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QUESTION 1: Professional Responsibilities
1.1 List five professional responsibilities of a student teacher during teaching practice.
1. Instructional Planning and Preparation
A fundamental responsibility is the development of detailed and well-structured lesson plans
grounded in sound pedagogical principles. These plans must be submitted to the cooperating teacher
for review and discussion prior to implementation (Department of Higher Education and Training
[DHET], 2015). This process ensures instructional alignment with curriculum standards and provides
opportunities for constructive mentoring.
2. Active Participation in School Operations
Student teachers are expected to fully integrate into the school community by undertaking duties
commensurate with professional educators. This includes participating in supervisory activities such
as break-duty or examination invigilation, attending staff meetings, and contributing to
extracurricular programmes (Marais & Meier, 2004). Such involvement demonstrates commitment
to the holistic functioning of the school.
3. Professional Conduct and Presentation
Maintaining appropriate professional demeanour in appearance, language, and behaviour is a critical
responsibility. Student teachers must recognise their status as authority figures and positive role
models, avoiding any conduct that could compromise their professional standing (South African
Council for Educators [SACE], 2018). This includes adhering to school dress codes and
communicating respectfully with all stakeholders.
4. Collaborative Engagement and Mentorship
Establishing productive working relationships with the cooperating teacher and university supervisor
is essential. Student teachers are obligated to proactively seek guidance, respond constructively to
feedback, and take initiative in resolving pedagogical challenges (Du Plessis, 2013). This
collaborative approach enhances professional growth and instructional effectiveness.
5. Adherence to Ethical and Legal Standards
A paramount responsibility involves maintaining strict confidentiality regarding learner information
and school records. Additionally, student teachers must demonstrate moral integrity by fostering
equitable and respectful relationships with all learners, thereby upholding the ethical codes
prescribed by the profession (SACE, 2018; DHET, 2015).
QUESTION 1: Professional Responsibilities
1.1 List five professional responsibilities of a student teacher during teaching practice.
1. Instructional Planning and Preparation
A fundamental responsibility is the development of detailed and well-structured lesson plans
grounded in sound pedagogical principles. These plans must be submitted to the cooperating teacher
for review and discussion prior to implementation (Department of Higher Education and Training
[DHET], 2015). This process ensures instructional alignment with curriculum standards and provides
opportunities for constructive mentoring.
2. Active Participation in School Operations
Student teachers are expected to fully integrate into the school community by undertaking duties
commensurate with professional educators. This includes participating in supervisory activities such
as break-duty or examination invigilation, attending staff meetings, and contributing to
extracurricular programmes (Marais & Meier, 2004). Such involvement demonstrates commitment
to the holistic functioning of the school.
3. Professional Conduct and Presentation
Maintaining appropriate professional demeanour in appearance, language, and behaviour is a critical
responsibility. Student teachers must recognise their status as authority figures and positive role
models, avoiding any conduct that could compromise their professional standing (South African
Council for Educators [SACE], 2018). This includes adhering to school dress codes and
communicating respectfully with all stakeholders.
4. Collaborative Engagement and Mentorship
Establishing productive working relationships with the cooperating teacher and university supervisor
is essential. Student teachers are obligated to proactively seek guidance, respond constructively to
feedback, and take initiative in resolving pedagogical challenges (Du Plessis, 2013). This
collaborative approach enhances professional growth and instructional effectiveness.
5. Adherence to Ethical and Legal Standards
A paramount responsibility involves maintaining strict confidentiality regarding learner information
and school records. Additionally, student teachers must demonstrate moral integrity by fostering
equitable and respectful relationships with all learners, thereby upholding the ethical codes
prescribed by the profession (SACE, 2018; DHET, 2015).
