Elsie Burger

A dedicated, highly adaptable, and innovative Learning Support Teacher with 16 years of experience across the foundation and intermediate phases. I recently submitted my thesis to complete my M.Ed. in the Psychology of Education at the University of Cape Town. The subject was on how the bio-ecological systems interact during a School of Skills candidates' process of creating their career aspirations.

I am deeply committed to advancing inclusive education in South Africa through collaborative, systemic, and whole-school approaches. I successfully utilize art-integrated teaching methods, cooperative learning, and differentiation to accommodate diverse learner needs. Outside of the classroom, I maintain a balanced and creative life; I am an avid gardener, a passionate visual artist, a spontaneous singer, and a devoted owner to my Jack Russell, Bella.

Learning Support Teacher (Post-Level 1) - Western Cape Education Department (WCED) - Metro Central Education District (Circuit 9) - Cape Town

(2022-01)

• Present remedial lessons in Literacy and Numeracy to groups of 8-12 learners with barriers to learning (Grades 2-4)
• Conduct comprehensive diagnostic testing in visual/auditory perceptual skills and motor development
• Serve as an active SBST member to drive referrals for learners requiring medical, social, or special school interventions
• Train mainstream educators on SIAS policy execution and curriculum differentiation. Facilitate collaborative teacher training sessions focused on improving learner concentration, including the practical application of somatic brain gym exercises
• Conduct sensitive, one-on-one parent interviews to candidly discuss hard realities regarding diagnostic, psychological, and medical reports. Work collaboratively with families to establish empathetic, forward-moving solutions and healthy home-based support structures

Learning Support Teacher (Post-Level 1) - Heideveld Primary School - Cape Town

(2022-01)

Learning Support Teacher (Post-Level 1) - Montevideo Primary School - Cape Town

(2020-01 - 2024-09)

Learning Support Teacher (Post-Level 1) - Belthorn Primary School - Cape Town

(2020-01)

Resource Class / Learning Support Teacher - Claremont Primary School - Cape Town

(2019-01 - 2019-12)

• Acted as Resource Class Educator for 2 years (2015 & 2019) to assist 15 high-needs learners referred by the SBST/CBST across the district with a Teaching Assistant
• Full time Learning Support Teacher for 9 years doing Intervention for Grades R to 7 (2016-2018; 2020-date)
• Managed administration of learner profiles, interventions, and external referrals as SBST Secretary/Coordinator
• Coordinated the school's HIV, TB, and STI committee and served as the designated First-Aid official (2015-2018)
• Edited the school newspaper and initiated a school community gardening project (2019)

Resource Class / Learning Support Teacher - Balvenie Primary School - Cape Town

(2015-01 - 2018-12)

• Acted as Resource Class Educator for 2 years (2015 & 2019) to assist 15 high-needs learners referred by the SBST/CBST across the district with a Teaching Assistant
• Full time Learning Support Teacher for 9 years doing Intervention for Grades R to 7 (2016-2018; 2020-date)
• Managed administration of learner profiles, interventions, and external referrals as SBST Secretary/Coordinator
• Coordinated the school's HIV, TB, and STI committee and served as the designated First-Aid official (2015-2018)

Foundation Phase Educator - Oospark Primary School - Cape Town

(2014-01 - 2014-12)

• Delivered instruction in Home Language, First Additional Language, Numeracy, and Life Skills
• Choreographed concerts and revues, and managed athletics and mini-cricket and mini-netball coaching
• Provided piano accompaniment during school assemblies (2014)

Foundation Phase Educator - Pinedine Primary School - Cape Town

(2013-06 - 2013-12)

• Delivered instruction in Home Language, First Additional Language, Numeracy, and Life Skills
• Choreographed concerts and revues, and managed athletics and mini-cricket and mini-netball coaching
• Provided piano accompaniment during school assemblies (2014)

Owner, Teacher & Choreographer - Bella Danza Studio - Vanderbijlpark

(2012-01 - 2013-12)

• Owned and managed all financial administration and event management for the studio
• Acted as Principal Teacher and Choreographer, specializing in Modern Dance, Hip-Hop / L.A. Funk, and Tap Dance

Early Career Educator - Sancta Maria Junior Catholic School - Cape Town

(2013-01 - 2013-05)

Grade 4 Physical Education

Early Career Educator - Tjokkerland Nursery School - Cape Town

(2011-08 - 2011-11)

Grade R Teacher & Concert Choreographer

Early Career Educator - Steelpoort Academy - Cape Town

(2010-01 - 2011-06)

Grade 2 & 4 Teacher, Netball/Track Coach, Revue Instructor

M.Ed. - Psychology of Education - University of Cape Town

B.Ed. Honours - Inclusive Education - University of South Africa (UNISA) (2017-01)

B.Ed. - Foundation Phase & Psychology III - North-West University (2010-01)

National Senior Certificate - Wonderboom High School (2005-01)