jonathan Jansen—Distinguished Professor of Education at Stellenbosch University and former President of the Academy of Science of South Africa. From his early days as a high school biology teacher to becoming one of the country’s most influential education voices, Jansen shares bold insights on how teachers ignite change in clas...

Welcome to another episode of Staffroom Chatter, where we delve into inclusive education. Our guest, Inge Ackerman, a seasoned educator with a background in psychology, shares insights on teaching learners with severe intellectual disabilities at a special needs school. Inge discusses her classroom dynamics, the importance of differentiated curriculum and individualized learning plans, and the rol...

Two passionate teachers from a full-service school in the Western Cape share real-life classroom experiences supporting learners with special needs. From ADHD and autism to inclusive desk setups and buddy systems, this episode explores practical strategies and heartfelt reflections on inclusive education in South Africa.

Episode Description   Dr. Ledwaba and Dr. Mophosho discusses inclusive education and assistive technology, emphasizing the importance of tailoring approaches to individual learners' needs. Speakers share insights on practical implementation, including changing attitudes and capacitating teachers on inclusive education practices. They also highlighted the need for inclusive education and the us...

The panel discusses the importance of inclusive education in South Africa, emphasizing the need for all teachers to support learners with diverse needs. Speakers highlighted the limitations of traditional education and the importance of continuous assessment and alternative methods that prioritize the learner's progress. They highlighted the need for personalized support and an inclusive learn...

Welcome to the riveting conclusion of our thought-provoking podcast series, "Violence in Education." In this final episode, hosts George and Wilnelie are joined by a distinguished guest, Dr. Moen, an esteemed Educational Psychologist at the University of Stellenbosch. Together, they embark on a profound journey to explore and dissect the pressing issue of violence in education.

Join us in this thought-provoking episode where our hosts sit down with Loreen Jordaan, the Assistant Secretary of the South African Teachers' Union (SAOU). With a background deeply rooted in education and a key role in the Western Cape Education Department's (WCED) bargaining sector, Loreen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. In this illuminating conversation, we del...

Join hosts George and Wilnelie as they engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Kemp, the Provincial Social Work Manager for the Department of Education. With an impressive 31-year career as a seasoned social worker and 22 years in the field of education, Dr. Kemp brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table. In this eye-opening episode, our hosts and Dr. Kemp embark on an exp...

Welcome to Season 3. The podcast that confronts one of society's most pressing issues - violence in schools. In this crucial episode, we assemble a diverse panel of experts and welcome two distinguished guest speakers, Professor Nuraan Davids and Dr. Elzahn Rinquest, to tackle the complex and urgent topic of violence within our educational institutions.   Presented by Stellenbosch University&#...

In the final episode of Season 2, our hosts discuss the learnings they gleaned from this season's deep dive on gender & sexuality in schools. --- Presented by Stellenbosch University's Faculty of Education, Staffroom Chatter aims to create the space for critical conversation between academics, experts and students. It exists to paint a clearer picture by analyzing the current South Afr...

Annah is a queer high school teacher and this episode offers her perspective on gender/sexuality and an educational framework for accommodating the needs of queer individuals in schools. Key Takeaways: - Perceptions of queer teachers in schools (03:15) - How Annah's queerness made her approachable to students (07:49) - Ways to create more safe spaces for queer learners in schools (09:02) - Sho...

This episode's guest is Dr Precious Simba, a lecturer in the department of education policy studies at Stellenbosch University. She holds a masters degree in gender & development from the University of Sussex and a PhD in education policy studies. Key Takeaways: - Definitions of gender, gender identity & sexuality (01:15) - The influence of society on gender binaries (10:48) - Current...

Welcome to the first episode of season 2! In this episode, third year students Emma Bowers Swart and Rojee Ramjee talk about their experiences with gender and sexuality at schools. Key Takeaways: - Rojee's experience of teaching queer students during his practicals (01:45) - How Emma approached sharing her sexual orientation with an inquisitive learner (03:01) - On whether being queer is a cho...

In this episode, teachers in training Rune Geldenhuys and Michaela Chetty, reflect on their experience having done their practicals - and the core learnings they carry with them going into the workforce.  Key Takeaways: - The importance of authenticity when teaching (04:01) - why it helps your sense of wellness to be organized (04:28) - on changing your personality (05:23) - how to get the best br...

Lecturer and PhD candidate Shannon-Bishop Swart shares from her 21 years of experience teaching across four continents. Key Takeaways: - Shannon's teaching experience under non-ideal circumstances in India (01:33) - Corporal punishment at schools in India (03:55) - Maintaining discipline in oversubscribed classrooms (07:08) - Creating a contract and classroom constitution with learners (07: 30) -...

Stellenbosch University lecturer Jana Nel gives us her insights into effective classroom management and the impact and importance of consistency when working with learners. Key takeaways: - The importance of planning (12:00) - The value of effective organizing (13:15) - Teacher as leader (13:45) - Maintaining control in the classroom (14:22) - Teaching in a multilingual/multicultural context (18:2...

In the very first episode of Staffroom Chatter, student teachers Wilnelie Niemand and George Jonker talk to high school educator and social media influencer Robyn Angler, Netherlands-based teacher/masters student Emma Smit and primary school teacher Raynier Fourie about best practices for student teachers entering the workforce. Presented by Stellenbosch University's Faculty of Education, Staffroo...

Presented by Stellenbosch University's Faculty of Education, Staffroom Chatter aims to create the space for critical conversation between academics, experts and students. It exists to paint a clearer picture by analyzing the current South African education system. Staffroom Chatter - from our eyes to your ears.