Shunbagavellie Chetty has taught accounting and economics for 22 years.
How did you get into teaching?
My spouse was an educator and we spent a lot of time in the company of his colleagues. The job satisfaction they seemed to enjoy attracted me. My elder brother and sister are also in the profession.
Highlights of your teaching experience?
After a very challenging year I was delighted with the results of the first matric accounting class I taught in 1998. Business Economics results, despite a mixed bag of pupils, were also very rewarding, with the class achieving 20 distinctions.
And the challenges?
I am a parent and have to divide my time so that my schoolwork and the welfare of my family (and my chronically ill husband) are not neglected.
Occasionally a difficult pupil’s parent, out of loyalty to his or her offspring, will do anything to
justify the bad conduct of the children. This attitude pushes pupils further into a reckless spirit that eventually destroys them. I keep notes of misconduct so that I have an objective record when confronted by parents.
How do you maintain discipline?
I make it my duty to be at my workstation punctually. Work commences immediately and my planning ensures that pupils are engaged during the course of the lesson. Provision is made for the mixed abilities in the group.
Your thoughts on school management?
I am convinced that the continuously increasing demands being placed on teachers will very soon result in the last straw breaking the camel’s back. It is high time that school management and other experts researched the load placed on educators.
How do you unwind and relax?
I go for a daily walk with a friend, which rejuvenates my mind and body before marking of scripts, preparation of worksheets and planning of lessons. I also participate in an aerobics programme thrice weekly. I have a tiny garden, which I nurture, and talking to plants helps rekindle a spirit for work.
What of today’s youth?
I find it alarming that pupils are so aware of their rights but conveniently forget the
corresponding moral obligations that go with these rights. Values like humility, honesty and responsibility have given way to materialism. Branded labels give pupils a false sense of security. A recent trend among boys is to cultivate hairstyles that take up much of their time. Their obsession with fashion has led to a decreased interest in sport.
How have you coped with changes in our education system in the past 10 years?
I had to research multi-cultural education to understand better the teething problems of schools opening their doors to all children. OBE has necessitated attendance at meetings, workshops, seminars and discussions with other educators. Although very demanding, this aspect of education is dynamic and necessitates an open-minded approach.
What survival tips do you have for young teachers?
Teaching involves much more than standing in front of a class. A considerable amount of time is spent on administrative work, lesson preparation and marking. Teaching is never a static profession; adjust and adapt. Never prejudge issues and let experience be your guiding hand. Be active in the community you serve as this will give you an indication of the social background of pupils and assist in dealing with problems.