ASSIGNMENT 7 (PORTFOLIO)
DUE 27 October 2025
QUESTION 1: Professional Teacher (34 Marks)
1.1 The Teacher as a Professional (20 Marks)
A. Definition of a Professional Educator (2 marks)
A professional educator is a qualified and ethical teacher who demonstrates knowledge,
skills, and values necessary to support learners’ academic, social, and emotional
development. This includes upholding school policies, acting with integrity, maintaining
accountability, and fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment (SACE,
2019). Professional educators serve as role models and promote excellence in both
teaching and conduct.
B. Instances Where Mr Dlamini Demonstrated Professionalism (6 marks)
1. Offering After-School Tutoring:
Mr Dlamini voluntarily stayed after school to help learners prepare for exams. This
shows dedication to learner success and a commitment to supporting students
beyond formal classroom hours.
2. Developing Interactive Learning Materials:
He created engaging learning resources that were later adopted by the department.
This demonstrates innovation, initiative, and a desire to improve teaching quality and
learner engagement.
3. Organising Parents’ Meetings:
, He regularly involved parents in monitoring learners’ academic progress. This
reflects accountability, transparency, and collaboration between school and home to
enhance learners’ outcomes.
C. Instances Where Mr Dlamini Acted Unprofessionally (6 marks)
1. Ignoring the Language Policy:
Mr Dlamini frequently used isiZulu despite English being the official medium of
instruction. This excluded non-isiZulu-speaking learners, causing embarrassment
and disrupting learning.
2. Neglecting Learner Safety During Excursion:
He failed to submit safety forms and brief learners on the school’s code of
conduct, resulting in learners wandering off and causing panic. This violated his
duty of care.
3. Disrespect Towards Colleagues:
Mr Dlamini mocked new teachers, interrupted staff meetings, and questioned
colleagues’ qualifications. This created tension and undermined collaboration in
the workplace.
D. Solutions for Unprofessional Conduct Based on SACE (6 marks)
1. Language Policy:
He should adhere to the school’s medium of instruction and provide additional
support for learners struggling with English. SACE requires educators to respect
institutional policies and ensure inclusivity.
2. Learner Safety:
He must complete all safety documentation and brief learners before excursions.
Professional development in safety and supervision is recommended, as per
SACE guidelines.