Hi, I’m
Sandile Happy
Teacher
Pretoria,GP
Summary
I am currently pursuing a PhD in Early Childhood Education at the University of Pretoria, focusing on the Pedagogical Content Knowledge of teachers teaching phonics to learners with intellectual disabilities. I hold a Bachelor of Education degree obtained in 2016, followed by an Honours in Education completed in 2018. I further advanced my academic journey by earning a Master's in Education from Tshwane University of Technology, where I explored the attitudes of teachers towards inclusive education. Additionally, I have completed an Honours in Social and Behavioural Studies from UNISA and an Honours in Psychology from Varsity College.
My professional career began in 2015 as a Foundation Phase teacher in a special school, where I developed a deep understanding of the unique needs of learners with intellectual disabilities. In 2022, I joined Tshwane University of Technology as a part-time lecturer in the Department of Primary Education. My role involves delivering lectures, developing curriculum content, ,mentoring students, assessing students and involvement in departmental committes.
I am a self-motivated, enthusiastic, and academically oriented individual with strong competencies in curriculum development, inclusive education strategies, and pedagogical research. My skills include effective communication, classroom management, and the ability to engage and inspire students. I am committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment that caters to the diverse needs of all students.
Overview
10
years of professional experience
Work History
TUT
Lecturer
1 2016 - Current
Job overview
- Developed an innovative approach to teaching that improved student engagement and exam pass rates.
- Collaborated with colleagues and external stakeholders to create an engaging learning environment.
- Designed and delivered a series of lectures on a variety of topics that have been well-received by students and faculty.
- Developed and implemented a successful assessment procedure that improved the accuracy of student evaluations.
- Evaluated student progress through regular assessments, providing detailed feedback for improvement and growth.
- Developed strong relationships with colleagues, collaborating on curriculum development and sharing best practices in teaching strategies.
- Increased student interest by incorporating real-world examples into lessons and connecting material to relevant experiences.
- Managed large class sizes effectively, maintaining an orderly learning environment conducive to student success.
- Conducted individual research projects to actively contribute to institution's research work.
- Used PowerPoint and Google Classroom technology to give presentations to student classrooms.
- Contributed to departmental meetings by sharing insights on effective teaching strategies and proposing solutions for addressing common challenges faced by faculty members.
- Cultivated critical thinking skills through challenging assignments that required analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of information from various sources.
- Adapted quickly to shifting educational landscapes during remote learning periods, leveraging digital tools to engage students via virtual platforms while maintaining a high level of academic rigor.
- Conducted research on pedagogical methods, integrating findings into teaching practices to enhance student learning.
- Built strong rapport with students through class discussions and academic advisement.
Medicos Special School
Teacher
03.2015 - Current
Job overview
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences.
- Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress, attendance, and behavior to facilitate ongoing communication with parents about their child''s educational journey.
- Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success.
- Served on school committees focused on curriculum development, teacher evaluations, or community outreach initiatives to contribute positively to the overall school climate.
- Continuously pursued professional development opportunities such as workshops or conferences to stay current in educational trends.
- Coordinated with language specialists to support English Language Learners, fostering more inclusive classroom.
- Created and developed lesson plans to meet students' academic needs.
- Modified lessons and curriculum to accommodate diverse learners by using strategies such as peer-assisted learning and group work.
Universirty of South Africa
Marker
01.2016 - 12.2023
Job overview
- Marked ENC1501 assessments.
- Developed Assessment memorandums.
- Collaborated with team members for improved workflow and consistent quality of assessments.
- Assisted in training new markers, ensuring a solid understanding of job responsibilities and company standards.
Education
Varsity College
Honours Degree from Developmental Psychology
05.2024
Tshwane University of Technology
Master's of Education from Inclusive Education
04.2023
University of Pretoria
Ph.D. from Early Childhood Education
2023
University of South Africa
Honours Degree from Social And Behavioural Studies
03.2020
Tshwane University of Technology
Honours Degree
04.2018
Tshwane University of Technology
B Ed
04.2016
Basic Education
Certificate of Play Based Learning (Birth To 2,2-5 And Grade R) from Play Based Learning
Skills
Problem-solving
Details
0693184600, sandile.happy@gmail.com
Languages
English
Siswati
Xitsonga
Sesotho
References
- Mrs Nonhlanhla Ledwaba, TUT, LedwabaN@tut.ac.za, 073 0777 074
- Dr NM Skosana, HOD, TUT, skosanaNM@tut.ac.za, 012 3829 703
Timeline
Marker
Universirty of South Africa
01.2016 - 12.2023
Teacher
Medicos Special School
03.2015 - Current
Lecturer
TUT
1 2016 - Current
Varsity College
Honours Degree from Developmental Psychology
Tshwane University of Technology
Master's of Education from Inclusive Education
University of Pretoria
Ph.D. from Early Childhood Education
University of South Africa
Honours Degree from Social And Behavioural Studies
Tshwane University of Technology
Honours Degree
Tshwane University of Technology
B Ed
Basic Education
Certificate of Play Based Learning (Birth To 2,2-5 And Grade R) from Play Based Learning
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