Teacher Patricia: Encouragement leads to success
Northview Christian Academy's Patricia Nieman says discipline is a teacher's biggest challenge but that motivating learners is a key for success.
POLOKWANE- Meeting teacher Patricia Nieman, one quickly realises there is really no career for her other than teaching.
Soft-spoken, patient and kind, she opts teaching foundation or intermediate phase learners any day. Nieman joined Northview Christian Academy Academy seven years ago after spending a few years at The Little Lighthouse.
“I teach Afrikaans for Gr 4 and 6 as well as CAT for Gr 7. The difference between being a primary school teacher and a preschool teacher is huge. I love primary school as the children live their dreams with you.”
Besides teaching Afrikaans, she also offers extra classes in Braingain Neurofeedback sessions.
She makes use of technology such as YouTube and PowerPoint to aid her in her teaching.
“I think a teacher’s biggest challenge in class is discipline. Teaching now is different from 20 years ago, especially when it comes to discipline. I believe a teacher and the child’s parents should work together to find the best way forward. If a child shows behavioural problems, I approach the parents with a positive attitude and a solution for the problems.”
To help learners prepare for their exams, she motivates them through praise as she believe encouragement is a big ingredient in the recipe for success.
“Every day is a good day. You achieve your goal and work with gems. I knew I wanted to be a teacher since I was still in school. On my first day as a teacher, I immediate knew this is where I belong.”
In her free time, Nieman spends time with her own children and prepares for the next school term.
