At Risidale, we’re lucky to have a team of passionate, dedicated teachers who bring more than just lessons to the classroom — they bring life experience, personality, and heart. In this edition, two of our Teachers shared a bit more about their journeys, what makes them tick, and why they love being part of the Risidale story.
The Coordinates of Ms Koza, Geography Teacher
I'm Ms Koza, and I'm thrilled to be teaching Geography, Life Orientation, and Personal Well-being to our vibrant Grade 6 and 7 learners here at Risidale Primary School. As a dedicated educator with a passion for teaching, I've had the privilege of being part of this wonderful school community for the past four years.
My teaching journey began as a substitute teacher at Risidale, where I had the opportunity to teach various subjects and interact with learners from different backgrounds. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of adaptability and understanding each learner's unique needs. It was incredibly rewarding to see learners grasp new concepts and develop a love for learning.
Teaching Geography and Life Orientation at Risidale Primary School has allowed me to combine my interests in exploring the world and helping learners develop essential life skills. Geography opens my learners' eyes to the beauty and complexity of our planet, while Life Orientation equips them with the tools to navigate personal and social challenges.
I pursued my Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree at the University of South Africa, where I developed a strong foundation in educational theory and practice. Currently, I am completing my Honours degree while managing a full-time teaching job. Balancing work and further studies has presented its challenges, but it has also been an incredibly rewarding experience.
This journey has taught me the importance of perseverance, time management, and continuous learning. I come from a loving family that values education and hard work. My parents instilled in me a love for learning and a commitment to making a difference.
Beyond the classroom, I am actively involved in various extra-curricular activities that enrich our learners' lives. As a cricket coach, I have had the pleasure of guiding our team to several victories, fostering teamwork and strategic thinking. Similarly, coaching the netball team has been incredibly rewarding, as I witness students develop communication and leadership skills on the court.
I am also proud to be part of our school's feeding scheme, ensuring that every student has access to nutritious meals. This initiative has a profound impact on their well-being and academic performance. Additionally, the annual art festival is a highlight of the school year, where students showcase their creativity and talent, fostering a sense of community and artistic growth.
One of my favourite quotes is, “You snooze, you lose.” This saying serves as a constant reminder to stay proactive and seize opportunities as they arise. In my teaching philosophy, this quote underscores the importance of being engaged and taking initiative in the learning process.
I encourage my students to be active participants in their education, to ask questions, and to explore new ideas with curiosity and enthusiasm. By fostering a classroom environment where students are motivated to stay alert and take advantage of every learning opportunity, I aim to instil a sense of responsibility and drive in them.
This proactive approach not only helps students grasp new concepts more effectively but also prepares them for the challenges they will face in the future. Whether it's in academics, sports, or personal development, I believe that staying engaged and making the most of every moment is key to success.
Here’s the scoop on Mrs D!
With 40 years of teaching experience, I can truly say I love my job — it’s my heartbeat. I’ve had the pleasure of guiding and growing young minds, and it remains one of my greatest passions.
I’m blessed with a wonderful husband, Rory, and two beautiful, kind, and inspiring children, Casey and Keagan, who are my greatest joy.
A few fun facts about me: I once walked the entire length of the Kruger National Park — just over 600km — and I’m absolutely fascinated by the brain and how it learns.
Outside of the classroom, I love spending time with the Lord and my family. I also enjoy weight training, boxing, and catching up with friends at the gym.
As for favourites, I love anything with a beat when it comes to music, pizza is my go-to meal, and I have a serious sweet tooth. I’m also mad about all sport — whether it’s watching or playing!
