Teacher Fellows Walk with Scholars on their Bursary Journey

Leticia Ingle | Teacher Fellow at Penryn College, Mbombela

What is the most rewarding part of being a Teacher Fellow?

The bursaries team regularly schedules individual meetings with each of the scholars to check in on them. I usually send a text message to the scholar to notify them about their appointment. It is very heartening for me when scholars come to the office to discuss their issues face-to-face. It shows that they trust me enough to share their feelings, friendships, academics, and other important aspects of their lives. When we conduct group sessions, it is a great opportunity for the scholars to collaborate, solve problems, and discuss important matters. It creates an environment where scholars are comfortable to share, laugh, and express themselves. It is fascinating to observe as their timidness and reluctance transform into idea-sharing and healthy competition. Another special moment for me is when I meet potential bursary recipients and go through the selection process with them. They are always full of positive energy, and their excitement when they see the college and hostels is always beautiful to witness. Even though they are nervous before the interview, I love the questions they ask. The most special moment is seeing them on their first day of school wearing their new school uniform.

What are some challenges of the role?

I haven’t faced any major challenges with the scholars I work with. While they may miss a few sessions occasionally, I understand that they have a heavy workload. Each student has a unique personality, interests, and learning style. Some are more outgoing and expressive than others. There have been no excessively difficult situations, but rather occasional needs that arise with each scholar and occasionally with their parents. Managing their involvement in extracurricular activities can be challenging as their requirements are not the same and don’t come at the same time. Despite some parents not being fully supportive of their children, we are finding ways to best suit and benefit the scholars.

Why do you think the role of a Teacher Fellow is an important part of a bursary program?

I understand that the role of Teacher Fellow is incredibly important. A Teacher Fellow can offer valuable support and assistance to parents, management staff, and guardians, allowing them to focus on more advanced tasks. Moreover, having a guardian available to scholars expands their options for seeking advice and asking questions. This role is crucial for several reasons. Many scholars need a safe and non-judgmental space to express themselves and communicate freely. This can be difficult to find among peers from diverse backgrounds who may face challenges fitting in providing a listening ear and offering relatable solutions from a mother’s perspective as most of the scholars are raised by a guardian. Additionally, the daily needs of scholars, such as requests for academic and sports-related support, are frequent and require attention throughout the year so I advocate for scholars and ensure that their needs are met in every aspect.

What do you enjoy about working with Raise the Children Scholars?

It provides me with the opportunity to interact with a diverse range of personalities daily. This experience has allowed me to reflect on my own high school experiences and how they have shaped me as a person. It’s fascinating to see how we all have unique personalities yet share common experiences. I find it fulfilling to take on the role of a mentor to these scholars and assist them in navigating their growth, difficulties, and adolescence. Scholars are always searching for a safe space where they can express themselves and have fun. During meetings and sessions, I get to discover their traumas and help them find solutions. Through collaboration, I can observe their mental and emotional struggles and with a few collaborative activities, I can see their moods change as they become more comfortable and engaged. It’s like seeing myself through their eyes and understanding what may have happened in my past or what might happen in their future. This realization allows me to guide and help them, which is a very rewarding experience.