Written by Jon van Wyk
A still passionate educator after some 40 years of teaching, I often sit in the quiet corner of a classroom, early morning sun filtering through the windows, and ponder what it truly means to learn. The longer I have taught, the more difficult this question actually becomes to answer, given the way that it has remained so elusively over the years, shaped by countless interactions with students and a deepening understanding of my own part in the great endeavour that education will always be.
Ask me and I’ll tell you honestly – Education is a deeply personal experience. I think It begins with curiosity—a spark that ignites when we encounter something unfamiliar, new and sometimes exciting. I remember the first time I read ‘Robinson Crusoe,’ an experience that transported me to another world, or when I first learned to ride a bike. Those moments were a pivotal point in my own learning journey. They taught me that learning is not confined to the classroom; it thrives in the new experiences we encounter and the questions we dare to ask of ourselves and others.
Learning seems not just to be tallied as the absorption of knowledge, but a fluid, constantly evolving interplay between the learner and the subject. Each student comes to my classes with a unique background, a unique perspective that colours their understanding. I strive to create an environment where they feel safe to express their thoughts and feelings, where they can explore ideas without fear of judgment. This freedom allows them to engage with the material on a deeper level, to connect what they learn in school with their own lives.
I’ve learned over the years that mistakes are always part of the learning process. I often share my own experiences, recounting times when I stumbled in my career or faced challenges in my personal life. By normalising mistakes, I hope to develop resilience in my students, encouraging them to embrace failure as an opportunity for growth rather than a block to stumble on.
Moreover, learning is deeply tied to empathy and connection. I realize that the best lessons often occur not through formal instruction, but through shared experiences. Watching my students collaborate on projects or discussing literature ignoring the end of lesson bell, brings me joy. In these moments, these students learn from one another, filling gaps in understanding and sharing experiences that last beyond classroom walls.
It has to be said that my understanding of learning is still growing. It means participating in a lifelong conversation where every question leads to new insights, where every new experience serves as a base to jump from. As I guide my students, I am reminded that we are all learners in this journey, and the quest for knowledge is as significant as the knowledge itself. Should it be an adventure? Most definitely yes.
Album of the month
“Get Nervous” by Pat Benatar
“Get Nervous,” released in 1982, marks Pat Benatar’s bold journey exploring new wave and rock sounds while showcasing vocals that seem too grand for one with such a tiny frame. The album features a feast of high energy tracks, showcasing Benatar’s ability to convey both vulnerability and defiance. “Shadows of the Night,” one of the stand out tracks, blends a driving rhythm with poignant lyrics, illustrating her knack for passionate storytelling.
Benatar’s vocal powerhouse shines throughout, effortlessly mastering varying styles while retaining an unmistakable rawness, so rare in these times of breathless chanteuses. The production, handled by long-time mentor Neil Giraldo, adds definition to the aural soundscape that elevates the overall listening experience. “Get Nervous” is an exciting rock odyssey that highlights Benatar’s growth as an artist. It remains a testament to her enduring legacy in rock music, captivating listeners with its raw energy and expressive song-writing. A must-listen for fans of female-powered rock.