Carmen Olifant

Dedicated experienced foundation phase teacher at Nova Pioneer Northriding, known for reliability and adaptability in diverse educational settings. Excellent timekeeping and organizational abilities facilitate smooth classroom operations and student success. Skilled in teamwork and independent problem-solving, with a focus on constructive communication and decision-making. Strong attention to detail drives commitment to quality education and continuous improvement.

Foundation Phase Teacher Grade 1 and 2 at Nova Pioneer Northriding (2024-01 – Present)

Foundation Phase Teacher for Grade 1 and 2 students

• Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment
• Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences
• Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities
• Maintained accurate records of student progress, attendance, and behavior to facilitate ongoing communication with parents
• Assessed student performance regularly using both formative and summative assessments to inform future lesson planning
• Mentored new teachers, sharing best practices and providing guidance to help them adapt to their new roles successfully
• Organized extracurricular activities such as clubs or field trips that enriched students' learning experiences
• Served on school committees focused on curriculum development, teacher evaluations, or community outreach initiatives
• Collaborated with colleagues to integrate cross-disciplinary lessons, enriching students' educational experience
• Promoted digital literacy by integrating technology into curriculum
• Increased parental involvement in students' education by organizing regular communication and events
• Enhanced literacy skills with targeted reading programs
• Developed and executed formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress
• Met with students, parents and administrators to address and resolve students' behavioral and academic issues

Grade R Teacher at Stoneridge Primary School (2021-01 – 2023-12)

Grade R Teacher providing early childhood education

• Identified struggling students early on and provided additional support through tutoring sessions and modified lesson plans
• Collaborated with other teachers to plan interdisciplinary units that connected subjects and promoted deeper understanding
• Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success
• Integrated cultural awareness into lessons by incorporating diverse perspectives and materials into the curriculum
• Designed curriculum materials for special education students, facilitating inclusive learning
• Implemented classroom management plan that reduced disruptions, creating more conducive learning environment
• Served on school committees focused on curriculum development, teacher evaluations, or community outreach initiatives
• Organized extracurricular activities such as clubs or field trips that enriched students' learning experiences
• Assessed student performance regularly using both formative and summative assessments to inform future lesson planning

Assistant Teacher at Hoerskool Florida (2020-01 – 2021-12)

Assistant Teacher providing support to lead teachers and students

• Worked with teachers to design lesson plans and coordinate activities for classes
• Assisted lead teacher in providing individualized attention to students, resulting in improved academic performance
• Established positive relationships with parents through effective communication, fostering parental involvement
• Assisted in implementation of new learning tools, systems and materials
• Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies
• Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher
• Worked with teacher to identify and target opportunities for instructional improvements
• Supported student physical, mental, and social development using classroom games and activities
• Supervised recess, lunch and daily student intake and dismissal
• Created visually appealing bulletin boards that showcased student work and reinforced key concepts
• Boosted classroom management skills, maintaining order and discipline among students
• Assisted with preparation of teaching materials and resources, streamlining lesson execution
• Facilitated small group learning sessions, providing personalized attention to struggling students
• Enhanced student engagement by implementing interactive and multimedia teaching tools
• Assisted in maintenance of classroom records, ensuring accurate tracking of attendance and grades

Childcare Volunteer Teacher at Goudpark Primary School (2017-01 – 2019-12)

Volunteer Teacher providing childcare and educational support

• Initiated after-school tutoring sessions for students requiring extra assistance, leading to increased comprehension and improved grades
• Served as a mentor for new teachers entering the profession, offering guidance on best practices
• Enhanced student understanding of key concepts through the use of visual aids, real-life examples, and hands-on activities
• Organized engaging field trips that aligned with curriculum objectives, enriching students' understanding through experiential learning
• Promoted a safe and nurturing classroom environment where students felt comfortable asking questions and sharing ideas
• Improved student communication skills by incorporating group work and presentations into daily lesson plans
• Provided one-on-one support for struggling students, tailoring instruction to meet their unique needs
• Served as positive role model, promoting healthy interpersonal behaviors
• Supervised children of various ages on playground and field trips
• Monitored children's activities to verify safety and wellbeing
• Read stories, sang songs and facilitated creative play
• Created safe and engaging learning environment for groups of diverse children with various learning styles
• Implemented daily routines and activities to stimulate and engage children
• Handled daily administrative tasks efficiently to minimize time away from children
• Maintained group discipline through positive reinforcement, behavior modeling, and collaboration with parents
• Instructed children in crafts and other activities to promote gross and fine motor skills
• Prepared group activities to enhance socialization, communication and problem-solving skills
• Documented children's growth and development

Bachelor in Foundation Phase Education – Sants Higher Education Institution (2026-01)

National Diploma in Educare – Southwest Gauteng college (2020-01)