Staffroom Chatter at Stellenbosch University

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 highlights the power of young leaders to drive transformation and embody hope in action.

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 spaces where every student can thrive. Listeners will be inspired by Ms. Meyer’s story of innovation, compassion, and commitment — a reminder that true change begins with those who choose to invest deeply in others.

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 classrooms and communities. With stories of courage, resistance, and hope, this conversation explores how educators lead transformation from the ground up—often against the odds. A must-listen for anyone invested in inclusive, impactful education.

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 role of societal stigmas and parental involvement. She also emphasizes the emotional and professional challenges of working in special needs education and offers advice for pre-service teachers on how to better prepare for this field. Join us for an eye-opening conversation about the crucial role of special needs education in fostering a more inclusive society.

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 use of assistive technology to support diverse learners.   Key Takeaways:   (00:21) Inclusive education and assistive technology in South Africa. (07:24) Inclusive education, attitudes towards disability, and the importance of valuing every individual. (16:31) Assistive technology for children with disabilities in education. (21:16) Accessible teaching methods for students with disabilities. (25:06) Training teachers to support students with disabilities. (29:51) Universal design and curriculum differentiation in education. (35:19) Alternative and augmentative communication systems for students with complex communication needs.   ---   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 analysing the current South African education system.   Staffroom Chatter - from our eyes to your ears.   Hosts: Dr Elzahn Rinquest & Mrs Delecia Davids  

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 learning environment and argued for prioritizing inclusive education and support for diverse learners.

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 delve into the pressing issue of violence in education, as seen through the lens of a prominent union figure. Loreen shares her insights on the challenges and concerns faced by educators and students alike, shedding light on the complexities of addressing. violence within educational institutions.

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 exploration of a critical issue that affects countless students, educators, and communities worldwide: violence in education. Together, they peel back the layers, revealing the root causes, consequences, and potential solutions to this pressing problem.

Welcome to the 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'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.   Hosts: Wilnelie Niemand, Michaela Chetty & George Jonker  

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 African education system. Staffroom Chatter - from our eyes to your ears. Hosts: Wilnelie Niemand, Michaela Chetty & George Jonker Producer: Joshua Prinsloo

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) - Should learners be exposed to sexuality at a young age? (14:00) - How to deal with parents who don't agree with progressive worldviews (15:52) - On sexuality in teacher training materials (18:33) - On the future of gender & sexuality in South African schools (28:37) --- 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. Hosts: Wilnelie Niemand, Michaela Chetty & George Jonker Producer: Joshua Prinsloo

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 debates around gender identity in schools (14:42) - The line between creating an inclusive space for learners while not alienating their parents (17:11) - How to support non-binary children while holding contradictory personal beliefs (20:00) - On the value of maintaining multiple beliefs simultaneously (25:04) - On the value of divergent views in a democracy (26:21) - On the future of inclusive environments for different gender identities (29:16) --- 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. Hosts: Wilnelie Niemand, Michaela Chetty & George Jonker Producer: Joshua Prinsloo

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 choice one makes or not (04:46) - On the socialization of gender and identity at schools (05:22) - Teachers as neutral, non-judgmental role models (08:03) - Emma's opinion of gender fluidity (10:29) - The bathroom as a social construct (15:04) - Gender norms as social constructs (20:31) - Teachers as a source of comfort and positive influence (21:59) --- 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. Hosts: Wilnelie Niemand, Michaela Chetty & George Jonker Producer: Joshua Prinsloo

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 break in the staffroom (08:13) - lack of discipline as a result of domestic issues (09:07) - ideas for introducing critical self-awareness to learners (11:58) - the importance of being adaptable (13:20) - on teaching yourself how to teach (16:29) - the power of reading widely (18:14) - the role of a teacher’s gender in the classroom (19:49) - Michaela’s top tip (22:14) - Rune’s top tip (23.02) - on finding work-life balance (23:33) "As teachers, we forget that we’re allowed to be calm and okay and easy and gentle…" Michaela Chetty --- 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. Hosts: Wilnelie Niemand, Michaela Chetty & George Jonker Producer: Joshua Prinsloo

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) - Voice level charts (08:45) - Dealing with school administration (10:19) - Building good relationships with HODs and fellow teachers (11:05) - Keeping a journal as a tool for mental wellness (13:00) - Entering a new, potentially difficult work environment as a young, less experienced teacher (15:00) - Work-life balance: actively making time for your personal life (17:35) - Shannon's teaching experience in the UK and France, when contrasted with that of SA (19:30) "Create a contract with your learners and say to them, what do you expect from this class?" - Shannon Bishop-Swart. --- 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.

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 (18:25) - The benefits of giving learners a voice and a sense of ownership (20:45) "I recommend staff development and regular sessions...where teachers will feel appreciated, heard and seen." - Jana Nel 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.

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, 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.