BPT1501
Assignment 7
Portfolio
Semester 2 2025
Due October 2025
,BPT1501
Assignment 7: Portfolio
Semester 2 2025
DUE October 2025
QUESTION 1: Professional Teacher
A. Definition of a Professional Educator
A professional educator is someone who demonstrates ethical conduct, subject
mastery, and a commitment to the holistic development of learners while upholding the
core values of the teaching profession. According to the South African Council for
Educators (SACE, 2019), professionalism in education involves adherence to ethical
standards, respect for diversity, and ongoing professional growth to promote effective
learning. Beyond delivering lessons, a professional educator serves as a role model
who nurtures respect, inclusivity, and responsibility among learners.
B. Instances Where Mr Dlamini Demonstrated Professionalism
1. Providing Voluntary Tutoring for Struggling Learners
Mr Dlamini displayed professionalism by voluntarily offering after-school tutoring
sessions to help struggling learners prepare for exams. This demonstrates his
commitment to learner achievement and aligns with SACE’s Code of Professional
Ethics, which emphasizes dedication to learner support and holistic development
(SACE, 2019). His willingness to invest personal time highlights accountability and a
learner-centred teaching approach.
, 2. Development of Interactive Learning Materials
He designed interactive learning materials that were later adopted by the department to
enhance learner engagement. This reflects innovation and a commitment to continuous
professional growth—key qualities of effective educators. By creating resources that
encourage active learning, Mr Dlamini fulfilled his role as a curriculum implementer and
innovator (Department of Basic Education [DBE], 2011).
3. Encouraging Parental Involvement
By organizing meetings for parents to monitor learner progress, Mr Dlamini
strengthened the partnership between home and school. This initiative promotes learner
success and demonstrates effective communication and collaboration, which are key
indicators of professional responsibility (SACE, 2019). Engaging parents acknowledges
shared accountability in education and fosters trust within the school community.
C. Instances Where Mr Dlamini Acted Unprofessionally
1. Use of isiZulu in an English-Medium Classroom
Mr Dlamini’s decision to teach primarily in isiZulu, despite English being the school’s
language of instruction, excluded learners who were not proficient in isiZulu. This
contravenes the principles of inclusivity and fairness outlined by SACE, which require
educators to respect linguistic diversity and ensure equitable learning opportunities for
all learners (SACE, 2019).
2. Negligence During the School Excursion
Failing to submit safety forms and brief learners on the code of conduct during a school
excursion reflected negligence and a lack of accountability. This behaviour violated his
professional duty of care, as teachers are ethically and legally responsible for learner
safety during school activities (DBE, 2016). Shifting blame to learners further
demonstrated poor integrity and professional immaturity.
3. Disrespectful Conduct Towards Colleagues
Mr Dlamini’s sarcastic remarks toward new teachers during staff meetings reflected
unprofessional interpersonal conduct. Professional educators are expected to maintain
Assignment 7
Portfolio
Semester 2 2025
Due October 2025
,BPT1501
Assignment 7: Portfolio
Semester 2 2025
DUE October 2025
QUESTION 1: Professional Teacher
A. Definition of a Professional Educator
A professional educator is someone who demonstrates ethical conduct, subject
mastery, and a commitment to the holistic development of learners while upholding the
core values of the teaching profession. According to the South African Council for
Educators (SACE, 2019), professionalism in education involves adherence to ethical
standards, respect for diversity, and ongoing professional growth to promote effective
learning. Beyond delivering lessons, a professional educator serves as a role model
who nurtures respect, inclusivity, and responsibility among learners.
B. Instances Where Mr Dlamini Demonstrated Professionalism
1. Providing Voluntary Tutoring for Struggling Learners
Mr Dlamini displayed professionalism by voluntarily offering after-school tutoring
sessions to help struggling learners prepare for exams. This demonstrates his
commitment to learner achievement and aligns with SACE’s Code of Professional
Ethics, which emphasizes dedication to learner support and holistic development
(SACE, 2019). His willingness to invest personal time highlights accountability and a
learner-centred teaching approach.
, 2. Development of Interactive Learning Materials
He designed interactive learning materials that were later adopted by the department to
enhance learner engagement. This reflects innovation and a commitment to continuous
professional growth—key qualities of effective educators. By creating resources that
encourage active learning, Mr Dlamini fulfilled his role as a curriculum implementer and
innovator (Department of Basic Education [DBE], 2011).
3. Encouraging Parental Involvement
By organizing meetings for parents to monitor learner progress, Mr Dlamini
strengthened the partnership between home and school. This initiative promotes learner
success and demonstrates effective communication and collaboration, which are key
indicators of professional responsibility (SACE, 2019). Engaging parents acknowledges
shared accountability in education and fosters trust within the school community.
C. Instances Where Mr Dlamini Acted Unprofessionally
1. Use of isiZulu in an English-Medium Classroom
Mr Dlamini’s decision to teach primarily in isiZulu, despite English being the school’s
language of instruction, excluded learners who were not proficient in isiZulu. This
contravenes the principles of inclusivity and fairness outlined by SACE, which require
educators to respect linguistic diversity and ensure equitable learning opportunities for
all learners (SACE, 2019).
2. Negligence During the School Excursion
Failing to submit safety forms and brief learners on the code of conduct during a school
excursion reflected negligence and a lack of accountability. This behaviour violated his
professional duty of care, as teachers are ethically and legally responsible for learner
safety during school activities (DBE, 2016). Shifting blame to learners further
demonstrated poor integrity and professional immaturity.
3. Disrespectful Conduct Towards Colleagues
Mr Dlamini’s sarcastic remarks toward new teachers during staff meetings reflected
unprofessional interpersonal conduct. Professional educators are expected to maintain
