English, Mathematics, Science, Creative Arts.What type of job are you looking for? I am looking for a teaching post in primary education, as this was my speciality. I prefer to work in a school where 'class teaching', as opposed to subject specialization is promoted. I prefer this type of teaching as I believe that the teacher is then more able to place the child at the centre of teaching and learning. What nationality are you? Currently, I hold a New Zealand passport which was granted when I obtained New Zealand citizenship in 2006. However, I was born in South Africa. What languages do you speak (and at what level)? I am bilingual in English (my first language) and Afrikaans, both which I speak fluently. I also speak Arabic on a minimal level. What country or area are you looking to work in and why? I am looking for work in Guyana, somewhere in the Carribean, or in the South Pacific islands. I enjoy immersing myself in new cultures and appreciating cross-cultural similarities and differences. What countries have you worked in? Oman, New Zealand, Malaysia, South Africa. What countries do you have a visa to work in? Oman, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands affiliated with New Zealand. What field do you currently work in? Education - Primary/Elementary specialization. What fields have you worked in before? Administration, Public Relations, Cleaning. What qualifications do you hold? Bachelor of Education (2006, University of Auckland). Certificate in School Support Services in Schools (2002, Auckland College of Education). Which do you consider more valuable? Formal education or skills and why? Both are equally important in my career, as theory informs practice, and vice versa. Describe the benefits of working with others Working as a team enhances one's interpersonal skills. It provides an opportunity to pool together creative strengths for an outcome of which all team members can be proud. Describe the benefits of working alone Working alone enhances intrapersonal skills. It allows one to take initiative and use one's own talents. What was your worst working experience? My worst working experience was working for a boss who said, "...we have been doing the same thing for the past 20 years. Why change now?" That, I believe, is the worst statement we can make in education. We are preparing students to perform successfully in an ever-changing world. We need to embrace change in order to do so successfully. What is the most important lesson you have learnt throughout your career? The most important thing I have learnt throughout my career and also throughout my life is this: One's attitude at the beginning of any challenging task determines the outcome. A positive attitude determines a positive outcome. What unique skills do you have? I have the ability to 'think on my feet' and to 'think ahead' in a teaching/learning environment. My references will show that I can engage and motivate students by using creative teaching strategies (eg dance, drama, thinking skills). My creativity in visual art and arts and crafts enable me to create a visually stimulating classroom. I can quickly immerse myself within any culture due to my South African background. What would you consider as your 'dream job'? I am in my dream job; I am a teacher. What are the most interesting aspects of your field? The endeavour to help a child develop in all areas - physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, etc. What are the least interesting aspects of your field? All aspects of teaching and learning are interesting and I cannot think of any aspects that are least interesting to me. What are you looking for in prospective employer? I prefer to teach in a school where I am allowed to use my own professional knowledge, experience and creativity. However, I do understand that I am accountable to my superiors, parents and the community and thus there has to be a level of prescription. The fact is that children do not fit into a bracket and therefor we must view them as unique in their learning strengths and needs. Simply put, I will be told what to do, but may a times have a more effective way of doing it. This might be due to the fact that a classroom teacher would know each student better. How can potential employers contact you? By email as above: lada_021@hotmail.com. By mobile 'phone: +968 98110832. | 
