Teach it like you mean it

In this episode, Aamira Surtie-Pillay, an expert in learning and assessment development, unpacks how thoughtful assessment can transform the learning experience. Expect honest insights about balancing well-being with academic rigour, designing inclusive assessments, and using data meaningfully to support growth. Whether you’re a teacher, school leader, or education enthusiast, this conversation will challenge you to see assessment not as a task, but as a tool for unlocking potential.

This episode explores what it truly means to care for the caregivers of our classrooms. With insight from education leader Banele Lukhele, it dives into the realities of teacher burnout, the systemic pressures behind it, and what real support for educators should look like in South Africa today.

In this episode of Teach It Like You Mean It, we sit down with Zamajola Majola, an experienced school principal, to explore career progression and leadership opportunities for teachers in South Africa. From practical steps for moving into leadership to the importance of emotional intelligence, mentorship, and professional growth, Zamajola shares valuable insights for educators who want to build sustainable and impactful careers.

In this episode of Teach It Like You Mean It, Magret Botman speaks with education lecturer Nikki de Bruyn about the power of child participation in the classroom. From boosting confidence and cooperation to transforming learning outcomes, we explore how listening to children changes everything for them, for teachers, and for schools.

Have you ever wondered if play belongs beyond the early years? In this episode of Teach It Like You Mean It, I chat with Emma Morrison and Gillian Steven about the global movement of play-based learning, why it’s more than “just fun,” and how play can transform even maths and English classrooms.

In this episode Hannelie Bronner joins us to chat about Edublocks, an early intervention programme designed to strengthen cognitive foundations in children facing learning difficulties like dyslexia. We unpack the science behind “brain training,” the importance of early support, and how small changes in memory and perception can lead to big classroom breakthroughs. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or both, this episode is a powerful reminder that with the right tools and timely intervention, every child can thrive.

In this episode, we are joined by Zandelee Cloete, an Intermediate Phase teacher making a big impact in a small rural multigrade school in Eerste Rivier, just outside Jeffreys Bay. With limited resources, a long daily commute, and the responsibility of teaching multiple grades and subjects, Zandelee shares how she thrives against the odds. From time-saving strategies and resource hacks to heartwarming classroom moments and community collaboration, this episode is a powerful reminder that meaningful teaching doesn’t require abundance, it just requires heart.

This episode features Ofentse Montshiwe, who shares insights on how Mojo Finance Play employs creative methods like theatre and storytelling to promote financial literacy among young South Africans learners, especially in underprivileged areas. The discussion explores their age-tailored curriculum, the difficulties of incorporating it into schools, effective teaching approaches, and helpful tips for teachers and parents.

In this episode  we chat to Siyasanga Ali about the powerful role music plays in building confidence in our learners. Siyasanga shares her personal journey, illuminating how music can empower learners to express themselves, overcome challenges, build self-esteem and encourage team support amongst classmates.

In this episode, we chat to Siyasanga Ali about the profound impact of music on emotional intelligence in young learners. Discover how music goes beyond notes and rhythms to help learners express themselves and understand their emotions better. Siyasanga shares practical strategies, techniques, and examples that educators can use to cultivate emotional awareness in the classroom.

In this episode, we welcome Siyasanga Ali, a dedicated primary school Music Teacher. Join us as we explore the transformative power of music in education and how incorporating movement and rhythm can engage young learners in a meaningful way.

In this episode, we dive deep into the conversation around using affirmations in classrooms for primary school learners and explore their profound impact on student well-being and motivation. We discuss how to be intentional about integrating affirmations into daily routines and share various tools and strategies that teachers can employ to foster a positive classroom environment.

In this episode, we discuss "Reading Limitations and Support Strategies in the Intermediate Phase." We explore common reading challenges faced by learners, effective assessment techniques, and strategies for supporting struggling readers from Grade 4. Tune in to discover how Twinkl resources can aid in developing reading skills, the importance of phonics, and creative storytelling methods to enhance comprehension.

In this episode of 'Teach It Like You Mean It', hosts Magret Botman and Lerecia Labuschagne delve into the complexities of emotional regulation and sensory overload in learners with autism. They discuss the importance of understanding autism as a spectrum, the unique challenges faced by each individual, and the necessity for tailored strategies in educational settings. The conversation emphasises the role of teachers in recognising signs of sensory overload, implementing effective emotional regulation techniques, and making necessary adjustments during assessments to support learners on the spectrum.

In this episode, Caslida Paine discussed how coding and robotics can enhance primary school education by providing learners with crucial skills for the 21st century. She shares her personal journey, insights she will present at the Be InspirEd CPD Conference 2025, and practical strategies for tackling challenges in various educational settings.

In this episode, we honour World Read Aloud Day by diving deep into the transformative power of reading aloud with two incredible guests, Karen Cammell, creator of the Climb into Reading series, and Omolemo Tlhapi, author of Nomi’s Crown. They share their inspiring journeys in education, the challenges of literacy in South Africa, and practical strategies to ignite a love for reading in children. Tune in to explore the significance of reading aloud and how we can all contribute to fostering literacy in our communities.

In this episode of our podcast, we are excited to host Lerecia Labuschagne. We’ll discuss why fostering independence is essential for students at this stage, the challenges they face, and effective strategies teachers can implement, including goal setting, time management techniques, and the use of Twinkl resources.

In this episode, we discuss the upcoming Be Inspired CPD Conference, happening virtually on 15 February 2025. Thandazile shares insights about the conference and gives a sneak peek into her session titled "The Dangers of a World Without Play," where she explains the vital role of play in child development and its importance for critical thinking skills.

In today's episode, we welcome Lerecia Labuschagne, a seasoned educator with a Master's degree in Special Needs Education and over seven years of teaching experience. We discuss the challenges learners may face during transitions between school phases, such as adapting to new curricula, social changes, and increased academic expectations. Join us as we explore Lerecia's valuable insights on how to support Learners during these critical transitions.

In this episode, we're exploring the essential topic of self-care for teachers during the holiday season and preparing for a fresh start in the new academic year. Our guest is the incredible Sheron Macanza. With her rich experience and insights, Sheron will help us navigate the challenges teachers face during the break and share practical strategies for recharging effectively. Whether you're looking for ways to unwind or tips on how to plan ahead for your classroom, this conversation is packed with valuable advice for every teacher.

In this episode, we welcome Mbalenhle Mnyandu, isiZulu Content Writer for Twinkl Educational Publishing. With extensive experience in the intermediate phase, Mbalenhle shares her passion for teaching isiZulu as both a language and a cultural pillar. Join us as we discuss effective teaching practices, her contributions to isiZulu education, and the valuable resources she creates for Twinkl to enhance learning in South African classrooms.

In today’s episode, we’re tackling a vital topic: sign language in education and the challenges faced by the Deaf community in South Africa. Join us as we welcome Nosiphelo Mafika, a passionate advocate for the Deaf and experienced educator. With her wealth of experience teaching in a Deaf school, Nosiphelo will share her journey and valuable insights on bridging the gap between South African Sign Language and English. Tune in to discover the resources needed to better support Deaf learners in our education system.

In this episode Joanne Stead guides us through a vital discussion on assessment preparation for both teachers and learners. We explore how to effectively utilise the assessment materials available on our website while delving into essential topics like curriculum understanding, various assessment types, differentiation strategies, constructive feedback practices, and study techniques.

Twinkl's Teach it like you mean it podcast is specifically for intermediate phase educators in South Africa. Recognising the unique challenges and opportunities faced by teachers in this crucial educational phase, this podcast aims to provide a platform for sharing insights, resources, and strategies that can enhance teaching practices and foster professional growth.