Jacqueline Taylor

I am a passionate, dedicated, and highly experienced educator with an extensive background in both mainstream and special needs education. I hold a Bachelor of Arts (Human Movement Studies) from Rhodes University, a Higher Diploma in Education (HDE) from the University of Cape Town, and a Bachelor of Education Honours in Special Education (cum laude) from the University of South Africa (UNISA).

Over the course of my career, I have developed a learner-centred teaching philosophy that combines high academic expectations with compassion, patience, and structure. Having taught primarily in the Intermediate Phase, with many years of experience as a Grade 4 teacher, I have extensive knowledge of the South African curriculum and a proven ability to create engaging, inclusive, and well-managed learning environments where learners are encouraged to reach their full potential.

My specialist training and practical experience in special needs education have equipped me to support learners with diverse educational, behavioural, and emotional needs. I am skilled at identifying barriers to learning, adapting teaching strategies, implementing structured interventions, and working collaboratively with parents and multidisciplinary teams to ensure every learner receives the support they need to succeed.

I have strong classroom management, communication, and organisational skills and am experienced in lesson planning, learner assessment, progress monitoring, report writing, and building positive relationships with learners, parents, and colleagues. I am proficient in integrating educational technology into teaching and am committed to ongoing professional development to remain current with best educational practices.

Beyond the classroom, I enjoy mentoring, tutoring, and supporting children on an individual basis. My warm, calm, and encouraging nature, together with my reliability, adaptability, and sense of humour, enables me to build trusting relationships while maintaining clear expectations and consistent routines. I believe that children learn best in environments where they feel safe, respected, challenged, and inspired.

I am committed to making a meaningful contribution to any educational community by fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and a lifelong love of learning. I am available immediately and am willing to relocate for the right opportunity.

Remedial therapist, librarian, sports coach and intermediate phase teacher at Diocesan School for Girls (2017-01 – Present)

Senior phase Learning support specialist and foundation phase remedial teacher. English support teacher, Grd 8 & 9 at St Andrews College (2016-01 – 2017-12)

Remedial therapist at Herzlia Highlands Primary (2015-01 – 2016-12)

Special education needs co-ordinator (SENCO) and learning support teacher at St Cyprians High School (2009-01 – 2014-12)

Remedial therapist at Reddam Atlantic Seaboard (2008-01 – 2008-12)

Remedial therapist, and class teacher Grade 4 at Pro Ed House (2005-01 – 2007-12)

Grade 4 class teacher and sports coach at Rondebosch Boys Preparatory School (2000-01 – 2004-12)

Physical Education, Afrikaans and Information Technology teacher at Clifton Preparatory School (1996-01 – 1999-12)

Lecturer, Business communication IMM, Psychology 1 and 11 Unisa at Damelin College (1994-01 – 1995-12)

Locum physical education, guidance lessons at Queensburgh Girls High School (1993-01 – 1993-12)

Bachelor of Education Honours in Spec Ed – University of South Africa (2007-01 – 2007-12)

Higher Diploma in Education – University of Cape Town (1989-01 – 1989-12)

BA in Human Movement Studies – Rhodes University (1988-01 – 1988-12)