Star teacher of the week

Wiandri Ludwig - Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

From a young age, I knew I wanted to work with children. I decided to become a teacher because I knew the importance of education and shaping young minds. I’ve always had the need to help others, and my mother was also a teacher and I could see how she was able to make a difference in the lives of the children she taught.

What motivates you every morning to get up and go to work and how long have you been in the education industry?

Since 2018 I’ve been a grade 1 teacher at Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool and I’m genuinely happy with my career choice. Every year I see how different personalities and talents are developed daily, and even when you need to be strict sometimes, each day your learners will greet you with sweetest and friendliest faces. Grade 1 learners also place so much of their trust in their teacher, and that trust and love is something I will not trade for anything in the world.

Can you tell us more about your teaching journey?

I studied a B.Ed Foundation Phase degree at the Northwest University in Potchefstroom, South Africa. During my studies I completed the practical part of my course at various schools and I was able to learn so much from all the different teachers. I am also a part of the school’s sport and cultural programmes and I am beyond proud to be associated with this school. During 2020 we as teachers were pushed beyond our comfort zones, and we were forced to adapt and become very creative. On this career path we experience lifelong growth and I would like to be a teacher for many more years.

What are some of the challenges you face daily and how do you overcome them?

When you work with children, you always need to remember that no two learners are the same and each one is special and unique in their own way. As a teacher, you need to know your learners very well, and each day brings its own stress, but also rewards. When you decide to become a teacher, you can’t choose this career because of the money, because there are so many other rewards apart from the money. A teacher needs to be committed and have the right mindset, and I try to do this every day.

What is one of the biggest lessons you have learned from your learners?

To believe as unconditionally as a child. This is what stands out most for me of being a teacher and working with children; how easily learners trust and believe. As adults we always want to be in charge and sometimes, we can learn from kids to just let go and trust that our God is in charge.

What are some of your talents and what are you passionate about?

I’m extremely passionate about my work. I don’t mind devoting time and energy to my work, because I truly love and value what I get to do every day. I also practise hockey and I adore sport, which is a big part of who I am.

What is your favourite song, place to visit in Namibia and your dream car?

I love Afrikaans music and every week I have a different favourite song. We travel so much throughout the country and one of the places I’m happiest in is in the Zambezi Region. My dream car has to be the new Volkswagen Tiguan.