Intern-Teacher Graduate Update: Ms Boitumelo Kitime

Each year the Thandulwazi Maths and Science Academy runs an internship programme that enables intern-teachers to gain valuable teaching experience here at Saints. After the intern-teachers complete the programme they go on to teach full time with some remaining at Saints and others teaching at other schools.

Ms Boitumelo Kitime, graduated from the programme in December 2015. She completed a Bachelor of Education (FET phase, English & Life Orientation) at UNISA. She is currently teaching at Masibambane College in Orange Farm.

Ms Kitime wrote of her experiences and her time at Masibambane as follows:

“I have always grown up wanting to give back to my community. That is one of the reasons I decided to become a teacher. Another reason I chose to become a teacher is that teachers shape and mould the future and I wanted to shape and mould somebody’s future.

'During my involvement in the Thandulwazi Intern-Teacher Training Programme I was also involved in community service projects. Every time I went to a new public school and then back to the comfort of a private school I realised how far and wide the gap in education is between the two schooling systems. I decided from there on that I wanted to make a difference in public schooling.

'I met the headmaster of Masibambane College at a conference and I knew then that it was fate that we met. I was persuaded, by him, to submit my CV. When I went for an interview I was shown around the school and I fell in love with how it is at the centre of the Orange Farm community. I was inspired by how the school is making a difference in its community regardless of its size. 

'I have brought a different approach to teaching, with new ideas, and I am fitting into the school community well. The learners are enjoying every single lesson and I can tell this from their feedback, and from how they have become curious about the world beyond Orange Farm.

'I have just started studying my honours in Special/ Inclusive Education. Last year I worked closely with the academic support department at the Boys' College and I would like to be able to help some of our learners who need support. I have introduced support classes which deal with basic skills such as organisational skills, writing skills, and speaking skills. I am hopeful that as the year progresses we will see a difference in these learners.      

'Leaving my comfort zone has really been an eye-opening experience. I am grateful that I can be the change I want to see.”