It is said teaching is a calling and Malvern High School’s acting principal Austine Mabao learned that from a young age.
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In Grade 10 he was already teaching others in his science class.
“My science teacher would sit at the back of the class and allow me to teach. I did not understand why he chose me but he saw my potential and that is where my love for education developed,” said Maboa.
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The history and geography teacher said when it was time for him to register for tertiary education he was not sure what he wanted to study but because of the influence in his schooling years, he remembered his first love, which was teaching.
“It just came naturally. I told myself studying what I love would make it easy for me,” he said.
He started teaching in 2004 in the Northern Cape before moving to Johannesburg to further pursue his passion.
Maboa said, “My first teaching job was teaching matrics, which was a challenge as a new teacher.
“I had to find my way of how to deal with them and make sure they excel in my subject. I was so happy when they passed with flying colours at the end of the year.”
He said it is not always easy in his line of work but as a teacher, you find ways to help your learners to reach their full potential.
His passion for his work is evident when he speaks about his learners.
“I love teaching and learning from children. I know through my work I can make a difference in another’s life,” said Maboa.
He said it is not always easy because dealing with pupils always has its challenges but he always learns from them.
“Malvern High is my fourth school ever since I started teaching and every school has got its own culture. You adapt to the school and the community and that way you can deal with whatever comes your way.
“In most cases, challenges are the same but different areas – what matters is how you deal with them,” he said.
Maboa said he loves how he has been able to touch his pupils’ lives through his work and hopes that he makes a difference in their lives.
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