Colleen Walls a beacon of inspiration for future teachers

In the realm of education, there are teachers who leave an indelible mark on their learners’ lives, shaping their future paths and inspiring them to follow in their footsteps.

Colleen Walls, an English teacher from Crawford International Lonehill, is one such remarkable educator. Having dedicated her life to teaching, Walls firmly believes that by exhibiting exceptional leadership qualities, more learners will be motivated to become teachers. Her enduring legacy is evident in the number of learners she has taught who have gone on to become successful teachers, highlighting the fundamental role teaching plays in shaping a strong foundation for successful citizens.

Walls understands that leadership is not confined to administrative roles, it can be exemplified within the classroom as well. By embodying the qualities of a strong leader, such as passion, dedication, and empathy, she has become a role model for her learners. Through her unwavering commitment to her profession, she has shown future teachers the transformative power they possess to positively impact the lives of their learners.

Walls mentioned that a love for teaching did not happen instantly for her. She was introduced to teaching in the old apartheid era, where the curriculum did not allow teachers to educate learners and make a difference outside of the norm. She wanted to make a difference in how children viewed education and the way they studied.

Teaching is undeniably fundamental to the development of society. It shapes the minds of young learners, equips them with essential knowledge and skills, and cultivates the values necessary for success. By inspiring future teachers, she is contributing to the growth and progress of society as a whole.

One of her previous learners, Rose Morris, now a curriculum leader and English teacher at the school said, “I remember being in a difficult classroom and Walls was our English teacher. She was very patient and dedicated even when we were difficult because she saw the best that we could not see at the time.
“Walls is a teacher that I always admired as she would be the first person I look for when it comes to my grammar. Her love and passion for implementing different activities in class, reinforced my love for English,” says Morris.

By recognising the fundamental role of teaching in society, Walls has built a strong foundation for success in the lives of her learners and the generations they will go on to educate. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education and the critical importance of passionate and committed educators in building a brighter future.

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