The passionate teacher placed first in Gauteng in the Excellence in Primary School Teaching category. Nasagee was also the recipient of an achievement award and is a finalist in the same category for the 18th annual National Teaching Awards. The Benoni resident is married to Siva (44) and has two children, Aliyah (18) and Tristan (15).
• For how long have you been teaching?
I’ve been an educator for 21 years, of which I’ve taught at Brenthurst Primary School for 11.
• What subjects or grade do you teach?
I teach Grade Six social sciences and maths.
• What inspired you to become a teacher?
At school I loved languages and as a result most of my friends would ask me to help them, especially in Afrikaans.
It gave me great pleasure to help others, but most of all greater understanding.
Once I was done with school I decided to study optometry – unfortunately I had applied too late.
A relative then suggested I study teaching; if I didn’t like it I could always apply for optometry the following year.
Well, let’s just say the rest is history.
Once I got involved in education I didn’t stop.
And that’s why I can confidently say that teaching is a calling.
• How would your learners describe you?
My learners would describe me as strict, fair, always willing to help and knowledgeable when it comes to my subjects.
• When you were in school what subject provided the best learning experience for you?
English and Afrikaans.
I could get lost in my set works and was easily able to identify with the characters.
My writing skills led to me writing beautiful compositions, which also resulted in me winning a writing competition as well as the English and Afrikaans subject awards in matric.
• What do you like most about your job?
Teaching is my passion.
I believe that I can make a positive difference in a learner’s life.
It gives me a good feeling knowing that I can explain a concept and see a child’s face light up with understanding.
• Is there any advice you would give to a person who is starting out in your chosen career?
Remember, being a teacher is not only imparting information to others, it encompasses being a nurse, an accountant, a drill sergeant, a referee and even a parent to the learners we encounter.
It is hard work, but worth the effort.
Most of all, be a life-long learner, well planned and prepared, and you will make a difference.
• What do you see on the horizon for your line of work?
I would love to move up the ladder in management, but to continue making a difference in learners’ and teachers’ lives.
• Do you have any hobbies or special interests?
I love gardening and reading.
Both activities give me pleasure and help me to relax.
• Who or what inspires you?
My family inspires me to be the best I can be.
My husband is my pillar of strength.
He always ‘peps’ me up when I’m down by pointing out my potential, capabilities and strengths.
This motivates me to move forward in all my endeavours.
He inspires me by the way he lives life; nothing is so catastrophic that you can’t solve it.
• What do you feel you have bragging rights to?
I’m not just an average teacher, but an excellent teacher.
I’m objective. I can easily understand both sides of a situation.
I’ve led my Grade Six team to success on numerous occasions.
I spearheaded the concept of a formal Grade Seven farewell, which is lots of hard work, but worth the effort.
I’ve held first position at cluster level and provincial level in the National Teachers Awards, as well as being a finalist at nationals.
• If you could witness any event of the past, present or future, what would it be and why?
I would go into the future and witness the worst mistake I’m going to make so I could hopefully change it.
A cure for HIV/Aids.
When my paternal grandparents first came to South Africa – to experience their feelings of coming to a new place and not knowing what to expect.
• In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing educators today?
Identifying the underlying problems (poverty, home environment, family life, learner’s attitude and behaviour, and frequent absenteeism) which keep learners from performing at their full academic potential.
Also read:Â In the spotlight
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