A significant step forward was taken on 26 June 2024, in the quest to improve student teacher training in South Africa through the collaboration of partners under the umbrella of the Teacher Internship Collaboration South Africa (TICZA) steering committee, which met at the DBE Conference Centre in Pretoria.
The Committee was chaired by Ms Lala Maje, Director for Initial Teacher Education. This meeting brought together stakeholders from JET Education Services, the DBE, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), and the South African Council for Educators (SACE), various NGOs (Thuto Trust, Bridge, NASCEE, Standard Bank Foundation and others), to discuss the progress made in the support of student teachers’ practical experience and wrap-around support throughout their tertiary life. The initiative aims to improve on the experience of student teachers, especially those on distance learning through mentoring support, classroom management and techniques to ensure teacher efficacy and teacher autonomy. The meeting focused on supporting student teachers, particularly those studying through distance learning, to gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of the teaching profession.
Dr James Keevy, CEO of JET, shared insights into the project's objectives and collective impact approach. He discussed at length the common competency framework for mentors, that will provide common standards for all implementers. TICZA also wants to pull resources together so as to provide the sector and partners with data that will inform practice.
Ms Maje emphasised the importance of supporting student teachers on distance learning whilst studying towards the Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree and PGCE, stating, “The support for the student teacher provides some assurance that the teacher will remain in the profession; students are provided with the required relevant support for the successful delivery of lessons, better classroom management, better-coping mechanisms, efficient and effective systems for work-life balance and well-being. So, through TICZA collaboration, student teachers on distance learning will never feel alone or miss out on practical experience.”
The TICZA programme creates a shared vision and measurable goals for improved student teacher training and a standardised competency framework for mentors, whilst bringing together Government, private and third-sector organisations for common goals and purpose.
The meeting marked an important step forward in this collective impact project, fostering partnerships and alignment amongst stakeholders to ultimately benefit student teachers and the education sector as a whole. By working together, stakeholders aim to ensure that tomorrow's teachers are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide quality education to South Africa's children.