Meet our EduExcellence Rondebosch Campus Principal
Updated: May 13, 2022
Having been in education for almost 30 years, Nicol Kettleborough knew she wanted to teach when first helping out in a classroom at 17. Her teaching philosophy is to create natural, caring learning environments where children are happy and comfortable. We asked Principal Kettleborough a few questions, so see what she had to say below:
"Teaching and working with children is a privilege."
Tell us a little bit more about yourself.
I’m originally from the UK, but lived in Brazil for three years before moving to Cape Town. I have been in Education for almost 30 years! I have been a teacher, a Head of Infants, a substitute teacher, a Facilitator, a Head Teacher and now I am a Principal. I have two daughters and five fur babies. I love to cook, take my girls shopping, and I enjoy walking my dogs in the Tokai forest.
Why did you choose to be in education?
I chose to be in education because the very first time I helped in a classroom at the age of 17, I knew it was what I wanted to do. I knew it was something I would enjoy and be excited about. Teaching and working with children is a privilege, and each day brings new challenges and learning experiences.
"Have the children be involved in their learning and not simply being told how things are."
Why is EduExcellence different from other schools?
I believe EduExcellence differs in many ways from more traditional schools. We offer personal education, designed for each individual child, putting the importance of the child first and not the academics that many schools do. We use therapeutic activities every day and only when we understand the needs of the child, do we then integrate the academic component.
In many schools, children are taken from the classroom for lessons such as Speech or Occupational Therapy. However, at EduExcellence we believe the child can receive help from their teacher every day. EduExcellence strives to give each child individual attention, and our classes are smaller to help children feel safe and secure. We understand that children do not all fit the same mold. We also offer a Skills Centre for those children that do not fit into mainstream or remedial education.
What is your favourite part of the day?
My favourite part of the day is lunch time, as this is when all Staff and children sit together and are able to chat about everyday things. I get to hear about their dreams, their worries, what they did at the weekend, and everything else in between. It is a fabulous way to create and strengthen bonds with each other. What is your teaching philosophy?
My teaching philosophy remains steadfast: to create a natural and caring environment where children are happy and keen to be. To have the children be involved in their learning and not simply being told how things are. To encourage the asking of questions and curiosity.
What is a favourite inspirational quote of yours?
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” - Mahatma Gandhi
What is the greatest challenge facing educators these days?
One of the greatest challenges facing educators today is class size. This can make it extremely difficult to differentiate and personalize their teaching. At EduExcellence, we are blessed to be able to offer class sizes of 12 or less, to ensure teaching takes place in a more conducive, less tense and less pressured environment, with individual education plans. It’s a win-win for educators and the students.
What three words would you use to describe yourself?
Adaptive
Caring
Positive
What do you bring to EduExcellence that makes you unique?
I believe my teaching experience makes me pretty unique. During my time in education, I have worn many hats. I have experienced education and working with children from many viewpoints. I am able to bring my experiences and the many lessons learnt into my role today. I have taught in mainstream schools, special needs schools and remedial. All this enables me to bring the very best of myself to EduExcellence.
EduExcellence Rondebosch is the newest campus added to the EduExcellence family of private schools. If you’d like to get in touch with Principal Kettleborough, reach out through the channels below:
Arrange a campus visit:
https://www.eduexcellence.co.za/book-a-coffee-chat
Email EduExcellence Rondebosch:
rondebosch@eduexcellence.co.za
Read more blog articles:
https://www.eduexcellence.co.za/blog
About EduExcellence: