Meet Miss K Pillay
Intermediate Phase Teacher
The history of Miss Pillay’s journey- becoming a teacher
Since joining Risidale Primary School in 2021, I’ve had the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally in ways I never expected. I started my journey as a student teacher and a substitute English teacher, and to be honest, I was nervous. I didn’t know what to expect and wasn’t sure where to begin. But I took the bull by the horns, dived in, and soon realized, “Hey, I’m doing it, and I like it.” When the opportunity to teach full-time came my way, I grabbed it with both hands. I knew this was what I wanted to do.
A Village That Nurtures
For me, Risidale is more than just a school—it’s a village. It’s a community that nurtures and supports our students, helping them reach their full potential both inside the classroom and out on the field. “It takes a village to raise a child,” and Risidale embodies this philosophy. It’s a place where we, as educators, help our learners grow in a safe and encouraging environment.
Academic Background
I’ve always had a love for history, and after initially studying archaeology and ancient history, I shifted my focus to education, specializing in history and geography. Balancing work while completing my degree, I graduated with distinction (Cum Laude). Now, I’m continuing my studies, currently completing my Honours degree. I’m always striving to learn more and improve my teaching practice.
Personal Background
First and foremost, I am a mother. My daughter is my greatest source of motivation. She keeps me going every day and pushes me to aim higher in everything I do. I come from a very supportive, loving, and slightly strict family that instilled in me values and morals I still live by today. Their encouragement, patience, and unwavering support have been essential throughout my journey.
Why Teach History?
As a history teacher, I know that education is about much more than memorizing facts and dates. It’s about helping students understand the world around them, encouraging them to think critically about the past, and connecting historical events to their lives today. My teaching style is centred around fostering curiosity and creating lessons that spark deep discussion and critical thinking.
“History is more than just a subject; it’s a lens through which we can understand the present and shape the future.” I strive to make my lessons engaging and relevant, ensuring students not only remember key events but also understand their significance. I use a variety of teaching strategies—such as project-based learning, group discussions, and multimedia resources—to create a dynamic and student-centred classroom. My goal is to make every student feel involved and valued in the learning process.
Beyond the Classroom
Outside the classroom, I’m involved in several sports, ranging from netball to tennis and swimming. Sports are a fantastic way for students to develop essential life skills like communication, teamwork, and resilience. It’s about helping them improve their skills and teaching them how to work together as a team to achieve a common goal. As a coach, I strive to create a positive, supportive environment where each player feels valued and motivated to do their best.
I’ve also been part of the school’s feeding scheme since my time as an intern, providing breakfast and preparing lunch. We aim to provide healthy, filling meals so that students can focus on learning and do their best in the classroom.
Coordinator of Scholar Patrol
In addition to my teaching and coaching, I also serve as the Coordinator of Scholar Patrol. This role involves ensuring the safety of students after school. I work closely with the student patrol team, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to assist with safety duties such as directing traffic, monitoring crossing points, and helping younger learners. It’s a program that not only enhances safety but also fosters responsibility and leadership among the scholar patrol members.
I absolutely love watching the students grow in this role. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them take ownership of their duties, develop leadership skills, and contribute positively to the school community.
Looking to the future
Since joining Risidale, I’ve been able to make a lasting impact on my students' lives, both academically and personally. Whether I’m teaching history, coaching sports, or coordinating the scholar patrol, I am committed to making a positive difference in the lives of the students I work with. Every day presents an opportunity to inspire and help students discover their strengths.
I’m passionate about teaching because it’s a chance to inspire and help students discover their strengths. Every day presents an opportunity to make a difference, whether in the classroom, on the court, or through a leadership role. I’m excited for the future and the chance to continue learning and growing with my students.
Meet Mrs Jordan
Intermediate Phase Teacher
*Meet Mrs. Jordan: The Teacher Who Lives for "Aha!" Moments*
If teaching is in your DNA, you don’t choose it, it chooses you. And for me, it’s been that way from the start. I’m one of two siblings, born into a family where education isn’t just a career—it’s a way of life. My parents may have taken the corporate route in South Africa, but my family tree is filled with educators: uncles, aunts, grandparents, even great-uncles. You could say teaching is in my blood, but my journey to the classroom is my own story to tell.
My inspiration has always been the youth of our country. I’ve always been moved by Nelson Mandela’s words: “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” As a teacher, I see myself as someone who arms young minds with that very weapon. But how did I get here? Well, it’s a mix of destiny, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart.
I’ve always been a natural-born guide, a compass for lost souls looking to find their way. Maybe it started when I was a student myself, sitting in a classroom, wide-eyed and curious. I had that one teacher who changed everything for me. Not by giving me answers, but by teaching me the magic of asking the right questions. That’s when it hit me: there’s a unique kind of power in passing on curiosity. It’s like handing someone a map to an unknown treasure. And honestly, I couldn’t resist that calling.
But it’s more than just curiosity. I became a teacher because I have a heart full of stories, dreams, and ideas that need to be shared. During my student years at the University of Johannesburg, where I earned my Bachelor of Education degree, I quickly realised something: all children are curious, energetic, and thirsty to learn, but not all children are equal. Privilege, opportunities, and access aren’t handed out fairly, and that’s where I come in. As an educator, I see it as my job to level the playing field—to make sure every learner gets a chance to shine.
In short, I became a teacher because my heart recognised a challenge no other job could offer: shaping the future, one mind at a time. But here’s the secret—the classroom isn’t just a place for my students to grow. It’s a place where I grow, too. Every lesson, every question, every “aha!” moment teaches me something new about myself and the world.
So, if you ever walk past my classroom and hear laughter, debate, or the occasional “Oh, I get it now!”, know that you’re witnessing something special. I’m not just teaching—I’m changing the world, one student at a time. And honestly, isn’t that what education is all about?
