Ruth Cohen
Instructional Designer | Blended Learning Specialist | Curriculum Developer | Educator
About
Experienced educator and instructional designer with over 5 years of combined experience in classroom teaching, subject leadership, and digital curriculum development. Skilled in designing CAPS-aligned and outcomes-based learning materials, facilitating teacher training, and implementing blended learning strategies across in-person and online environments. Proven ability to translate curriculum requirements into engaging, practical learning experiences and to support educators through coaching, structured feedback, and implementation support.
Strong background in Business Studies, Consumer Studies, EMS, and English, with international teaching experience and advanced exposure to eLearning content development and LMS integration. Passionate about improving teaching practice at scale through instructional design, data-informed feedback, and high-impact training facilitation.
Experience
Private Tutor & Learning Facilitator - Self-employed - Cape Town, South Africa
(2024-02)
Deliver tailored academic support in Business Studies, EMS, Consumer Studies, and English
- Design individualised learning plans based on learner needs and performance gaps
- Facilitate one-on-one and small group learning interventions focused on measurable improvement
- Provide targeted feedback to improve learner understanding and academic performance
Senior Material Developer - Vevo Virtual Academy
(2023-10 - 2024-01)
- Developed CAPS-aligned blended learning content for Life Orientation and EMS (Grades 7–9)
- Designed interactive online lessons, assessments, and LMS-integrated learning resources
- Created structured lesson plans aligned with Annual Teaching Plans (ATP)
- Collaborated with academic teams to ensure consistency, quality, and curriculum alignment
- Contributed to the design of digital learning pathways and assessment frameworks
English Teacher (ESL) - Talma Program (International)
(2022-08 - 2023-06)
Taught English as a Second Language to children and adult learners in diverse international settings
- Designed engaging lessons focused on communication, literacy, and critical thinking
- Adapted teaching strategies for learners with varied linguistic and cultural backgrounds
- Supported learner confidence and language acquisition through structured feedback and practice
Subject Head: Consumer Studies & EMS Educator - JG Meiring High School
(2020-06 - 2022-08)
- Led curriculum planning and implementation for Consumer Studies across multiple grades
- Designed assessments, case studies, and structured teaching materials aligned with curriculum standards
- Taught EMS (Grades 8–9) with a focus on practical application and learner engagement
- Supported departmental alignment and instructional quality across subject areas
- Conducted informal coaching and mentoring of educators within the department
Education Leadership Intern - Cape Town Torah High
(2019-01 - 2019-12)
- Supported academic planning and learner development initiatives
- Assisted with curriculum delivery and educational programme coordination
Teaching Practice - Herzlia High School & Cape Town High School
(2018-01 - 2018-12)
Completed formal teaching practice in Business Studies and Consumer Studies
- Delivered structured lessons under supervision and received pedagogical feedback
Kosher Supervisor (Butchery & Catering Environments)
Hospitality Intern (Front Office & Food & Beverage) - Protea Hotels
Youth Educator & Informal Learning Facilitator
Home School Facilitator
Deli Supervisor – Retail Environment
Education
B.Ed (Honours) - General Teaching and Learning (Business Studies) (2019)
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) - Business Studies & Consumer Studies (2018)
Diploma - Hotel Management (Accommodation Focus) - Cape Town Hotel School (2016)
Certificate - Human Resources: Hotel Management (2020)
